Aerodynamic system for vehicles with adjustable ride height

Abstract

An aerodynamic system for vehicles with adjustable ride height comprises an aerodynamic element ride height actuator and an aerodynamic element angle actuator connected in series and mounted in a vehicle. An aerodynamic element is designed to rest in an inactive, retracted position and, under the control of the aerodynamic element angle actuator, to move from the retracted position to at least one active, extended position at an angle to the vehicle underbody, thus modifying the vehicle's aerodynamic characteristics. The aerodynamic element ride height actuator is designed to extend and retract simultaneously with an increase or decrease in the vehicle's ride height, and the aerodynamic element angle actuator is designed to extend and retract to extend and retract the aerodynamic element.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED REGISTRATIONS

[0001] The present application claims priority over preliminary US application No. 63 / 441,504, which was filed on January 27, 2023, and is incorporated herein by reference. BACKGROUND

[0002] Motor vehicles, especially high-performance or racing vehicles, have used aerodynamic elements for many years to influence their aerodynamic properties. Often, these elements are fixed in the same position, regardless of whether the vehicle is moving or not. However, sometimes such elements are deployed while driving, for example, upon reaching a certain speed. It is often advantageous to deploy an aerodynamic element while the vehicle is moving in order to modify its aerodynamic characteristics depending on the driving conditions.

[0003] Some vehicles are equipped with adjustable ride height. This can include a comfort mode with a higher ride height, used, for example, on uneven road surfaces, typically streets, and a sport mode with a lower ride height to improve vehicle dynamics on smoother surfaces such as racetracks. This is usually achieved through the use of hydraulic actuators or air springs connected to the vehicle's suspension system.

[0004] It would be advantageous to use a vehicle aerodynamic system that automatically allows for changes in ride height by also altering the extended position of an aerodynamic element without affecting its retracted position, thus enabling a continuous transition of the aerodynamic element between positions corresponding to the vehicle's comfort ride height mode and sport mode. These changes would advantageously be made to the aerodynamic element while the vehicle's ride height is being adjusted between a higher comfort ride height and a lower sport ride height. The mechanism would advantageously be applicable to a range of active aerodynamic elements, such as rear wings and spoilers, tire swirl deflectors, air brake flaps, underbody devices, etc.

[0005] It would also be advantageous if the mechanism did not rely on additional sensors or electronic components to control the change in the aerodynamic positions of the aerodynamic element depending on the vehicle's ride height.

[0006] Furthermore, it would be advantageous if the mechanism could be used to control the position of active aerodynamic elements on the underbody of a vehicle or at other locations on a vehicle. SUMMARY

[0007] An adjustable ride height aerodynamic system has been developed that eliminates these problems inherent in the prior art. This system automatically adjusts the vehicle's ride height by changing the extended position of an aerodynamic element without affecting its retracted position. This allows for a continuous transition between positions corresponding to comfort modes with a higher ride height and sport modes with a lower ride height. The mechanism is applicable to a range of active aerodynamic elements, such as rear wings and spoilers, tire swirl deflectors, air brake flaps, underbody devices, diffusers, and so on. Multiple mechanisms can be distributed across the vehicle or used independently.

[0008] In a key aspect of the invention, an aerodynamic system for vehicles with adjustable ride height comprises an aerodynamic element ride height actuator and an aerodynamic element angle actuator connected in series and mounted in a vehicle, an aerodynamic element designed to rest in an inactive folded position and to move from the folded position to at least one active unfolded position at an angle to the vehicle under the control of the aerodynamic element angle actuator, so that the aerodynamic vehicle characteristics are changed, wherein the aerodynamic element ride height actuator is designed to be extended and retracted simultaneously with an increase or decrease in the ride height of the vehicle, and wherein the aerodynamic element angle actuator is designed to be extended and retracted in order to unfold and fold in the aerodynamic element.

[0009] In another aspect of the invention, the aerodynamic element ride height actuator is designed to be extended and retracted simultaneously with an increase or decrease in the ride height of the vehicle in order to maintain a predetermined spatial relationship between a lowest extent of the aerodynamic element and a road surface.

[0010] In another aspect of the invention, the aerodynamic element angle actuator is rotatably connected to the aerodynamic element via a connecting element.

