Morphing Bodywork Panels for Continuous Vehicle Aerodynamics
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle bodyworks face a conflict between aerodynamic optimization and aesthetic design, with movable aerodynamic elements requiring complex kinematic mechanisms and creating interruptions in the vehicle's profile, and being limited to a few rigid configurations.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle bodywork incorporating morphing panels made of elastically deformable materials that seamlessly integrate with adjacent panels, allowing continuous shape changes to adapt to aerodynamic needs without visible interruptions, using a tensioning system with actuators to control deformation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If movable aerodynamic elements are installed to optimize aerodynamic performance, then aerodynamic efficiency is improved, but the bodywork profile is interrupted and aesthetics are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the aerodynamic element with the bodywork panel itself, making them a single integrated component rather than separate parts. The panel 5 serves both as the bodywork covering and the aerodynamic element, eliminating the need for discrete components that would interrupt the profile.
Solution Approach 2:
The panel is designed to be deformable, allowing it to change its shape dynamically between different configurations (first configuration with lower drag, second configuration with higher lift). This dynamic capability enables the panel to adapt aerodynamic characteristics while maintaining a continuous profile in all states.
2Adaptability or versatility
If discrete aerodynamic elements are used, then aerodynamic function is achieved, but device complexity increases due to kinematic mechanisms and openings
Solution Approach 1:
The aerodynamic element is combined with the bodywork panel structure, eliminating the need for separate kinematic mechanisms and mounting systems. The panel itself provides both the structural and aerodynamic functions, reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The panel serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as the bodywork covering, the aerodynamic element, and the structural component. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate discrete elements and their associated mechanisms.
3Strength
If rigid aerodynamic elements are used, then structural strength is maintained, but adaptability is limited to a few fixed configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The panel transitions from a rigid structure to a deformable one, enabling continuous shape changes between different aerodynamic configurations. The panel can assume multiple intermediate states beyond just two fixed positions, significantly increasing adaptability while maintaining structural integrity through controlled deformation.
Solution Approach 2:
The panel is designed as a deformable structure that can flex and change shape. This flexible design allows the panel to adapt to different aerodynamic requirements by varying its curvature and profile, providing continuous adaptability rather than discrete fixed configurations.
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 morphing panels provide a smooth, continuous surface that can vary its shape to optimize aerodynamics while maintaining aesthetics, offering a multitude of configurations beyond traditional rigid elements, enhancing both performance and appearance.
Implementation Method 1
a morphing panel (10), which is integrated, in a seamless manner, with at least one adjacent panel (5) of the bodywork (4) and is capable of changing its shape in a continuous manner
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3A
Figure 3B
AI summary
A vehicle (1; 101) with a bodywork (4) having a plurality of panels (5; 105); wherein one or more of said panels (5; 105) are morphing panels (10; 110) having an external covering (11) made of elastically deformable material.