Active Aerodynamic Control for Vehicle Tractive Effort
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle aerodynamic systems lack active control mechanisms to adjust downforce in response to operational conditions, leading to suboptimal tractive effort and stability during acceleration, cornering, and braking.
Innovation Solution
An active aerodynamic control system that determines and adjusts downforce on vehicle wheels based on real-time parameters such as tire properties, wheel slip, and vehicle speed, using moveable spoilers and sensors to optimize tractive effort and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If passive aerodynamic features are used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different operational conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transitioning from fixed passive aerodynamic features to actively adjustable features. The aerodynamic elements can change their configuration in real-time based on vehicle operating conditions such as speed, acceleration, and handling requirements, enabling the system to adapt downforce levels dynamically rather than being static
2Adaptability or versatility
If active aerodynamic features are added, then adaptability to operational conditions is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the universality principle by designing an integrated control system that manages multiple aerodynamic features across different vehicle zones (front, rear, sides) through a single control architecture. This multi-functional approach allows one system to handle various operational modes including acceleration, braking, and cornering scenarios, reducing overall system complexity despite the presence of multiple active elements
3Force
If downforce is increased to improve traction, then tractive effort is improved, but vehicle drag increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the local quality principle by enabling independent control of downforce at different locations on the vehicle. Rather than uniformly increasing downforce across all aerodynamic surfaces, the system can apply downforce selectively to specific wheels or vehicle zones where it is most needed for traction, thereby minimizing overall drag while maintaining necessary tractive effort
4Force
If traction control is applied through brake pressure, then tractive effort is controlled, but energy efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the mechanics substitution principle by replacing the traditional mechanical brake-based traction control system with an aerodynamic-based system. Instead of using friction brakes to control wheel slip and tractive effort, the system uses adjustable aerodynamic downforce to influence wheel grip and traction, thereby reducing energy loss associated with brake intervention
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
Enhances vehicle stability and acceleration by dynamically controlling downforce, reducing the need for brake interventions and engine torque reductions, thereby improving traction and handling performance.
Implementation Method 1
aerodynamic downforce that acts on the vehicle
Implementation Method 2
aerodynamic drag force or an aerodynamic downforce
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-wheeled vehicle employing an active aerodynamic control system is described. A method for controlling the vehicle and the active aerodynamic control system includes determining states of parameters related to ride and handling of the vehicle, and determining a current tractive effort based upon the states of parameters related to ride and handling of the vehicle. A desired tractive effort is determined based upon an operator desired acceleration, and an available tractive effort is determined based upon an available downforce transferable to the wheels from the active aerodynamic control system and downforces of the wheels. The active aerodynamic control system controls the downforce on one of the wheels to control the current tractive effort responsive to the desired tractive effort.