[0011] In a further aspect of the invention, a first angle between the connecting element and the aerodynamic element is maintained from the folded position to the at least one unfolded position.

[0012] In another aspect of the invention, the at least one unfolded position comprises both a fully extended unfolded position and a partially extended unfolded position.

[0013] In another aspect of the invention, the angles of the aerodynamic element in relation to the vehicle differ between the fully extended position and the partially extended position, depending on whether the vehicle's ride height is increased or decreased.

[0014] In another aspect of the invention, a second angle between the connecting element and the aerodynamic element is maintained when the vehicle's ride height is reduced and the aerodynamic element is in the folded-in position.

[0015] In another aspect of the invention, the angle of the aerodynamic element in relation to the vehicle changes in the at least one extended position, depending on whether the vehicle's ride height is increased or decreased.

[0016] In another aspect of the invention, the aerodynamic element ride height actuator and the aerodynamic element angle actuator are hydraulically operated.

[0017] In another aspect of the invention, the aerodynamic element ride height actuator and / or the aerodynamic element angle actuator are single-acting with a coil spring return.

[0018] In another aspect of the invention, the aerodynamic element ride height actuator and / or the aerodynamic element angle actuator are double acting.

[0019] In another aspect of the invention, the aerodynamic element ride height actuator and the aerodynamic element angle actuator are forced to operate in series by means of a connecting bracket.

[0020] In another aspect of the invention, an elemental helical spring connects the connecting element and the aerodynamic element.

[0021] In another aspect of the invention, a hard stop prevents excessive angular expansion of the aerodynamic element when the vehicle's ride height is reduced and the aerodynamic element is parallel to the vehicle underbody.

[0022] In another aspect of the invention, an aerodynamic system for vehicles with adjustable ride height is attached to an underside of the vehicle in front of each of the two front wheels of the vehicle.

[0023] In another aspect of the invention, an aerodynamic system for vehicles with adjustable ride height is attached to an underside of the vehicle either in front of or behind each of the two rear wheels of the vehicle.

[0024] In another aspect of the invention, the aerodynamic element is integrated into a diffuser.

[0025] In a further aspect of the invention, a method for operating an aerodynamic system for vehicles with adjustable ride height comprises connecting a vehicle ride height adjustment system with an aerodynamic element ride height actuator of the vehicle-mounted aerodynamic system for vehicles with adjustable ride height, controlling the aerodynamic element ride height actuator with the vehicle ride height adjustment system in order to extend and retract the aerodynamic element ride height actuator simultaneously with the respective increases and decreases in the ride height of the vehicle, and extending and retracting an aerodynamic element angle actuator connected in series with the aerodynamic element ride height actuator in order to unfold or fold in an aerodynamic element.

[0026] In another aspect of the method according to the invention, the aerodynamic element angle actuator is controlled by an active vehicle aerodynamic system.

