Rear Diffuser with Integrated Hitch Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motor vehicles with rear diffusers do not integrate a hitch device, limiting the simultaneous optimization of vehicle downforce, air resistance, and trailer coupling functionality, and existing hitch devices lack a diffuser element for aerodynamic enhancement.
Innovation Solution
A motor vehicle design that combines a movable rear diffuser element with a hitch device, allowing the diffuser element to cover the hitch device opening and automatically extend the trailer coupling, while maintaining aerodynamic performance, using a controller to coordinate the diffuser and hitch device operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-generated harmful factors
If a rear diffuser is integrated with a hitch device, then the diffuser element can cover the hitch opening to improve aerodynamics, but the device complexity increases due to the combination of two functional systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a rear diffuser with a hitch device into a single integrated assembly. The diffuser element is positioned to cover the hitch opening when retracted, creating a unified structure that serves both aerodynamic and towing functions. This merging eliminates the need for separate diffuser and hitch components, reducing overall system complexity despite the dual functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The diffuser element serves multiple functions: it acts as an aerodynamic component to reduce air resistance, and simultaneously serves as a cover for the hitch opening to improve aesthetics and aerodynamics. The hitch device within the diffuser assembly provides towing capability. This multi-functionality allows a single component to address multiple technical requirements.
2Ease of operation
If the diffuser element is moved into an extended position to allow trailer coupling extension, then the ease of operation improves, but the loss of time increases due to the additional movement step
Solution Approach 1:
The diffuser element is pre-configured in the assembly to be movable between retracted and extended positions. Before trailer coupling operations, the diffuser element can be automatically or manually extended to clear the hitch opening, preparing the path for trailer insertion. This preliminary action simplifies the subsequent coupling operation by eliminating obstacles.
Solution Approach 2:
The diffuser element is designed as a dynamic component that can change position between retracted and extended states. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt to different operational modes: retracted for aerodynamic efficiency during normal driving, and extended to facilitate trailer coupling operations. The movable design enables the structure to transition between functional states as needed.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If the diffuser element covers the hitch opening, then the aerodynamic performance improves, but the productivity decreases due to limited access for manual assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The diffuser element is designed as a movable component that can transition between retracted and extended positions. When retracted, it covers the hitch opening to maintain aerodynamic performance and aesthetic appearance. When extended, it clears the opening to facilitate manual trailer coupling assembly. This dynamic positioning capability allows the system to optimize for either aerodynamics or assembly accessibility depending on operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The hitch device is integrated within the diffuser assembly, with the diffuser element positioned to cover the hitch opening. When trailer coupling is required, the diffuser element can be moved or opened to expose the hitch opening, effectively extracting or removing the obstruction from the coupling path. This allows manual assembly access while maintaining the integrated structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A motor vehicle has a rear diffuser which includes a diffuser element which can be moved into a diffuser position in order to influence a driving behavior of the motor vehicle in respect of vehicle downforce and air resistance. The diffuser element, in a closed position, covers an opening of a hitch device, which is exposed by the diffuser element in an open position.