Active Deployable Bi-Level Spoiler Architecture for Drag Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Static rear spoilers on SUVs lack adjustability, limiting their ability to optimize aerodynamic benefits and reduce drag effectively, while existing solutions do not provide dynamic control over airflow passages.
Innovation Solution
An active rear airfoil arrangement that includes a static rear horizontal spoiler and active rear horizontal spoilers, which can move between stowed and deployed positions, creating adjustable horizontal and vertical flow passages with tapered pathways, controlled by actuators and sensors to optimize airflow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a static rear spoiler is used, then the structure is simple and reliable, but the aerodynamic performance cannot be optimized dynamically
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the static spoiler into an active, movable structure. The spoiler panel is made movable relative to the vehicle body through a support structure with actuators, allowing it to adjust its position and angle dynamically. This enables the spoiler to adapt to different driving conditions and optimize aerodynamic performance, directly resolving the contradiction between adaptability and structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements multi-functionality by integrating multiple components into a unified active spoiler system. The support structure serves both as a mounting mechanism and as part of the airflow control system. The movable spoiler panel functions both as an aerodynamic device and as a variable geometric element that creates adjustable flow passages. This multi-functional design allows the system to achieve aerodynamic optimization without proportionally increasing overall complexity.
2Productivity
If an active movable spoiler is implemented, then aerodynamic performance can be optimized, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by varying the geometric parameters of the spoiler system - specifically the position and angle of the movable spoiler panel. By changing these physical parameters dynamically, the system optimizes aerodynamic performance and fuel economy. The actuator controls the spoiler panel's position, adjusting critical geometric parameters that directly impact drag reduction and fuel efficiency, thereby resolving the contradiction between productivity improvement and device complexity.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the spoiler creates a flow passage, then drag reduction is achieved, but the structural complexity and control requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the spoiler into a fixed portion and a movable portion, each serving specific functions. The fixed support structure provides stability and mounting, while the movable spoiler panel creates the adjustable flow passage. This segmentation allows the complex function of drag reduction through flow passage creation to be separated from the simpler support function, making the control system more manageable and easier to operate by isolating the active control element.
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
The active rear airfoil arrangement dynamically adjusts airflow passages to reduce drag, improve fuel economy, and enhance aerodynamic benefits by creating adjustable horizontal and vertical flow passages, optimizing airflow based on vehicle speed and conditions.
Implementation Method 1
When moved to the deployed position the active rear horizontal spoiler moves substantially upward from the static rear horizontal spoiler to create a horizontal flow passage
Implementation Method 2
The pathway is tapered such that the inlet is larger than the outlet and is also adjustable in size depending on the position of the active rear horizontal spoiler
Data Source
AI summary
An active rear airfoil arrangement (10) for a trailing area of a vehicle having a turbulence creating area. The arrangement (10) is for connection with a static rear horizontal spoiler (20) associated with the rear portion of a vehicle and includes an active rear horizontal spoiler (30a, 30b, 30c). The active rear horizontal spoiler (30a, 30b, 30c) moves to a deployed position and forms a flow passage (48a, 48b, 48c, 48d) that extends horizontally across the top of a liftgate (12). In another aspect of the invention the active rear airfoil arrangement (10) includes vertical left and right active spoilers (32a,32b; 36a,36b) that move to create a flow passage (74,76,88,90) on the left side and right side of a liftgate (12).