Dynamic Wheel Cover Assembly for Steerable Wheel Clearance
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wheel arch covers for steerable wheels require a large installation space and complex construction due to multiple connection points, adversely affecting aerodynamics and visual appearance.
Innovation Solution
A wheel cover apparatus with a traction mechanism drive that positions a lower planar portion relative to an upper planar portion using a positioning device, eliminating the need for fixed connection points and reducing installation space requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a four-joint arrangement with two connecting webs is used to position the lower covering element, then the wheel arch cover can achieve the necessary positioning functionality, but the installation space requirement in the wheel arch increases and the construction becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates one of the two connecting webs from the four-joint arrangement, reducing the mechanism to a single connecting web. This extraction removes the unnecessary complexity and space requirement while preserving the essential positioning functionality through the remaining connecting web and adjusted joint mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the positioning function into distinct components: a single connecting web for structural support and transmission, and a adjusted joint mechanism for positioning control. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, reducing overall complexity and installation space while maintaining positioning capability.
2Ease of operation
If a four-joint arrangement with two connecting webs is used to position the lower covering element, then the wheel arch cover can achieve the necessary positioning functionality, but the construction complexity increases and the number of connection points to the body increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates one of the two connecting webs from the four-joint arrangement, reducing the mechanism to a single connecting web. This extraction removes the unnecessary complexity and space requirement while preserving the essential positioning functionality through the remaining connecting web and adjusted joint mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the positioning function into a simplified mechanism where a single connecting web works in conjunction with an adjusted joint. This merging consolidates multiple functions into fewer components, reducing construction complexity and the number of connection points required.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a large gap between the wheel and wheel arch is used to accommodate steerable wheel movement, then the necessary clearance is ensured, but the aerodynamics and visual appearance are adversely affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic wheel arch cover system that can move and adjust its position in response to steerable wheel movement. The cover transitions between different configurations: covering the wheel when straight, and opening to accommodate steering angles. This dynamic adaptation maintains aerodynamics during straight travel while allowing full steering capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the wheel arch cover from static to dynamic, allowing the cover to change its position and configuration based on steering requirements. This parameter change enables the system to optimize aerodynamics during straight travel while accommodating steering maneuvers.
Data Source
AI summary
A wheel cover apparatus for a vehicle includes an upper planar section for at least partially covering the wheel outer side of a steerable wheel, a lower planar section for at least partially covering the wheel outer side of the steerable wheel, an adjustment device for adjusting a position and/or orientation of the upper planar section and a positioning device for positioning the lower planar section. The upper planar section can be arranged on a body of a vehicle so as to be pivotable about a first pivot axis extending in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. The upper planar section and the lower planar section are connected to each other so as to be pivotable about a second pivot axis extending in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. The upper planar section is coupled to the adjustment device in such a manner that, in a functional installed state in the vehicle, the upper planar section is movable relative to the wheelhouse by means of the adjustment device. The positioning device is a traction means transmission.