VEHICLE COMPRISING A STABILISER DEVICE

The invention relates to a vehicle comprising a stabiliser device for reducing fluid- dynamic drag (e.g. aerodynamic or aquadynamic drag) of the vehicle,

A vehicle is used to transport people or cargo. Examples of vehicles include land vehicles, railed vehicles, watercraft, amphibious vehicles and aircraft,

According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a vehicle comprising a vehicle body and a stabiliser device, the stabiliser device comprising a base and a fin structure, the base attached to a non-lateral surface of the vehicle body, the fin structure including at least one plate-shaped primary fin that projects perpendicularly or substantially perpendicularly from the base to reduce fluid-dynamic drag of the vehicle.

The invention may be applied to, or incorporated in, any type of vehicle such as land vehicles, railed vehicles, watercraft, amphibious vehicles and aircraft, in particular cars, taxis, vans, lorries, buses, trains, boats, aeroplanes and helicopters.

The term "fluid-dynamic drag" means the drag experienced by an object moving in a fluid environment, and includes, but is not limited to, aerodynamic drag (air environment) and aquadynamic drag (water environment). Aerodynamic drag is a force applied by air that acts on a moving object in opposition to the motion of the object, thus resisting the motion of the object through air. Aquadynamic drag is a force applied by water that acts on a moving object in opposition to the motion of the object, thus resisting the motion of the object through water.

During the motion of a vehicle through a fluid environment, the fluid flows over the surfaces of the vehicle, including the non-lateral surfaces of the vehicle body, and creates drag that resists the motion of the vehicle through the fluid environment.

Arranging the stabiliser device of the invention on a non-lateral surface of the vehicle body advantageously allows the shape profile of the stabiliser device to disrupt the flow of the fluid over the non-lateral surface of the vehicle body and increase the amount of fluid turbulence over the non-lateral surface of the vehicle body, thus reducing the amount of fluid-dynamic drag on the vehicle body. The effect of the invention is observed to increase with the speed of motion of the vehicle, The configuration of the stabiliser device of the invention to reduce fluid-dynamic drag along the non-lateral surface of the vehicle body usefully improves the energy efficiency, and therefore increases the travel range, of the vehicle. This applies to all types of vehicles running on any means of energy, such as petrol, diesel, hydrogen fuel and electricity.

Furthermore, the reduction in fluid-dynamic drag along the non-lateral surface of the vehicle body advantageously improves the stability of the vehicle, especially at high speeds and in windy conditions.

The configuration of the stabiliser device of the invention therefore provides a simple and cost-effective means of reducing fluid-dynamic drag and stabilising the motion of a vehicle. In addition the structural features of the stabiliser device enables the stabiliser device to be readily customised to not only ensure compatibility with a wide range of vehicles but also provide a specific fluid-dynamic drag reduction behaviour without requiring substantial modification of the vehicle body, which is particularly important when the vehicle body has a standard shape.

Optionally the or each primary fin may project perpendicularly or substantially perpendicularly from the base so as to be aligned at an angle in the range from 0° to 10° with respect to the base. More preferably, the or each primary fin projects perpendicularly or substantially perpendicularly from the base so as to be aligned at any 1° interval between 0° and 10° with respect to the base.

For the purposes of this specification, the dimensions of a given primary fin are defined by the height, thickness and length of the primary fin. The height of the primary fin is defined by its projection height with respect to the base. The thickness of the primary fin is defined by a plate thickness between plate faces of the primary fin. The length of the primary fin is perpendicular to the height and thickness of the primary fin. Each plate face is a surface that extends along at least part of the height of the primary fin. It will be understood that each of the dimensions of a given primary fin may vary between different sections of the primary fin.

The base may be integrally attached to the non-lateral surface of the vehicle body. For example, the base may be moulded to the non-lateral surface of the vehicle body.

The base may be fastened to the non-lateral surface of the vehicle body using a fastener, such as a screw. The base may be adhered to the non-lateral surface of the vehicle body using an adhesive element, such as glue or double-sided adhesive tape.

In addition to the base, the primary fin or at least one of the primary fins may be attached to the non-lateral surface of the vehicle body. Such attachment may be carried out in a number of ways, such as integral attachment (e.g. integral moulding), using a fastener (e.g. a screw) or using an adhesive element (e.g. glue or double-sided adhesive tape).

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the base may be attached to a front-facing or rear-facing surface of the vehicle body.

A length of the primary fin or at least one of the primary fins may be:

● horizontally, or substantially horizontally, aligned with a width of the vehicle body extending between sides of the vehicle body;

● perpendicular, or substantially perpendicular, to the width of the vehicle body extending between the sides of the vehicle body; or

● tilted at a non-zero angle with respect to the width of the vehicle body extending between the sides of the vehicle body.

The base may be attached to an identification plate of the vehicle body, or the base may be attached to the vehicle body so that the stabiliser device extends over an identification plate of the vehicle body. The identification plate includes, but is not limited to, a licence plate, a registration plate, a number plate and a name plate. The identification plate may be located at the front or rear of the vehicle body. The base may be attached to the top or bottom of the identification plate, or may be attached to either side of the identification plate.

The base may be attached to the identification plate so that a length of the primary fin or at least one of the primary fins may be:

● horizontally, or substantially horizontally, aligned with the width of the vehicle body extending between the sides of the vehicle body; ● perpendicular, or substantially perpendicular, to the width of the vehicle body extending between the sides of the vehicle body; or

● tilted at a non-zero angle with respect to the width of the vehicle body extending between the sides of the vehicle body. Alternatively the base may be attached to a window, windscreen or door of the vehicle body.

The base may be attached to the front-facing or rear-facing surface of the vehicle body at a position that is nearer a roof of the vehicle body than an undercarriage of the vehicle body. Alternatively the base may be attached to the front-facing or rear-facing surface of the vehicle body at a position that is nearer an undercarriage of the vehicle body than a roof of the vehicle body.

A length of the primary fin or at least one of the primary fins may be vertically, or substantially vertically, aligned with a height of the vehicle body.

Optionally a length of the primary fin or at least one of the primary fins may be vertically, or substantially vertically, aligned at an angle in the range from 0° to 10° with respect to the height of the vehicle body. More preferably, a length of the primary fin or at least one of the primary fins is vertically, or substantially vertically, aligned at any 1° interval between 0° and 10° with respect to the height of the vehicle body.

In another preferred embodiment of the invention, the base may be attached to a topfacing surface of the vehicle body. For example, the base may be attached to a roof of the vehicle body.

In a further other preferred embodiment of the invention, the base may be attached to a bottom-facing surface of the vehicle body. For example, the base may be attached to an undercarriage of the vehicle body.

A length of the primary fin or at least one of the primary fins may be horizontally, or substantially horizontally, aligned with a length of the vehicle body extending between a front and a rear of the vehicle body.

Optionally a length of the primary fin or at least one of the primary fins may be horizontally, or substantially horizontally, aligned at an angle in the range from 0° to 10° with respect to the length of the vehicle body extending between the front and the rear of the vehicle body. More preferably, a length of the primary fin or at least one of the primary fins may be horizontally, or substantially horizontally, aligned at any 1° interval between 0° and 10° with respect to the length of the vehicle body extending between the front and the rear of the vehicle body. Preferably the base spans across 60% or less of a width of the vehicle body. More preferably, the base spans across 50%, 40%, 30%, 20%, 10% or 5% of a width of the vehicle body.

The thickness of the or each primary fin may be 10% or less of a width of the vehicle body. More preferably, the thickness of the or each primary fin may be 8%, 6%, 4%, 2% or 1% of the vehicle body.

The or each primary fin may be fluid-dynamically shaped in a variety of ways to reduce fluid-dynamic drag along the non-lateral surface of the vehicle body.

In embodiments of the invention, a projection height of the or each primary fin with respect to the base may be uniform or non-uniform.

In further embodiments of the invention, the or each primary fin may have a uniform or variable cross-section along a projection height of the or each primary fin with respect to the base.

In a first example, the or each primary fin may have a quadrilateral cross-section (e.g. rectangular cross-section) along the projection height of the or each primary fin with respect to the base.

In a second example, at least one length-wise or thickness-wise surface of the or each primary fin may taper inwards or outwards from the distal end of the or each primary fin with respect to the base to the proximal end of the or each primary fin with respect to the base.

In a third example, the thickness-wise outer surface of the or each primary fin may form a curved surface between the distal and proximal ends of the or each primary fin with respect to the base. The or each curved surface may form part of a convex, circular or parabolic segment of the or each primary fin.

In still further embodiments of the invention, the fin structure may include a plurality of primary fins. In embodiments of the invention employing a plurality of primary fins, at least two of the primary fins may be identical or different in shape and/or dimensions, or all of the primary fins may be identical in shape and/or dimensions. At least two of the primary fins may be separated from each other or may be integral with each other.

When at least two of the primary fins are separated from each other, the separated primary fins may be arranged to define an H-shaped, I-shaped, L-shaped, M-shaped, T-shaped, U-shaped, W-shaped, X-shaped, cross-shaped or star-shaped arrangement of the separated primary fins.

When at least two of the primary fins are integral with each other, a cross-section of the integral primary fins along a projection height of the integral primary fins with respect to the base may be H-shaped, I-shaped, L-shaped, M-shaped, T-shaped, U~ shaped, W-shaped, X-shaped, cross-shaped or star-shaped.

Optionally a distal end of the or each primary fin with respect to the base may have a uniform or non-uniform thickness.

Further optionally a distal end of the or each primary fin with respect to the base may have a symmetrical or asymmetrical cross-section.

