An aerodynamic system for a vehicle with adjustable ride height

Abstract

An aerodynamic system for a vehicle with adjustable ground clearance includes an aerodynamic element ground clearance actuator and an aerodynamic element angle actuator connected in series and mounted in the vehicle. The aerodynamic element is adapted to be positioned in a non-active retracted position and, under the control of the aerodynamic element angle actuator, to move from the retracted position to at least one active deployment position at an angle relative to the vehicle to alter the vehicle's aerodynamic characteristics. The aerodynamic element ground clearance actuator is adapted to extend and retract synchronously with corresponding increases and decreases in vehicle ground clearance, and the aerodynamic element angle actuator is adapted to extend and retract accordingly to deploy and retract the aerodynamic element.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 441,504, filed January 27, 2023, which is incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0003] For many years, motor vehicles, especially high-performance or racing vehicles, have employed aerodynamic components to influence their aerodynamic characteristics. Typically, these components are fixed in the same position regardless of whether the vehicle is in motion. However, sometimes such components are deployed while the vehicle is being driven, for example, at a certain speed. It is generally advantageous to deploy aerodynamic components while the vehicle is in motion in order to alter the vehicle's aerodynamic characteristics according to driving conditions.

[0004] Some vehicles are equipped with adjustable ground clearance features. This can include, for example, a higher ground clearance comfort mode used on intermittently uneven driving surfaces (typically roads), and a sport mode with reduced ground clearance to aid vehicle dynamics on smoother driving surfaces (such as racetracks). This is typically achieved using hydraulic actuators or air springs linked to the vehicle's suspension system.

[0005] Advantageously, a vehicle aerodynamic system is employed that automatically adapts to changes in ground clearance by altering the deployment positions of aerodynamic components without affecting their retracted positions. This allows the aerodynamic components to continuously switch between positions corresponding to the vehicle's comfort ground clearance mode and sport mode. These alterations to the aerodynamic components are advantageously made when the vehicle's ground clearance changes between a higher comfort ground clearance and a lower sport ground clearance. This mechanism is advantageously applicable to many active aerodynamic components, such as rear wings and spoilers, tire wake deflectors, air deflectors, underbody devices, etc.

[0006] The fact that this mechanism does not rely on additional sensors or electronic components to control changes in the aerodynamic position of aerodynamic components that depend on the vehicle's ground clearance is also advantageous.

[0007] Moreover, the location of this mechanism, which can be used to drive active aerodynamic components on the underside of the vehicle or other locations on the vehicle, is advantageous. Summary of the Invention

[0008] An adjustable ground clearance aerodynamic system has been developed to overcome these problems of existing technologies. This system automatically adapts to changes in vehicle ground clearance by also altering the deployment position of aerodynamic components without affecting their retracted position, thus allowing the aerodynamic components to continuously switch between positions corresponding to a higher vehicle ground clearance comfort mode and a lower vehicle ground clearance sport mode. The mechanism is applicable to many active aerodynamic components, such as rear wings and spoilers, tire wake deflectors, air deflectors, underbody devices, diffusers, etc. Multiple mechanisms can be used throughout the vehicle or individually.

[0009] In a key aspect of the invention, an aerodynamic system for a vehicle with adjustable ground clearance includes: an aerodynamic element ground clearance actuator and an aerodynamic element angle actuator connected in series and installed in the vehicle; an aerodynamic element adapted to be positioned in a non-active retracted position and, under the control of the aerodynamic element angle actuator, moved from the retracted position to at least one active deployment position at an angle relative to the vehicle to change the aerodynamic characteristics of the vehicle, the aerodynamic element ground clearance actuator being adapted to extend and retract synchronously as the vehicle ground clearance increases and decreases accordingly, and the aerodynamic element angle actuator being adapted to extend and retract accordingly to deploy and retract the aerodynamic element.

[0010] In another aspect of the invention, the aerodynamic element ground-lift actuator is adapted to extend and retract synchronously as the vehicle ground-lift height increases and decreases accordingly to maintain a predetermined spatial relationship between the lowest range of the aerodynamic element and the driving surface.

[0011] In another aspect of the invention, the aerodynamic element angle actuator is rotatably connected to the aerodynamic element via a connecting rod.

[0012] In another aspect of the invention, a first angle is maintained between the connecting rod and the aerodynamic element from the retracted position to the at least one deployed position.