[0027] In another aspect of the method according to the invention, the aerodynamic element angle actuator is controlled by an independent aerodynamic element hydraulic circuit. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. Figure 1A is a partial top view of a vehicle, schematically showing the aerodynamic system with adjustable ride height mounted in front of the front wheels. Fig. 1B is a partial elevation view of the vehicle made of Fig. Figure 1A shows the aerodynamic element of the aerodynamic system with adjustable ride height in the folded-in starting position parallel to the road surface. Fig. Figure 2 illustrates the vehicle with the aerodynamic system with adjustable ride height. Fig. Figure 1B shows four system configurations, including combinations of normal ride height (N), lower ride height (L) and folded-in starting position (B) as well as unfolded positions (D) of the aerodynamic element. Fig. Figure 3 is a schematic elevation view of the aerodynamic system with adjustable ride height. Fig. 4A is a perspective top view of the aerodynamic system with adjustable ride height. Fig. 4B is a top view of the aerodynamic system with adjustable ride height. Fig. 4C is a perspective view from below of the aerodynamic system with adjustable ride height. Fig. 4D is a top-down view of the aerodynamic system with adjustable ride height. Fig. Figure 5 is a schematic elevation view of the aerodynamic system with adjustable ride height from the Fig. 1A, Fig. 1B, Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 together with a legend showing four system configurations of the system, which include combinations of normal ride height (N), lower ride height (L) and folded-in starting position (B) and unfolded positions (D) of the aerodynamic element. Fig. Figure 6 is a representation of the vehicle and the aerodynamic system with adjustable ride height from the Fig. 1B and Fig. 4D, showing the vehicle and the isolated aerodynamic system with adjustable ride height in a top-down view in four system configurations, which include combinations of normal ride height (N), lower ride height (L) and folded-in starting position (B) and unfolded positions (D) of the aerodynamic element. Fig. Figure 7 is a partial cutaway view of a vehicle showing the aerodynamic system mounted in front of the rear wheels with adjustable ride height in four configurations, which include combinations of normal ride height (N), lower ride height (L) and folded-in starting position (B) and extended positions (D) of the aerodynamic element. Fig. Figure 8 is a partial cutaway view of a vehicle showing the aerodynamic system mounted behind the rear wheels with adjustable ride height in four system configurations, which include combinations of normal ride height (N), lower ride height (L) and folded-in starting position (B) and unfolded positions (D) of the aerodynamic element. Fig. Figure 9 is a schematic elevation view of the aerodynamic system with adjustable ride height. Fig. 8 together with a legend showing four system configurations, which include combinations of normal ride height (N), lower ride height (L) and folded-in starting position (B) and unfolded positions (D) of the aerodynamic element. Fig. Figure 10 is a perspective view of the underside of a vehicle, showing the adjustable ride height aerodynamic system integrated into a diffuser at the rear of the vehicle. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] In the Fig. Figures 1A to 10 show an aerodynamic system (1) for vehicles with adjustable ride height. The adjustable ride height aerodynamic system (1) uses two hydraulic actuators connected in series. These comprise an aerodynamic element ride height actuator (3) and an aerodynamic element angle actuator (5). Together, these actuators control the position of an aerodynamic element (7).

[0029] The aerodynamic element ride height actuator (3) is connected via a pivot joint (9) to a vehicle (4) and to a conventional (not shown) vehicle ride height system, so that a change in the vehicle's ride height automatically activates the aerodynamic element ride height actuator (3). Often, a vehicle with adjustable ride height is equipped with hydraulic vehicle suspension actuators as part of the suspension system. The aerodynamic element ride height actuator (3) can be located in the same hydraulic circuit as the hydraulic vehicle suspension actuators, ensuring that the aerodynamic element ride height actuator (3) and the vehicle suspension system actuator are synchronized and connected.

[0030] The aerodynamic element angular actuator (5) is driven by the conventional active vehicle aerodynamic system. The aerodynamic element angular actuator (5) can be located in the same hydraulic circuit as other hydraulic actuators of the vehicle aerodynamics, ensuring that they are synchronized and interconnected. Alternatively, if independent control of multiple active aerodynamic devices is required, each aerodynamic element angular actuator (5) can be connected separately to an independent aerodynamic element hydraulic circuit.

[0031] Typically, the aerodynamic element ride height actuator (3) has a different actuation stroke length than the aerodynamic element angle actuator (5).

[0032] A connecting element (11) attaches the aerodynamic element angle actuator (5) to the aerodynamic element (7). The connecting element (11) can rotate relative to the aerodynamic element (7); however, the connecting element (11) and the aerodynamic element (7) are typically spring-mounted together in a first defined position at a first angle using an element coil spring (13) or another suitable energy storage element, such as a polymer elastomer element. There is a separate hard stop (15) that limits the initial position of the aerodynamic element (7). This allows the rest of the height-adjustable aerodynamic system (1) to move independently of the aerodynamic element (7) and maintain the same initial position of the aerodynamic element (7) regardless of the vehicle's ride height.