In embodiments of the invention, the or each primary fin may include at least one rib formed on a plate face of the or each primary fin. In addition to improving the ability of the or each primary fin to reduce fluid-dynamic drag along the non-lateral surface of the vehicle body, the or each rib acts to enhance the rigidity and stiffness of the or each primary fin.

In further embodiments of the invention, the or each primary fin may include at least one stepped surface formed on a plate face of the or each primary fin.

In still further embodiments of the invention, the or each primary fin may include at least one plate-shaped auxiliary fin projecting from a plate face of the or each primary fin. The provision of the or each auxiliary fin permits further customisation of the or each primary fin to provide a desired fluid-dynamic drag reduction behaviour, which may vary depending on the characteristics of the vehicle body.

For the purposes of this specification, the dimensions of a given auxiliary fin are defined by the height, thickness and length of the auxiliary fin. The height of the auxiliary fin is defined by its projection height with respect to the plate face of the primary fin. The thickness of the auxiliary fin is defined by a plate thickness between plate faces of the auxiliary fin. The length of the auxiliary fin is perpendicular to the height and thickness of the auxiliary fin. Each plate face of the auxiliary fin is a surface that extends along at least part of the height of the auxiliary fin. It will be understood that each of the dimensions of a given auxiliary fin may vary between different sections of the auxiliary fin.

The or each auxiliary fin may be fluid-dynamically shaped in a variety of ways to reduce fluid-dynamic drag along the non-lateral surface of the vehicle body.

In embodiments employing the use of at least one auxiliary fin, the or each auxiliary fin may be aligned at a non-zero angle relative to a projection height of the or each primary fin with respect to the base. More particularly, the or each auxiliary fin may be aligned at any 1° interval above 0° with respect to the projection height of the or each primary fin.

In embodiments employing the use of a plurality of auxiliary fins, at least two of the auxiliary fins may be identical or different in shape and/or dimensions, or all of the auxiliary fins may be identical in shape and/or dimensions. The provision of the or each auxiliary fin provides further options for customising the or each primary fin to provide the desired fluid-dynamic drag reduction behaviour.

The configuration of the base may vary so long as the base is attachable to the nonlateral surface of the vehicle body and so long as the or each primary fin projects perpendicularly or substantially perpendicularly from the base to reduce fluid-dynamic drag of the vehicle.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the base may include a plate-shaped base portion. A cross-section of a plate face of the base portion may be shaped to have, but is not limited to: a curved circumference; a circular, oval, oblong, elliptical or arcuate shape; an angled perimeter; a tapered shape; or a triangle or quadrilateral shape (e.g. square or rectangle). Each corner of the base portion may be sharp or rounded. For the purposes of this specification, it will be understood that the term "rounded ^" is intended to refer to a smooth, curved shape.

The or each primary fin may be positioned at an intermediate position between two ends of the base portion. Alternatively the or each primary fin may be positioned at either of the two ends of the base portion. A length of the or each primary fin may be shorter than a length of the base portion so that at least one lengthwise end of the or each primary fin is spaced inwards away from an edge of the base portion, Alternatively a length of the or each primary fin may be longer than a length of the base portion so that at least one lengthwise end of the primary fin extends past an edge of the base portion.

The base may include a non-plate-shaped block on the base portion. The or each primary fin may project from the block. An electronic or electrical device may be mounted on or in the block. Non-limiting examples of electronic or electrical devices are described elsewhere in this specification,

In addition to the base, the block may be attached to the non-lateral surface of the vehicle body. Such attachment may be carried out in a number of ways, such as integral attachment (e.g, integral moulding), using a fastener (e.g. a screw) or using an adhesive element (e.g, glue or double-sided adhesive tape).

The base may include a plurality of base portions. The or each primary fin may include a fin body and a plurality of legs. Each leg may projectingly connect the fin body to the respective base portion. The configuration of the fin body and legs creates space between the or each primary fin and the vehicle body to enable the stabiliser device to be positioned over a component of the vehicle body so that the component is located between the legs.

The purpose of each fin is to provide the stabiliser device with an improved shape profile that further reduces air resistance.

The stabiliser device may be arranged in different locations on the vehicle body so long as it is arranged on the non-lateral surface of the vehicle body to permit the shape profile of the stabiliser device to reduce fluid-dynamic drag along the non-lateral surface of the vehicle body. For example, the base may be attached on the vehicle body to locate the or each primary fin to be at, or offset from, a central position between lateral sides of the vehicle body.

The stabiliser device may include at least one electronic or electrical device mounted in or on the base or the or each primary fin. This provides the stabiliser device with added functionality beyond the fluid-dynamic drag reduction. The or each electronic or electrical device may be, but is not limited to, a light source, a recording device or a sensor.

Preferably the or each light source is in the form of a light-emitting diode (LED) but may take the form of any other type of light source.

The or each recording device may be a photographic camera or a video camera. Mounting the camera in or on the base or primary fin of the stabiliser device enables the stabilisation of the position of the camera during the motion of the vehicle in order to improve the viewing ability of the camera.

The or each sensor may be a proximity sensor, an air sensor, an air pressure sensor, a wind sensor, a wind speed sensor, a wind direction sensor or a humidity sensor. This enables measurement of environmental conditions in the vicinity of the vehicle which, for example, may be used as information for driveriess vehicles. The or each sensor may be an optical sensor, preferably a laser sensor. The proximity sensor may be used to detect objects in the vicinity of the vehicle, e.g. within a 500 metre range. The wind sensor may be used to detect wind conditions in the vicinity of the vehicle, e.g. within a 500 metre range.

The or each electronic or electrical device may be mounted in or on a distal end of the or each primary fin with respect to the base.

The vehicle may include a single stabiliser device or a plurality of stabiliser devices. In embodiments of the invention employing the use of a plurality of stabiliser devices, the base of each stabiliser device may be attached to the non-lateral surface of the vehicle body so that the fin structures are spaced apart from each other. This allows for a wide range of arrangements of the fin structures to provide various fluid-dynamic drag reduction behaviours. Optionally the plurality of stabiliser devices may be arranged within a space that extends 60%, 50%, 40%, 30%, 20%, 10% or 5% of a width of the vehicle body. Preferably the space is offset from one side or both sides of the vehicle body. More preferably the space is centrally positioned between the sides of the vehicle body.

The fin structures of at least two of the stabiliser devices may be different in shape. Alternatively the fin structures of all of the stabiliser devices may be identical in shape. It is envisaged that any corner of the stabiliser device may be a rounded corner or an angular corner (e.g. a sharp corner) and that any edge of the stabiliser device may be a rounded edge or an angular edge (e.g. a sharp edge).

It will be appreciated that the use of the terms “first" and "second", and the like, in this patent specification is merely intended to help distinguish between similar features (e.g. the first and second stabiliser devices), and is not intended to indicate the relative importance of one feature over another feature, unless otherwise specified.

Within the scope of this application it is expressly intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, and the claims and/or the following description and drawings, and in particular the individual features thereof, may be taken independently or in any combination. That is, all embodiments and ail features of any embodiment can be combined in any way and/or combination, unless such features are incompatible. The applicant reserves the right to change any originally filed claim or file any new claim accordingly, including the right to amend any originally filed claim to depend from and/or incorporate any feature of any other claim although not originally claimed in that manner.

Preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of non-limiting examples, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which;

Figure 1 shows a car according to an embodiment of the invention;

Figures 2 to 47 show stabiliser devices according to various embodiments of the invention;

Figures 48 to 52 show cars according to various embodiments of the invention;

Figures 53 to 57 show lorries according to various embodiments of the invention;

Figure 58 shows an aeroplane according to another embodiment of the invention;

Figure 59 shows a lorry to which a stabiliser device of the invention may be attached; and

Figures 61 to 67 show various embodiments of the stabiliser device of the invention.

The figures are not necessarily to scale, and certain features and certain views of the figures may be shown exaggerated in scale or in schematic form in the interests of clarity and conciseness. The following embodiments of the invention are described with reference to their use with a car, a lorry and an aeroplane but it will be appreciated that the following embodiments of the invention may also be used with other types of vehicles such as other land vehicles, railed vehicles, watercraft, amphibious vehicles and other aircraft, non-limiting examples of which are described throughout this specification. In addition, the following embodiments of the invention are described with reference to the motion of the car, lorry and aeroplane through an air environment, but it will be appreciated that the following embodiments of the invention apply mutatis mutandis to other fluid environments.

A car according to an embodiment of the invention is shown in Figure 1 and is designated generally by the reference numeral 30, The car 30 comprises a car body 32 and a stabiliser device 34,

Figures 2 and 3 show perspective, side and cross-sectional views of the stabiliser device 34. The stabiliser device 34 comprises a base 36 and a fin structure.

The base includes a plate-based base portion. The base is attached to an identification plate 38 that forms part of the front of the car body 32 so that the stabiliser device 34 is centrally positioned between the sides of the car body 32, The base 36 may be attached to the identification plate 38 in a variety of ways, such as integrally moulding of the base 36 with the identification plate 38, using a fastener (e.g. a screw) to fasten the base 36 to the identification plate 38 or using an adhesive element (e.g. glue or double-sided adhesive tape) to adhere the base 36 to the identification plate 38. It is envisaged that, in other embodiments of the invention, the base 36 may be attached to the identification plate 38 so that the stabiliser device 34 is offset from a central position between the sides of the car body 32. It is also envisaged that, in still other embodiments of the invention, the base 36 may be attached to a different part of the front of the car body 32.