[0013] In another aspect of the invention, the at least one deployment location includes both a fully extended deployment location and a partially extended deployment location.

[0014] In another aspect of the invention, the angle of the aerodynamic element relative to the vehicle in the fully extended position and the partially extended position varies depending on whether the vehicle's ground clearance increases or decreases.

[0015] In another aspect of the invention, when the vehicle's ground clearance decreases and the aerodynamic element is in the retracted position, a second angle is maintained between the connecting link and the aerodynamic element.

[0016] In another aspect of the invention, the angle of the aerodynamic element relative to the vehicle at the at least one deployment location varies depending on whether the vehicle's ground clearance increases or decreases.

[0017] In another aspect of the invention, the aerodynamic element ground-lift actuator and the aerodynamic element angle actuator are hydraulically operated.

[0018] In another aspect of the invention, at least one of the aerodynamic element ground-lift actuator and the aerodynamic element angle actuator is single-acting and has a helical return spring.

[0019] In another aspect of the invention, at least one of the aerodynamic element ground-lift actuator and the aerodynamic element angle actuator is dual-acting.

[0020] In another aspect of the invention, the aerodynamic element ground actuator and the aerodynamic element angle actuator are constrained by a connecting bracket to operate in series.

[0021] In another aspect of the invention, a helical spring connects the connecting rod and the aerodynamic element.

[0022] In another aspect of the invention, when the vehicle's ground clearance decreases and the aerodynamic element is parallel to the bottom of the vehicle, the hard stop feature prevents the aerodynamic element from extending its excessive angle.

[0023] In another aspect of the invention, the aerodynamic system of the adjustable ground clearance vehicle is mounted on the underside of the vehicle in front of each of the two front wheels.

[0024] In another aspect of the invention, the aerodynamic system of the adjustable-height vehicle is mounted to the underside of the vehicle in front of or behind each of the two rear wheels.

[0025] In another aspect of the invention, the aerodynamic element is integrated into the diffuser.

[0026] In another aspect of the invention, a method of operating an aerodynamic system of an adjustable-ground-lift vehicle includes: connecting a vehicle ground-lift adjustment system to an aerodynamic element ground-lift actuator of the adjustable-ground-lift vehicle aerodynamic system mounted on the vehicle; controlling the aerodynamic element ground-lift actuator with the vehicle ground-lift adjustment system to extend and retract the aerodynamic element ground-lift actuator in sync with a corresponding increase and decrease in vehicle ground-lift; and extending and retracting an aerodynamic element angle actuator connected in series with the aerodynamic element ground-lift actuator to deploy and retract the aerodynamic element accordingly.

[0027] In another aspect of the method of the present invention, the aerodynamic element angle actuator is controlled by the vehicle's active aerodynamic system.

[0028] In another aspect of the method of the present invention, the aerodynamic element angle actuator is controlled by a separate aerodynamic element hydraulic circuit. Attached Figure Description

[0029] Figure 1A It is a partial plan view of the vehicle, schematically showing the adjustable ground clearance aerodynamic system mounted in front of the front wheels.

[0030] Figure 1B yes Figure 1A A partial front view of the vehicle shows the aerodynamic elements of the adjustable ground clearance aerodynamic system in a retracted baseline position parallel to the driving surface.

[0031] Figure 2 It shows having Figure 1B The vehicle with an adjustable ground clearance aerodynamic system is shown in four system configurations, including normal ground clearance (N), lower ground clearance (L), and a combination of retracted baseline position (B) and deployed position (D) for aerodynamic elements.

[0032] Figure 3 This is a schematic front view of an adjustable ground-lift aerodynamic system.

[0033] Figure 4A It is a top-down perspective view of an adjustable ground-lift aerodynamic system.

[0034] Figure 4B This is a plan view of an adjustable ground clearance aerodynamic system.

[0035] Figure 4C It is a perspective view of an adjustable ground-lift aerodynamic system viewed from below.

[0036] Figure 4D This is a front view of an adjustable ground-lift aerodynamic system.

[0037] Figure 5 yes Figure 1A , 1B The front view diagrams and legends of the adjustable ground clearance aerodynamic systems in 6 and 7 show four system configurations, including normal ground clearance (N), lower ground clearance (L), and combinations of retracted baseline positions (B) and deployed positions (D) for the aerodynamic elements.

