Air guiding device for a motor vehicle and arrangement

Abstract

The invention relates to an air guiding device (10) for a motor vehicle (14), comprising at least one holding device (20) by means of which the air guiding device (10) is to be held in a front region (22) of the motor vehicle (14) on an underside (12) of the motor vehicle (14), comprising at least one air guiding surface (24) for guiding air flowing towards the air guiding device (10) when the motor vehicle (14) is traveling, wherein a base part (34) forming at least one central region (32) of the air guiding device (10) in the vehicle transverse direction (30) and at least one side part (36, 38) arranged on the outside in the vehicle transverse direction (30) on the central region (32) and held on the base part (34), which is movable relative to the base part (34) between at least one use position (40) and a stowed position (42), in which the side part (36, 38) at least is arranged further back in the vehicle's longitudinal direction (44) than in the position of use (40).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to an air guidance device for a motor vehicle according to the preamble of claim 1. Furthermore, the invention relates to an arrangement of an air guidance device on the underside of a motor vehicle according to the preamble of claim 10.

[0002] DE 195 08 039 A1 discloses a vehicle with a spoiler movably arranged at the front, which can be moved from a retracted position to an extended working position and back, wherein the spoiler is essentially designed as a plate and is slidably mounted at the front in the plane of the plate.

[0003] Furthermore, GB 2 189 200 A discloses a front fairing for motor vehicles with an integrated bumper and side parts of the front fairing which are adapted to be swung out or extended, wherein the side parts are arranged in front of the vehicle wheels and have movable spoiler elements.

[0004] Furthermore, the KR 10-258 0920 B1 reveals aerodynamic parts for racing vehicles with a new structure that improves aerodynamics and tire grip.

[0005] DE 1020 1411 1074 A1 relates to an airflow guidance device in the lower front area of ​​a motor vehicle with at least one airflow guidance element that is substantially horizontally displaceable in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, wherein the displaceable airflow guidance element can be assigned to a second airflow guidance element to improve the airflow effect in the front area of ​​the motor vehicle.

[0006] DE 1020 0804 3470 A1 describes a method for controlling an airflow on a motor vehicle, wherein a central control device, depending on at least one parameter supplied to the control device and describing a respective driving situation, accesses air guide devices in a controlling manner, wherein the control device prioritizes various current target specifications depending on the respective driving situation and the control device coordinates the individual possible actuating interventions acting on the air guide devices.

[0007] German patent DE 1020 0801 1178 A1 discloses a front spoiler arrangement for a motor vehicle, comprising a bumper for installation in the front section of the vehicle. Furthermore, a front spoiler is provided which has a spoiler element movable between a retracted position and an extended position. The bumper has a spoiler opening, and the front spoiler is positioned relative to the bumper such that the spoiler element is received by the spoiler opening, at least in the extended position.

[0008] The object of the present invention is to provide an air guide device for a motor vehicle and an arrangement of an air guide device on the underside of a motor vehicle, so that the safety of the motor vehicle can be particularly increased.

[0009] This problem is solved according to the invention by an air guide device for a motor vehicle with the features of claim 1 and by an arrangement of an air guide device on the underside of a motor vehicle with the features of claim 10. Advantageous embodiments with expedient further developments of the invention are specified in the remaining claims.

[0010] A first aspect of the invention relates to an air guide device for a motor vehicle, which is, for example, a passenger car. The motor vehicle is, for example, a sports car and / or a racing car, particularly one approved for road use. Preferably, the motor vehicle, especially in its fully manufactured state, includes the air guide device.

[0011] The air guide device has at least one retaining device by which the air guide device is to be held or secured in a front area of ​​the motor vehicle on or against an underside of the motor vehicle, for example, in particular at least indirectly or directly, on a component of the motor vehicle. In other words, the air guide device can be attached or secured in the front area, in particular at a forward end of the motor vehicle in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, on the underside of the motor vehicle, for example, on the component. Accordingly, the retaining device can be understood in particular as a fastening device. The front area can be understood in particular as a forward area of ​​the motor vehicle in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle.The term "front area" can therefore be understood to refer specifically to the front of the vehicle. The front area is thus the front section as it relates to the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. Specifically, the underside of the vehicle points downwards in the vertical direction. In other words, the underside of the vehicle faces downwards in the vertical direction.

[0012] The air guidance device has at least one air guide surface for directing, in particular, the airflow towards the air guidance device, especially the air guide surface, during a vehicle's journey. This means that, during the vehicle's journey, the airflow, particularly referred to as the airflow from the vehicle, is directed by the air guide surface. In other words, during the vehicle's journey, the air guide surface is subjected to the airflow from the vehicle. The air guide surface is thus an outer surface of the air guidance device that points outwards, particularly in relation to the vehicle. For example, the air guide surface points downwards and / or upwards in the vertical direction of the vehicle.Thus, for example, the air guide surface has a first air guide surface area that points upwards in the vehicle's vertical direction, and a second air guide surface area that points downwards in the same direction. The air guide device can therefore be understood, in particular, as an aerodynamic component for the motor vehicle.

