Flexible Trim Underbody Panel Actuation Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing underbody panels for vehicles require significant construction space and complex actuation mechanisms, leading to inefficiencies and increased risk of damage.
Innovation Solution
An underbody panel with a flexible trim moving element having a lower modulus of elasticity than the fixed element, actuated by a drive and actuating elements that move between positions, reducing the need for large vertical space and simplifying the actuation process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a complex actuation mechanism with multiple rotating elements is used to move the underbody panel, then the panel can be positioned between retracted and extended positions, but the construction space requirement increases and the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible trim moving element made of elastomeric material that can deform elastically to achieve the extended position. This flexible membrane approach replaces the need for rigid rotating elements and complex mechanical linkages, significantly reducing device complexity while maintaining the capability to transition between retracted and extended positions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state and properties of the trim moving element by using material with specific elastic characteristics. The elastomeric material allows the panel to change shape and position through elastic deformation rather than mechanical rotation, simplifying the actuation mechanism while preserving positioning versatility
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple rotating elements and actuator links are used to articulate the moving part, then the panel can be moved between positions, but the construction space in vertical direction increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible trim moving element deforms within the plane of the underbody panel, eliminating the need for vertical actuator links and rotating elements. This membrane-based approach achieves position change without increasing vertical construction space, as the deformation occurs horizontally rather than vertically
3Strength
If a rigid fixed fairing part and moving part configuration is used, then structural strength is maintained, but the risk of damage from road obstacles increases
Solution Approach 1:
The elastomeric trim moving element acts as a flexible protective layer that can absorb impacts from road obstacles such as stones and debris. The material's elasticity allows it to deform under impact and return to its original shape, protecting the underlying rigid structure from damage while maintaining overall structural strength
Solution Approach 2:
The elastomeric material provides inherent cushioning protection before impact occurs. The material's elastic properties are designed to absorb and dissipate impact energy from road obstacles, protecting the rigid fixed element and moving part structure from damage before the force can cause structural harm
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 reduces construction space, enhances actuation reliability, and provides easier control over the aerodynamic surface shape while offering improved damage resistance and air flow management.
Implementation Method 1
The cover material comprises an elastic material with a lower modulus of elasticity than the material of the fixed part, which, during relative movement of the moving part, is stretched relative to the fixed part depending on the direction of movement against its material elasticity or contracts again due to its material elasticity
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an underbody panel for a motor vehicle, comprising an underbody fixed element, and an at least partially flexible trim moving element, wherein the trim moving element has a modulus of elasticity which is smaller than the modulus of elasticity of the underbody fixed element, and wherein the trim moving element is arranged movably relative to the underbody fixed part by means of an actuating device between at least two positions, a trim moving element starting position and at least one trim moving element operating position, wherein the trim moving element in the starting position is arranged substantially flush with the underbody fixed element, and wherein the trim moving element is arranged in the at least one trim moving element operating position protruding in at least one section from the underbody fixed element, characterized in that the actuating device comprises a drive and at least one actuating element connected to the drive, wherein the actuating element is movable between an actuating element starting position and at least one actuating element operating position wherein the actuating element is connected to the trim moving element and the actuating element starting position corresponds to the trim moving element starting position and the at least one actuating element operating position corresponds to the at least one trim moving element operating position, wherein the actuating element in its actuating element starting position is at a greater distance from the drive than in its at least one actuating element operating position.