[0038] Figure 6 yes Figure 1B and 4DThe illustration shows a front view of the vehicle and the independent adjustable ground clearance aerodynamic system in four system configurations, including a normal ground clearance (N), a lower ground clearance (L), and a combination of retracted baseline position (B) and deployed position (D) of the aerodynamic elements.

[0039] Figure 7 This is a partial front view of the vehicle, showing the adjustable ground clearance aerodynamic system mounted in front of the rear wheels in four configurations, including normal ground clearance (N), lower ground clearance (L), and combinations of retracted baseline position (B) and deployed position (D) of the aerodynamic elements.

[0040] Figure 8 This is a partial front view of the vehicle, showing an adjustable ground clearance aerodynamic system mounted behind the rear wheels in four system configurations, including a normal ground clearance (N), a lower ground clearance (L), and a combination of aerodynamic elements in a retracted baseline position (B) and a deployed position (D).

[0041] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 A frontal view and illustration of the adjustable ground clearance aerodynamic system are shown, illustrating four system configurations, including normal ground clearance (N), lower ground clearance (L), and combinations of retracted baseline positions (B) and deployed positions (D) for the aerodynamic components.

[0042] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of the lower side of the vehicle, showing the adjustable ground clearance aerodynamic system integrated into the diffuser at the rear of the vehicle. Detailed Implementation

[0043] exist Figures 1A to 10 The figure shows an aerodynamic system (1) for a vehicle with adjustable ground clearance. The adjustable ground clearance aerodynamic system (1) uses two hydraulic actuators connected in series. These actuators include an aerodynamic element ground clearance actuator (3) and an aerodynamic element angle actuator (5). Together, these actuators control the position of the aerodynamic element (7).

[0044] The aerodynamic element ground clearance actuator (3) is connected to the vehicle (4) via a rotary joint (9) and is also connected to a conventional vehicle ground clearance system (not shown), such that changes in vehicle ground clearance will automatically activate the aerodynamic element ground clearance actuator (3). Typically, vehicles with adjustable ground clearance are equipped with a vehicle suspension hydraulic actuator as part of the suspension system. The aerodynamic element ground clearance actuator (3) can be located on the same hydraulic circuit as the vehicle suspension hydraulic actuator, ensuring that the aerodynamic element ground clearance actuator (3) and the vehicle suspension system actuator are synchronized and connected together.

[0045] The aerodynamic element angle actuator (5) is driven by a conventional vehicle active aerodynamic system. The aerodynamic element angle actuator (5) can be located on the same hydraulic circuit as other vehicle aerodynamic hydraulic actuators, which ensures that these actuators are synchronized and connected together. Alternatively, in cases where multiple active aerodynamic devices need to be controlled independently, each aerodynamic element angle actuator (5) can be individually connected to an independent aerodynamic element hydraulic circuit.

[0046] Typically, the aerodynamic element ground-lift actuator (3) will have a different actuation stroke length than the aerodynamic element angle actuator (5).

[0047] A connecting link (11) attaches the aerodynamic element angle actuator (5) to the aerodynamic element (7). The connecting link (11) can rotate relative to the aerodynamic element (7); however, the connecting link (11) and the aerodynamic element (7) are typically springed together to a first defined position at the first angle using an element coil spring (13) or other suitable energy storage element (e.g., a polymer elastomer element). A separate hard stop feature 15 is present, which limits the baseline position of the aerodynamic element (7). This allows the rest of the adjustable ground clearance aerodynamic system (1) to move independently of the aerodynamic element (7) and to maintain the same baseline aerodynamic element (7) position independently of the vehicle's ground clearance.

[0048] When used in front of the front wheels (16) or rear wheels (17) of a vehicle, the adjustable ground clearance aerodynamic system (1) is configured to rotate the trailing edge (8) of the aerodynamic element (7) downward from a retracted horizontal baseline position (B) to a deployed position (D). See, for example... Figure 2 , 3 5, 6, and 7. When used behind the rear wheels (17) of a vehicle, the adjustable ground clearance aerodynamic system (1) can be reconfigured to rotate the trailing edge (8) of the aerodynamic element (7) upward from the retracted horizontal baseline position (B) to the deployed position (D). See, for example... Figure 8 , 9And 10. When the aerodynamic element (7) is mounted behind the rear wheel (17) of the vehicle, the basic principle remains unchanged; however, the element spring (13) is now used to push the connecting link (11) and the aerodynamic element (7) to another defined position, the first angle of which may differ from that previously described, wherein the adjustable ground clearance aerodynamic system is mounted in front of the front or rear wheels (16, 17). For example, the aerodynamic element actuators (3, 5) may be configured such that the lower ground clearance mode (L) of the vehicle produces a smaller deployment angle of the aerodynamic element (7) than the normal higher ground clearance mode (N). The opposite can be achieved by changing the horizontal baseline position (B) of the aerodynamic element ground clearance actuator (3). Regardless of whether the adjustable ground clearance aerodynamic system is mounted in front of or behind the wheel, in the lower ground clearance mode (L) when the aerodynamic element (7) is in the retracted horizontal baseline position (B), the connecting link (11) and the aerodynamic element (7) are typically springed together to a second defined position at the second angle (different from the first angle) using the element coil spring (13) or other suitable energy storage element.

