Vehicle Air Guide Slat Coupling for High-Force Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air guiding devices for motor vehicle bodies face challenges in securely connecting slats to coupling rods, particularly under increasing air forces at higher velocities, which can lead to instability and potential damage.
Innovation Solution
The air guiding device features a coupling unit with a first and second coupling element, where the second coupling element encompasses the first, and a securing element designed for symmetrical motion to ensure a stable and secure connection between the slat and the coupling rod, utilizing a bayonet closure for loss protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing connection methods (clamping jaws with mounting elements or clips) are used to connect slats to coupling rods, then the air guiding device can be assembled, but the connection becomes unstable and potentially damaged under increasing air forces at higher velocities
Solution Approach 1:
The connection is divided into two functional elements: a first coupling element (male part with securing element) and a second coupling element (female part with recess). This segmentation allows each element to be optimized for its specific function, creating a more reliable connection that can withstand higher air forces compared to unified connection designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The first coupling element is inserted into the second coupling element, creating a nested structure. The securing element extends radially from the first coupling element and engages with the recess in the second coupling element, forming an interlocked assembly that prevents detachment under aerodynamic loads while maintaining low-friction rotatability.
2Reliability
If secure connections are achieved through complex mounting elements or clips, then connection stability improves, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling unit merges the connection function into a single integrated assembly where the first and second coupling elements work together with the securing element. This eliminates the need for separate mounting elements or clips, reducing device complexity while maintaining connection security through the interlocked bayonet-style design.
Solution Approach 2:
The securing element is designed to automatically engage with the recess when the first coupling element is inserted into the second coupling element. The symmetrical motion during assembly causes the securing element to snap into place without requiring additional fastening operations, making the connection self-securing and simplifying the overall structure.
3Ease of manufacture
If asymmetrical connection designs are used, then assembly may be simplified, but the securing element becomes vulnerable to damage and overloading during the joining process
Solution Approach 1:
While the overall coupling unit has asymmetrical features (male-female coupling elements), the securing element itself exhibits symmetrical motion characteristics during assembly. This symmetrical engagement pattern ensures that forces are distributed evenly during the joining process, preventing localized stress concentrations that could damage the securing element, while still achieving simple and secure assembly.
Data Source
AI summary
An air guiding device of a motor vehicle body of a motor vehicle includes a slat arrangement having at least two slats arranged to be rotatable about their axes of rotation. The two slats are operably connected to a coupling rod for motion transmission. A coupling unit is formed between the slat and the coupling rod. The coupling unit includes a first coupling element and a second coupling element. The second coupling element encompasses the circumference of the first coupling element. A securing element of the coupling unit is designed for the secure connection between the first coupling element and the second coupling element. The securing element extends from the first coupling element in a radial direction.