[0013] In order to significantly improve the safety of the motor vehicle, particularly pedestrian protection, the air guide device has at least one central area of ​​the air guide device in the transverse direction of the vehicle, particularly when the air guide device is installed in or on the vehicle, forming, for example, at least a part, in particular at least predominantly or completely, and at least one side part, particularly when the air guide device is installed in or on the vehicle, arranged on the outside of the central area in the transverse direction of the vehicle, for example at least indirectly or directly, and held, for example at least indirectly or directly, on the base part.This means that the side panel is arranged, and in particular attached, to the base panel, especially the central area, at least indirectly, and in particular directly, with the side panel extending outwards, at least indirectly, and in particular directly, from the base panel, especially the central area, in the transverse direction of the vehicle. In other words, the base panel, especially the central area, extends further inwards in the transverse direction of the vehicle, at least in some areas, than the side panel. The side panel can therefore be understood to be, in particular, an outer part. The side panel is preferably designed separately from the base panel. The central area can be referred to as the middle area.

[0014] The side panel, which is held in particular at the base part, for example at the central area, is movable relative to the base part between at least one operating position and at least one stowage position, which is distinct from the operating position. This means that the side panel can be moved, or is moved, relative to the base part at least between the operating position and the stowage position. In other words, the side panel is movable relative to the base part at least between the operating position and the stowage position, and is held or attached to the base part, particularly the central area, at least indirectly or directly. In the stowage position, the side panel is positioned further back in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, at least partially, and in particular predominantly or completely, than in the operating position of the air guide device in or on the motor vehicle, compared to the operating position.This means that to move the side panel from its operating position to its stowed position, the side panel, particularly relative to the base panel, must be moved, or is movable, or is moved rearward in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. In other words, moving the side panel from its operating position to its stowed position involves moving the side panel, or at least a portion of it, rearward in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. Put another way, in its operating position, the side panel is shifted rearward in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, at least in part. Moving the side panel between its operating position and stowed position can be understood, in particular, as moving the side panel relative to the base panel from its operating position to its stowed position and / or from its stowed position back to its operating position.

[0015] Preferably, the side panel is designed to guide, in particular in a controlled manner, the airflow towards the air guide device, especially the side panel, during the vehicle's movement. This means that, during the vehicle's movement, the airflow or the airflow from the vehicle is guided or directed by means of the side panel, directing the airflow towards or around the air guide device, especially the side panel. In other words, during the vehicle's movement, the side panel is exposed to the airflow towards or around the vehicle. This airflow guidance by means of the side panel preferably occurs at least in the operating position. Preferably, the airflow guidance by means of the side panel is omitted in the stowed position, or its effect is reduced in the stowed position compared to the operating position.

[0016] The invention is based in particular on the following findings and considerations: It seems sensible to improve pedestrian protection, especially for vehicles produced in small series. For example, pedestrian protection will become a legal requirement for vehicles produced in small series from 2026 onwards. This means that pedestrian protection requirements must also be met for vehicles that are optimized for fast or particularly fast lap times on a racetrack. Vehicles, especially motor vehicles, typically have a rounded shape at the front when viewed from above, which can also be described as an arrow shape. For particularly high downforce, especially for racetrack vehicles, a so-called splitter and / or a front diffuser can be used.For optimal effect, the splitter or front diffuser has a shape that is at least essentially rectangular when viewed from above, for example in the vertical direction of the vehicle.

[0017] In contrast, the air guide device according to the invention can significantly increase the safety, and in particular pedestrian protection, of the motor vehicle. This can be achieved, in particular, by making the side part, which is designed, for example, as a corner of the air guide device (especially a rounded one), movable. This allows the side part to be moved rearward in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle to move the device into the stowed position. This, for example, allows the shape or geometry of the air guide device, especially when viewed from above in the vertical direction of the vehicle, to be changed so that in the stowed position the air guide device no longer has the aforementioned rectangular shape. This means that in the stowed position the air guide device does not have a shape that is at least substantially rectangular. In particular, the aforementioned swept shape can be avoided in the stowed position.By avoiding a rectangular shape and / or swept-back design, the forces exerted on a pedestrian in an accident, particularly a head-on collision, can be minimized, thus reducing, for example, the stress levels in the pedestrian's leg. Furthermore, the air guide device can significantly improve the aerodynamics of the vehicle, for example, by reducing drag and / or downforce, thereby enhancing both pedestrian safety and the vehicle's aerodynamics. This can, for example, resolve a conflict of objectives between downforce / aerodynamics and meeting pedestrian safety requirements.

