Deployable Underbody Strakes for Vehicle Aerodynamic Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing static aerodynamic devices in vehicles provide improved performance only under limited conditions, failing to optimize drag and lift across various vehicle conditions.
Innovation Solution
A controllable aerodynamic system featuring deployable underbody strakes and an actuator that can be dynamically positioned based on real-time vehicle status information and driver input, allowing for optimization of drag and lift across different driving scenarios.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If static aerodynamic devices are used, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but aerodynamic performance across various vehicle conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transitioning from static aerodynamic devices to deployable strakes that can change their configuration. The strakes can be deployed or retracted based on driving conditions, allowing the aerodynamic device to adapt dynamically. This resolves the contradiction by making the device neither completely fixed nor overly complex, but conditionally adjustable through a relatively simple deployment mechanism.
2Adaptability or versatility
If deployable strakes are added to optimize aerodynamic performance, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the aerodynamic device into modular strake units that can be independently deployed or retracted. Each strake can be controlled separately or in groups, allowing for simplified control architecture. The strakes are segmented from the main vehicle body and can operate independently, reducing the complexity of controlling a single large aerodynamic surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The deployable strake system serves multiple functions: it can be deployed for high-performance driving to reduce lift and improve downforce, retracted for fuel efficiency during normal driving, and potentially adjusted for different weather conditions. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by providing versatile aerodynamic control across various operating scenarios.
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
Enhances vehicle performance and driver satisfaction by optimizing aerodynamic properties across various conditions, improving customer confidence and vehicle capability with reduced compromise.
Implementation Method 1
the one or more deployable strakes extend away from the underbody shield to increase drag and reduce lift of the vehicle
Implementation Method 2
the one or more deployable strakes extend away from the underbody shield to increase drag and reduce lift of the vehicle
Data Source
AI summary
An aerodynamics control system for a vehicle may include an underbody shield disposed at an underside of the vehicle, a strake assembly, and an actuator. The strake assembly may include one or more deployable strakes operably coupled to the underbody shield and having a deployed state in which the one or more deployable strakes extend away from the underbody shield to increase drag and reduce lift of the vehicle. The strake assembly may also have a retracted state in which the one or more deployable strakes do not extend away from the underbody shield. The actuator may be operable by a driver of the vehicle while driving to transition the strake assembly from the retracted state to the deployed state.