[0049] The adjustable ground clearance aerodynamic system (1) can be applied to various active aerodynamic components, such as rear wings and spoilers, tire wake deflectors, air deflectors, underbody devices, diffusers, etc. An example of an adjustable ground clearance aerodynamic system (1) integrated into a diffuser (18) is shown in... Figure 10 As shown in the diagram. The diffuser is a shaped section at the rear of the vehicle that improves the vehicle's aerodynamic properties. This is achieved by enhancing the transition between the high-speed airflow below the vehicle and the slower airflow of the ambient air. By accelerating the airflow in front of it, the diffuser helps generate a downward force. The leading angle of the diffuser produces a change in the speed of the air flowing below it. This then produces a change in pressure and an increased downward force. Depending on the aerodynamic requirements of a particular vehicle, a diffuser angle that varies with ground clearance may be desirable. This is in line with the functionality of an adjustable ground clearance aerodynamic system (1).

[0050] Depending on the vehicle's ground clearance, the requirements for aerodynamic components (7) can vary. For example, for optimal performance during vehicle movement, in a lower ground clearance mode (L), aerodynamic components (7) can be deployed at an angle different from the driving surface (19) to a position different from the optimal performance in the normal higher ground clearance mode (N). Another reason for this feature is to ensure sufficient ground clearance for the aerodynamic components (7) based on the vehicle's ground clearance. Ideally, depending on the driving mode, a predetermined distance is maintained between the minimum range of the aerodynamic components (7) and the driving surface (19). When the adjustable ground clearance aerodynamic system is mounted in front of the front or rear wheels (16, 17), the minimum range of the aerodynamic components (7) is typically near the rear trailing edge (8), while when the adjustable ground clearance aerodynamic system (1) is mounted behind the rear wheels (17), the minimum range of the aerodynamic components (7) is typically near the front leading edge (6). The predetermined distance does not need to be the same in all situations but can vary depending on road conditions or other driving parameters. The bottom of the vehicle (21) is generally parallel to the driving surface (19). The aerodynamic element (7) will be oriented parallel to the bottom of the vehicle (21) at a horizontal baseline position (B), or at an angle to the bottom of the vehicle (21) at a deployment position (D).

[0051] The adjustable ground clearance aerodynamic system (1) can be used alone or in pairs. The system is typically used in pairs near the front wheels (16) or rear wheels (17) of a vehicle, or both.

[0052] For example, a pair of adjustable ground clearance aerodynamic systems (1) can be mounted to the vehicle bottom (21) in front of the front wheels (16). In the default configuration, the vehicle is in a normal high ground clearance mode (N). In this configuration, each aerodynamic element (7) can be either retracted parallel to the vehicle bottom (21) or deployed at an angle to the vehicle bottom (21). When deployed, each aerodynamic element (7) rotates along the axis (X) adjacent to the leading edge (6) of the aerodynamic element (7) so that the trailing edge (8) of the aerodynamic element (7) is tilted downward. When the vehicle ground clearance is lowered to a sport, low ground clearance mode (L), each aerodynamic element (7) is also retracted parallel to the vehicle bottom (21) and deployed (with the rear trailing edge (8) tilted downward). The angle at which the aerodynamic element (7) is deployed can vary depending on the selected vehicle ground clearance. This will prevent the aerodynamic element (7) from contacting the driving surface (19) and may also affect the aerodynamic characteristics of the adjustable ground clearance aerodynamic system (1).