[0033] When used in front of the front wheels (16) or rear wheels (17) of the vehicle, the height-adjustable aerodynamic system (1) is designed to rotate an exit edge (8) of the aerodynamic element (7) downwards from a folded horizontal starting position (B) to an extended position (D). See, for example, the Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 5, Fig. 6 and Fig. 7. When used behind the rear wheels (17) of the vehicle, the height-adjustable aerodynamic system (1) can be redesigned so that the trailing edge (8) of the aerodynamic element (7) is rotated upwards from the folded horizontal starting position (B) to the unfolded position (D). See, for example, Fig. 8, Fig. 9 and Fig. 10. The basic principles remain the same when the aerodynamic element (7) is mounted behind the rear wheels (17) of the vehicle; however, the element spring (13) now acts in such a way that it pushes the connecting element (11) and the aerodynamic element (7) apart into a different defined position, the first angle of which may differ from the angle described above when the adjustable ride height 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 a lower ride height mode (L) of the vehicle results in a smaller angle of the deployed aerodynamic element (7) than the normal higher ride height mode (N). The opposite can be achieved by changing the horizontal initial position (B) of the aerodynamic element ride height actuator (3).When the adjustable ride height aerodynamic system is mounted in front of or behind a wheel, in the lower ride height mode (L) in which the aerodynamic element (7) is in the folded horizontal starting position (B), the connecting element (11) and the aerodynamic element (7) are typically spring-mounted together into a second defined position with a second angle that differs from the first angle, using the element coil spring (13) or another suitable energy storage element.

[0034] The adjustable ride height aerodynamic system (1) can be applied to a variety of active aerodynamic elements, such as rear wings and spoilers, tire vortex deflectors, air brake flaps, underbody devices, diffusers, etc. An example of the adjustable ride height aerodynamic system (1) integrated into a diffuser (18) is shown in Fig. Figure 10 illustrates this. A diffuser is a shaped section at the rear of a vehicle that improves the vehicle's aerodynamic properties. This is achieved by improving the transition between the fast-flowing airflow under the vehicle and the slower-flowing ambient air. By accelerating the airflow in front of it, the diffuser contributes to the generation of downforce. An angle of inclination of the diffuser causes a change in the velocity of the air flowing beneath it. This then leads to a pressure change and increased downforce. Depending on the aerodynamic requirements of the specific vehicle, it may be desirable to have a diffuser angle that varies with ride height. This corresponds to the functionality of the adjustable ride height aerodynamic system (1).

[0035] Depending on the vehicle's ride height, the requirements for the aerodynamic element (7) may vary. For example, for optimal performance in Sport mode with a lower vehicle ride height (L), the aerodynamic element (7) can be deployed to a different position and at a different angle to the road surface (19) than for optimal performance in Normal mode with a higher vehicle ride height (N). Another reason for this function is to ensure sufficient ground clearance for the aerodynamic element (7) depending on the vehicle ride height. Ideally, a predetermined distance between the lowest extension of the aerodynamic element (7) and the road surface (19) is maintained, depending on the driving mode.The lowest extension of the aerodynamic element (7) is typically located near the rear trailing edge (8) when the height-adjustable aerodynamic system is mounted in front of the front or rear wheels (16, 17), and near the front leading edge (6) when the height-adjustable aerodynamic system (1) is mounted behind the rear wheels (17). The predetermined distance need not be identical in all cases and may vary depending on road conditions or other driving parameters. The vehicle underbody (21) generally runs parallel to the road surface (19). The aerodynamic element (7) is oriented either parallel to the vehicle underbody (21) in the horizontal initial position (B) or at an angle to the vehicle underbody (21) in the extended position (D).

[0036] The aerodynamic system (1) with adjustable ride height can be used individually or in pairs. The system is usually installed in pairs next to the front wheels (16) or rear wheels (17) of the vehicle, or at both locations.

[0037] For example, pairs of the adjustable ride height aerodynamic system (1) can be mounted on a vehicle underbody (21) in front of the front wheels (16). In the standard configuration, the vehicle is in normal mode with a higher ride height (N). In this configuration, each aerodynamic element (7) can be folded in parallel to the vehicle underbody (21) or extended at an angle to the vehicle underbody (21). When extended, each aerodynamic element (7) rotates along an axis (X) adjacent to the front leading edge (6) of the aerodynamic element (7) to tilt the rear trailing edge (8) of the aerodynamic element (7) downward. When the vehicle's ride height is lowered to sport mode with a lower ride height (L), each aerodynamic element (7) is also folded in parallel to the vehicle underbody (21) and extended when the rear trailing edge (8) is tilted downward.The angle of the aerodynamic element (7) in the extended state can vary depending on the selected ride height of the vehicle. This prevents contact between the aerodynamic element (7) and the road surface (19) and also allows the aerodynamic properties of the aerodynamic system (1) with adjustable ride height to be influenced.