[0018] In a further embodiment, it is provided that, in the operating position, a front fairing component of the vehicle, located on a longitudinally forward-facing front surface, is projected forward beyond the side component in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. In other words, in the operating position, at least the side component of the air guide device projects forward from the front fairing component in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. This means that, in the operating position, the side component extends further forward in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle than the front fairing component. Preferably, the projection or protrusion, that is, the projection or protrusion of the side component from the front fairing component, is less pronounced in the stowed position than in the operating position or is absent altogether.This means that in the stowed position, the side panel projects less far forward beyond the front panel in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle than in the operating position, or it does not project forward at all. Thus, for example, in the stowed position, the side panel is positioned less far forward of the front panel in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle than in the operating position, or in the stowed position, the side panel is not positioned forward of the front panel in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, meaning that the side panel is not positioned forward of the front panel in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle when stowed.This allows the offset extending in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle between the air guide device, in particular the side panel, and the front panel to be kept particularly small or avoided altogether in the stowed position, which, for example, can prevent a collision between the pedestrian and the side panel in the event of an accident with a pedestrian, or, if a collision does occur, can keep the consequences of this collision for the pedestrian particularly small.

[0019] In a further embodiment, it is provided that the side panel is to be moved, or is moved, translationally in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle to move between the operating position and the stowed position. In other words, the side panel is movable translationally in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle relative to the base panel, at least between the operating position and the stowed position, and in particular, is held, at least indirectly or directly, by the base panel. This means that the aforementioned movement of the side panel is translational. Alternatively or additionally, it is provided, for example, that the side panel is to be pivoted, or is pivoted, about a pivot axis to move between the operating position and the stowed position.In other words, the side panel is pivotable around the pivot axis relative to the base panel, at least between the operating position and the storage position, and is held at least indirectly or directly by the base panel. Thus, the aforementioned movement of the side panel specifically involves pivoting it around the pivot axis. This allows the side panel to be moved between the operating and storage positions with minimal effort and / or with maximum safety. Furthermore, the air guide device can be designed to be particularly lightweight and / or space-saving.

[0020] Preferably, the pivot axis has at least one component extending in the vehicle's vertical direction, particularly a vector component. In other words, the pivot axis is oriented upwards in the vehicle's vertical direction. Preferably, the pivot axis runs at least substantially parallel to the vehicle's vertical direction.

[0021] In a further embodiment, the base part is provided to have at least one section extending in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle behind the side panel, at least in the operating position, particularly when the air guide device is installed in or on the vehicle. This section is positioned further outwards in the transverse direction of the vehicle than the central section. In other words, at least in the operating position, this section of the base part is located in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, and in particular directly behind, the side panel. For example, in the operating position, the side panel and the section of the base part overlap in the longitudinal direction and / or in the transverse direction of the vehicle, i.e., they overlap each other. In particular, in the operating position, this section is covered by the side panel towards the front in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle.Preferably, in the stowed position, the portion of the base part is at least partially, and in particular predominantly or completely, covered by the side part in the vehicle's vertical direction, for example from above or below. In other words, in the stowed position, the side part and the portion of the base part are arranged equidistantly in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, respectively, whereas in the operating position, the side part is arranged, in particular, at least partially, further forward in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle than the portion of the base part. This allows the shape or geometry of the air guide device to be determined by the shape or geometry of the base part when the base part is moved into the stowed position, since the side part can, for example, be moved rearward in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle in such a way that it can be concealed by the base part.This can significantly increase safety in the event of a collision between the side panel and the pedestrian in an accident, thereby greatly improving pedestrian protection.

[0022] In a further embodiment, it is provided that, in the operating position, the side part extends outwards in the transverse direction of the vehicle, in particular at least indirectly or directly, to a front end of the base part, especially the central area, in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. In other words, at least in the operating position, the side part extends outwards in the transverse direction of the vehicle, at least indirectly, in particular directly, from the front end of the base part, especially the central area. Thus, in the operating position, the side part is arranged in an area extending outwards in the transverse direction of the vehicle, in particular at least indirectly or directly, next to the base part, especially the central area.This means that, in the operating position, the side panel is at least partially located within the aforementioned area, which extends outwards in the transverse direction of the vehicle, at least indirectly, and in particular directly, to the front end of the base panel, especially the central area. This area can be understood to be, in particular, a region surrounding the base panel. The front end is, for example, a second sub-area of ​​the base panel, distinct from the first. Preferably, in the stowed position, the side panel is located outside this area. In other words, the aforementioned area, in which the side panel is located, particularly in the operating position, is free of the side panel in the stowed position.For example, in the stowed position, the side panel is positioned at least partially, and in particular predominantly or completely, behind this area in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. This significantly increases safety in the event of a pedestrian collision with the side panel during an accident, thereby greatly improving pedestrian protection.

