Adjustable Strut Assembly for Vehicle Aerodynamic Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current laboratory testing methods for vehicles on simulated roadways face challenges in accurately measuring aerodynamic characteristics while minimizing airflow disturbance and efficiently transferring forces between the vehicle and the belt, especially when trying to restrain the vehicle in a stiff manner to measure buffeting forces without disrupting the airflow.
Innovation Solution
A test system utilizing adjustable struts with fluid bearings or rollers to engage the endless belt, allowing for precise force transfer between the vehicle and the belt, while maintaining minimal airflow disruption, and incorporating load cells to measure forces, with the struts being adjustable in length and orientation to accommodate various testing scenarios.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If passive restraints are used to restrain the vehicle, then the vehicle can be restrained from movement, but the restraints affect the vehicle's dynamics and cannot efficiently transfer forces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces struts as intermediary elements between the vehicle and the belt system. These struts serve as force transfer mediators that connect the vehicle body to the movable belt, enabling efficient force transmission while maintaining minimal interference with vehicle dynamics. The struts act as compliant connectors that can accommodate various loading conditions without rigidly constraining the vehicle.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs movable and adjustable struts that can dynamically adapt to different testing conditions. The struts are designed with adjustable length and orientation capabilities, allowing them to optimize force transfer paths based on the specific test requirements. This dynamic adjustability enables the system to maintain accurate vehicle dynamics characterization across various operating conditions.
2Measurement precision
If the vehicle is restrained in a stiff manner to measure buffeting forces, then measurement accuracy improves, but airflow disturbance increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing restrained support only at specific locations beneath the vehicle, rather than using comprehensive rigid restraints. The struts are positioned at discrete points to provide localized force transfer capability, allowing the vehicle to maintain natural airflow characteristics while still enabling accurate measurement of buffeting forces at the measurement locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The struts serve as intermediary elements that decouple the measurement function from the restraint function. By using compliant strut mechanisms rather than rigid restraint structures, the system can provide the necessary force transfer paths for measurement while allowing sufficient airflow passage to minimize disturbance to the aerodynamic characteristics being measured.
3Ease of operation
If conventional restraint systems are used, then the vehicle can be held in position, but the systems are complex and difficult to adjust
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the restraint system into discrete, modular strut components rather than using a monolithic complex structure. Each strut is an independent adjustable element that can be individually configured, making the overall system easier to operate and adjust. The segmented approach allows for simplified control of each restraint point while maintaining overall system functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic adjustment mechanisms in the struts that allow for easy modification of restraint characteristics. The struts incorporate adjustable length and orientation capabilities that can be modified during testing, eliminating the need for complex fixed-position restraint systems. This dynamic adjustability simplifies operation while maintaining precise control over vehicle positioning and force transfer.
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
Enables accurate and efficient measurement of aerodynamic characteristics and buffeting forces with reduced airflow disturbance, allowing for longer test periods and precise control of vehicle position and ride height, thereby improving the realism and reliability of laboratory testing.
Implementation Method 1
The second end comprises a coupling configured to form a fluid bearing with the belt. The operating fluid of the fluid bearing can be air or a liquid.
Implementation Method 2
the coupling includes a roller configured to engage the belt
Data Source
AI summary
A test system and method includes a platform having a movable endless belt. A test article is disposed on the belt has wheel assemblies rotated by the endless belt. At least one strut has a first end coupled to the test article and a second end configured to engage the belt as it moves so as to transfer force between belt and the test article.