[0038] The aerodynamic element ride height actuator (3) and the aerodynamic element angle actuator (5) are connected in series. This is achieved by mounting both in 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 ride height actuator (3) can be equipped with a ride height actuator return spring (37) and the aerodynamic element angle actuator (5) with an angle actuator return spring (39). The aerodynamic element ride height actuator (3) is typically rotatably connected at its front end to a vehicle body (4) via a mounting bracket (31). The aerodynamic element ride height actuator (3) can be retracted from its standard position simultaneously with a reduction in the vehicle's ride height.This ensures that the aerodynamic element (7) can remain folded in parallel to the vehicle underbody (21) regardless of the vehicle's ride height. By connecting the aerodynamic element ride height actuator (3) to the ride height circuit of the vehicle suspension, the retraction and return to the standard position of the aerodynamic element ride height actuator (3) can be synchronized without additional sensors or electronic components.

[0039] While the aerodynamic element ride height actuator (3) maintains a spatial relationship between the aerodynamic element (7) and the vehicle body (4), the aerodynamic element angle actuator (5) controls the extension and return to the folded initial position (B) of the aerodynamic element (7). The aerodynamic element angle actuator (5) extends when the vehicle's aerodynamic hydraulic system is activated. A rear end (33) of the aerodynamic element angle actuator (5) is rotatably connected to a first end of the connecting element (11) that extends between the aerodynamic element angle actuator (5) and the aerodynamic element (7). The connecting element (11) is also rotatably connected to the aerodynamic element (7) at a second end. Typically, the element coil spring (13) connects the connecting element (11) and the aerodynamic element (7).When the aerodynamic element angle actuator (5) is not extended, the aerodynamic element (7) is folded in. Depending on the degree of extension of the aerodynamic element angle actuator (5), the aerodynamic element (7) can be unfolded into different positions, for example by 15 degrees (in low ride height mode L) or by 30 degrees (in normal ride height mode N) from the parallel position to the vehicle underbody (21), as shown in . Fig. Figure 3 shows that 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 unfolded. The hard stop element (15), which may consist of, for example, an elastic or relatively rigid polymer material, is positioned above the aerodynamic element (7) when the aerodynamic element (7) is mounted in front of one of the front or rear wheels (16, 17), as shown in Figure 3. Fig. 6 shown. Alternatively, the hard stop element (15) is mounted below the aerodynamic element (7) if the aerodynamic element (7) is mounted behind one of the rear wheels (17), as shown in Fig. 9 shown. The hard stop element (15) prevents the aerodynamic element (7) from moving beyond the parallel to the vehicle underbody (21) when the aerodynamic element (7) is in the folded-in starting position (B).

[0040] Microswitches or other electronic sensors can be used to detect the position of the aerodynamic element (7). They serve only to provide position feedback and not to control the aerodynamic element (7). These can include microswitches for detecting an open position and a closed position. For example, a microswitch (35) can be provided for the open position and a microswitch (36) for the closed position, as shown in the Fig. 4A and Fig. 4B shown. The aerodynamic system (1) with adjustable ride height can be operated without the use of additional sensors or electronic components to control the change in the aerodynamic positions of the aerodynamic element depending on the ride height of the vehicle.

[0041] As mentioned previously, two height-adjustable aerodynamic systems (1) are normally mounted in front of the vehicle's front wheels (16), but they can also be mounted in front of or behind the vehicle's rear wheels (17). Again, the aerodynamic element (7) can be folded in parallel to the vehicle's underbody (21) in both normal mode (N) with the vehicle's higher ride height and sport mode with the vehicle's lower ride height (L). When mounted in front of the rear wheels (17), the height-adjustable aerodynamic systems (1) function as if mounted in front of the front wheels (16). When mounted behind a rear wheel (17), as in the Fig. 8 and Fig. As shown in Figure 9, the rear trailing edge (8) of the aerodynamic element (7) is preferably tilted upwards towards the vehicle underbody (21) when it is extended. Again, the angle of the extended aerodynamic element (7) relative to the vehicle underbody (21) can be varied depending on the vehicle's ride height. In this case, the hard stop element (15) is positioned below the aerodynamic element (7) to prevent it from rotating below the position parallel to the vehicle underbody (21). The element's coil spring (13), which connects the connecting element (11) and the aerodynamic element (7), is extended, except when the height-adjustable aerodynamic system (1) is in low-ride mode (L) and the aerodynamic element (7) is folded in. In this initial position (B), the element's coil spring (13) is compressed, and the aerodynamic element (7) contacts the hard stop element (15).

