Active Rear Spoiler Assembly With Dual-Actuator Angle Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing movable spoiler assemblies for road vehicles are not optimally adapted to different driving conditions and have complex actuation systems that are costly and power-intensive.
Innovation Solution
A movable spoiler assembly with a simplified actuation system using two linear actuators and transmission elements that allow the spoiler to move between retracted and extracted positions and adjust its angle of incidence, utilizing electric motors for efficient control and reduced power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If hydraulic or oleo-hydraulic actuators are used to move the spoiler, then the aerodynamic load can be supported effectively, but the power consumption and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces hydraulic or oleo-hydraulic actuators with an electric motor-driven mechanical system. The electric motor (21) connects through a transmission element (22) to the spoiler (6), eliminating the need for hydraulic fluid systems while maintaining the capability to support aerodynamic loads through direct mechanical coupling.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the hydraulic fluid medium from the actuation system, removing the hydraulic reservoir, pumps, and fluid circulation infrastructure. This extraction simplifies the system architecture while retaining the essential function of moving and supporting the spoiler through electrically-driven mechanical means.
2Strength
If hydraulic or oleo-hydraulic actuators are used to move the spoiler, then the aerodynamic load can be supported effectively, but the system complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex hydraulic systems with a straightforward electric motor and transmission element arrangement. This substitution eliminates multiple hydraulic components (reservoirs, hoses, valves, pumps) in favor of a compact electric actuation system that achieves the same load-bearing function with fewer parts and simpler integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The electric motor (21) serves multiple functions: it provides torque to overcome aerodynamic loads, enables precise positioning control, and can be integrated with vehicle control systems for automated operation. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate hydraulic components into a single versatile actuator.
3Reliability
If the spoiler is kept in extracted position, then aerodynamic performance is improved, but aerodynamic obstacles are created at low speeds
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a movable spoiler (6) that can dynamically change its position between retracted and extracted states based on driving conditions. The electric actuation system enables rapid transitions between positions, allowing the vehicle to optimize aerodynamics at high speeds while minimizing drag at low speeds through adaptive positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the geometric parameter of the vehicle body by adjusting the spoiler's position and angle of incidence. At high speeds, the spoiler is extracted with an optimized angle for maximum downforce; at low speeds, it is retracted or positioned at a lower angle to reduce aerodynamic resistance, thus adapting to varying operational parameters.
4Reliability
If the spoiler is moved to extracted position, then road grip is increased, but the actuation system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex hydraulic actuation systems with a simpler electric motor-driven mechanism. The electric motor (21) directly drives the spoiler through a transmission element (22), providing sufficient torque to achieve the extracted position and maintain road grip without requiring the infrastructure of hydraulic systems.
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 solution enables adaptive control of the spoiler to various driving conditions, optimizing aerodynamic performance and reducing energy consumption while maintaining mechanical simplicity.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing electric motors for efficient control
Implementation Method 2
The physical principle behind the operation of an automotive spoiler or wing is exactly the same that allows aircraft to fly, but unlike in aeronautical industry, it is used in the opposite way: instead of supporting the vehicle in the air, it pushes it more towards the ground to create a so-called 'downforce'
Data Source
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AI summary
Movable spoiler assembly (7; 7') for a road vehicle (1) comprising: a movable spoiler (6) configured to be movably attached to a body (5) of the road vehicle (1) and capable of being moved between a retracted position and an extracted position; and an actuation system configured to control the movable spoiler (6) between the retracted position and the extracted position; the actuation system comprises at least two actuators (11, 12) to move the movable spoiler (6) and at least two transmission elements (13, 14) to operatively couple each actuator (11, 12) to the movable spoiler (6); the two actuators comprise a first actuator (11) configured to command at least the displacement of the movable spoiler (6) between the retracted position and the extracted position, and a second actuator (12) configured to command at least a tilt of the movable spoiler (6) around the longitudinal axis (C), so as to vary an angle of incidence of the leading edge (8) of the spoiler (6).