Active Aerodynamic Element Control via Force Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vehicle aerodynamic control systems lack precision in dynamically adjusting active aerodynamic elements to achieve targeted aerodynamic forces, leading to inefficiencies in drag reduction, noise mitigation, and stability enhancement.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a control system that determines a target aerodynamic force based on vehicle dynamics, actuates active aerodynamic elements to the target position, senses the aerodynamic response, calculates an estimated applied force, compares it to the target, and adjusts the element's position to minimize force error, using force or pressure-based feedback loops.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If active aerodynamic elements are adjusted to target positions based on dynamic conditions, then aerodynamic force control is improved, but measurement precision and feedback accuracy are insufficient leading to force errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a closed-loop feedback system where sensors continuously measure the actual aerodynamic force generated by active aerodynamic elements. The control system compares the measured force with the target force and dynamically adjusts the element positions to minimize force errors. This feedback mechanism directly addresses the measurement precision and control reliability contradiction by providing real-time correction based on actual performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical linkage systems with sensor-based electronic control systems. Instead of relying on purely mechanical position-based control, the system uses force sensors, pressure sensors, or flow sensors to directly measure aerodynamic effects and electronically actuate the aerodynamic elements. This substitution enables more precise measurement and control of aerodynamic forces.
2Measurement precision
If multiple sensors and feedback loops are added to improve control precision, then measurement accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a multi-functional control system that can operate with different sensor types (force sensors, pressure sensors, flow sensors) depending on the application requirements. The control system is designed to handle multiple sensor inputs and can selectively activate feedback loops based on operating conditions. This universality allows the system to achieve high measurement precision without requiring all sensor types to be simultaneously active, thereby managing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements selective sensing and control strategies where different sensor types are deployed at specific locations based on local aerodynamic requirements. For example, pressure sensors may be placed in regions of high pressure gradient while flow sensors are positioned in regions where flow velocity measurement is critical. This localized approach ensures measurement precision is optimized where needed without adding unnecessary sensors throughout the entire system.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enables precise control of active aerodynamic elements, improving vehicle stability, traction, and aerodynamic efficiency by accurately adjusting downforce, drag, and lift forces in real-time, enhancing overall vehicle performance.
Implementation Method 1
the force sensor40 reads an applied force between the wing 30 and the vehicle body 12
Implementation Method 2
The wing 30 is an example of an active aerodynamic element that may be adjusted to a plurality of positions to provide a targeted amount of downforce on the vehicle body 12
Data Source
AI summary
A method of controlling an active aerodynamic element for a vehicle includes determining a target position for the active aerodynamic element from a target aerodynamic force, which may be a given value that is provided based on dynamic conditions of the vehicle. The method actuates the active aerodynamic element to the target position and senses an aerodynamic response characteristic of the active aerodynamic element while actuated to the target position. An estimated applied aerodynamic force is determined from the aerodynamic response characteristic, and is compared to the target aerodynamic force. A force error is determined from the comparison of the estimated applied aerodynamic force and the target aerodynamic force, and a modified position for the active aerodynamic element is determined from the force error and the target aerodynamic force. The active aerodynamic element is actuated to the modified position.