[0042] The Fig. 2, Fig. 5, Fig. 6 and Fig. Figure 7 schematically shows the aerodynamic system mechanism (1) in four different configurations. These can be in Fig. 5 from top to bottom or in the Fig. 2, Fig. 6 and Fig. Starting from the top left and proceeding counterclockwise, the aerodynamic element (7) can be described as follows: NB (normal, higher ride height (N) and folded, parallel starting position (B) of the aerodynamic element (7)), ND (normal, higher ride height (N) and extended position (D) of the aerodynamic element (7)), LD (lower ride height (L) and extended position (D) of the aerodynamic element (7)), and LB (lower ride height (L) and folded, parallel starting position (B) of the aerodynamic element (7)). These configurations can be used when the adjustable ride height aerodynamic system (1) is mounted in front of the front wheels (16) or the rear wheels (17) of the vehicle. In the NB configuration, the aerodynamic element ride height actuator (3) is extended, the aerodynamic element angle actuator (5) is not extended, and the aerodynamic element (7) is in contact with the hard stop element (15).In the ND configuration, the aerodynamic element ride height actuator (3) remains extended, the aerodynamic element angle actuator (5) is also extended, and the aerodynamic element (7) is not in contact with the hard stop element (15). In the LD configuration, the aerodynamic element ride height actuator (3) is no longer extended, the aerodynamic element angle actuator (5) remains extended, and the aerodynamic element (7) continues to be not in contact with the hard stop element (15). In the LB configuration, the aerodynamic element ride height actuator (3) remains retracted, the aerodynamic element angle actuator (5) is also retracted, and the aerodynamic element (7) is again in contact with the hard stop element (15).

[0043] The Fig. 8 and Fig. Figure 9 also schematically shows the aerodynamic system (1) with adjustable ride height in four different configurations. These can be in Fig. 9 from top to bottom or in Fig.8. Starting from the top left and proceeding counterclockwise, the following configurations are described: NB (normal, higher ride height (N) and folded, parallel starting position (B) of the aerodynamic element (7)), ND (normal, higher ride height (N) and extended position (D) of the aerodynamic element (7)), LD (lower ride height (L) and extended position (D) of the aerodynamic element (7)), and LB (lower ride height (L) and folded, parallel starting position (B) of the aerodynamic element (7)). These configurations can be used when the adjustable ride height aerodynamic system (1) is mounted behind the rear wheels (17) of the vehicle. In the NB configuration, the aerodynamic element ride height 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 element (15).In the ND configuration, the aerodynamic element ride height actuator (3) remains retracted, the aerodynamic element angle actuator (5) is also retracted, and the aerodynamic element (7) is not in contact with the hard stop element (15). In the LD configuration, the aerodynamic element ride height actuator (3) is now retracted, the aerodynamic element angle actuator (5) remains retracted, and the aerodynamic element (7) is still not in contact with the hard stop element (15). In the LB configuration, the aerodynamic element ride height actuator (3) remains retracted, the aerodynamic element angle actuator (5) is also retracted, and the aerodynamic element (7) is again in contact with the hard stop element (15).

[0044] It is understood that, even if certain component arrangements are disclosed in the illustrated embodiments, other arrangements can also benefit from this invention. Even if specific step sequences are shown and described, it should be understood that the steps can be performed in any order, separately or in combination, unless otherwise specified, and still benefit from the present invention.

[0045] Although the various examples feature specific components shown in the figures, embodiments of this invention are not limited to these particular combinations. It is possible to use some of the components or features from one of the examples in combination with features or components from another of the examples.

