Analysis of a CFD Approach for the Study of the Aerodynamics of a Scooter

The flow around a scooter is analysed by means of the CFD. In a first phase the results are compared with those obtained through a wind tunnel test campaign, showing a good data accordance. Therefore, the CFD approach can be considered a useful engineering tool in the scooter design, and, with respect to the experimental approach, it has the advantage of providing a complete description of the flow field. This aspect appears particularly important when a modification of the geometry must be verified from the aerodynamics point of view. Finally, as an example, the procedure is applied to the analysis of the effects of deflectors, introduced to increase the comfort. From the CFD a complete description of the flows, with and without the spoiler, are obtained and compared. The results show a significant increase in the comfort grade, coupled with a decrease in the drag of the scooter.