The fin structure includes a primary fin 40 that projects perpendicularly from the base 36. It is envisaged that, in other embodiments, the primary fin 40 may project substantially perpendicularly from the base 36. Preferably the primary fin 40 projects perpendicularly or substantially perpendicularly from the base 36 so as to be aligned at an angle in the range from 0° to 10° with respect to the base 36. A projection height 42 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 is uniform along a length 44 of the primary fin 40, A distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 defines a symmetrical rectangular cross-section with a uniform thickness along the length 44 of the primary fin 40. The primary fin 40 tapers outwards from the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base to the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 so that the thickness 50 of the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 is narrower than the thickness 50 of the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40. This results in the primary fin 40 having a non-uniform thickness 50, and therefore a non-uniform cross-section, along the projection height 42 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36.

In other embodiments of the invention, it is envisaged that the primary fin 40 tapers inwards from the distal end of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 to the proximal end of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 so that the thickness 50 of the distal end of the primary fin 40 is wider than the thickness 50 of the proximal end of the primary fin 40, or that the thickness 50 of the primary fin 40 is constant from the distal end of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 to the proximal end of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 so that the primary fin 40 has a uniform thickness 50, and therefore a uniform cross-section, along the projection height 42 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36.

In still other embodiments of the invention, it is envisaged that the stabiliser device 34 may include a plurality of primary fins 40 and/or the car 30 may include a plurality of stabiliser devices 34, each of which may include a single primary fin 40 or a plurality of primary fins 40.

During the motion of the car 30 through an air environment, the air flows over the surfaces of the car 30, including the front of the car 30, and creates aerodynamic drag that resists the motion of the car 30. The shape profile of the primary fin 40 of the stabiliser device 34 disrupts the flow of air over the front of the car body 32. As a result, an increased amount of air turbulence in the form of vortices is created over the front of the car body 32, thus reducing the amount of aerodynamic drag on the car body 32. Such reduction of aerodynamic drag on the car body 32 not only improves the energy efficiency and travel range of the car 30, but also improves the motion stability of the car 30, especially at high speeds (e.g. above 100 kph) and in windy conditions. The structural features of the stabiliser device 34 readily enables its customisation, e.g. of its shape profile and/or its location, to create a desired aerodynamic drag reduction behaviour for a specific car body shape that can vary between different cars, but without requiring substantial modification of the car body 32 that may be detrimental for aesthetic or safety reasons.

Components of the stabiliser device 34 may be made out of a range of materials, such as metals (e.g. titanium), plastic, carbon fibre, rubber, foam, composites, or a combination thereof.

Optionally at least one electronic or electrical device may be mounted in or on the base 36 or the primary fin 40, non-limiting examples of which are described as follows.

In a first example, the stabiliser device 34 may include a camera mounted in or on the base 36, and/or a camera mounted in or on the primary fin 40. The camera may be replaced by a plurality of cameras. The plurality of cameras may be integrated into the same camera unit. Each of the plurality of cameras may be used to provide a respective one of a plurality of camera functions, e.g. directional vision, lane changing, guidance for driverless cars, and so on.

In a second example, the stabiliser device 34 may include a sensor mounted in or on the base36, and/or a sensor mounted in or on the primary fin 40. The sensor may be, but is not limited to, a proximity sensor, an air sensor, an air pressure sensor, a wind sensor, a wind speed sensor, a wind direction sensor, or a humidity sensor. The sensor may be an optical sensor, preferably a laser sensor. The proximity sensor may be used to detect objects in the vicinity of the car 30, e.g. within a 500 metre range. The wind sensor may be used to detect wind conditions in the vicinity of the car 30, e.g. within a 500 metre range.

In a third example, the stabiliser device 34 may include a light source mounted in or on the base 36, and/or a light source mounted in or on the primary fin 40. Preferably the light source is in the form of an LED. The light source may have different shapes, e.g. it may be round or may be shaped as a strip. The light source may be replaced by a plurality of light sources.

It will be appreciated that one or more features of some or all of the above examples may be incorporated into the same stabiliser device 34. Figures 4 to 37 show other exemplary embodiments of stabiliser devices that emphasise the customisability of the stabiliser device to create a desired aerodynamic drag reduction behaviour,

Each stabiliser device of Figures 4 to 37 is similar in structure and operation to the stabiliser device 34 of Figures 2 and 3, and like features share the same reference numerals. For reasons of conciseness, the following description of each stabiliser device of Figures 4 to 37 covers one or more different or additional features that is not present in the stabiliser device 34 of Figures 2 and 3 but will not necessarily repeat any feature that is also present in the stabiliser device 34 of Figures 2 and 3 and is already described hereinabove.

Figures 4 and 5 show perspective, side and cross-sectional views of a stabiliser device 134. A projection height 42 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base is non- uniform along a length 44 of the primary fin 40 so that the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 has a wavy profile along the length 44 of the primary fin 40. Other curved profiles (such as convex, circular and parabolic profiles) of the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 are envisaged.

Figures 6 and 7 show respective arrangements of a plurality of stabiliser devices 234,334 on an identification plate 38. The base 36 of each stabiliser device 234,334 is attached to the identification plate 38 so that the fin structures are spaced apart from each other. In both Figures 6 and 7, the bases 36 of the stabiliser devices 234,334 are attached to the identification plate 38 so that each stabiliser device 234,334 is offset from a central position between the sides of the car body 32, In Figure 6, the primary fins 40 project substantially perpendicularly from the base 36 so that their respective distal ends 46 with respect to their bases 36 are tilted towards each other with respect to the identification plate 38. In Figure 7, the primary fins 40 project substantially perpendicularly from the base 36 so that their respective distal ends 46 with respect to their bases 36 are tilted away from each other with respect to the identification plate 38.

Figures 8 and 9 show a stabiliser device 434 in which the primary fin 40 has a variable cross-section along its projection height 42 with respect to the base 36. A plurality of ribs 52 is formed on a first plate face 54 of the primary fin 40. The plurality of ribs 52 extend along the projection height 42 of the primary fin 40 from the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 to the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36. Each rib 52 has a semi-circular cross-section. The ribs 52 are spaced apart along the length 44 of the first plate face 54 so that a first rib 52a is positioned near a first lengthwise end 56 of the first plate face 54, a second rib 52b is positioned near a second lengthwise end 58 of the first plate face 54, and a third rib 52c is positioned at a central position between the first and second lengthwise ends 56,58. A stepped surface 60 is formed on a second plate face 62 of the primary fin 40 along the length 44 of the primary fin 40 so that the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 is thinner than the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40.

Figures 10 and 11 show a stabiliser device 534 that is similar in structure to the stabiliser device 434 of Figures 8 and 9. The stabiliser device 534 of Figures 10 and 11 differs from the stabiliser device 434 of Figures 8 and 9 in that, in the stabiliser device 534, the stepped surface 60 is formed on the second plate face 62 as two stepped surface portions 60a, 60b that flank both sides of a centrally positioned non- stepped surface 64.

Figures 12 and 13 show a stabiliser device 634 in which a projection height 42 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 is non-uniform along a length 44 of the primary fin 40. More particularly, the lengthwise ends 56,58 of the primary fin 40 each forms an outwardly curved surface between the distal and proximal ends 46,48 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36, Each curved surface may form part of a convex, circular or parabolic segment of the primary fin 40, The primary fin 40 includes a plurality of plate-shaped auxiliary fins 66a,66b,66d projecting from the plate faces 54,62 of the primary fin 40.

First and second auxiliary fins 66a, 66b project from a first of the plate faces 54,62 of the primary fin 40. The first auxiliary fin 66a projects from the first plate face 54 at a height between the distal and proximal ends 46,48 of the primary fin 40, and the first auxiliary fin 66a is positioned nearer a first lengthwise end 56 of the primary fin 40 than a second lengthwise end 58 of the primary fin 40. The second auxiliary fin 66b projects from the first plate face 54 at the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40, and the second auxiliary fin 66b is positioned adjacent the second lengthwise end 58 of the primary fin 40. A first rib 52a is formed on the first plate face 54 adjacent the second lengthwise end 62 of the primary fin 40 and underneath the second auxiliary fin 66b.

Third and fourth auxiliary fins 66d project from a second of the plate faces 54,62 of the primary fin 40. The third auxiliary fin projects from the second piate face 62 at a height between the distal and proximal ends 46,48 of the primary fin 40, and the third auxiliary fin is positioned nearer the second lengthwise end 58 of the primary fin 40 than the first lengthwise end 56 of the primary fin 40. The fourth auxiliary fin 66d projects from the second plate face 62 at the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40, and the fourth auxiliary fin 66d is positioned adjacent the first lengthwise end 56 of the primary fin 40. A second rib is formed on the second plate face 62 adjacent the first lengthwise end 56 of the primary fin 40 and underneath the fourth auxiliary fin 66d.

In this way the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 has an asymmetrical cross-section with a non-uniform thickness 50.

A first lengthwise end 68 of the first auxiliary fin 66a faces the first lengthwise end 56 of the primary fin 40 and defines a straight edge from the distal end 70 of the first auxiliary fin 66a with respect to the plate face 54 to the proximal end 72 of the first auxiliary fin 66a with respect to the plate face. A second lengthwise end 74 of the first auxiliary fin 66a faces the second lengthwise end 58 of the primary fin 40 and forms an outwardly curved surface between the distal and proximal ends 70,72 of the first auxiliary fin 66a with respect to the plate face 54. The curved surface may form part of a convex, circular or parabolic segment of the first auxiliary fin 66a. As a result, the distal end 70 of the first auxiliary fin 66a is narrower than the proximal end 72 of the first auxiliary fin 66a. The first auxiliary fin 66a has a constant projection height 76 with respect to the plate face 54 between its lengthwise ends 68,74.

