Deployable Side Panel for Vehicle Drag Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle side panel systems fail to provide adequate aerodynamic efficiency, especially in vehicles with higher ground clearances, due to airflow issues under the vehicle, and lack durable, aerodynamically effective, and object-detecting capabilities.
Innovation Solution
An active side panel assembly with at least one deployable panel that moves between a stowed and a deployed position, driven by a sealed, clutchable actuator with communication capability, improving airflow and ground clearance while detecting objects and preventing damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If a fixed panel system is used, then the structure is simple and durable, but aerodynamic efficiency is poor due to airflow under the vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
The side panel system transitions from a fixed configuration to a deployable dynamic structure that can change position based on vehicle speed and aerodynamic conditions. The panel deploys at high speeds to block airflow under the vehicle and retracts at low speeds to maintain ground clearance, optimizing aerodynamic efficiency across different operating conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The side panel is divided into multiple segments or sections that can independently deploy or retract. This segmentation allows different portions of the panel to be positioned optimally for aerodynamic flow management while maintaining structural simplicity through modular construction.
2Loss of energy
If the deployable panel is extended to improve aerodynamics, then airflow is improved, but ground clearance is reduced and damage risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The panel system dynamically adjusts its deployment state based on real-time vehicle operating conditions. At high speeds where aerodynamic efficiency is critical, the panel deploys to improve airflow. At low speeds or when ground obstacles are detected, the panel retracts to maintain ground clearance and prevent damage, thus resolving the contradiction between aerodynamic performance and damage protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates sensors and control mechanisms that monitor vehicle speed, panel position, and potential obstacles. This feedback loop enables automatic deployment and retraction decisions, ensuring the panel is extended only when aerodynamic benefits outweigh the risks of reduced ground clearance, and retracted when damage risk increases.
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual deployment is used, then the system is simple, but it cannot automatically respond to changing driving conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The side panel system is designed to automatically deploy and retract based on vehicle speed and aerodynamic conditions without requiring manual intervention. The actuator system activates when predetermined speed thresholds are exceeded, and the panel self-adjusts its position to optimize aerodynamic flow, enabling the system to serve itself across varying operating conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical deployment system is replaced with an automated actuator system that uses electrical or electronic control mechanisms. This substitution enables automatic response to changing driving conditions while maintaining relatively simple system architecture through the use of modern actuation technologies integrated with vehicle existing control systems.
4Loss of energy
If the panel deploys at all speeds, then aerodynamic efficiency is maximized, but fuel economy is reduced due to increased drag at low speeds
Solution Approach 1:
The panel deployment operates periodically or conditionally based on vehicle speed thresholds rather than continuously. The panel deploys during high-speed periods where aerodynamic drag reduction provides significant fuel economy benefits, and retracts during low-speed periods where the panel would create unnecessary drag or interfere with ground clearance, thus optimizing overall fuel efficiency across the vehicle's operating cycle.
Data Source
AI summary
An active side panel assembly having at least one deployable panel (22) and at least one actuator (30). The deployable panel deploys and retracts based on vehicle requirements and provides valueable reduction in vehicle drag, thereby reducing emissions and improving fuel economy. Additionally, it allows for the system to retract so the vehicle can still meet ground clearances, ramp angles, off-road requirements, etc. The active side panel provides a fully deployable system with object detection, declutching of the actuator to help prevent damage, and communication with the vehicle to determine proper deployment and function.