Motorcycle Wind Tunnel With Articulated Roll Support

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing wind tunnel systems fail to simulate the aerodynamic performance of motorcycles under roll conditions in a dynamic, quick, and affordable manner.

Innovation Solution

A wind tunnel system with an adjustable support mechanism comprising an articulated axis connected to the motorcycle's rear wheel, featuring sliding and clamping mechanisms to allow for dynamic or static tilting, and rollers to simulate movement, enabling simulation of roll angles up to 60-65°.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed support system is used to hold the motorcycle, then the structure is simple and stable, but the ability to simulate roll conditions dynamically is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to simulate roll conditionsVSAvoidsupport system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The support system transitions from a fixed structure to a dynamic articulated mechanism with multiple axes that can tilt and rotate to simulate motorcycle roll conditions during cornering, while maintaining structural stability through rigid connections and controlled movement ranges

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If an articulated axis with multiple portions is used, then the roll angle range is increased, but the structural complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveroll angle rangeVSAvoidarticulated axis structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The articulated axis is divided into multiple portions (first axis portion, second axis portion, third axis portion) connected by hinges, allowing independent rotation at each joint to achieve greater overall roll angles while keeping each segment manageable in size and complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Ease of operation

If sliding coupling is used in the articulated axis, then dynamic adjustment of tilting is enabled, but the structural stability decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedynamic adjustment capabilityVSAvoidarticulated axis stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The sliding coupling allows dynamic adjustment of the articulated axis configuration during operation, enabling the system to adapt to different roll angles and testing conditions while maintaining stability through controlled movement and mechanical constraints

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 efficient simulation of motorcycle aerodynamics under roll conditions, facilitating accurate testing with adjustable tilt angles and movement simulation.

Implementation Method 1

at least one fan arranged in front of and/or behind the platform so as to generate an air flow which flows longitudinally over the platform

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAir flow generation: Fan

Implementation Method 2

the articulated axis, which comprises at least two axis portions hinged to each other

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectArticulated rotation: Hinge

Implementation Method 3

at least one roller arranged below the platform and in contact the wheel(s) of the motorcycle

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRolling friction: Roller

Data Source

PatentEP4471398B1Wind tunnel
Publication Date: 2025.10.22 PIAGGIO & C SPA
  • EP4471398B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP4471398B1 patent drawingFigure 3~8

AI summary

A wind tunnel (1) comprising a platform (2) on which a motorcycle (100) can be placed; at least one fan (3) arranged in front of and/or behind the platform (2) so as to generate an air flow which flows longitudinally over the platform (2); an adjustable support (4) configured to be connected by means of an articulated axis (20) to a portion of the motorcycle (100), preferably the rear wheel axis (101) thereof, wherein the adjustable support (4) comprises: the articulated axis (20), which comprises at least two axis portions (7, 8, 9) hinged to each other; a left actuated column (5) and a right actuated column (6) connected to opposite ends of the articulated axis (20), respectively.