[0023] To enable particularly reliable and / or effortless, and especially automatic, movement of the side panel between the operating position and the storage position, the air guide device, in a further embodiment, includes at least one drive unit by means of which the side panel can be driven or is driven to move between the operating position and the storage position. This means that the movement of the side panel between the operating position and the storage position can be effected or is effected by means of the drive unit, especially automatically. In other words, it is provided that the side panel can be moved or is moved, at least between the operating position and the storage position, especially automatically, by means of the drive unit. The drive unit is, for example, designed as an electric, pneumatic, and / or hydraulic drive unit.This allows the movement of the side panel, that is, in particular the translational and / or rotational movement of the side panel, to be carried out via pneumatics, hydraulics and / or electrics.

[0024] To enable the side panel to be moved as needed, for example, into the stowed position and / or into the operating position as required, a further embodiment provides that the drive unit can move the side panel between the operating position and the stowed position depending on a certain, in particular the current, driving speed of the vehicle. For example, it is provided that the drive unit can move the side panel from the stowed position to the operating position when the driving speed of the vehicle exceeds a certain, in particular a predetermined, threshold value.For example, the drive unit is designed to move the side panel from the operating position to the stowed position when the vehicle's speed is below a certain threshold. This threshold might be, for example, at least 30 km / h and / or at most 50 km / h. For example, the threshold could be 40 km / h.

[0025] To effect the movement of the side panel between the operating position and the stowed position by means of the drive unit, the drive unit can be coupled, for example, to or is coupled to at least one electronic computing device, particularly for data transmission and / or information transmission. For example, the motor vehicle, in particular the air guide device, has the electronic computing device. Furthermore, the motor vehicle has, for example, at least one sensor element for detecting the, in particular current, driving speed of the motor vehicle. This means that the driving speed of the motor vehicle can be detected or is detected by means of the sensor element. Detection can be understood in particular as determining, for example, measuring or detecting, the driving speed.For example, it is provided that at least one control signal, in particular a first control signal, can be transmitted or is transmitted to the drive unit by means of the electronic computing device to move the side panel from the stowed position to the operating position when the travel speed detected by the sensor element is greater than the threshold value. Similarly, it is provided that at least one control signal, in particular a second control signal, can be transmitted or is transmitted to the drive unit by means of the electronic computing device to move the side panel from the operating position to the stowed position when the travel speed detected by the sensor element is less than the threshold value. In particular, the sensor element and the electronic computing device can be coupled or are coupled to each other.

[0026] To further improve the aerodynamics of the vehicle, particularly the downforce, the air guide device, in a further embodiment, extends to different sides of the vehicle in the transverse direction. In other words, the air guide device extends from a first side of the vehicle to a second side of the vehicle that faces away from the first side in the transverse direction, and in particular, is opposite the first side. Thus, for example, at least a first part of the air guide device is arranged on the first side, and at least a second part, different from the first part, is arranged on the second side. This allows the air guide device to extend particularly long or wide in the transverse direction, thereby significantly improving pedestrian protection.

[0027] To further improve the aerodynamics of the vehicle, the air guide device is designed as a front diffuser and / or a front splitter in a further development. In other words, the air guide device acts as a front diffuser and / or a front splitter.

[0028] A front diffuser is an aerodynamic component mounted on the underside of a vehicle, for example, on the body panel. The diffuser improves the upward airflow beneath the vehicle, particularly of ambient air, thereby increasing downforce and improving traction and / or stability, especially at high speeds.For example, a diffuser can increase the cross-section through which air flows, particularly downwards in the vertical direction of the vehicle, thereby reducing the velocity of the air or airflow and increasing the pressure, especially the static pressure, of the air or airflow. This increase in pressure, particularly underneath the vehicle in the vertical direction, can lead to an increase in downforce, especially at the front axle of the vehicle.

[0029] A front splitter can also be understood as an aerodynamic component, which is to be mounted, or is mounted, particularly at the front of the vehicle. The front splitter preferably serves to improve the airflow, or rather the airflow, in the upward direction above the vehicle. By means of the front splitter, an airflow approaching the vehicle, and in particular the front splitter, can be divided, especially in a controlled manner, into two airflow sections. The first of these airflow sections flows, for example, in the upward direction above the vehicle, that is, on the upper surface of the vehicle. The second airflow section flows, for example, in the upward direction below the vehicle, that is, on the underside of the vehicle, which points downwards in the upward direction.This can reduce the speed of the airflow over the vehicle, which can lead to an increase in pressure, particularly static pressure, at the front of the vehicle. This can significantly reduce lift at the front axle, thereby improving traction and / or stability.

[0030] A second aspect of the invention relates to an arrangement of at least one air guide device on or attached to an underside of a motor vehicle, particularly one that points downwards in the vehicle's vertical direction. The arrangement can be understood to be, in particular, a holding arrangement or a fastening arrangement. Advantages and advantageous embodiments of the first aspect of the invention are to be regarded as advantages and advantageous embodiments of the second aspect of the invention, and vice versa.