[0053] The aerodynamic element ground-lift actuator (3) and the aerodynamic element angle actuator (5) operate in series. This can be achieved by mounting them both within a connecting bracket (27). They can be single-acting actuators, each with a return spring, or double-acting actuators that do not require a return spring. For example, in the case of single-acting actuators, the aerodynamic element ground-lift actuator (3) may be provided with a ground-lift actuator return spring (37), and the aerodynamic element angle actuator (5) may be provided with an angle actuator return spring (39). The aerodynamic element ground-lift actuator (3) is typically rotatably connected to the body of the vehicle (4) at its front end via a mounting bracket (31). The aerodynamic element ground-lift actuator (3) can retract from its default position in sync with a decrease in vehicle ground clearance. This ensures that the aerodynamic element (7) can remain retracted parallel to the bottom (21) of the vehicle, regardless of the vehicle ground clearance. By connecting the aerodynamic element ground-lift actuator (3) to the vehicle suspension ground-lift circuit, the retraction and return to the default position of the aerodynamic element ground-lift actuator (3) can be synchronized without the need for additional sensors or electronic components.

[0054] When the aerodynamic element ground actuator (3) maintains the spatial relationship between the aerodynamic element (7) and the main body of the vehicle (4), the aerodynamic element angle actuator (5) controls the deployment and return of the aerodynamic element (7) to the retracted baseline position (B). The aerodynamic element angle actuator (5) extends when the vehicle's aerodynamic hydraulic system is activated. The rear end (33) of the aerodynamic element angle actuator (5) is rotatably connected to the first end of a connecting rod (11) extending between the aerodynamic element angle actuator (5) and the aerodynamic element (7). The connecting rod (11) is also rotatably connected to the aerodynamic element (7) at the second end of the connecting rod (11). Typically, an element coil spring (13) connects the connecting rod (11) and the aerodynamic element (7). When the aerodynamic element angle actuator (5) is not extended, the aerodynamic element (7) is retracted. Depending on the extent to which the aerodynamic element angle actuator (5) extends, the aerodynamic element (7) can be deployed in various positions, such as from parallel to the vehicle bottom (21) to 15 degrees (in low ground clearance mode L) or 30 degrees (in normal ground clearance mode N), as... Figure 3 As shown. When the aerodynamic element (7) is deployed, the element coil spring (13) maintains a constant angle between the connecting element (11) and the aerodynamic element (7). When the aerodynamic element (7) is mounted in front of one of the front or rear wheels (16, 17), a hard stop feature (15) made of, for example, an elastic or relatively rigid polymer material may be mounted above the aerodynamic element (7), as shown. Figure 6As shown in the diagram. Alternatively, when the aerodynamic element (7) is mounted behind one of the rear wheels (17), the hard stop feature (15) is mounted below the aerodynamic element (7), as shown in the diagram. Figure 9 As shown in the diagram. When the aerodynamic element (7) is in the retracted baseline position (B), the hard stop feature (15) prevents the aerodynamic element (7) from moving parallel to the bottom of the vehicle (21).

[0055] Microswitches or other electronic sensors can be used to sense the position of the aerodynamic element (7). These are used only for position feedback and not for controlling the aerodynamic element (7). These may include microswitches to sense open and closed positions. For example, an open position microswitch (35) and a closed position microswitch (36) may be provided, such as... Figure 4A and 4B As shown in the figure. The adjustable ground clearance aerodynamic system (1) can operate without relying on additional sensors or electronic components to control the aerodynamic position of aerodynamic elements according to the vehicle's ground clearance.

[0056] As described above, a pair of adjustable ground clearance aerodynamic systems (1) are typically mounted in front of the front wheels (16) of the vehicle, but can also be mounted in front of or behind the rear wheels (17). Again, in the normal higher ground clearance mode (N) and the dynamic lower ground clearance mode (L), the aerodynamic element (7) can be retracted parallel to the bottom (21) of the vehicle. When mounted in front of the rear wheels (17), the adjustable ground clearance aerodynamic system (1) operates as it does when mounted in front of the front wheels (16). When mounted behind the rear wheels (17), as... Figure 8 and 9 As shown, the rear edge (8) of the aerodynamic element (7) is preferably tilted upward toward the vehicle bottom (21) when deployed. Again, the angle of the deployed aerodynamic element (7) relative to the vehicle bottom (21) can vary depending on the vehicle's ground clearance. In this case, a hard stop feature (15) is installed below the aerodynamic element (7) to prevent the aerodynamic element (7) from rotating downward parallel to the vehicle bottom (21). The element coil spring (13) connecting the connecting rod (11) and the aerodynamic element (7) will extend, except when the adjustable ground clearance aerodynamic system (1) is in a low ground clearance mode (L) where the aerodynamic element (7) is retracted. In this baseline position (B), the element coil spring (13) is compressed, and the aerodynamic element (7) contacts the hard stop feature (15).

