Movable Vehicle Aerodynamic Device Control for Crosswind Drag Reduction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional aerodynamic devices for vehicles, such as spoilers and tire deflectors, are typically static and optimized for a single headwind condition, failing to account for crosswind conditions which can significantly impact vehicle efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A vehicle equipped with movable aerodynamic devices, such as tire deflectors and spoilers, controlled by an aerodynamic control module that determines wind conditions and adjusts the devices' positions accordingly to optimize aerodynamics in various wind scenarios.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional static aerodynamic devices are used, then the device structure is simple, but the aerodynamic performance deteriorates under crosswind conditions

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaerodynamic performance under different wind conditionsVSAvoidaerodynamic device structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the aerodynamic device movable between extended and retracted positions. The device includes a mounting structure with a movable component that can change its position relative to the vehicle body based on wind conditions, transforming a static structure into a dynamic one that adapts to varying aerodynamic requirements

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The aerodynamic device is segmented into multiple independent components including a mounting structure, a movable component, and a control module. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while working together to achieve adaptive aerodynamic performance under different wind conditions

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Use of energy by moving object

If conventional static aerodynamic devices are used, then the manufacturing cost is low, but the energy efficiency deteriorates due to increased drag

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevehicle energy efficiencyVSAvoidaerodynamic device structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Use of energy by moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The movable component that can transition between extended and retracted positions enables the device to optimize aerodynamic performance dynamically, reducing drag and improving energy efficiency by adapting to different wind conditions rather than maintaining a fixed configuration

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The device changes its aerodynamic parameters by altering the position of the movable component relative to the vehicle body. This parameter change allows optimization of airflow patterns and drag reduction under varying wind conditions, directly impacting energy efficiency

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Productivity

If conventional static aerodynamic devices are used, then the device is easy to manufacture, but the vehicle performance deteriorates in varying wind conditions

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevehicle operational efficiencyVSAvoidaerodynamic device structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The aerodynamic device incorporates a movable component that can change position between extended and retracted states, enabling the system to respond dynamically to varying wind conditions and maintain optimal vehicle performance across different operational scenarios

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The control module receives information about wind conditions and automatically adjusts the position of the movable component accordingly. This feedback mechanism ensures the aerodynamic device operates optimally by responding to real-time environmental conditions, thereby maintaining high vehicle productivity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

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 solution enhances vehicle efficiency by dynamically adjusting aerodynamic devices in response to changing wind conditions, thereby minimizing drag and optimizing energy consumption across different wind scenarios.

Implementation Method 1

an outer surface of the tire deflector is typically curved to push or move air to the side of the vehicle during forward movement of the vehicle

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAerodynamic force: Drag

Data Source

PatentUS20250121893A1Vehicle including aerodynamic device control and system

Publication Date: 2025.04.17 GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC

AI summary

A vehicle including a first aerodynamic device extending from a body of the vehicle and movable between an extended position and a retracted position and an aerodynamic control module configured to determine wind conditions during forward movement of the vehicle and to move the first aerodynamic device between the extended position and the retracted position based on the determined wind conditions.