[0031] The air guide device has at least one retaining device by which it is held, at least indirectly, and in particular directly, to at least one component of the vehicle in a front area, especially on the underside of the vehicle. The arrangement can therefore be understood to be, in particular, an arrangement of the air guide device on the component. Preferably, the component is arranged on or at the underside of the vehicle. In particular, the component is arranged in the front area, that is, for example, on a front of the vehicle facing forward in the longitudinal direction. The component is preferably designed separately from the air guide device. For example, the component is designed as a body component and / or as a floor component, in particular as the underbody, of the vehicle.The term "body component" can be understood to mean, in particular, a component of a, preferably self-supporting, body of a motor vehicle. Furthermore, the air guide device has at least one air guide surface for directing air flowing towards the air guide device, particularly directly, when the motor vehicle is in motion.

[0032] In order to increase the safety, in particular pedestrian protection, of the motor vehicle, the air guide device according to the invention comprises at least one base part forming at least one central area of ​​the air guide device in the transverse direction of the vehicle and at least one side part arranged on the outside of the central area in the transverse direction of the vehicle and held on the base part, which is movable or is moved relative to the base part between at least one operating position and at least one stowing position, in which the side part is arranged at least partially further back in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle than in the operating position.

[0033] A first further aspect relates to a motor vehicle which has at least one air guide device according to the first aspect of the invention. Advantages and advantageous embodiments of the first and second aspects of the invention are to be regarded as advantages and advantageous embodiments of the first further aspect and vice versa.

[0034] A second further aspect relates to a method for operating an air guide device according to the first aspect of the invention. Advantages and advantageous embodiments of the first and second aspects of the invention, as well as of the first further aspect, are to be regarded as advantages and advantageous embodiments of the second further aspect, and vice versa. Preferably, in the method, the side part is moved, for example by means of at least one drive device, between at least one operating position and at least one stow position relative to the base part.

[0035] Further advantages, features, and details of the invention will become apparent from the following description of a preferred embodiment and from the drawings. The features and combinations of features mentioned above in the description, as well as those mentioned below in the figure description and / or shown in the figures alone, can be used not only in the combinations specified, but also in other combinations or individually, without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0036] This shows: Fig. 1 a schematic and perspective partial view of an arrangement according to the invention; and Fig. 2 a schematic side view of an arrangement according to the invention; and Fig. 3 a schematic bottom view of an air guide device according to the invention in a first embodiment in a service position; and Fig. 4 a schematic underside view of an air guide device according to a first embodiment of the invention in a stowed position; and Fig. 5 a schematic bottom view of an air guide device according to a first embodiment in an intermediate position; and Fig. 6 a schematic bottom view of an air guide device according to a second embodiment of the invention in a service position; and Fig. 7 a schematic bottom view of an air guide device according to a second embodiment of the invention in a stowed position; and Fig. 8 a schematic underside view of an air guide device according to a second embodiment in an intermediate position.

[0037] In the figures, identical or functionally equivalent elements are provided with the same reference symbols.

[0038] Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic and perspective partial view of an arrangement of an air guide device 10 on or at the underside 12 of a motor vehicle 14. Thus, in Fig. 1 in particular the air guidance device 10, and in particular the motor vehicle 14, are shown in a schematic and perspective partial view. In Fig. Figure 2 shows the arrangement or air guide device 10, and in particular the motor vehicle 14, in a schematic partial side view. In the exemplary embodiment, the air guide device 10 is designed as a front diffuser 16 and / or as a front splitter 18.

[0039] The air guide device 10 has at least one retaining device 20 by means of which the air guide device 10 is held at least indirectly, and in particular directly, on a component 23 of the vehicle 14 in a front area 22 of the motor vehicle 3, in particular on the underside 12. The component 23 is designed, for example, as a body component and / or as a floor component, in particular as an underbody.

[0040] Preferably, the air guide device 10 has at least one air guide area for directing air flowing towards or around the air guide device 10 when the motor vehicle 14 is in motion. The air guide device 10, in particular the air guide area, has at least one air guide surface 24 for directing air flowing towards or around the air guide device 10 when the motor vehicle 14 is in motion. The air guide surface 24 can be referred to as the first air guide surface 24. The first air guide surface 24 is, for example, arranged on a lower surface of the air guide device 10 that points downwards in the vehicle's vertical direction 26. For example, the air guide device 10, in particular the air guide area, has at least one second air guide surface 28 for directing air flowing towards or around the air guide device 10 when the motor vehicle 14 is in motion.The second air guide surface 28 is, for example, arranged on an upper surface of the air guide device 10 pointing upwards in the vehicle direction 26.

