Active aerodynamic application torque drive links

Abstract

An active aerodynamic application torque link system including a four bar linkage having a fixed link, driven link, follower link and coupler. The fixed link has a follower link aperture and a driven link aperture. The follower link has a first end rotatably connected to the follower link aperture of the fixed link and a second end of the follower link is connected to the coupler. The driven link is rotatably connected at a first end to the coupler and coupled at a second end to a torque transfer tube that has a cross sectional shape of a four sided polygon with four radial facets. The four sided torque transfer tube is rotatably connected to the driven link aperture of the fixed link. The four bar linkage is used in a number of different applications by connecting the coupler with different components.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]The present invention relates to a scalable active aerodynamic application for a torque driven link system implementing the use of a polygon four sided torque transfer tube.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]In the automotive field and there has been an increased demand for more fuel efficient vehicles. One way that automotive manufacturers have sought to increase fuel efficiency is to improve the aerodynamics of the vehicle to reduce wind drag. This often involves employing spoilers, air dams, active grille shutter systems and tire spats. Traditionally these features are static, however they can sometimes take away from the aesthetics of the vehicle. Additionally other structures such as air dams and tire spats provide no benefits at low speeds and can actually create problems as the car travels over obstacles, usually encountered when driving at lower speeds. Therefore it is desirable to make the air dam and tire spats active so that they deploy when the ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes a way to connect a torque transfer tube to a driven link using a special fit that reduces spacing tolerances and eliminates lag between components. This allows for easy assembly of different types of interference fits and improves the overall performance of the transmission.

Problems solved by technology

Traditionally these features are static, however they can sometimes take away from the aesthetics of the vehicle.

Additionally other structures such as air dams and tire spats provide no benefits at low speeds and can actually create problems as the car travels over obstacles, usually encountered when driving at lower speeds.

Some of the problems encountered with existing aerodynamic applications is that the drive line for the systems implement a complex number of components, which can create tolerance issues between components creating a noticeable lag between the actuator and the end driven components such as an air dam.

This tolerance issue can contribute to wear and eventual failure of the system components.

Existing systems also lack modularity to accommodate different system designs.

Often times the hubs must be quite large thereby creating problems with packaging efficiency.

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