Movable Spoiler Locking Mechanism for Reverse-Load Actuator Protection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing movable spoiler devices are prone to actuator damage due to torque generated during reverse movement of the movable part, which affects the aerodynamic performance and energy efficiency of vehicles.

Innovation Solution

A movable spoiler device with a rotating frame and locking member mechanism that allows the frame to rotate idly relative to the actuator when subjected to external loads, preventing damage by releasing the fitting of the locking member and allowing independent rotation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the movable part is connected directly to the actuator through a rigid link mechanism, then the aerodynamic performance can be adjusted by moving the movable part, but the actuator may be damaged due to torque generated by reverse movement of the movable part when subjected to external loads

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveactuator protectionVSAvoidlink mechanism structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The link mechanism is divided into a fixed link and a movable link that can rotate relative to each other. The rotating frame acts as an independent segment that can decouple from the actuator when subjected to reverse loads, protecting the actuator while maintaining the overall structure's functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The rotating frame serves as an intermediary between the actuator and the movable part. It includes a locking member that can engage with the actuator's output shaft under normal operation, but can disengage when reverse loads occur, thus mediating the force transmission and protecting the actuator from damage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If the locking member is always engaged with the actuator output shaft, then the movable part can be precisely controlled, but the actuator will be damaged when reverse movement occurs due to generated torque

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveactuator protectionVSAvoidmovable part control
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism transitions from a static engaged state to a dynamic disengaged state when reverse loads occur. The rotating frame can rotate idly relative to the actuator output shaft, allowing the locking member to disengage automatically under reverse torque conditions, thus protecting the actuator while maintaining control during normal operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The engagement state of the locking member changes based on the direction and magnitude of applied loads. Under forward loads, the locking member engages with the actuator output shaft for precise control. Under reverse loads, the locking member disengages, changing the system's mechanical state from coupled to decoupled, thereby protecting the actuator.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If the rotating frame is rigidly connected to the actuator, then synchronous rotation is achieved, but the actuator cannot withstand reverse loads from the movable part

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveactuator protectionVSAvoidrotating frame connection
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The connection between the rotating frame and actuator is segmented into an engaged state (when locking member is locked) and a disengaged state (when locking member is released). This segmentation allows the system to maintain stability during normal operation while protecting the actuator from reverse loads through automatic decoupling.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The locking mechanism is designed to automatically engage and disengage based on the load conditions. When reverse loads are applied, the rotating frame's rotation pushes the locking member against the elastic member, causing automatic disengagement without external intervention, thus the system serves itself to protect the actuator.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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

Prevents actuator damage by enabling the rotating frame to rotate independently from the actuator, maintaining the device's functionality and improving aerodynamic performance.

Implementation Method 1

applies force to the actuator through an elastic member

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS12600418B2Movable spoiler device
Publication Date: 2026.04.14 HONDA MOTOR CO LTD
  • US12600418B2 patent drawing
  • US12600418B2 patent drawing
  • US12600418B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A movable spoiler device is provided. The movable spoiler device includes: a fixed part, fixed on a body of a vehicle; a movable part, movable between a storage position and a deployed position; an actuator, disposed on the fixed part and drives the movable part to move in a front-rear direction; a rotating frame, connected to the actuator and rotates synchronously with the actuator; a connecting member, connected to the rotating frame and the movable part; and a locking member, disposed between the actuator and the rotating frame, applies force to the actuator through an elastic member, and is locked on the rotating frame, wherein, when the movable part is in the deployed position and is subjected to a load applied from the rear, the rotating frame is rotated by pushing the locking member against the elastic member to release the fitting of the locking member.