Adaptable Wheel Assembly with Actuated Spokes for Aerodynamic Drag Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional spoked wheels compromise fuel efficiency due to increased drag from openings between spokes, while solid disk wheels lack aesthetic appeal at lower speeds.
Innovation Solution
A wheel assembly with radially extending spokes that include an actuator mechanism to pivot and close openings, forming a solid disk at higher speeds for improved aerodynamics while maintaining an aesthetic appearance at lower speeds.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If spoked wheels are used, then aesthetic appearance is improved, but aerodynamics deteriorates due to increased drag from openings between spokes
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel assembly employs movable spokes that can dynamically change their configuration between an open spoked configuration (for aesthetics at low speeds) and a closed solid disk configuration (for aerodynamics at high speeds). The spokes are actuated by actuators positioned at the hub, allowing the wheel to adapt its shape based on operating conditions, thus resolving the contradiction between aesthetic appearance and aerodynamic performance.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If solid disk wheels are used, then aerodynamics is improved, but aesthetic appearance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel assembly employs movable spokes that can dynamically change their configuration between an open spoked configuration (for aesthetics at low speeds) and a closed solid disk configuration (for aerodynamics at high speeds). The spokes are actuated by actuators positioned at the hub, allowing the wheel to adapt its shape based on operating conditions, thus resolving the contradiction between aesthetic appearance and aerodynamic performance.
3Adaptability or versatility
If movable spokes with actuators are used, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel assembly is segmented into multiple independent movable spokes, each capable of being actuated individually or collectively. This segmentation allows the complex adaptation function to be distributed across multiple simple modular units, making the overall system more manageable and maintainable despite the added complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuators serve multiple functions: they extend the spokes to close the openings for aerodynamic performance, retract the spokes for aesthetic appearance, and potentially adjust the degree of spoke extension to create intermediate configurations. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate mechanisms for different operations.
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 aerodynamics by transforming into a solid disk at higher speeds, reducing drag without sacrificing the visual appeal of spokes at lower speeds.
Implementation Method 1
The biasing member is disposed between the elongated support and the support rod so as to continuously urge the first and second part upwardly, maintaining the spatial dimensions of the openings.
Implementation Method 2
When the wheel is turned, centrifugal force urges the first and the second parts to slide away from each other, spreading the outer sides of the first and second parts towards each other until they abut against each other and the openings are closed.
Data Source
AI summary
A wheel assembly for use in an automotive vehicle is provided. The wheel assembly is configured to improve the aerodynamics of the moving automotive vehicle yet maintain the aesthetic appearance of a spoked wheel. The wheel assembly includes a plurality of spokes extending radially from the hub and interconnected to the rim. The spokes spaced apart from each other so as to define a plurality of openings, giving the wheel an aesthetic look. The spokes having a first part operatively connected to a second part. The wheel assembly includes an actuator mechanically attached to each of the plurality of spokes. The actuator is configured to move the first part with respect to the second part so as to cover each of the plurality of openings and form a generally solid disk when the wheel assembly reaches a predetermined speed so as to improve the aerodynamics of the wheel assembly.