Movable Aerodynamic Deflector for Vehicle Vortex Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aerodynamic devices on motor vehicles with narrowed rear profiles face challenges in reducing air vortices, which degrade performance, while also needing to balance aesthetics and manufacturing constraints.
Innovation Solution
A movable aerodynamic deflector located behind the rear wheel, activated by pneumatic means, deploys to a vertical position flush with the wheel's longitudinal plane, using guide rods and coil springs for movement and retraction, integrated with a bellows for deployment and aesthetics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If the vehicle body is narrowed towards the rear for aesthetic purposes, then the vehicle style is improved, but air vortices are generated that significantly degrade aerodynamic performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a movable deflector that can dynamically adjust its position between a retracted state (integrated into the bodywork) and a deployed state (extending vertically). This dynamic adjustment allows the vehicle to maintain aesthetic narrowing while actively managing air flow to reduce vortex generation when needed
Solution Approach 2:
The deflector is specifically positioned in the lateral body zone behind the rear wheel, creating a localized aerodynamic solution. This local intervention addresses the vortex problem in the specific area where the narrowed body shape causes air flow separation, without requiring changes to the overall vehicle design
2Object-affected harmful factors
If aerodynamic deflectors are installed on rear bumpers to reduce vortices, then aerodynamic performance is improved, but the vehicle style becomes too rectangular and massive
Solution Approach 1:
The deflector is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to be integrated into the bodywork when not in use. This eliminates the permanent visual impact of fixed deflectors while maintaining aerodynamic benefits when deployed
Solution Approach 2:
The deflector is nested within a recess in the lateral body zone, allowing it to be hidden when retracted. This nesting approach enables the aerodynamic device to be concealed within the vehicle's aesthetic lines, avoiding the addition of external rectangular elements
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a movable deflector is deployed to reduce vortices, then aerodynamic performance is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The deflector system uses self-contained actuation mechanisms with integrated return means (springs) that automatically return the deflector to its retracted position. This self-service approach reduces the need for complex external control systems while maintaining functional capability
Solution Approach 2:
The pneumatic actuator serves multiple functions: it provides the force to deploy the deflector against spring resistance, controls the movement precision, and can be integrated with the vehicle's existing pneumatic systems. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity by consolidating control 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
Enhances aerodynamic performance by reducing vortices and maintaining a sleek, integrated design, leveraging existing vehicle systems for efficient operation.
Implementation Method 1
The device also comprises a pneumatic chamber closed by an extendable bellows, interposed between the inner face of the deflector and the bodywork zone
Implementation Method 2
the return means consist of helical springs placed around the guide rods
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
AI summary
The invention relates to an aerodynamic device of a motor vehicle, characterised in that it comprises a spoiler (2) arranged on a side area of the body (3) and behind a rear wheel (1) of the vehicle, the spoiler (2) being mobile between a passive retracted position built into the body area (3) and a deployed active position wherein a substantially vertical rear edge (4) of the spoiler (2) is flush with a longitudinal vertical plane (P) defining an outer side wall (5) of the wheel (1).