Modular Wind Tunnel Wheel Support for Portable Vehicle Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional wind tunnel test devices are fixed in facilities, limiting their portability and ability to test vehicles of varying sizes and types.
Innovation Solution
A portable assembly system comprising measurement modules and coupling modules, with load cells and a splitter to thin the boundary layer, allowing flexible configuration for different vehicle types and sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a wind tunnel test device is provided in a predetermined facility, then the device structure is stable and reliable, but the device cannot be moved to the outside of the facility and cannot support various sizes and types of vehicles
Solution Approach 1:
The wind tunnel test device is divided into multiple independent measurement modules, each capable of supporting one or more wheels. These modules can be assembled in different configurations to accommodate various vehicle types and sizes, enabling versatility without requiring a completely different device for each vehicle category.
Solution Approach 2:
Each measurement module is designed with universal coupling interfaces and adjustable positioning mechanisms that allow the same module type to be used across different vehicle configurations. The modular design enables a single set of components to serve multiple functions for different vehicle sizes and types.
2Measurement precision
If measurement modules are coupled directly to each other, then the device structure is simple, but the positioning precision and measurement accuracy are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Coupling modules are introduced as intermediary components between measurement modules. These coupling modules provide precise positioning features and alignment mechanisms that ensure accurate relative positioning of measurement modules while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure through standardized interfaces.
3Ease of operation
If the device is designed for fixed facility installation, then the device structure is stable, but the device lacks portability and cannot be moved to desired locations
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into independent measurement modules that can be easily assembled and disassembled. This modular structure enables the device to be transported in parts and reassembled at different locations while maintaining structural integrity and measurement reliability through standardized coupling mechanisms.
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 wind tunnel testing of various vehicles at desired locations with enhanced measurement accuracy and reduced device complexity, supporting vehicles with different numbers and positions of wheels.
Implementation Method 1
at least one load cell is accommodated... the load cell can measure force acting on the wheel support member
Implementation Method 2
a splitter for thinning a boundary layer formed by air from a blower
Data Source
AI summary
This assembly system is for a measuring device that, for a wind tunnel test, supports a vehicle including a plurality of wheels. The assembly system includes: a plurality of measurement modules in which at least one load cell is stored; and at least one coupling module. The measuring device can be configured such that each of the measurement modules is disposed at a position corresponding to a wheel of the vehicle, by using at least one of a first coupling mode, in which the plurality of measurement modules are coupled, and a second coupling mode, in which the plurality of measurement modules are coupled via the coupling module.