Movable Underbody for Dynamic Downforce and Clearance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current motor vehicles lack a system that can efficiently generate high downforce for racing while maintaining practicality for public roads, and existing solutions do not offer a seamless transition between high downforce and high ground clearance modes.
Innovation Solution
A movable underbody system that can be deployed to generate downforce through ground effect and retracted to increase ground clearance, utilizing support linkages to maintain a constant distance and orientation above the road, allowing the vehicle to switch between modes dynamically.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a fixed downforce-generating underbody is used, then high downforce is achieved for racing, but ground clearance is reduced and practicality for public roads is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The underbody is made movable rather than fixed, allowing it to dynamically change position between a deployed low state for racing and a retracted elevated state for public roads. The linkage system enables the underbody to move vertically in response to suspension movement, achieving both high downforce when needed and high ground clearance when required
2Force
If the underbody is positioned low to generate downforce, then traction and handling are improved, but the suspension is compressed by the downforce load
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle support system is segmented into two independent linkage systems: a first linkage system that transfers downforce load directly to the substantially unsprung components (bypassing the suspension), and a second linkage system that transfers load to the fully sprung body. This segmentation allows the suspension to maintain its primary function without being overloaded by downforce forces
3Adaptability or versatility
If the underbody is made movable to enable mode switching, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage system performs multiple functions simultaneously: it supports the movable underbody, enables vertical movement for mode switching, transfers downforce loads, and maintains constant distance and orientation. By designing a universal linkage system that accomplishes all these tasks, the patent avoids the need for separate mechanisms for each function, thereby managing complexity while achieving high adaptability
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 a vehicle to achieve high downforce for racing and high ground clearance for public roads, enhancing traction and handling in various driving conditions, while maintaining a smooth ride and efficient airflow.
Implementation Method 1
a movable underbody adapted to produce downforce
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A downforce-generating device for improving motor vehicle control is described. The device includes a movable underbody with a suspension-mounted support system such that the movable underbody transfers downforce load to, and moves with, the wheels of the vehicle. The suspension-mounted support system is adapted to functionally or physically disengage the movable underbody from the suspension of the vehicle upon lifting the movable underbody with a separate retraction system. A height-adjustment system may be provided to precisely control the ride height and orientation of the movable underbody relative to the roadway during vehicle travel.