A first lengthwise end 68 of the third auxiliary fin faces the second lengthwise end 58 of the primary fin 40 and defines a straight edge from the distal end 70 of the third auxiliary fin with respect to the plate face 62 to the proximal end 72 of the third auxiliary fin with respect to the plate face 62. A second lengthwise end 74 of the third auxiliary fin faces the first lengthwise end 56 of the primary fin 40 and forms an outwardly curved surface between the distal and proximal ends 70,72 of the third auxiliary fin with respect to the plate face 62. The curved surface may form part of a convex, circular or parabolic segment of the third auxiliary fin 66c. As a result, the distal end 70 of the third auxiliary fin is narrower than the proximal end 72 of the third auxiliary fin 66c. The third auxiliary fin has a constant projection height 76 with respect to the plate face 62 between its lengthwise ends 68,74.

A length 78 of each of the first and third auxiliary fins 66a is aligned at a non-zero angle, i.e. tilted, relative to a projection height 42 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36. In the embodiment shown, the first and third auxiliary fins 66a are tiited so that their respective second lengthwise ends 74 are cioser to the base 36 of the primary fin 40 than their respective first lengthwise ends 68. In other embodiments, the first and third auxiliary fins 66a may be tilted so that their respective first lengthwise ends 68 are closer to the base 36 of the primary fin 40 than their respective second first lengthwise ends 74. Additionally, in the embodiment shown, the first and third auxiliary fins 66a are tilted in opposite directions relative to the projection height 42 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 but in other embodiments may be tilted in the same direction relative to the projection height 42 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36.

Preferably the second and fourth auxiliary fins 66b, 66d overlap each other along the length 44 of the primary fin 40 but in other embodiments may be arranged to not overlap each other along the length 44 of the primary fin 40.

Figure 14 shows a stabiliser device 734 that is similar in structure to the stabiliser device 634 of Figures 12 and 13, The stabiliser device 734 of Figure 14 differs from the stabiliser device 634 of Figures 12 and 13 in that, in the stabiliser device 734:

● the base 36 is formed of a plurality of base portions;

● the primary fin 40 is formed of a fin body 80 and a plurality of legs 82, where the fin body 80 defines the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 and where each leg 82 defines the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36;

● each leg 82 projectingly connects the fin body 80 to the respective base portion.

The configuration of the fin body 80 and legs 82 of the stabiliser device 734 creates space 84 between the primary fin 40 and the car body 32, which enables the stabiliser device 734 to be optionally positioned over a component of the car body 32 so that the component is located between the legs 82. For example, the stabiliser device 734 may be positioned over the identification plate 38 of the car body 32, or the stabiliser device 734 may be positioned over a number or letter of the identification plate 38 when the stabiliser device 734 is attached to the identification plate 38.

Figures 15 and 16 show a stabiliser device 834 in which the primary fin 40 is formed of first and second plate sections 86,88 that are arranged side-by-side along a length 44 of the primary fin 40. The first plate section 86 defines a first plate face 54 of the primary fin 40. The second plate section 88 defines a second plate face 62 of the primary fin 40. The first and second plate sections 86,88 are different in shape.

The lengthwise ends 56,58 of the first plate section 86 of the primary fin 40 each defines a straight edge from the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 to the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36, with a rounded corner at the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36. A first lengthwise end 56 of the second plate section 88 of the primary fin 40 defines a straight edge from the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 to the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36, with a rounded corner at the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36. A second lengthwise end 58 of the second plate section 88 of the primary fin 40 defines an outwardly tapered edge from the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 to the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36. The outwardly tapered edge of the second lengthwise end 58 of the second plate section 88 is drawn back relative to the straight edge of the second lengthwise end 58 of the first plate section 86 so as to define a recess that is formed by the second lengthwise ends 58 of the first and second plate sections 86,88, The primary fin 40 has a constant projection height 42 with respect to the base 36 between its lengthwise ends 56,58.

The primary fin 40 includes a plurality of plate-shaped auxiliary fins 66 projecting from the plate faces 54,62 of the primary fin 40. A first auxiliary fin 66a projects from the first plate face 54 so that a length 78 of the first auxiliary fin 66a is aligned to be parallel with a length 44 of the primary fin 40. The first auxiliary fin 66a is located adjacent the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 and is located at a central position between the lengthwise ends 56,58 of the primary fin 40. A second auxiliary fin 66b projects from the second plate face 62 and is tilted with respect to a length 44 of the primary fin 40. The second auxiliary fin 66b is located at an intermediate position between the distal and proximal ends 46,48 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 and is located at an intermediate position between the lengthwise ends 56,58 of the primary fin 40.

A rib 52 projects from the first plate face 54 so that a length 90 of the rib 52 is aligned to be parallel with a length 44 of the primary fin 40. The rib 52 is located adjacent the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 and is located at a central position between the lengthwise ends of the primary fin 40. The rib 52 has a semi-circular cross-section.

Figure 17 shows a stabiliser device 934 that is similar in structure to the stabiliser- device 834 of Figures 15 and 16. The stabiliser device 934 of Figure 17 differs from the stabiliser device 834 of Figures 15 and 16 in that, in the stabiliser device 934: ● a first auxiliary fin 66a projects from the first plate face 54 and is tilted with respect to a length 44 of the primary fin 40. A length 78 of the first auxiliary fin 66a extends from the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 to an intermediate position between the distal and proximal ends 46,48 of the primary fin 40;

● a second auxiliary fin 66b projects from the second plate face 62 and is tilted with respect to the length 44 of the primary fin 40. A length 78 of the second auxiliary fin 66b extends from the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 to an intermediate position between the distal and proximal ends 46,48 of the primary fin 40;

● the first and second auxiliary fins 66a, 66b have the same tilt angles with respect to the length 44 of the primary fin 40;

● each of the first and second auxiliary fins 66a, 66b is located at an intermediate position between the lengthwise ends 56,58 of the primary fin 40, so that the first and second auxiliary fins 66a, 66b overlap each other with respect to the projection height 42 and length 44 of the primary fin 40;

● the first and second auxiliary fins 66a, 66b are mirror images of each other.

Figure 18 show various embodiments of piate-shaped auxiliary fins 66 that are attached to plate faces 54,62 of a primary fin 40.

Figure 18a shows a first embodiment of a plate-shaped auxiliary fin 66. The lengthwise ends 68,74 of the auxiliary fin 66 each forms an outwardly curved surface between the distal and proximal ends 70,72 of the auxiliary fin 66 with respect to the plate face 54, Each curved surface may form part of a convex, circular or parabolic segment of the auxiliary fin 66. The auxiliary fin 66 tapers from one lengthwise end 68 to the other lengthwise end 74 so that a projection height 76 of the auxiliary fin 66 with respect to the plate face 54 linearly changes between its lengthwise ends 68,74.

Figure 18b shows a second embodiment of a plate-shaped auxiliary fin 66. The lengthwise ends 68,74 of the auxiliary fin 66 each forms an outwardly curved surface between the distal and proximal ends 70,72 of the auxiliary fin 66 with respect to the plate face 54. Each curved surface may form part of a convex, circular or parabolic segment of the auxiliary fin 66. The auxiliary fin 66 has a constant projection height 76 of the auxiliary fin 66 with respect to the plate face 54 between its lengthwise ends 68,74.

Figure 18c shows a third embodiment of a piate-shaped auxiliary fin 66, The lengthwise ends 68,74 of the auxiliary fin 66 taper inwards from the distal end 70 of the auxiliary fin 66 with respect to the plate face 54 to the proximal end 72 of the auxiliary fin 66 with respect to the plate face 54 so that the distal end 70 of the auxiliary fin 66 is wider than the proximal end 72 of the auxiliary fin 66, Each lengthwise end 68,74 of the auxiliary fin 66 defines a rounded corner at the distal end 70 of the auxiliary fin 66 with respect to the plate face 54, The auxiliary fin 66 has a constant projection height 76 of the auxiliary fin 66 with respect to the plate face 54 between its lengthwise ends 68,74.

Figure 18d shows a fourth embodiment of a plate-shaped auxiliary fin 66. One lengthwise end 68 of the auxiliary fin 66 tapers outwards from the distal end 70 of the auxiliary fin 66 with respect to the plate face 54 to the proximal end 72 of the auxiliary fin 66 with respect to the plate face 54. The other lengthwise end 74 defines a straight edge from the distal end 70 of the auxiliary fin 66 with respect to the plate face 54 to the proximal end 72 of the auxiliary fin 66 with respect to the plate face 54. As a result, the distal end 70 of the auxiliary fin 66 is narrower than the proximal end 72 of the auxiliary fin 66. Each lengthwise end 68,74 of the auxiliary fin 66 defines a rounded corner at the distal end 70 of the auxiliary fin 66 with respect to the plate face. The auxiliary fin 66 has a constant projection height 76 of the auxiliary fin 66 with respect to the plate face 54 between its lengthwise ends 68,74.

Figure 18e shows a fifth embodiment of a plate-shaped auxiliary fin 66. The lengthwise ends 68,74 of the auxiliary fin 66 taper outwards from the distal end 70 of the auxiliary fin 66 with respect to the plate face 54 to the proximal end 72 of the auxiliary fin 66 with respect to the plate face 54 so that the distal end 70 of the auxiliary fin 66 is narrower than the proximal end 72 of the auxiliary fin 66. Each lengthwise end 68,74 of the auxiliary fin 66 defines a rounded corner at the distal end 70 of the auxiliary fin 66 with respect to the plate face 54. The auxiliary fin 66 has a constant projection height 76 of the auxiliary fin 66 with respect to the plate face 54 between its lengthwise ends 68,74.

The addition of one or more auxiliary fins 66 to the primary fin 40 permits further customisation of the primary fin 40 to provide a desired fluid-dynamic drag reduction behaviour, which may vary depending on the characteristics of the car body 32.

