Deployable Cargo Bed Deflector for Trailer Drag Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Tow vehicles, especially pickup trucks, face aerodynamic issues and reduced fuel efficiency when towing trailers due to drag caused by the projection into the airstream, necessitating a drag reduction system that is not always active and requires storage when not in use.
Innovation Solution
A selectively deployable drag reduction system integrated into the cargo bed cover of a pickup truck, featuring a deflector assembly with adjustable angles and positions, and an actuation system for controlled deployment to minimize airflow disruption during towing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a drag reduction device is installed on the pickup truck, then aerodynamic performance is improved, but device complexity and storage requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The drag reduction system is designed to be selectively deployable rather than permanently installed. The deflector assembly can be raised to a deployed position when drag reduction is needed and lowered to a stowed position when not needed, transforming a static complex device into a dynamic one that only occupies space and adds complexity when actively used.
Solution Approach 2:
The drag reduction functionality is extracted from a permanent installation and made into a removable, selectively deployable system. The deflector assembly can be completely removed from the vehicle or stowed away when not needed, separating the drag reduction function from the permanent vehicle structure and reducing overall system complexity.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a drag reduction device is permanently installed, then aerodynamic performance is improved, but storage space is wasted
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a permanently installed static device to a dynamically deployable one. The deflector assembly can be lowered into a stowed position within the cargo bed area or completely removed, allowing the cargo bed space to be utilized for cargo when drag reduction is not needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The deflector assembly is designed to nest within or alongside the cargo bed cover structure when in the stowed position. The supports can be positioned within the cargo bed, and the deflector blade can be folded or positioned to minimize its footprint, allowing it to occupy minimal space when not in use.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the deflector is deployed, then drag is reduced, but airflow disruption occurs when not needed
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides operational flexibility through selective deployment. The deflector assembly can be raised or lowered based on whether a trailer is attached and whether drag reduction is needed, allowing the vehicle to adapt its aerodynamic profile dynamically rather than being permanently modified.
Solution Approach 2:
The drag reduction system operates periodically rather than continuously - deployed when towing conditions exist and lowered or removed when they don't. This periodic action ensures drag reduction benefits are provided only when needed, avoiding unnecessary airflow disruption or operational complexity during normal driving.
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
The system effectively reduces drag without the need for constant activation or storage, enhancing fuel efficiency and handling characteristics by optimizing airflow over both the truck and towed vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
the deflector is exposed to an airflow passing over the pickup truck... effectively reduces drag without the need for constant activation or storage, enhancing fuel efficiency and handling characteristics by optimizing airflow over both the truck and towed vehicles
Data Source
AI summary
A pickup truck including a passenger compartment, a cargo bed operatively coupled to the passenger compartment, and a selectively deployable drag reduction system mounted at the cargo bed. The selectively deployable drag reduction system includes a deflector that is shiftable between a non-deployed configuration and a deployed configuration. In the deployed configuration the deflector is exposed to an airflow passing over the pickup truck.