[0057] Figure 2 , 5Figures 6 and 7 schematically illustrate four different configurations of the aerodynamic system mechanism (1). These configurations can be... Figure 5 From top to bottom or in Figure 2 , 6 The configurations described in 7, from top left counterclockwise, are NB (normal, higher ground clearance (N) and the retracted parallel baseline position (B) of the aerodynamic element (7), ND (normal, higher ground clearance (N) and the deployment position (D) of the aerodynamic element (7)), LD (lower ground clearance (L) and the deployment position (D) of the aerodynamic element (7)), and LB (lower ground clearance (L) and the retracted parallel baseline position (B) of the aerodynamic element (7)). These configurations can be used when the adjustable ground clearance aerodynamic system (1) is mounted in front of the vehicle's front wheel (16) or rear wheel (17). In the NB configuration, the aerodynamic element ground clearance actuator (3) extends, the aerodynamic element angle actuator (5) does not extend, and the aerodynamic element (7) contacts the hard stop feature (15). In the ND configuration, the aerodynamic element ground actuator (3) remains extended, the aerodynamic element angle actuator (5) also extends, and the aerodynamic element (7) does not contact the hard stop feature (15). In the LD configuration, the aerodynamic element ground actuator (3) no longer extends, the aerodynamic element angle actuator (5) remains extended, and the aerodynamic element (7) still does not contact the hard stop feature (15). In the LB configuration, when the aerodynamic element ground actuator (3) remains non-extended, the aerodynamic element angle actuator (5) also does not extend, and the aerodynamic element (7) again contacts the hard stop feature (15).

[0058] Figure 8 and 9 Four different configurations of adjustable ground clearance aerodynamic systems are also schematically shown (1). These configurations can... Figure 9 From top to bottom or Figure 8The configurations are described counterclockwise from the top left as NB (normal, higher ground clearance (N) and the retracted parallel baseline position of the aerodynamic element (7) (B)), ND (normal, higher ground clearance (N) and the deployment position of the aerodynamic element (7) (D)), LD (lower ground clearance (L) and the deployment position of the aerodynamic element (7) (D)) and LB (lower ground clearance (L) and the retracted parallel baseline position of the aerodynamic element (7) (B)). These configurations can be used when the adjustable ground clearance aerodynamic system (1) is mounted behind the rear wheels (17) of the vehicle. In the NB configuration, the aerodynamic element ground clearance actuator (3) is not extended, the aerodynamic element angle actuator (5) is extended, and the aerodynamic element (7) is in contact with the hard stop feature (15). In the ND configuration, the aerodynamic element ground clearance actuator (3) remains not extended, the aerodynamic element angle actuator (5) is also not extended, and the aerodynamic element (7) is not in contact with the hard stop feature (15). In the LD configuration, the aerodynamic element ground actuator (3) is now extended, the aerodynamic element angle actuator (5) remains non-extended, and the aerodynamic element (7) still does not contact the hard stop feature (15). In the LB configuration, the aerodynamic element ground actuator (3) remains extended, the aerodynamic element angle actuator (5) is also extended, and the aerodynamic element (7) again contacts the hard stop feature (15).

[0059] It should be understood that although a particular arrangement of components is disclosed in the illustrated embodiments, other arrangements will benefit from the invention. Although a particular sequence of steps has been shown and described, it should be understood that, unless otherwise stated, the steps may be performed in any order, separately or in combination, and will still benefit from the invention.

[0060] Although the different examples have the specific components shown in the illustrations, embodiments of the invention are not limited to those specific combinations. Some components or features from one example may be used in combination with features or components from another example.