It will be appreciated that a given primary fin 40 may have a single auxiliary fin 66 or a plurality of auxiliary fins 66. When the primary fin 40 has a plurality of auxiliary fins 66, at least two of the auxiliary fins 66 may be identical or different in shape and/or dimensions, or ail of the auxiliary fins 66 may be identical in shape and/or dimensions. Figures 19 and 20 show a stabiliser device 1034 having an intermediate section 92 that extends from one lengthwise end 56 of a primary fin 40 to the other lengthwise end 58 of the primary fin 40. The base 36 is formed of a plurality of base portions. The primary fin 40 is formed of a fin body 80 and a plurality of legs 82, where the fin body 80 defines the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 and where each leg 82 defines the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36. Each leg 82 projecting!y connects the fin body 80 to the respective base portion.

The lengthwise ends 56,58 of the primary fin 40 each defines an inwardly tapered straight edge from the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 to the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36.

Each lengthwise end 56,58 of the primary fin 40 has a constant projection height 42 with respect to the base 36. The projection height 42 of the lengthwise ends 56,58 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 is shorter than the projection height 42 of the intermediate section 92 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36.

The distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 tapers outwardly from each lengthwise end 56,58 to the intermediate section 92. The distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 has a constant width throughout the intermediate section 92.

The primary fin 40 includes a plurality of plate-shaped auxiliary fins 66a,66b,66c projecting from the plate faces 54,62.

A first auxiliary fin 66a projects from a first plate face 54 of the primary fin 40 so that a length 78 of the first auxiliary fin 66a is aligned to be parallel with a length 44 of the primary fin 40. The first auxiliary fin 66a is located on the fin body 80 so that the first auxiliary fin 66a is located immediately above the space 84 created between the primary fin 40 and the car body 32. The first auxiliary fin 66a is located at a central position between the lengthwise ends 56,58 of the primary fin 40.

A second auxiliary fin 66b projects from the first plate face 54 and extends along the projection height 42 of the primary fin 40 from the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 to the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36. The second auxiliary fin 66b is located at the transition point between the intermediate section 92 and a first of the lengthwise ends 56,58 of the primary fin 40.

A third auxiliary fin 66c projects from a second plate face 62 of the primary fin 40 and extends along the projection height 42 of the primary fin 40 from the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 to the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36. The third auxiliary fin 66c is located at the transition point between the intermediate section 92 and a second of the lengthwise ends 56,58 of the primary fin 40.

A pair of fourth auxiliary fins 66d project from the second plate face 62. Each fourth auxiliary fin 6d6 is located at an intermediate position between the distal and proximal ends 46,48 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36. The fourth auxiliary fins 65d are spaced apart along the length 44 of the second plate face 62 so that the fourth auxiliary fins 66d flank both sides of a central position between the lengthwise ends 56,58 of the primary fin 40 so as to be offset from the central position and so that each of the fourth auxiliary fins 66d is offset from a respective one of the lengthwise ends 56,58 of the primary fin 40. Each fourth auxiliary fin 66d is aligned at a non-zero angle, i.e. tilted, relative to a projection height 42 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36. In the embodiment shown, the fourth auxiliary fins 66d are tilted so that their respective second lengthwise ends 74 are closer to the base 36 of the primary fin 40 than their respective first lengthwise ends 68. In other embodiments, the fourth auxiliary fins 66d may be tilted so that their respective first lengthwise ends 68 are closer to the base 36 of the primary fin 40 than their respective second first lengthwise ends 74. Additionally, in the embodiment shown, the fourth auxiliary fins 66d are tilted in opposite directions relative to the projection height 42 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 but in other embodiments may be tilted in the same direction relative to the projection height 42 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36.

A rib 52 is formed on the second plate face 62 and is at a central position between the lengthwise ends 56,58 of the primary fin 40. The rib 52 is located on the fin body 80 so that the rib 52 is located immediately above the space 84 created between the primary fin 40 and the car body 32. The rib 52 extends from the space 84 created between the primary fin 40 and the car body 32 to the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36.

The distal end 46 of the intermediate section 92 comprises a holder 96 that comprises a block 98 that is flanked by two sidewalls 100. An electronic or electrical device may be mounted in or on the block 98. Non-limiting examples of electronic or electrical devices are described throughout the specification.

The holder 96 is centrally located with respect to the length 44 of the primary fin 40. The block 98 is shorter than the sidewalls 100 with respect to the length 44 of the primary fin 40. Preferably the two sidewalls 100 are in contact with the block 98. A fifth auxiliary fin 66e projects outwards perpendicularly, or substantially perpendicularly, from one of the sidewalls 100 corresponding to the first plate face 54.

Figures 21 to 23 show perspective and top views of a stabiliser device 1134 in which the primary fin 40 is formed of first and second plate sections 86,88 that are arranged side-by-side along a length 44 of the primary fin 40. The first plate section 86 defines a first plate face 54 of the primary fin 40. The second plate section 88 defines a second plate face 62 of the primary fin 40, The first and second plate sections 86,88 are different in shape.

The lengthwise ends 56,58 of the first plate section 86 of the primary fin 40 each defines an inwardly tapered straight edge from the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 to the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36, with a rounded corner at the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36, The lengthwise ends 56,58 of the second plate section 88 of the primary fin 40 each defines an outwardly tapered straight edge from the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 to the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36. The outwardly tapered edge of each lengthwise end 56,58 of the second plate section 88 is drawn back relative to the inwardly tapered edge of the corresponding lengthwise end 56,58 of the first plate section 86 so as to define recesses that are formed by the lengthwise ends 56,58 of the first and second plate sections 86,88.

The projection height 42 of the lengthwise ends 56,58 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 is shorter than the projection height 42 of an intermediate section 92 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36, where the intermediate section 92 extends from one lengthwise end 56 to the other lengthwise end 58.

The primary fin 40 includes a plurality of plate-shaped auxiliary fins 66 projecting from the plate faces 54,62 and a plurality of ribs 52 formed on the plate faces 54,62. A first auxiliary fin 66a projects from the first plate face 54 so that a length 78 of the first auxiliary fin 66a is aligned to be parallel with a length 44 of the primary fin 40. The first auxiliary fin 66a is located adjacent the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 and is located at a central position between the lengthwise ends 56,58 of the primary fin 40.

Three ribs 52a,52b,52c are formed on the first plate face 54 and are spaced apart along the length 44 of the first plate face 54. One rib 52a is at a central position between the lengthwise ends 56,58 and extends along the projection height 42 of the primary fin 40 from the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 until it meets the first auxiliary fin 66a. Each of the other two ribs 52b, 52c is positioned to be adjacent a respective one of the lengthwise ends 56,58 and extends along the projection height 42 of the primary fin 40 from the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 to the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36,

A pair of second auxiliary fins 66b project from the second plate face 62 and extends along the projection height 42 of the primary fin 40 from the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 to the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36. The second auxiliary fins 66b are spaced apart along the length 44 of the second plate face 62 so that the second auxiliary fins 66b flank both sides of a central position between the lengthwise ends 56,58 so as to be offset from the central position and so that each of the second auxiliary fins 66b is offset from a respective one of the lengthwise ends 56,58.

Three ribs 52d,52e,52f are formed on the second plate face 62 and are spaced apart along the length 44 of the second plate face 62. A rib 52d projects from the second plate face 62 so that a length 90 of the rib 52 is aligned to be parallel with a length 44 of the primary fin 40. The rib 52d is located adjacent the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 and extends partway between the second auxiliary fins 66b. Each of the other two ribs 52e,52f is positioned to be adjacent a respective one of the lengthwise ends 56,58 and extends along the projection height 42 of the primary fin 40 from the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 to the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36. In addition each of the other two ribs 52 is vertically tilted with respect to the projection height 42 of the primary fin 40 so that each of the other two ribs 52e,52f is aligned to be parallel with the outwardly tapered edge of the adjacent lengthwise end 56,58. Each rib 52 has a semi-circular cross-section.

Figure 24 shows a stabiliser device 1234 that is similar in structure to the stabiliser device 1134 of Figures 21 to 23. The stabiliser device 1234 of Figure 24 differs from the stabiliser device 1134 of Figures 21 to 23 in that two additional ribs 52g,52b are formed on the first plate face 54 of the stabiliser device 1234. The additional ribs 52g,52h flank both sides of the centrally positioned rib 52a so as to be offset from the centrally positioned rib 52a. In addition, each of the two additional ribs 52g,52h is positioned at a respective one of the lengthwise ends 68,74 of the first auxiliary fin 66a so that each of the additional ribs 52g,52h extends along the projection height 42 of the primary fin 40 from the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 until it meets the corresponding lengthwise end 68,74 of the first auxiliary fin 66a.

Each additional rib 52g,52h has a semi-circular cross-section.

Figures 25 and 26 show a stabiliser device 1334 having an intermediate section 92 that extends from one lengthwise end 56 of a primary fin 40 to the other lengthwise end 58 of the primary fin 40.

The lengthwise ends 56,58 of the primary fin 40 each defines a straight edge from the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 to the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36.

Each lengthwise end 56,58 of the primary fin 40 has a constant projection height 42 with respect to the base 36. The intermediate section 92 of the primary fin 40 has a constant projection height 42 with respect to the base 36. The projection height 42 of the lengthwise ends 56,58 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 is shorter than the projection height 42 of the intermediate section 92 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36.

The distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 tapers outwardly from each lengthwise end 56,58 to the intermediate section 92. The distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 has a constant width throughout the intermediate section 92.

A first auxiliary fin 66a projects from a first plate face 54 of the primary fin 40 so that a length 78 of the first auxiliary fin 66a is aligned to be parallel with a length 44 of the primary fin 40. The first auxiliary fin 66a is centrally located between the distal and proximal ends 46,48 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 and is located at a central position between the lengthwise ends 56,58 of the primary fin 40.

