Aerodynamic Drag Reducing Apparatus

Abstract

A drag reducing apparatus is provided for use with vehicles having surfaces that are not streamlined. The apparatus includes an exterior cover that forms a drag reducing shape when the apparatus is fully extended. The apparatus can be retracted to a space saving configuration. A scissors linkage extends and retracts the apparatus. The scissors linkage can be motorized, and the motor can extend the scissors linkage by turning in a first direction and can retract the apparatus by turning in a second direction. The scissors linkage can hold the exterior cover taut when the apparatus is fully extended. The scissors linkage can support the exterior cover at intermediate locations when the apparatus is not fully extended. The apparatus can include support linkages and intermediate moveable members that support the exterior cover and define the drag reducing shape.

1 . A drag reducing apparatus comprising:
 a scissors linkage; and   a tension member routed through the scissors linkage;   wherein when the tension member is driven in a first direction the scissors linkage extends;   wherein when the tension member is driven in a second direction the scissors linkage retracts.