Active Wing Angle Control for Vehicle Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Static aerodynamic devices in vehicles compromise performance across varying conditions, failing to adapt to driver preferences and vehicle capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A dynamic vehicle stability control system featuring an active wing that can change its angle of attack in response to real-time vehicle status information, utilizing a repositioning assembly and controller executing multiple control algorithms to optimize wing position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If static aerodynamic devices are used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different vehicle conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the Dynamics principle by transforming static aerodynamic devices into dynamic, actively controllable components. The aerodynamic device includes movable surfaces that can change their configuration in real-time based on vehicle conditions such as speed, acceleration, and steering angle. This allows the device to adapt its aerodynamic characteristics dynamically, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements Parameter changes by varying the aerodynamic device's geometric parameters (such as flap angles, surface areas, and positions) in response to changing vehicle conditions. The control system adjusts these parameters based on sensor inputs, enabling the device to optimize performance across different operating regimes without requiring complex mechanical reconfiguration mechanisms.
2Ease of operation
If a single setting is used for all conditions, then ease of operation is improved, but performance across varying conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the Self-service principle by implementing an automated control system that independently adjusts the aerodynamic device settings based on real-time vehicle condition monitoring. The controller receives data from sensors and automatically actuates the aerodynamic surfaces without requiring manual intervention from the driver, thereby maintaining ease of operation while achieving optimal performance across varying conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements Feedback control by continuously monitoring vehicle conditions through sensors and using this information to adjust the aerodynamic device settings. The control system creates a closed-loop feedback mechanism where performance data and vehicle state information are fed back to the controller, which then makes real-time adjustments to maximize vehicle performance while maintaining simple operation for the driver.
3Productivity
If aerodynamic devices are optimized for specific conditions, then performance in those conditions is improved, but performance in other conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by making the aerodynamic device dynamically adjustable rather than fixed for specific conditions. The device can transition between different configurations based on real-time vehicle conditions, allowing it to capture the performance benefits of condition-specific optimization while maintaining adaptability across the full range of operating conditions through continuous or stepwise adjustment of aerodynamic surfaces.
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 performance and driver confidence by tailoring aerodynamics to specific vehicle states, reducing compromise and improving stability and capability.
Implementation Method 1
an active wing extending laterally relative to a longitudinal centerline of the vehicle and configured to be rotatable to change an angle of attack relative to wind passing over the vehicle parallel to the longitudinal centerline
Data Source
AI summary
A dynamic vehicle stability control system for a vehicle may include an active wing extending laterally relative to a longitudinal centerline of the vehicle and configured to be rotatable to change an angle of attack relative to wind passing over the vehicle parallel to the longitudinal centerline, a repositioning assembly operably coupling the active wing to the vehicle, and a controller operably coupled to components and/or a sensor network of the vehicle to receive status information about the vehicle. The repositioning assembly may be operated based on a wing angle command received by the controller responsive to execution of a plurality of control algorithms executed by the controller. The controller may be configured to determine the wing angle command based on respective wing angle requests generated by each of the control algorithms.