A pair of second auxiliary fins 66b project from a second plate face 62 of the primary fin 40 and extends along the projection height 42 of the primary fin 40 from the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 to the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36. The second auxiliary fins 66b are spaced apart along the length 44 of the second plate face 62 so that the second auxiliary fins 66b flank both sides of a central position between the lengthwise ends 56,58 so as to be offset from the central position and so that each of the second auxiliary fins 66b is offset from a respective one of the lengthwise ends 56,58.

Three ribs 52a, 52b, 52c are formed on the second plate face 62 and are spaced apart along the length 44 of the second plate face 62. One rib 52a is at a central position between the lengthwise ends 56,58, Each of the other two ribs 52b, 52c is positioned to be at a respective one of the lengthwise ends 56,58. Each of the three ribs 52a, 52b, 52c extends along the projection height 42 of the primary fin 40 from the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 to the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36,

Figures 27 and 28 show a stabiliser device 1434 having an intermediate section 92 that extends from one lengthwise end 56 of a primary fin 40 to the other lengthwise end 58 of the primary fin 40. The base 36 is formed of a plurality of base portions. The primary fin 40 is formed of a fin body 80 and a plurality of legs 82, where the fin body 80 defines the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 and where each leg 82 defines the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36. Each leg 82 projectingly connects the fin body 80 to the respective base portion.

The lengthwise ends 56,58 of the primary fin 40 each defines a straight edge from the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 to the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36.

Each lengthwise end 56,58 of the primary fin 40 has a constant projection height 42 with respect to the base 36. The intermediate section 92 of the primary fin 40 has a constant projection height 42 with respect to the base 36. The projection height 42 of the lengthwise ends 56,58 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 is shorter than the projection height 42 of the intermediate section 92 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36.

The distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 tapers outwardly from each lengthwise end 56,58 to the intermediate section 92. The distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 has a constant width throughout the intermediate section 92.

An auxiliary fin 66 projects from a first plate face 54 of the primary fin 40 so that a length 78 of the auxiliary fin 66 is aligned to be parallel with a length 44 of the primary fin 40. The auxiliary fin 66 is located on the fin body 80 so that the first auxiliary fin 66 is immediately above the space 84 created between the primary fin 40 and the car body 32, The auxiliary fin 66 is located at a central position between the lengthwise ends 56,58 of the primary fin 40.

Two ribs 52a, 52b are formed on the first plate face 54 and are spaced apart along the length 44 of the first plate face 54. Each of the two ribs 52a, 52b is positioned to be at a respective one of the lengthwise ends 56,58. Each of the two ribs 52a, 52b extends along the projection height 42 of the primary fin 40 from the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 to the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36.

Two ribs 52c, 52d are formed on the second plate face 62 and are spaced apart along the length 44 of the second plate face 62. Each of the two ribs 52c, 52d is positioned to be at a respective one of the lengthwise ends 56,58. Each of the two ribs 52c, 52d extends along the projection height 42 of the primary fin 40 from the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 to the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36.

Each rib 52,52b,52c,52d has a semi-circular cross-section.

Figure 29 shows a stabiliser device 1534 that is similar in structure to the stabiliser device 1434 of Figures 27 and 28. The stabiliser device 1534 of Figure 29 differs from the stabiliser device 1434 of Figures 27 and 28 in that the primary fin 40 of the stabiliser device 1534 omits the legs 82 so that there is no space created between the primary fin 40 and the car body 32. Each of the stabiliser devices in Figures 2 to 29 is preferably attached to the top or bottom of the identification plate 38. In other embodiments, each of the stabiliser devices in Figures 2 to 29 may be attached to either side of the identification plate 38.

Each of the stabiliser devices in Figures 2 to 29 may be attached to the identification plate 38 so that a length of the primary fin 40 is horizontally, or substantially horizontally, aligned with the width of the car body 32 extending between the sides of the car body 32.

It is envisaged that, in other embodiments, each of the stabiliser devices in Figures 2 to 29 may be attached to the identification plate 38 so that a length of the primary fin 40 is:

● perpendicular, or substantially perpendicular, to the width of the car body 32 extending between the sides of the car body 32; or

● tilted at a non-zero angle with respect to the width of the car body 32 extending between the sides of the car body 32,

Alternatively only the base 36 may be attached to the identification plate 38,

Figure 30 shows a stabiliser device 1634 in which a primary fin 40 projects from a rectangular plate-shaped base portion of a base 36. A first lengthwise end 56 of the primary fin 40 defines a straight edge from the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 to the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36. A second lengthwise end 58 of the second plate face 62 of the primary fin 40 initially defines an outwardly tapered edge starting from a rounded corner at the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 before transitioning to a straight edge all the way to the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36, so that the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 Is narrower than the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40. The primary fin 40 is positioned at a central position between the two lengthwise ends 102,104 of the base 36 and extends across the width of the base 36.

Figures 31 and 32 show a stabiliser device 1734 in which a primary fin 40 projects from a rectangular plate-shaped base portion of a base 36. A first lengthwise end 56 of the primary fin 40 defines a straight edge from the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 to the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36. A second lengthwise end 58 of the second plate face 62 of the primary fin 40 initialiy defines an outwardly tapered edge starting from a rounded corner at the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40, transitions to a straight edge and finally defines an inwardly tapered edge towards the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36. A length 44 of the primary fin 40 between the straight edges of the primary fin 40 is longer than a width of the base 36 so that the primary fin 40 extends from one widthwise end 106 of the base 36 and past the other widthwise end 108 of the base 36. The primary fin 40 is positioned at a central position between the two lengthwise ends 102,104 of the base 36.

Figure 33 shows a stabiliser device 1834 in which a primary fin 40 projects from a trapezoidal plate-shaped base portion of a base 36. A first lengthwise end 56 of the primary fin 40 defines a straight edge from the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 to the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36. A second lengthwise end 58 of the second plate face 62 of the primary fin 40 initially defines an inwardly curved edge starting from a rounded corner at the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 before transitioning to a straight edge all the way to the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36, so that the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 is narrower than the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40. The primary fin 40 is positioned at a central position between the two lengthwise ends 102,104 of the base 36 and extends across the width of the base 36.

Figure 34 shows a stabiliser device 1934 that is similar in structure to the stabiliser device 1834 of Figure 33. The stabiliser device 1934 of Figure 34 differs from the stabiliser device 1834 of Figure 33 in that, in the stabiliser device 1934, the base 36 includes a block 110 on the base portion, and the primary fin 40 projects from the block 110. The block 110 is not plate-shaped and thereby does not form a fin. The thickness of the block 110 is dimensioned to permit mounting of an electronic or electrical device, such as a camera, in or on the block 110.

Figure 35 shows a stabiliser device 2034 in which a primary fin 40 projects from a rectangular plate-shaped base portion of a base 36. A first lengthwise end 56 of the primary fin 40 defines a straight edge from the distai end 46 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 to the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36. A second lengthwise end 58 of the second plate face 62 of the primary fin 40 initiaiiy defines an outwardly tapered edge starting from a rounded corner at the distai end 46 of the primary fin 40 before transitioning to a straight edge ail the way to the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36, so that the distai end 46 of the primary fin 40 is narrower than the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40. A length 44 of its primary fin 40 is shorter than a width of the base 36 so that the primary fin 40 extends from one widthwise end 106 of the base 36 and is spaced inwards away from the other widthwise end 108 of the base 36. The primary fin 40 is positioned at a centra! position between the two lengthwise ends 102,104 of the base 36.

Figure 36 shows a stabiliser device 2134 that is similar in structure to the stabiliser device 2034 of Figure 35. The stabiliser device 2134 of Figure 36 differs from the stabiliser device 2034 of Figure 35 in that, in the stabiliser device 2134, the primary fin 40 is positioned at one lengthwise end 104 of the base 36 so that the primary fin 40 and the base 36 together form an L-shape.

Figure 37 shows a stabiliser device 2234 that is similar in structure to the stabiliser device 2034 of Figure 35. The stabiliser device 2234 of Figure 37 differs from the stabiliser device 2034 of Figure 35 in that, in the stabiiiser device 2234, the primary fin 40 is positioned at the other lengthwise end 102 of the base 36 so that the primary fin 40 and the base 36 together form an L-shape.

Each of the stabiliser devices in Figures 30 to 37 is preferably attached to the top or bottom of the identification piate 38. In other embodiments, each of the stabiliser devices in Figures 30 to 37 may be attached to either side of the identification plate 38.

Both of the base 36 and the primary fin 40 (e.g. the base 36 and the first lengthwise end 56 of the primary fin 40) may be attached to the identification plate 38 so that a length of the primary fin 40 is perpendicular, or substantially perpendicular, to the width of the car body 32 extending between the sides of the car body 32. For example, attaching each of the stabiliser devices in Figures 30 to 35 in this manner results in the stabiliser device forming a T' or ’inverted T shape on the identification plate 38.

It is envisaged that, in other embodiments, both of the base 36 and the primary fin 40 may be attached to the identification plate 38 so that a length of the primary fin 40 is:

● horizontally, or substantially horizontally, aligned with the width of the car body 32 extending between the sides of the car body 32; or

● tilted at a non-zero angle with respect to the width of the car body 32 extending between the sides of the car body 32.

