Motorcycle Fairing Protrusion for Downforce
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Solution Overview
Problem
Saddle riding type vehicles face challenges in generating downforce using a simple structure, as existing methods often require complex configurations that disturb airflow and are not efficient in generating downforce effectively.
Innovation Solution
The vehicle incorporates a cowl with an inclined surface and a protrusion that protrudes horizontally and continuously in the anterior-posterior direction, disposed at the lower portion of the cowl, which is integrated with an under cowl having a cut-out to allow the protrusion to protrude while minimizing width, positioned posterior to the front wheel and anterior to the pivot shaft, effectively generating downforce while maintaining a compact structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a complex configuration is used to generate downforce, then downforce can be obtained, but the structure becomes complicated and airflow is disturbed
Solution Approach 1:
The cowl is divided into multiple functional sections: an upper cowl and a lower cowl, with the protrusion forming a distinct airfoil section between them. This segmentation allows each part to serve a specific aerodynamic function while maintaining overall simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The protrusion extends in the vehicle width direction from the lower cowl, creating a three-dimensional airfoil structure that generates downforce through its cross-sectional shape rather than relying on complex multi-component configurations
2Force
If the protrusion protrudes more in the vehicle width direction, then downforce increases, but the vehicle width increases
Solution Approach 1:
The protrusion is positioned within the space between the upper cowl and lower cowl, nesting the airfoil-generating structure within the existing vehicle body contours. This allows the protrusion to extend laterally without significantly increasing the overall vehicle width
Solution Approach 2:
The protrusion is localized to specific regions where it can generate downforce without affecting the overall vehicle dimensions. The airfoil cross-section is concentrated in specific zones rather than extending uniformly across the vehicle width
3Force
If the protrusion is disposed at the lower portion of the cowl, then downforce is generated effectively, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The protrusion is integrated directly into the lower cowl structure, merging the airfoil-generating element with the existing cowl rather than adding it as a separate component. This reduces structural complexity while maintaining effective downforce generation
Solution Approach 2:
The lower cowl serves dual functions: it provides structural coverage for the vehicle body and simultaneously forms the airfoil cross-section of the protrusion for downforce generation. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated downforce components
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
This configuration allows for the generation of sufficient downforce while maintaining a compact size and smooth airflow, enhancing the gripping forces of the wheels and achieving a balance between downforce and airflow resistance.
Implementation Method 1
the protrusion (60) is an airfoil cross-section when viewed from the lateral direction of the vehicle body
Implementation Method 2
the cowl (42) has an inclined surface (58) that is inclined so as to be disposed on a more inner side in a vehicle width direction toward an inferior direction
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 3
AI summary
A saddle riding type vehicle allows to obtain a downforce using a simple structure. Such a saddle riding type vehicle includes a middle cowl (42) that laterally covers a vehicle body. The middle cowl (42) has an inclined surface (58) that is inclined so as to be disposed on a more inner side in a vehicle width direction toward an inferior direction. The middle cowl (42) further includes a sheet-shaped protrusion (60) disposed at a lower portion of the middle cowl (42). The protrusion (60) protrudes in a horizontal direction and is continuous in an anterior-posterior direction.