[0041] To significantly enhance the safety, particularly pedestrian protection, of the motor vehicle 14, the air guide device 10 comprises at least one base part 34 forming a central area 32 in the transverse direction 30 of the vehicle, and at least one side part 36 arranged on the outside of the central area 32 in the transverse direction 30 of the vehicle and held, in particular at least indirectly or directly, on the base part 34, especially the central area 32. The base part 34 thus specifically comprises the central area 32. In the exemplary embodiment, however, two such side parts 36, 38 are provided. This means that the air guide device 10 has the side part 36, which can be designated as the first side part 36, and a second side part 38, which is specifically designed separately from the first side part 36.Accordingly, the air guide device 10 has a respective side part 36, 38 arranged on the outside of the central area 32 in the transverse direction 30 of the vehicle, in particular at least indirectly or directly, and held on the base part 34, in particular the central area 32, in particular at least indirectly or directly. Thus, for example, the respective side part 36, 38 forms a respective outer area of ​​the air guide device 10 in the transverse direction 30 of the vehicle. This outer area can be understood to be, in particular, a corner area. The respective side part 36, 38 is movable relative to the base part 34 between at least one operating position 40 and at least one stow position 42. Fig. 1 and in Fig. 2 the respective side part 36, 38 is in the respective operating position 40. In Fig. Figure 3 shows the air guide device 10 or the arrangement in a schematic bottom view, wherein in Fig. 3 the respective side part 36, 38 is also in the operating position 40. In Fig. Figure 4 shows the air guide device 10 or the arrangement in a schematic bottom view, wherein in Fig. 4 the respective side part 36, 83 is in the stow position 42. In the stow position 42, the respective side part 36, 38 is arranged at least partially, in particular predominantly or completely, further back in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle 44 than in the operating position 40. The side parts 36, 38 are preferably designed separately from the base part 34.

[0042] For example, in the operating position 40, a front panel 48 of the motor vehicle 14, arranged on a front face 46 of the motor vehicle 14 pointing forward in the longitudinal direction 44, is to be projected or is projected forward, at least partially, predominantly, or completely, by the respective side panel 36, 38 in the longitudinal direction 44. For example, this projection is less in the stowed position 42 than in the operating position 40. Alternatively, this projection is omitted, for example, in the stowed position 42.

[0043] For example, how particularly good in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 1, the air guide device 10 is to be arranged or positioned in the longitudinal direction 44 of the vehicle at least partially, in particular predominantly or completely, in front of at least one wheel 50 of the motor vehicle 14. The vehicle wheel 50 is a front wheel in this case. The term "vehicle wheel" can be understood to mean, in particular, a ground contact element by which the motor vehicle 14 can be supported or is supported, for example, on a roadway, in particular on a surface. For example, at least the respective side panel 36, 38 is to be arranged or positioned in the longitudinal direction 44 in front of the vehicle wheel 50, in particular when the respective side panel 36, 38 is in the operating position 40. In the stowed position 42, the respective side panel 36, 38 can also be arranged in front of the vehicle wheel 50 in the longitudinal direction 44.

[0044] In Fig. 3 and in Fig. Figure 4 shows the air guide device 10 according to a first embodiment, in which the respective side part 36, 38 is to be moved, or is moved, translationally in the longitudinal direction 44 of the vehicle to move between the operating position 40 and the stowage position 42. In other words, the movement of the respective side part 36, 38 between the operating position 40 and the stowage position 42 involves a translational movement of the respective side part 36, 38 relative to the base part 34. In this case, the respective side part 36, 38 is to be moved translationally to the rear in the longitudinal direction 44 of the vehicle to move from the operating position 40 to the stowage position 42. One direction of movement of the respective side part 36, 38 during the translational movement preferably runs at least substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction 44 of the vehicle.

[0045] In Fig. Figure 5 shows the air guide device 10 or the arrangement in a schematic bottom view also according to the first embodiment, wherein in Fig. 5 the respective side part 36, 38 is in an intermediate position 52 that differs from the operating position 40 and the storage position 42. The movement of the respective side part 36, 38, that is, in this case the translational movement of the respective side part 36, 38, from the storage position 42 to the operating position 40 is in Fig. 5 illustrated by means of arrows 54.

[0046] In Fig. Figures 6 to 8 show the air guide device 10 or the arrangement in a schematic bottom view according to a second embodiment, which differs from the first embodiment. In the second embodiment, the respective side part 36, 38 is pivoted about a respective pivot axis 56, i.e., rotationally, to move between the operating position 40 and the storage position 42. Fig. 6 the respective side part 36, 38 is in its respective position of use 40. In Fig. 7 the respective side panel 36, 38 is in its respective storage position 42. In Fig. 8 the respective side panel 36, 38 is in a respective intermediate position 52. The pivoting of the respective side panel 36, 38 from the respective storage position 42 to the respective operating position 40 is in Fig. Figure 8 is illustrated by means of arrows 58. The respective pivot axis 56 preferably has at least one component extending in the vehicle's vertical direction 26, in particular a vectorial component. This component is preferably a main component. Particularly preferably, the respective pivot axis 56 extends at least substantially parallel to the vehicle's vertical direction 26. For example, it is provided that, in order to pivot the respective side section 36, 38 from the operating position 40 to the stowed position 42, the respective side section 36, 38 is to be moved or pivoted rearward in the longitudinal direction 44 of the vehicle and inward in the transverse direction 30 of the vehicle. For example, the respective side section 36, 38 is connected to the central area 32, in particular directly, via the respective pivot axis 56. In particular, the respective pivot axis 56 is arranged on the central area 32, in particular directly.

