Modular Bracket for Variable-Angle Aerodynamic Appendices
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing solutions for mounting aerodynamic appendices on industrial vehicle cabs require multiple differently shaped brackets due to varying shapes and angles, leading to increased production costs and storage needs, as they fail to efficiently address the aerodynamic gap between the cab and semi-trailer, thereby affecting fuel efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A standard modular bracket comprising two parts that can be joined at a variable angle to accommodate different shapes and angles of aerodynamic appendices, allowing for symmetric use on either side of the cab, with semicircular areas and spokes for secure attachment using screws or similar devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If multiple differently shaped brackets are used to accommodate various aerodynamic appendix configurations, then the aerodynamic performance is improved, but the production cost and storage requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single standardized bracket that can serve multiple functions and configurations. The bracket incorporates adjustable elements and modular components that allow it to adapt to different aerodynamic appendix shapes, angles, and mounting positions, eliminating the need for multiple specialized bracket types while maintaining aerodynamic effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by incorporating adjustable and movable elements within the bracket design. The bracket can be configured in different positions and angles through adjustable arms, rotatable joints, or repositionable components, allowing a single static bracket structure to dynamically adapt to various aerodynamic appendix requirements
2Use of energy by moving object
If aerodynamic appendices are mounted with precise angles and shapes to reduce air flow between cab and semi-trailer, then fuel consumption is reduced, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket incorporates adjustable elements that allow field customization of angles and positions without requiring high-precision manufacturing. The adjustability mechanisms (such as repositionable arms or rotatable joints) enable precise aerodynamic configuration to be achieved through assembly adjustments rather than manufacturing precision
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket is divided into modular segments or components that can be independently adjusted and positioned. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured with standard tolerances while the overall precise configuration is achieved through the assembly and adjustment of multiple modular elements
Data Source
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AI summary
A standard modular bracket for mounting aerodynamic appendices on a vehicle cab, especially of an industrial vehicle, comprises two parts (1, 2) that are fixed respectively to the cab and to the appendices. The two parts are joined together at a variable angle, so as to follow the variations in shape and in the angle of the aerodynamic appendices. The bracket is also a symmetrically specular structure, so that it can be used on either side of the cab.