[0046] Even though embodiments have been disclosed, the person skilled in the art will recognize that certain modifications fall within the scope of the claims. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] US 63 / 441,504

[0001]

Claims

[1] Aerodynamic system for vehicles with adjustable ride height, comprising the following: an aerodynamic element ride height actuator and an aerodynamic element angle actuator, connected in series and mounted in a vehicle, an aerodynamic element designed to remain in an inactive folded position and, under the control of the aerodynamic element angle actuator, to move from the folded position to at least one active unfolded position at an angle to the vehicle, such that the aerodynamic vehicle characteristics are changed, wherein the aerodynamic element ride height actuator is designed to be extended and retracted simultaneously with an increase or decrease in the ride height of the vehicle, wherein the aerodynamic element angle actuator is designed to be extended or retracted in order to unfold and fold in the aerodynamic element. [2] Aerodynamic system for vehicles with adjustable ride height according to claim 1, wherein the aerodynamic element ride height actuator is designed to be extended and retracted simultaneously with an increase or decrease in the ride height of the vehicle in order to maintain a predetermined spatial relationship between a lowest extent of the aerodynamic element and a road surface. [3] Aerodynamic system for vehicles with adjustable ride height according to one of claims 1 and 2, wherein the aerodynamic element angle actuator is rotatably connected to the aerodynamic element via a connecting element. [4] Aerodynamic system for vehicles with adjustable ride height according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a first angle between the connecting element and the aerodynamic element is maintained from the folded position to the at least one unfolded position. [5] Aerodynamic system for vehicles with adjustable ride height according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the at least one unfolded position comprises both a fully extended unfolded position and a partially extended unfolded position. [6] Aerodynamic system for vehicles with adjustable ride height according to claim 5, wherein the angles of the aerodynamic element in relation to the vehicle differ between the fully extended unfolded position and the partially extended unfolded position, depending on whether the ride height of the vehicle is increased or decreased. [7] Aerodynamic system for vehicles with adjustable ride height according to claim 3, wherein a second angle between the connecting element and the aerodynamic element is maintained when the ride height of the vehicle is reduced and the aerodynamic element is in the folded-in position. [8] Aerodynamic system for vehicles with adjustable ride height according to claim 1, wherein the angle of the aerodynamic element in relation to the vehicle changes in the at least one extended position, depending on whether the ride height of the vehicle is increased or decreased. [9] Aerodynamic system for vehicles with adjustable ride height according to one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the aerodynamic element ride height actuator and the aerodynamic element angle actuator are hydraulically operated. [10] Aerodynamic system for vehicles with adjustable ride height according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the aerodynamic element ride height actuator and / or the aerodynamic element angle actuator is / are single acting with a coil spring return. [11] Aerodynamic system for vehicles with adjustable ride height according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the aerodynamic element ride height actuator and / or the aerodynamic element angle actuator is / are double acting. [12] Aerodynamic system for vehicles with adjustable ride height according to one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the aerodynamic element ride height actuator and the aerodynamic element angle actuator are forced to operate in series by a connecting bracket. [13] Aerodynamic system for vehicles with adjustable ride height according to one of claims 1 to 12, wherein an element coil spring connects the connecting element and the aerodynamic element. [14] Aerodynamic system for vehicles with adjustable ride height according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein a hard stop prevents excessive angular expansion of the aerodynamic element when the ride height of the vehicle is reduced and the aerodynamic element is parallel to the vehicle. [15] Aerodynamic system for vehicles with adjustable ride height according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the aerodynamic system for vehicles with adjustable ride height is attached to an underside of the vehicle in front of each of the two front wheels of the vehicle. [16] Aerodynamic system for vehicles with adjustable ride height according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the aerodynamic system for vehicles with adjustable ride height is attached to an underside of the vehicle either in front of or behind each of the two rear wheels of the vehicle. [17] Aerodynamic system for vehicles with adjustable ride height according to one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the aerodynamic element is integrated in a diffuser. [18] Method for operating an aerodynamic system for vehicles with adjustable ride height, comprising: Connecting a vehicle ride height adjustment system with an aerodynamic element ride height actuator of the vehicle-mounted aerodynamic system for vehicles with adjustable ride height, Controlling the aerodynamic element ride height actuator with the vehicle ride height adjustment system to extend and retract the aerodynamic element ride height actuator simultaneously with the respective increases and decreases in the vehicle's ride height, and Extension and retraction of an aerodynamic element angle actuator, which is connected in series with the aerodynamic element ride height actuator to unfold or fold in an aerodynamic element. [19] Method according to claim 18, wherein the aerodynamic element angle actuator is controlled by an active vehicle aerodynamic system. [20] Method according to claim 18, wherein the aerodynamic element angle actuator is controlled by an independent aerodynamic hydraulic circuit.

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