[0047] The following configurations may relate to the first and / or the second embodiment.

[0048] For example, the first and / or the second air guide surface 24, 28 is formed by the base part 34. Thus, for example, the base part 34 has the first and / or the second air guide surface 24, 28.

[0049] Preferably, the respective side part 36, 38 is also designed to guide the air flowing towards the air guide device 10 when the motor vehicle 14 is in motion, particularly when the respective side part 36, 38 is in its respective operating position 40. Thus, for example, the respective side part 36, 38 has at least one air guide surface, in particular a third air guide surface, for guiding the air flowing towards the air guide device 10 when the motor vehicle 14 is in motion. The respective third air guide surface is, for example, arranged on the underside of the air guide device. Furthermore, the respective side part 36, 38 has, for example, at least one respective air guide surface, in particular a fourth air guide surface, for guiding the air flowing towards the air guide device 10 when the motor vehicle 14 is in motion. The respective fourth air guide surface is, for example, arranged on the top side of the air guide device 10.

[0050] Preferably, the base part 34 has at least one respective sub-section 62 extending, at least in the operating position 40, in the longitudinal direction 44 of the vehicle, in particular directly, behind the respective side part 36, 38, which is located, in particular, for example, at least in the operating position 40, and especially in the operating position 40 and the stowage position 42, in the transverse direction 30 of the vehicle at the same width position as the respective side part 36, 38. In the stowage position 42, the respective sub-section 62 is at least partially, in particular predominantly or completely, covered by the respective side part 36, 38 in the vertical direction 26 of the vehicle, for example from above or from below.The respective sub-section 62 is, for example, arranged further outwards in the transverse direction 30 of the vehicle than the central or middle section 32, whereby the respective sub-section 62 is designed, for example, as the respective outer area of ​​the base part 34, particularly with respect to the transverse direction 30 of the vehicle. The central section 32 and the respective sub-section 62 can be formed integrally or can be formed separately from each other.

[0051] Preferably, in the operating position 40, the respective side section 36, 38 adjoins, in the transverse direction 30 of the vehicle, outwards, in particular at least indirectly or directly, a front end 64 of the base section 34, in particular of the central area 32, in the longitudinal direction 44 of the vehicle. Thus, for example, with regard to the operating position 40 and the stowage position 42 exclusively, in the respective operating position 40, the respective side section 36, 38 is arranged in an area 66 extending outwards, in particular directly, next to the base section 34, in particular the central area 32, in a transverse direction 30 of the vehicle. Preferably, in the respective stowage position 42, the respective side section 36, 38 is arranged at least partially, in particular predominantly or completely, outside this respective area 66, that is, in particular behind this respective area 66 in the longitudinal direction 44 of the vehicle.

[0052] Preferably, particularly with regard to the respective operating position 40 and the respective stow position 42, in the respective operating position 40, the respective side part 36, 38 extends from the central area 32 of the base part 34 in a respective direction of extension, wherein this respective direction of extension runs, for example, at least substantially parallel to the transverse direction 30 of the vehicle. For example, in the operating position 40, a respective front end of the respective side part 36, 38 in the longitudinal direction 44 of the vehicle rests, in particular directly, against the front end 64 of the base part 34, in particular the central area 32. In particular, viewed from above or below in the vertical direction 26 of the vehicle, the base part 34 and the side parts 36, 38 form a rectangular shape, or at least a substantially rectangular shape or geometry.

[0053] How particularly good in Fig. 1 as well as in Fig. As can be seen from Figures 2 to 8, the air guide device 10 extends to different sides 68 and 70 of the motor vehicle 14 in the transverse direction 30. For example, the first side part 36 is arranged on a first of the sides 68 and the second side part 38 is arranged on a second of the sides 70.

[0054] Preferably, the motor vehicle 14, in particular the air guide device 10, has at least one drive unit by means of which the respective side section 36, 38 can be driven or is driven to move between the operating position 40 and the stowed position 42. It is provided, for example, that the respective side section 36, 38 can be moved or is moved between the operating position 40 and the stowed position 42 by means of the drive unit depending on a, in particular current, driving speed of the motor vehicle 14, for example, when the driving speed exceeds and / or falls below a threshold value. This threshold value is, for example, a driving speed of 40 km / h. Thus, as shown by way of example in Fig. 3 and Fig. Figure 6 illustrates that, in the respective operating position 40, the respective side panel 36, 38 is extended, in particular fully extended, at speeds exceeding 40 km / h. Furthermore, as exemplified in Fig. 4 and Fig. Figure 7 illustrates that in the respective stow position 42, the respective side panel 36, 38 is retracted, for example, at a speed of less than 40 km / h, and in particular fully retracted. As in Fig. 5 and Fig. As illustrated by example in Figure 8, in the respective intermediate position 52, the respective side section 36, 38 is extended, for example, at speeds exceeding 40 km / h, and in particular, it is extended less far than in the respective operating position 40. Thus, in Fig. 6 and Fig. Figure 8 illustrates, for example, the respective extension of the respective side panel 36, 38 at speeds exceeding 40 km / h.

