Piezoelectric Aero Components for Wind-Induced Deformation Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicle aerodynamic components deform under wind loads, reducing the amount of downforce provided, and existing systems struggle to accurately measure and control this deformation for optimal performance.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of piezoelectric elements into vehicle aerodynamic components to measure deformation via voltage changes and apply controlled voltages to manipulate shape, using a vehicle control module to determine deformation amounts and apply corrective voltages based on sensed parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If aerodynamic components are made rigid to maintain shape, then downforce is improved, but wind load resistance and structural strength requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from a static rigid aerodynamic component to a dynamic system that can actively adjust its shape. The wing structure incorporates actuators and control systems that enable real-time modification of the wing's geometry in response to wind loads, allowing the component to maintain optimal aerodynamic performance while adapting to varying force conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by modifying physical characteristics of the aerodynamic component, specifically changing the wing's shape parameters (camber, twist, planform) in response to measured wind conditions. Sensors detect wind speed and direction, and the control system adjusts structural parameters to optimize downforce while managing structural stresses.
2Strength
If aerodynamic components are made flexible to reduce wind load, then structural strength requirements are reduced, but downforce generation is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses dynamic control to switch between rigid and flexible states as needed. The wing structure incorporates adjustable elements that can be stiffened or softened based on operating conditions, allowing the component to be flexible enough to reduce wind load during high-speed cruising while becoming rigid enough to generate maximum downforce during cornering or braking.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes structural parameters of the aerodynamic component, specifically modifying the rigidity and flexibility characteristics of wing elements. By adjusting parameters such as actuator activation, material stiffness, or structural configuration, the system optimizes the balance between wind load resistance and downforce generation for different driving conditions.
3Measurement precision
If deformation measurement precision is improved, then aerodynamic control precision is improved, but measurement system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical measurement systems with optical or electromagnetic sensing methods. Instead of using mechanical gauges or strain gauges that require physical contact and complex calibration, the system uses non-contact sensors (such as optical sensors or capacitive sensors) to measure wing deformation, reducing mechanical complexity while improving measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary measurement layer between the wing structure and the control system. This intermediary consists of sensor arrays or measurement grids that are integrated into the wing surface, providing direct deformation data without requiring complex mechanical linkages or indirect measurement methods.
4Productivity
If active deformation control is implemented, then aerodynamic performance is optimized, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic or event-driven control rather than continuous adjustment. The aerodynamic components are actively controlled only when specific conditions are met (such as changes in speed, steering angle, or detected wind gusts), allowing the system to consume energy selectively rather than continuously, thus optimizing performance while managing energy usage.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates passive aerodynamic features that provide baseline performance without requiring active energy input. The wing design includes passive elements such as natural camber, automatic twist, or passive flow control features that maintain effective aerodynamics without power consumption, while active control is engaged only when additional performance optimization is required.
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 the precision of aerodynamic control, improving fuel economy, reducing emissions, and increasing top speed by accurately measuring and counteracting wind-induced deformation.
Implementation Method 1
the piezoelectric element configured to change voltage in response to deformation of the aerodynamic element
Implementation Method 2
the vehicle control module configured to selectively apply voltage to the piezoelectric element to modify deformation of the aerodynamic element
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle control system for a vehicle aerodynamic element includes an aerodynamic element coupled with a body of a vehicle, the aerodynamic element configured to deform in response to wind forces exerted on a surface of the aerodynamic element, at least one piezoelectric element coupled with the aerodynamic element, the piezoelectric element configured to change voltage in response to deformation of the aerodynamic element, and a vehicle control module configured to obtain a steady state voltage value of the piezoelectric element corresponding to a position of the aerodynamic element while a speed of the vehicle is zero, receive a current voltage value of the piezoelectric element, and determine a deformation amount of the aerodynamic element based on a voltage difference between the steady state voltage value and the current voltage value.