Deployable Active D-Pillar Spoiler for Vehicle Aerodynamics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vehicle aerodynamic systems compromise aerodynamic performance at high speeds while maintaining a clean appearance at low speeds, as fixed spoilers often create aerodynamic drag and an unsightly appearance when retracted.
Innovation Solution
Deployable active D-pillar spoilers that are retractable and extendable, activated by a motor and linkage system, which are deployed at predetermined speeds to improve aerodynamics and retracted at low speeds to maintain a sleek appearance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fixed spoiler is installed on the vehicle, then aerodynamic performance is improved, but the appearance becomes unsightly and drag increases at low speeds
Solution Approach 1:
The spoiler is designed to be dynamically deployable rather than fixed. It can be extended to a deployed position at high speeds to improve aerodynamic performance and retracted to a stowed position at low speeds to maintain a clean appearance. The deployment mechanism includes a motor and linkage system that transitions the spoiler between these two states based on vehicle speed.
2Reliability
If a fixed spoiler is installed on the vehicle, then aerodynamic performance is improved, but aerodynamic drag increases at low speeds
Solution Approach 1:
The deployable spoiler reduces aerodynamic drag at low speeds by retracting to a stowed position that is substantially flush with the vehicle body. At high speeds, it extends to a deployed position that optimizes airflow and reduces drag. This dynamic adjustment eliminates the constant drag penalty of fixed spoilers when they are not needed for aerodynamic performance.
3Reliability
If a deployable spoiler system is implemented, then aerodynamic performance is maintained at high speeds, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The deployable spoiler system is segmented into modular components including the spoiler body, deployment mechanism with motor and linkage, and control system. This segmentation allows for independent optimization of each component and simplifies manufacturing, assembly, and maintenance while achieving the overall function of dynamic aerodynamic adjustment.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for deploying D-pillar spoilers on a vehicle is described. The system includes a deployment control system including controller logic having at least one processor and a memory storing instructions for implementing deployment and retraction of D-pillar spoilers on a vehicle. The system also includes at least one vehicle sensor in communication with the deployment control system. The system further includes a motor in communication with the deployment control system. At least one D-pillar spoiler is connected to the motor through a linkage, where the motor is configured to rotate the linkage. The at least one D-pillar spoiler is folded along an underside of a rear upper spoiler of the vehicle in a retracted position and is rotated to a position extending between the rear upper spoiler of the vehicle and a D pillar of the vehicle in a deployed position.