Alternatively only the base 36 may be attached to the identification plate 38. Figure 38 shows a stabiliser device 2334 with a fin structure comprising a plurality of primary fins 40 that are integral with each other so that a cross-section of the integral primary fins 40 along a projection height 42 of the integral primary fins 40 is I-shaped,

Figure 39 shows a stabiliser device 2434 with a fin structure comprising a plurality of primary fins 40 that are integral with each other so that a cross-section of the integral primary fins 40 along a projection height 42 of the integral primary fins 40 is Fi-shaped,

Optionally the stabiliser device 2334,2434 may include two additional primary fins 140 that project from the base 36 so as to flank both sides of the primary fin 40, wherein the additional primary fins 140 are spaced apart from the primary fin 40, Alternatively additional stabiliser devices 2534 may be arranged to flank both sides of the stabiliser device 2334,2434, wherein the additional stabiliser devices 2534 are spaced apart from the stabiliser device 2334,2434. The positions of the additional primary fins 40 and the additional stabiliser devices 2534 are indicated by the portions in dashed lines in Figures 38 and 39.

Figure 40 shows a stabiliser device 2634 with a fin structure comprising a plurality of primary fins 40 that are integral with each other so that a cross-section of the integral primary fins 40 along a projection height 42 of the integral primary fins 40 is T-shaped. As shown in Figure 40, the fin structure may have any rotational orientation when it is attached to the car body 32.

Figure 41 shows a stabiliser device 2734 with a fin structure comprising a plurality of primary fins 40 that are integral with each other so that a cross-section of the integral primary fins 40 along a projection height 42 of the integral primary fins 40 is crossshaped.

Figure 42 shows a stabiliser device 2834 with a fin structure comprising a plurality of primary fins 40 that are integral with each other so that a cross-section of the integral primary fins 40 along a projection height 42 of the integral primary fins 40 is X-shaped. An angle between the primary fins 40 may vary.

Figure 43 shows a stabiliser device 2934 with a fin structure comprising a plurality of primary fins 40 that are integral with each other so that a cross-section of the integral primary fins 40 along a projection height 42 of the integral primary fins 40 is starshaped. An angle between the primary fins 40 may vary. The fin structure has three diametrical primary fins 40 but in other embodiments may have any number of diametrical primary fins 40.

Figure 44 shows a stabiliser device 3034 in which a block 110 and a pair of primary fins 40 project from a trapezoidal plate-shaped base portion of a base 36.

The block 110 is positioned at a central position between lengthwise ends 102,104 of the base 36 and extends across a width of the base 36. The block 110 is not plate- shaped and thereby does not form a fin. The thickness of the block 110 is dimensioned to permit mounting of an electronic or electrical device, such as a camera, in or on the block.

The pair of primary fins 40 flank both sides of the block 110 so that each primary fin 40 is positioned between the block 110 and a respective lengthwise end 102,104 of the base 36. Each primary fin 40 tapers between its lengthwise ends 56,58 so that a projection height 42 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 linearly changes between its lengthwise ends 56,58 and so that each plate face of the primary fin 40 is in the shape of a right-angled triangle. Each primary fin 40 is aligned to be parallel with the width of the base 36 but in other embodiments may be aligned to be tilted with respect to the width of the base 36, A length 44 of each primary fin 40 is shorter than the width of the base 36 so that one lengthwise end 56 of each primary fin 40 are spaced inwards away from one widthwise end 106 of the base 36 and the other lengthwise end 58 of each primary fin 40 is located at the other widthwise end 108 of the base 36.

It is envisaged that, in other embodiments of the invention, the stabiliser device may include multiple blocks 110 arranged in a row along the length 44 of the base 36.

Figures 45 and 46 show perspective and plan views of a stabiliser device 3036. The base 36 and the primary fin 40 preferably have the same thickness.

A first lengthwise end 56 of the primary fin 40 defines a straight edge from the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 to the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36. A second lengthwise end 58 of the primary fin 40 defines an outwardly tapering straight edge from the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 to the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36. Each lengthwise end 56,58 of the primary fin 40 defines a rounded corner at the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36. The primary fin 40 tapers from the first lengthwise end 56 to the second lengthwise end 58 so that a projection height 42 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 linearly changes between its lengthwise ends 56,58.

A block 110 projects from the base portion of the base 36 and a plate face 54 of the primary fin 40 so that a height 142 of the block 110 extends from the base 36 and the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 to a position adjacent the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36. The block 110 is located at the first lengthwise end 56. The block 110 comprises a first block portion 110a and a second block portion 110b. The first block portion 110a defines a flat surface that is perpendicular to the plate face 54 and faces the first lengthwise end 56. The second block portion 110b defines a flat surface that tapers inwardly from the plate face 54 and faces the second lengthwise end 58. Preferably the stabiliser device 3036 is arranged on the front or rear of the car body 32 so that a length 44 of the stabiliser device 3036 is horizontally aligned with respect to the car body 32.

Also preferably a pair of stabiliser devices, each being similar in structure to the stabiliser device 3036, is arranged on the front or rear of the car body 32, e.g. on an identification plate 38, so that the pair of stabiliser devices 3036 flank both sides of a centrally positioned stabiliser device. The pair of stabiliser devices 3036 may be spaced apart from the centrally positioned stabiliser device. The pair of stabiliser devices 3036 may be positioned at the ends of the identification plate 38 or may be spaced apart from the ends of the identification plate 38. The pair of stabiliser devices may be arranged to form mirror images of each other. The centrally positioned stabiliser device may be any stabiliser device according to the invention, non-limiting examples of which are described throughout the specification.

Figure 47 shows a stabiliser device 3038 that is similar in structure and position to the stabiliser device 3036 of Figures 45 and 46. The stabiliser device 3038 of Figure 47 differs from the stabiliser device 3036 of Figures 45 and 46 in that, in the stabiliser device 3038, the block 110 projects from the base portion of the base 36 and a plate face 62 of the primary fin 40 so that the block 110 is located adjacent the second lengthwise end 58. The first block portion 110a defines a flat surface that is perpendicular to the plate face 62 and faces the second lengthwise end 58. The second block portion 110b defines a flat surface that tapers inwardly from the plate face 62 and faces the first lengthwise end 56. Each of the stabiliser devices in Figures 44 to 47 is preferably attached to the top or bottom of the identification plate 38. In other embodiments, each of the stabiliser devices in Figures 44 to 47 may be attached to either side of the identification plate 38.

Both of the base 36 and the block 110 may be attached to the identification plate 38 so that a length of each primary fin 40 is perpendicular, or substantially perpendicular, to the width of the car body 32 extending between the sides of the car body 32.

It is envisaged that, in other embodiments, both of the base 36 and the block 110 may be attached to the identification plate 38 so that a length of each primary fin 40 is:

● horizontally, or substantially horizontally, aligned with the width of the car body 32 extending between the sides of the car body 32; or

● tilted at a non-zero angle with respect to the width of the car body 32 extending between the sides of the car body 32.

Alternatively only the base 36 may be attached to the identification plate 38.

Figures 48 to 52 show other exemplary embodiments that shows various placements of one or more stabiliser devices on non-lateral surfaces of the car body 32.

Figure 48 shows a stabiliser device 3134 that is similar in structure and position to the stabiliser device 34 of Figures 2 and 3. The stabiliser device 3134 of Figure 48 differs from the stabiliser device 34 of Figures 2 and 3 in that, in the stabiliser device 3134:

● the base 36 is formed of a plurality of base portions;

● the primary fin 40 is formed of a fin body 80 and a plurality of legs 82, where the fin body 80 defines the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 and where each leg 82 defines the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36;

● each leg 82 projectingly connects the fin body 80 to the respective base portion.

The configuration of the fin body and legs 80,82 of the stabiiiser device 3134 creates space 84 between the primary fin 40 and the car body 32, which enables the stabiliser device to be positioned over a number or letter of the identification plate 38 when the stabiliser device 3134 is attached to the identification plate 38.

In addition, the stabiliser device 3134 is flanked on both sides by a pair of additional stabiliser devices 3234. Each additional stabiliser device 3234 is similar in structure to the stabiliser device 34 of Figures 2 and 3. Each additional stabiliser device 3234 is positioned between the stabiliser device 3134 and a respective end of the identification plate 38 so that each additional stabiliser device 3234 is spaced apart from the respective end 112,114 of the identification plate 38.

Figure 49 shows a stabiliser device 3334 that is similar in structure and position to the stabiliser device 3134 of Figure 48 and also shows additional stabiliser devices 3434 that are similar in structure to the additional stabiliser devices 3234 of Figure 48. The additional stabiliser devices 3434 of Figure 49 differ from the additional stabiliser devices 3234 of Figure 48 in that the additional stabiliser devices 3434 are positioned adjacent to the respective ends 112,114 of the identification plate 38.

Figure 50 shows a stabiliser device 3534 that is similar in structure and position to the stabiliser device 34 of Figures 2 and 3 and also shows additional stabiliser devices 3634 that are similar in structure and position to the additional stabiliser devices 3234 of Figure 48.

The stabiliser device 3534 of Figure 50 differs from the stabiliser device 34 of Figures 2 and 3 in that, in the stabiliser device 3534, a plurality of ribs 52 is formed on each plate face 54 of the primary fin 40. The plurality of ribs 52 on each plate face 54 extend along the projection height 42 of the primary fin 40 from the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 to the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36. The lengthwise ends 56,58 of the primary fin 40 tapers outwards from the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 to the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40 with respect to the base 36 so that the distal end 46 of the primary fin 40 Is narrower than the proximal end 48 of the primary fin 40.

