Aerodynamic drag reducing apparatus

Abstract

An aerodynamic drag reducing apparatus is adaptable for use with vehicles having downstream surfaces that are not streamlined. The apparatus consists of a series of nesting shapes and/or frameworks that extend rearward for use in a drag reducing configuration and collapse for use in a space saving configuration.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A drag reducing device for use in reducing drag on vehicles, the drag reducing device comprising:
 a drag reducing assembly that is movable between an extended configuration and a retracted configuration, the drag reducing assembly including a first end adapted for connection to the vehicle and a second end that is moved outwardly from the first end when the drag reducing assembly is moved from the retracted configuration toward the extended configuration;   a flexible member routed through the drag reducing assembly;   a motor for moving the flexible member in first and second directions, the flexible member causing the drag reduction assembly to extend when moved in the first direction, and the flexible member causing the drag reduction assembly to retract when moved in the second direction; and   a set of linkages that interconnect the first end to the second end;   wherein a tensile load is transferred through the flexible member to move the drag reducing assembly from the extended configuration to the retracted configuration, and wherein another tensile load is also transferred through the flexible member to move the drag reducing assembly from the retracted configuration to the extended configuration.