Deployable Rear Wing End Plates for Adaptive Aerodynamics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rear wing end plates on vehicles are optimized for specific conditions, leading to undesirable drag or downforce when exposed to conditions other than the selected conditions, necessitating a solution for accommodating a wide range of operating conditions without compromising aesthetics.
Innovation Solution
A rear wing with selectively deployable aerodynamic surfaces on end plates that can shift between non-deployed and deployed configurations based on vehicle parameters, such as throttle position, yaw angle, and speed, to modify airflow and adjust downforce and drag in real-time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If stationary flaps or gills are added to end plates to optimize aerodynamic performance for specific conditions, then downforce and drag are improved for those conditions, but the end plates create undesirable drag or downforce when exposed to conditions other than the selected conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The end plate incorporates a deployable aerodynamic surface that can transition between deployed and retracted positions. This dynamic configuration allows the surface to be extended when aerodynamic optimization is needed and retracted when it would create undesirable drag or downforce, enabling the end plate to adapt to varying operating conditions without permanent structural modifications
Solution Approach 2:
The aerodynamic surface's position parameter is changed based on operating conditions. By controlling the deployment state (extended or retracted) of the aerodynamic surface, the end plate can optimize its aerodynamic characteristics for different vehicle speeds, trajectories, and loading conditions, transforming a static structure into a condition-responsive component
2Adaptability or versatility
If end plates are optimized for specific vehicle operating conditions and aesthetics, then performance is improved for those conditions, but the end plates cannot accommodate a wide range of operating conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates sensors that detect vehicle operating conditions such as speed, acceleration, and trajectory. This feedback information is processed by a control system that automatically actuates the aerodynamic surface to the appropriate deployment state, eliminating the need for manual operation while ensuring optimal aerodynamic performance across diverse driving scenarios
3Force
If stationary aerodynamic surfaces are used on end plates, then downforce is increased for selected conditions, but drag increases under other conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The aerodynamic surface is designed to be dynamically deployable rather than stationary. When downforce is needed, the surface extends to create the necessary aerodynamic forces. When the vehicle operates under conditions where the stationary surface would generate excessive drag, the surface retracts to minimize harmful drag effects, thus dynamically balancing downforce and drag across different operating regimes
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 solution allows for real-time adjustment of aerodynamic performance to optimize traction and stability across various operating conditions, enhancing vehicle performance and reducing unwanted drag or downforce, thereby improving overall vehicle handling and aesthetics.
Implementation Method 1
aerodynamic surfaces that improve vehicle performance... reduce drag and increase negative lift, or downforce... channel or funnel air over the aerodynamic surfaces
Implementation Method 2
The end plates themselves may generate air vortices that can affect the drag or downforce on the vehicle
Data Source
AI summary
A rear wing for a motor vehicle includes a first end, a second end, and an aerodynamic surface including a pressure side extending between the first end and the second end, a first end plate is arranged at the first end, and a second end plate is arranged at the second end. At least one of the first end plate and the second end plate includes a selectively deployable aerodynamic surface.