Vehicle Grille Communication Apparatus with Movable Shield Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Autonomous vehicles face challenges in effectively communicating their status and intentions to pedestrians due to unclear communication, which can lead to safety issues and interference with external factors, particularly in regards to aerodynamic performance and recognition.
Innovation Solution
A communication apparatus integrated into a vehicle's grille, featuring movable modules with shield parts and an optical module, controlled to adjust ventilation apertures and project illumination messages based on driving information, enhancing both aerodynamic performance and pedestrian awareness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If the grille maintains all ventilation apertures open for optimal airflow, then aerodynamic performance is improved, but communication capability with pedestrians is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The grille is divided into multiple ventilation apertures that can be independently controlled. Moving modules with shield parts can selectively close specific apertures while leaving others open, allowing simultaneous optimization of aerodynamics and communication by closing only the portions needed for message display
Solution Approach 2:
The grille incorporates movable shield parts that can dynamically adjust the opening state of ventilation apertures based on real-time driving conditions. The controller receives driving information and automatically positions shields to close apertures when communication is needed while maintaining optimal airflow through remaining open apertures
2Loss of information
If shield parts are added to control ventilation apertures, then communication capability is improved, but device complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The shield parts serve multiple functions simultaneously: they act as aerodynamic control elements to adjust airflow through the grille, serve as communication displays by blocking specific aperture patterns to convey messages to pedestrians, and function as structural components integrated into the grille assembly. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components
Solution Approach 2:
The communication display function is merged with the existing aerodynamic grille structure. Instead of adding separate display components, the patent utilizes the grille's ventilation apertures and movable shields as the communication medium, combining aerodynamic flow control and information transmission into a single integrated system
3Loss of information
If moving modules are installed on the grille, then communication capability is improved, but weight of the vehicle is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
Rather than making the entire grille structure heavy and fully movable, only specific moving modules with shield parts are installed at strategic locations where aperture control is needed for communication. The majority of the grille structure remains static and lightweight, with mobility localized only to the necessary control elements
Data Source
AI summary
A communication apparatus is provided through a grille of a vehicle. The apparatus communicates with the outside through the grille of the vehicle and improves driving performance of the vehicle due to improvement in aerodynamic performance through the grille of the vehicle.