[0061] Although exemplary embodiments have been disclosed, those skilled in the art will recognize that certain modifications will fall within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. An aerodynamic system for a vehicle with adjustable ground clearance, comprising: A series connection and installation of an aerodynamic element ground-mounted actuator and an aerodynamic element angle actuator in a vehicle; An aerodynamic element, the aerodynamic element being adapted to be positioned in a non-active retracted position and, under the control of an aerodynamic element angle actuator, to move from the retracted position to at least one active deployment position at an angle relative to the vehicle, so as to change the aerodynamic characteristics of the vehicle; The aerodynamic element ground-lift actuator is adapted to extend and retract synchronously as the vehicle's ground-lift height increases and decreases accordingly; The aerodynamic element angle actuator is adapted to extend and retract accordingly to deploy and retract the aerodynamic element; and The angle of the aerodynamic element relative to the vehicle at the at least one deployment location varies depending on whether the vehicle's ground clearance increases or decreases.

2. The aerodynamic system of the vehicle with adjustable ground clearance according to claim 1, wherein the aerodynamic element ground clearance actuator is adapted to extend and retract synchronously as the vehicle ground clearance increases and decreases accordingly, so as to maintain a predetermined spatial relationship between the lowest range of the aerodynamic element and the driving surface.

3. The aerodynamic system of a vehicle with adjustable ground clearance according to claim 1, wherein the aerodynamic element angle actuator is rotatably connected to the aerodynamic element via a connecting rod.

4. The aerodynamic system of a vehicle with adjustable ground clearance according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a first angle is maintained between the connecting link and the aerodynamic element from the retracted position to the at least one deployed position.

5. The aerodynamic system of a vehicle with adjustable ground clearance according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the at least one deployment position includes both a fully extended deployment position and a partially extended deployment position.

6. The aerodynamic system of the vehicle with adjustable ground clearance according to claim 5, wherein the angle of the aerodynamic element relative to the vehicle in the fully extended deployment position and the partially extended deployment position differs depending on whether the vehicle's ground clearance increases or decreases.

7. The aerodynamic system of the vehicle with adjustable ground clearance according to claim 3, wherein a second angle is maintained between the connecting link and the aerodynamic element when the vehicle ground clearance decreases and the aerodynamic element is in the retracted position.

8. The aerodynamic system of a vehicle with adjustable ground clearance according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the aerodynamic element ground clearance actuator and the aerodynamic element angle actuator are hydraulically operated.

9. The aerodynamic system of a vehicle with adjustable ground clearance according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein at least one of the aerodynamic element ground clearance actuator and the aerodynamic element angle actuator is single-acting and has a helical return spring.

10. The aerodynamic system of a vehicle with adjustable ground clearance according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein at least one of the aerodynamic element ground clearance actuator and the aerodynamic element angle actuator is dual-acting.

11. The aerodynamic system of a vehicle with adjustable ground clearance according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the aerodynamic element ground clearance actuator and the aerodynamic element angle actuator are constrained by a connecting bracket to operate in series.

12. The aerodynamic system of a vehicle with adjustable ground clearance according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a coil spring element connects the connecting link and the aerodynamic element.

13. The aerodynamic system of a vehicle with adjustable ground clearance according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein when the vehicle ground clearance decreases and the aerodynamic element is parallel to the vehicle, the hard stop prevents the aerodynamic element from extending its excessive angle.

14. The aerodynamic system of an adjustable ground clearance vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the aerodynamic system of the adjustable ground clearance vehicle is mounted on the underside of the vehicle in front of each of the two front wheels.

15. The aerodynamic system of an adjustable ground clearance vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the aerodynamic system of the adjustable ground clearance vehicle is mounted to the underside of the vehicle in front of or behind each of the two rear wheels of the vehicle.

16. The aerodynamic system of a vehicle with adjustable ground clearance according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the aerodynamic element is integrated into a diffuser.

17. A method of operating the aerodynamic system of a vehicle with adjustable ground clearance according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising: Connect the vehicle ground clearance adjustment system to the aerodynamic element ground clearance actuator of the vehicle's adjustable ground clearance system; The vehicle ground clearance adjustment system controls the aerodynamic element ground clearance actuator to extend and retract the aerodynamic element ground clearance actuator in sync with the corresponding increase and decrease in vehicle ground clearance. as well as Extend and retract the aerodynamic element angle actuator connected in series with the aerodynamic element ground actuator to deploy and retract the aerodynamic element accordingly.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the aerodynamic element angle actuator is controlled by a vehicle active aerodynamic system.

19. The method of claim 17, wherein the aerodynamic element angle actuator is controlled by a separate aerodynamic element hydraulic circuit.

20. The method of claim 17, wherein the aerodynamic element ground-lift actuator and the aerodynamic element angle actuator are hydraulic actuators.

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