Morphing Bodywork Panels Without Discrete Aero Mechanisms

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing vehicle bodyworks face a conflict between aerodynamic optimization and aesthetic design, with movable aerodynamic elements requiring complex kinematic mechanisms and creating interruptions in the vehicle's profile, and being limited to a few operating configurations.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of elastically deformable morphing panels that seamlessly integrate with the bodywork, allowing continuous shape variation under stress and returning to their original form, using a combination of elastic coverings, stiffening structures, and actuators to adapt to aerodynamic and aesthetic needs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If movable aerodynamic elements are installed to optimize aerodynamic performance, then aerodynamic efficiency is improved, but the bodywork profile is interrupted and aesthetics are compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaerodynamic efficiencyVSAvoidbodywork profile continuity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the aerodynamic element with the bodywork panel itself, making them a single integrated structure. The panel 5 serves both as the bodywork covering and as the aerodynamic element, eliminating the need for separate movable components that would interrupt the profile. This is achieved through the morphing capability of the panel which allows it to change shape directly rather than through separate flaps or spoilers.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies dynamics by making the bodywork panel itself movable and deformable. The panel 5 can change its shape continuously through morphing capabilities, allowing the aerodynamic characteristics to be adjusted without creating fixed interruptions in the profile. The panel transitions smoothly between different configurations while maintaining profile continuity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If discrete movable aerodynamic elements are used, then aerodynamic control is achieved, but complex kinematic mechanisms and openings are required

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaerodynamic controlVSAvoidkinematic mechanisms

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the complex kinematic mechanisms from the system by eliminating the need for separate movable aerodynamic elements. Instead of using traditional flaps, spoilers, or wings that require complex linkages and actuators, the invention uses a single morphing panel 5 that can change shape through integrated actuators 30, significantly reducing mechanical complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent substitutes traditional mechanical kinematic mechanisms with a morphing panel system actuated by actuators 30. The complex system of linkages, hinges, and multiple moving parts is replaced by a streamlined approach where the panel 5 itself morphs to achieve aerodynamic control, reducing the number of moving parts and mechanical complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Strength

If rigid aerodynamic elements are used, then structural strength is maintained, but only a limited number of operating configurations are possible

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural strengthVSAvoidoperating configurations

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses a flexible panel 5 that can morph into different shapes while maintaining structural integrity. The panel is designed with morphing capabilities that allow it to deform controlledly into various configurations, combining the benefits of flexibility for adaptability with sufficient rigidity to maintain structural strength during operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the physical parameters of the panel 5, specifically its shape and curvature, to achieve different operating configurations. By varying the morphing parameters through the actuators 30, the panel can assume multiple aerodynamic configurations while maintaining structural strength, overcoming the limitation of rigid elements that can only occupy fixed positions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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

Enables a smooth, continuous bodywork profile that can dynamically adjust to optimize aerodynamics while maintaining aesthetic appeal, offering a greater variety of configurations than traditional rigid elements.

Implementation Method 1

un known aerodynamic elements are rigid bodies that can assume a limited number of operating configurations

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElastic deformation: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS20260015046A1Vehicle with a morphing bodywork

Publication Date: 2026.01.15 FERRARI SPA

AI summary

A vehicle with a bodywork having a plurality of panels; wherein one or more of said panels are morphing panels having an external covering made of elastically deformable material.