Active Front Deflector Linkage for Aerodynamics and Ground Clearance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional front air deflectors in vehicles are inefficient aerodynamically, as they cannot be optimized in height without compromising other vehicle capabilities and are prone to damage during off-roading, and lack the ability to be positioned at multiple locations.
Innovation Solution
An active front deflector assembly with a movable deflector panel attached to a linkage arrangement, allowing for deployment and retraction based on predetermined conditions, utilizing two four-bar linkage assemblies with specific geometry and ratios to achieve multiple positions and improve aerodynamics while maintaining vehicle integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If a fixed air deflector is used to improve aerodynamics, then aerodynamic efficiency is improved, but the vehicle loses adaptability to different driving conditions and ground clearance requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the fixed air deflector into a movable, adjustable structure. The deflector panel is mounted on a linkage mechanism that allows it to change position between a deployed state (for aerodynamic efficiency) and a retracted state (for ground clearance and off-road capability). This dynamic adjustment enables the system to adapt to different driving conditions, resolving the contradiction between aerodynamic performance and vehicle versatility.
2Loss of energy
If a fixed air deflector is used to improve aerodynamics, then fuel economy is improved, but the deflector is damaged during off-roading or when added ground clearance is needed
Solution Approach 1:
The movable deflector panel can be retracted when off-road conditions are detected or anticipated, preventing damage while maintaining aerodynamic benefits during normal driving. The linkage mechanism allows the deflector to move out of the way when ground clearance is needed, ensuring both fuel efficiency and durability.
3Reliability
If a flexible air deflector is used to prevent damage, then reliability is improved, but aerodynamic efficiency is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a composite structure combining rigid and semi-rigid materials in the deflector panel. This composite construction provides both the aerodynamic efficiency of a rigid surface and the damage resistance of a semi-rigid structure that can absorb impact energy without complete failure.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable linkage mechanism allows the deflector to dynamically adjust its position, enabling it to maintain optimal aerodynamic shape during normal driving while being able to retract or absorb impact during off-road conditions, thus achieving both aerodynamic efficiency and reliability.
4Loss of energy
If the deflector panel is made rigid to improve aerodynamics, then aerodynamic efficiency is improved, but the panel cannot absorb impact energy
Solution Approach 1:
The deflector panel uses a composite construction with both rigid and semi-rigid portions. The rigid portions maintain aerodynamic efficiency while the semi-rigid portions provide impact energy absorption capability, resolving the contradiction between aerodynamic performance and strength.
Data Source
AI summary
An active front deflector assembly having a deflector panel, actuator, and linkage assemblies each with a predetermined geometry and ratio of links to each other for movement of the active front deflector assembly between at least a deployed position and a retracted position. The deflector panel is positionable at multiple heights. The assembly deploys and retracts based on vehicle requirements, and, when deployed, redirects the air flow in the front of the vehicle to improve the vehicle aerodynamics for either fuel economy or performance characteristics. Additionally, it allows for the deflector panel to retract so the vehicle meets ground clearances, etc. The deflector panel is also both rigid and semi-rigid to absorb impact energy. A drive shaft transmits the drive from one side to the other side. The deflector is both rigid and semi rigid to absorb impact energy.