The additional stabiliser devices 3634 of Figure 50 differ from the additional stabiliser devices 3234 of Figure 48 in that:

● each additional stabiliser device 3634 has a fin structure comprising a plurality of primary fins 40 that are integral with each other;

● the fin structure of a first of the additional stabiliser devices 3634 is shaped to have a first primary fin 40 defining a first end 116 that is positioned adjacent the top of the identification plate 38 and is aligned vertically with respect to the car body 32, and a second primary fin 40 defining a second end 118 that is positioned adjacent the bottom of the identification plate 38 and is aligned vertically with respect to the car body 32, where the first and second primary fins 40 are spaced apart horizontally with respect to the car body 32. The fin structure further includes a third primary fin 40 defining an intermediate transition section 120 that interconnects the first and second primary fins 40, where the intermediate transition section 120 is horizontally tilted with respect to the car body 32; and

● a second of the additional stabiliser devices 3634 is a mirror image of the first additional stabiliser device 3634; and

● a distance between the first ends 116 of the additional stabiliser devices 3634 is longer than a distance between the second ends 118 of the additional stabiliser devices 3634. In other embodiments, it is envisaged that the first end 116, the second end 118 and the intermediate transition section 120 of each additional stabiliser device 3634 may be rearranged so that the distance between the first ends 116 of the additional stabiliser devices 3634 may be shorter than the distance between the second ends 118 of the additional stabiliser devices 3634.

It is envisaged that, in other embodiments of the invention, the first end 116 and/or the second end 118 of each additional stabiliser device 3634 may be tilted vertically with respect to the car body 32, either outwardly away from or inwardly towards the stabiliser device 3534.

It is also envisaged that, in further other embodiments of the invention, the intermediate transition section 120 may be horizontally aligned with respect to the car body 32.

Figure 51 shows a stabiliser device 3734 attached to an identification plate 38, where the stabiliser device 3734 has a fin structure comprising a plurality of primary fins 40 that are integral with each other so that a cross-section of the integral primary fins 40 along a projection height 42 of the integral primary fins 40 with respect to the base 36 is W-sbaped. The stabiliser device 3734 is preferably located in a central position between the sides of the car body 32.

Figure 52 shows a car 30 in which stabiliser devices 3834 are attached to respective ends 112,114 of an identification plate 38 that forms part of a rear of a car body 32. Each stabiliser device 3834 is preferably similar in structure to the stabiliser device 34 of Figures 2 and 3. Figures 53 to 57 show other exemplary embodiments that show various placements of one or more stabiliser devices on non-lateral surfaces of a lorry body 132 that have relatively large and flat surface areas, especially on the front and rear of the lorry body 132. Having one or more stabiliser devices on one or more of the non-lateral surfaces of the lorry body 132 reduces aerodynamic drag without causing any physical or visual interference to the lorry's operation.

Figure 53 shows a lorry 130 in which stabiliser devices are attached to a front-facing surface of a lorry cab 134. A first stabiliser device 3934 is attached to a lower end of the front of the lorry cab 134 in a central position between the sides of the lorry body 132 so that a length 44 of the primary fin 40 of the first stabiliser device 3934 is vertically aligned with respect to the lorry body 132. Additional stabiliser devices 4034 are attached to the lower end of the front of the lorry cab 134 to flank both sides of a top vertical end of the first stabiliser device 3934 so that a length 44 of the primary fin 40 of each additional stabiliser device 4034 is vertically aligned with respect to the lorry body 132, The additional stabiliser devices 4034 are horizontally spaced apart from the first stabiliser device 3934 with respect to the lorry body 132, The first stabiliser device 3934 is preferably similar in structure to the stabiliser device 1334 of Figures 25 and 26 and each additional stabiliser device 4034 is preferably similar in structure to the stabiliser device 34 of Figures 2 and 3.

Figure 54 shows a lorry 130 in which stabiliser devices are attached to a front-facing surface of a lorry cab 134, A first stabiliser device 4134 is attached to a lower end of the front of the lorry cab 134 in a central position between the sides of the lorry body 132 so that a length 44 of the primary fin 40 of the first stabiliser device 4134 is vertically aligned with respect to the lorry body 132. Additional stabiliser devices 4234 are attached to the lower end of the front of the lorry cab 134 to flank both sides of a top vertical end of the first stabiliser device 4134 so that the additional stabiliser devices 4234 are horizontally spaced apart from the first stabiliser device 4134 with respect to the lorry body 132 and so that a length 44 of the primary fin 40 of each additional stabiliser device 4234 is vertically aligned with respect to the lorry body 132. The first stabiliser device 4134 Is preferably similar in structure to the stabiliser device 1034 of Figures 19 and 20 and each additional stabiliser device 4234 is preferably similar in structure to the stabiliser device 34 of Figures 2 and 3.

Figure 55 shows a lorry 130 in which stabiiiser devices are attached to a front-facing surface of a iorry cab 134 and a front-facing surface of a lorry trailer 136. A pair of first stabiliser devices 4334 are attached to a lower end of the front of the lorry cab 134 to be offset from a central position between the sides of the car body 32 so that the first stabiliser devices 4334 flank both sides of the central position and so that a length 44 of the primary fin 40 of each first stabiliser device 4334 is vertically aligned with respect to the lorry body 132. Three additional stabiliser devices 4434 are attached to a higher end of the front of the lorry trailer 136 so that:

● one of the additional stabiliser devices 4434 is in a central position between the sides of the car body 32;

● the other two additional stabiliser devices 4434 flank both sides of the centrally positioned additional stabiliser device 4434;

● the other two additional stabiliser devices 4434 are horizontally spaced apart from the centrally positioned additional stabiliser device 4434 with respect to the lorry body 132; and

● a length 44 of the primary fin 40 of each additional stabiliser device 4434 is vertically aligned with respect to the lorry body 132,

Figure 56 shows a lorry 130 in which a stabiliser device 4534 is attached to a frontfacing surface of a lorry cab 134. The stabiliser device 4534 has a fin structure comprising a plurality of primary fins 40 that are integral with each other. The fin structure is shaped to have:

● a first primary fin 40a that is positioned at the lower end of the front of the lorry body 132 in a central position between the sides of the lorry body 132 and is aligned vertically with respect to the car body 32;

● a second primary fin 40b that is positioned above the first primary fin 40a and is aligned perpendicularly to the first primary fin 40a, so that a cross-section of the first and second primary fins 40a, 40b along a projection height 42 of the first and second primary fins 40a, 40b with respect to the base 36 is T-shaped; and

● additional primary fins 40c, each of which extends upwards from a respective lengthwise end of the second primary fin 40 so that each additional primary fin 40c is tilted upwards and horizontally with respect to the lorry body 132.

Figure 57 shows a lorry 130 in which stabiliser devices 4634 are attached to rear-facing surfaces of respective doors at the rear of a lorry trailer 136. Each stabiliser device 4634 has a fin structure comprising a plurality of primary fins 40 that are integral with each other. The stabiliser devices 4634 are configured as follows:

● a first of the stabiliser devices 4634 is positioned on a first door 122 at the rear of the lorry trailer 136. The fin structure of the first stabiliser device 4634 is shaped to have a first primary fin 40 defining a first end 116 that is tilted vertically with respect to the lorry body 132 and outwardly away from a centre of the rear of the lorry trailer 136 _f and a second primary fin 40 defining a lower second end 118 that is aligned vertically with respect to the car body 32, where the first and second primary fins 40 are spaced apart horizontally with respect to the car body 32. The primary fin 40 further includes a third primary fin 40 defining an intermediate transition section 120 that interconnects the first and second primary fins 40, where the intermediate transition section 120 is horizontally aligned with respect to the lorry body 132; and

● a second of the stabiliser devices 4634 is positioned on a second door 124 at the rear of the lorry trailer 136 and is a mirror image of the first stabiliser device 4634; and

● a distance between the first ends 116 of the stabiliser devices 4634 is longer than a distance between the second ends 118 of the stabiliser devices 4634. In other embodiments, it is envisaged that the first end 116, the second end 118 and the intermediate transition section 120 of each stabiliser device 4634 may be rearranged so that the distance between the first ends 116 of the stabiliser devices 4634 may be shorter than the distance between the second ends 118 of the stabiliser devices 4634.

It is envisaged that, in other embodiments of the invention, the first end 116 of each stabiliser device may be aligned vertically with respect to the lorry body 132, or may be tilted vertically with respect to the lorry body 132 and inwardly towards the centre of the rear of the lorry trailer 136.

It is also envisaged that, in further other embodiments of the invention, the second end 118 of each stabiliser device may be tilted vertically with respect to the lorry body 132, either outwardly away from or inwardly towards the centre of the rear of the lorry trailer 136.

It is further envisaged that, in still further other embodiments of the invention, the intermediate transition section 120 may be horizontally tilted with respect to the lorry body 132.

Figure 58 shows an exemplary embodiment in which a stabiliser device 4734 is attached to a nose of an aeroplane body 232.

Figure 59 shows a lorry to which a stabiliser device of the invention may be attached. Figures 61 to 67 show various embodiments of the stabiliser device of the invention.

It will be appreciated that the or each stabiliser device in each of the embodiments shown may be replaced by a different stabiliser device having a different shape or configuration, non-limiting examples of which are described throughout the specification.

It will also be appreciated that the base of the or each stabiliser device described hereinabove may be attached to any non-iatera! surface of the vehicle body, i.e. any of the front-facing, rear-facing, top-facing and bottom-facing surfaces of the vehicle body.

It is envisaged that, in embodiments of the invention, a stabiliser device may be configured so that both of its plate faces have the features of any one plate face described throughout the specification. In such embodiments, the plate faces are preferably mirror images of each other along the length of the primary fin.

The listing or discussion of apparently prior-published document or information in this specification should not necessarily be taken as an acknowledgement that the document or information is part of the state of the art or is common general knowledge.

Preferences and options for a given aspect, feature or parameter of the invention should, unless the context indicates otherwise, be regarded as having been disclosed in combination with any and all preferences and options for all other aspects, features and parameters of the invention. For example, any feature, variation or modification of each stabiliser device described in this specification is applicable to each of the other stabiliser devices described in this specification unless such a feature, variation or modification is technically incompatible.