Aerodynamic Monocoque Floor Layout for Low-Pitch Downforce
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Solution Overview
Problem
High-performance vehicles face challenges in aerodynamic design due to airflow interference between discrete aerodynamic bodies, particularly at the front and rear of the vehicle, leading to stall and pitch sensitivity, with limited space for aerodynamic devices under the chassis and interference from tyre wake.
Innovation Solution
An aerodynamic monocoque chassis with a floor design featuring distinct regions and voids, allowing for aerodynamic devices to be mounted under the chassis, and a support structure with movable aerodynamic bodies that can change their angle of attack collectively or individually to optimize airflow guidance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If discrete aerodynamic bodies are fitted to the front and rear underside of the vehicle, then aerodynamic forces are generated, but pitch sensitivity increases due to larger moment arms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the aerodynamic bodies and chassis into a monocoque structure where the aerodynamic bodies are integrated into the chassis itself rather than being separate discrete components. This merging reduces the moment arm distance from the aerodynamic force application point to the vehicle's center of gravity, thereby reducing pitch sensitivity while maintaining aerodynamic force generation.
2Volume of moving object
If the chassis floor is kept flat to maximize cabin space, then cabin volume is increased, but space for aerodynamic devices under the chassis is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces vertical dimensionality variations in the chassis floor by creating localized recesses or voids beneath specific floor regions. This allows aerodynamic devices to be positioned in the vertical space under the floor without compromising the overall flatness of the cabin floor, thus maintaining cabin space while providing mounting space for aerodynamic components.
3Force
If the angle of attack of the forward aerodynamic body is increased, then downforce is improved, but wash in the airflow over the rearward aerodynamic body increases causing stall
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements movable aerodynamic bodies that can dynamically adjust their angle of attack and relative positioning. This dynamic capability allows the system to optimize the angle of attack of each aerodynamic body based on real-time airflow conditions, preventing excessive wash from forward bodies from causing stall in rearward bodies while maintaining effective downforce generation.
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
Reduces pitch sensitivity, minimizes airflow stalling, and enhances control over aerodynamic forces by improving airflow guidance and reducing turbulent flow, especially under the vehicle.
Implementation Method 1
Aerodynamic bodies may guide the incoming airflow so as to provide lift and/or downforce forces on the vehicle
Implementation Method 2
Aerodynamic bodies may guide the incoming airflow so as to provide and/or reduce drag forces on the vehicle
Implementation Method 3
Aerodynamic bodies may guide the incoming airflow towards certain parts of the vehicle, such as air intakes used for cooling etc
Implementation Method 4
guide the airflow out from the underside of the vehicle, down the sides of the vehicle, so as to increase downforce through a pressure differential between the underside of the vehicle and the free flow
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is an aerodynamic monocoque chassis for a vehicle, the aerodynamic monocoque chassis comprising: a main compartment bounded by a plurality of walls and a floor extending between the walls, the floor comprising: a first region, the first region being located at least partially under a pedal footbox of the vehicle; and a second region, the second region located rearwards of the first region; wherein the second region is located lower than the first region thereby forming a void under an underside of the first region.