Aerodynamic Speed Indicator Wing Shape Changes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current speed measurement technologies for vehicles are limited by their reliance on wheel rotation or pressure differences, lacking an aesthetic and playful approach to convey speed information directly to the driver through visible changes.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical device that deploys and retracts wings in response to aerodynamic forces, using non-linear springs to change shape at predetermined speeds, with sensors to communicate speed information visually or audibly, allowing the driver to infer speed through shape changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional speed measurement devices (needle on dial or digital display) are used, then speed information is accurately displayed, but the device lacks aesthetic appeal and driver engagement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies visual transformation through shape changes of the wing structure at different speed thresholds. The wing transitions between folded and unfolded states, creating visible aesthetic changes that convey speed information to the driver, combining artistic expression with functional measurement.
2Loss of information
If a mechanical device with multiple moving parts is used to provide visual feedback, then driver engagement improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wing structure is divided into multiple segments that can independently fold and unfold at different speed thresholds. This segmentation allows complex speed range indication through simple sequential mechanical actions, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining rich visual feedback.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic mechanical elements including joints, flexure zones, and elastic return means that allow the wing to transition between folded and unfolded states. These dynamic components enable the structure to adapt its shape based on aerodynamic forces without requiring complex control systems.
3Measurement precision
If the wing deploys rapidly at speed thresholds, then speed transitions are clearly indicated, but jerking movements occur that may discomfort the driver
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates elastic return means (springs) that provide cushioning during wing deployment. These elastic elements absorb shock and smooth out the transition between folded and unfolded states, preventing jerking movements while maintaining clear visual indication of speed thresholds.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses non-linear springs with varying stiffness characteristics to control the deployment speed of the wing. By changing the mechanical parameters of the elastic return means, the system achieves smooth transitions at different speed thresholds, balancing measurement precision with ride comfort.
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
Provides a visually engaging and intuitive means for drivers to gauge speed, offering clear and fluid transitions between speed thresholds without jerking, suitable for various vehicles and environments.
Implementation Method 1
aerodynamic forces related to the speed of said vehicle... these forces are sufficient to counteract restoring forces
Implementation Method 2
restoring forces obtained, for example, by non-linear springs
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3a~3d
Figure 4a~4b
AI summary
The invention relates to a mechanical device (10) for measuring the relative speed of a moving vehicle in relation to a fluid medium, comprising means for fixing to such a vehicle such that it is arranged in a front region of said vehicle, in the direction of movement of said vehicle, and in the fluid medium in which the vehicle travels, characterised in that said mechanical device has variable geometry and is arranged so as to occupy at least one intermediate position between a withdrawn idle position and a fully deployed end service position, and in that each intermediate position of said device is determined by aerodynamic forces (F) acting on different successive sections (11, 12) of said device, which together form at least one wing attached or joined to said fixing means in an articulated manner. The invention also relates to a vehicle provided with such a device.