[0055] As in Fig. 4 and Fig.As illustrated in Figure 7, for example, in the respective stowage position 42, the respective side part 36, 38 does not project in front of the respective sub-area 62 in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle 44, or in the respective stowage position 42, only a respective partial surface of the respective side part 36, 38 projects in front of the respective sub-area 62 in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle 44, wherein this partial surface is, for example, less than 50 percent, in particular less than 40, 30, 20 or 10 percent of a total area of ​​the respective side part 36, 38.

[0056] Overall, it is evident that a pedestrian-friendly front diffuser 16 and / or front splitter 18 can be implemented using the air guide device 10. Problems regarding pedestrian protection with conventional air guide devices can be solved in the air guide device 10, in particular, by making the side parts 36, 38, which are designed, for example, as corners or corner areas of the air guide device 10, movable. This can be achieved, for example, by a rotary or translational movement. The movement can be carried out, for example, pneumatically, hydraulically, or electrically, for instance, when the aforementioned threshold of 40 km / h is exceeded or fallen below.

Claims

[1] Air guide device (10) for a motor vehicle (14), with at least one holding device (20) by which the air guide device (10) is to be held in a front area (22) of the motor vehicle (14) on an underside (12) of the motor vehicle (14), with at least one air guide surface (24) for guiding air flowing towards the air guide device (10) when the motor vehicle (14) is traveling, characterized by a base part (34) forming at least one central area (32) of the air guide device (10) in the transverse direction (30) of the vehicle and at least one side part (36, 38) arranged on the outside of the central area (32) in the transverse direction (30) of the vehicle and held on the base part (34), which is movable relative to the base part (34) between at least one operating position (40) and a stow position (42), in which the side part (36, 38) is arranged at least partially further back in the longitudinal direction (44) of the vehicle than in the operating position (40). [2] Air guide device (10) according to claim 1, characterized by , that in the operating position (40) a front fairing part (48) of the motor vehicle (14) arranged on a front side (46) of the motor vehicle (14) pointing forward in the longitudinal direction (44) of the side part (36, 38) is to be projected forward in the longitudinal direction (44) of the motor vehicle, wherein the projection in the stow position (42) is less than in the operating position (40) or is omitted. [3] Air guide device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by , that the side part (36, 38) is to be moved translationally in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle (44) or pivoted about a pivot axis (56) which preferably has at least one component extending in the vertical direction (26) of the vehicle. [4] Air guide device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the base part (34) has a partial area (62) extending at least in the use position (40) in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle (44) behind the side part (36, 38), which in the stow position (42) is at least partially covered by the side part (36, 38) in the vertical direction of the vehicle (26). [5] Air guide device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that in the operating position (42) the side part (36, 38) connects outwards in the transverse direction (30) of the vehicle to a front end (64) of the base part (34) in the longitudinal direction (44) of the vehicle, whereby in the operating position (40) the side part (36, 38) is arranged in an area (60) extending outwards next to the base part (34) in the transverse direction (30) of the vehicle, wherein the side part (36, 38) is arranged outside this area (66) in the stow position (42). [6] Air guide device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bya drive device by means of which the side part (36, 38) can be driven to move between the operating position (40) and the storage position (42). [7] Air guide device according to (10) one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that by means of the drive device the side part (36, 38) can be moved between the operating position (40) and the stow position (42) depending on a driving speed of the motor vehicle (14). [8] Air guide device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the air guide device (10) extends to different sides (68, 70) of the motor vehicle (14) in the transverse direction (30) of the vehicle. [9] Air guide device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the air guide device (10) is designed as a front diffuser (16) and / or as a front splitter (18). [10] Arrangement of an air guide device (10) on an underside (12) of a motor vehicle (14), in which the air guide device (10) has at least one holding device (20) by means of which the air guide device (10) is held at least indirectly on a component (23) of the motor vehicle (14) in a front area (22) of the motor vehicle (14), and at least one air guide surface (24) for guiding air flowing towards the air guide device (10) when the motor vehicle (14) is traveling, characterized by, that the air guide device (10) has a base part (34) forming at least one central area (32) of the air guide device (10) in the transverse direction (30) of the vehicle and at least one side part (36, 38) arranged on the outside of the central area (32) in the transverse direction (30) of the vehicle and held on the base part (34), which is movable relative to the base part (34) between at least one operating position (40) and a stow position (42), in which the side part (36, 38) is arranged at least partially further back in the longitudinal direction (44) of the vehicle than in the operating position (40).

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