Aero Shutter Control for Powertrain Cooling Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing powertrain systems face inefficiencies due to parasitic drag from large grille openings for cooling and aerodynamic losses at high speeds, while requiring significant fan power for cooling during high load conditions, which compromises both aerodynamic and operating efficiency.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable shutter system is implemented to control airflow through the grille opening, with positions determined by vehicle speed and load, allowing the fan to be minimized and airflow optimized, and the shutter position locked at low temperatures to prevent jamming.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If a large grille opening is used for powertrain cooling, then cooling efficiency is improved, but aerodynamic drag increases and operating efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The grille opening is made dynamically adjustable through an automated shutter system that varies the opening size based on real-time cooling requirements and vehicle speed conditions, transitioning from a static large opening to a dynamically optimized aperture that balances cooling needs with aerodynamic efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the physical parameter of grille opening area according to operating conditions, using automated control to adjust the shutter position and thereby modify the effective opening size to match varying cooling demands and speed-dependent aerodynamic requirements
2Temperature
If a large fan is used to provide sufficient airflow for cooling, then cooling capacity is improved, but parasitic drag on the engine increases and operating efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The fan system transitions from a continuously operating large fan to a dynamically controlled minimal-size fan that operates only when necessary, with its speed and operation adjusted based on real-time cooling requirements, thereby minimizing parasitic drag while maintaining adequate cooling capacity
Solution Approach 2:
The fan's operational parameters (size, speed, on/off state) are dynamically changed based on cooling load and vehicle speed conditions, allowing the system to use minimal fan capacity during low-demand periods and engage full capacity only when thermally necessary, reducing overall energy consumption and parasitic drag
3Temperature
If the shutter is left open at high speeds, then cooling airflow is maintained, but aerodynamic efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The shutter system dynamically adjusts its position based on vehicle speed, automatically closing or partially closing at high speeds when cooling demands are reduced, thereby optimizing aerodynamic flow around the vehicle while maintaining sufficient cooling airflow through coordinated fan operation
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
This approach reduces parasitic drag, enhances aerodynamic efficiency, and increases powertrain operating efficiency by tailoring airflow and fan usage to meet cooling demands, while preventing shutter jamming at low temperatures.
Implementation Method 1
controlling the shutter to decrease the size of the grille opening above the second predetermined vehicle speed limits the amount of high-speed ram airflow
Implementation Method 2
a fan characterized by a predetermined size and capable of being selectively turned on and off
Data Source
AI summary
A method of increasing operating efficiency of a powertrain includes unrestricting a grille opening by fully opening a shutter at or below a first predetermined vehicle speed, and turning a fan off. The method also includes unrestricting the grille opening by fully opening the shutter above the first predetermined vehicle speed and at or below a second predetermined vehicle speed under a high powertrain cooling load, and turning the fan on. The method additionally includes partially restricting the grille opening above the second predetermined vehicle speed via an intermediate position of the shutter, and turning the fan off. A specific size of the fan together with the selected positions for the shutter at the respective vehicle speeds provides sufficient airflow through the grille opening to cool the powertrain, and provides increased powertrain operating efficiency. A system for increasing operating efficiency of a powertrain and a vehicle are also provided.