Roof-Mounted Wind Rotor Layout for Vehicle Range Extension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle energy conversion systems for wind energy face issues such as increased temperature fluctuations, condensation, and design intervention, while also requiring stationary charging, which limits vehicle range and operating time without consuming fuel or electrical energy.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle-mounted energy conversion system with a rotor and wind funnels positioned outside the vehicle body, where the rotor axis is aligned at an acute angle to the longitudinal axis, with tapering and widening funnels to enhance wind speed and direct airflow for efficient energy generation, reducing the need for large energy storage and minimizing pressure loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If an air duct runs exclusively inside the vehicle to carry air through the car, then the system can convert wind energy into electrical energy, but the car experiences increased temperature fluctuations and condensation formation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the air duct system from the vehicle interior and positions it externally on the roof. This separation removes the source of temperature fluctuations and condensation from the passenger compartment while preserving the wind energy conversion function. The external positioning allows the duct to interact with ambient airflow without directly affecting the vehicle's internal thermal environment.
2Use of energy by moving object
If an internal air duct system is used for wind energy conversion, then energy can be generated, but the vehicle design requires major intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the wind energy conversion system into a separate, modular unit that can be independently installed on the vehicle roof. This segmentation allows the energy generation component to be added without fundamentally redesigning the vehicle's internal structure. The modular approach enables integration with existing vehicle designs while maintaining functional independence.
3Duration of action of moving object
If conventional propulsion systems are used, then vehicles can be refueled at stationary charging stations, but the range and operating time are limited without consuming additional fuel or electrical energy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service energy generation system where the vehicle produces its own electrical energy during operation through wind-powered turbines. The system uses the vehicle's own motion to generate electricity, eliminating the need for external fuel or electricity input. This self-sustaining approach extends operating time without increasing energy consumption from external sources.
4Duration of action of moving object
If energy storage units are made larger to extend range, then operating time increases, but vehicle weight and resource requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous energy generation during vehicle operation through roof-mounted turbines that convert kinetic energy from ambient airflow into electrical energy. This continuous generation allows the system to maintain extended range with smaller energy storage units, as energy is continuously replenished during operation rather than requiring large pre-stored capacities.
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
This solution increases vehicle range and operating time by generating energy during travel, reduces weight and resource requirements, and enhances driving safety by optimizing airflow and contact pressure.
Implementation Method 1
at least one energy conversion system for converting wind energy generated by the vehicle's airstream into electrical energy
Implementation Method 2
a first wind funnel is arranged in the lead of the rotor shell and tapers towards the rotor shell, and wherein a second wind funnel is arranged in the trail of the rotor shell and widens in the direction away from the rotor shell
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~3a
Figure 3b~5
AI summary
The invention relates to a vehicle with an energy conversion system for converting wind energy into electrical energy, comprising a rotor with a rotor axis of rotation that is oriented substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle or forms an acute angle with the longitudinal axis, wherein the energy conversion system is located closer to the rear than to the front end of the vehicle. The invention further relates to a trailer comprising an energy conversion system for converting wind energy into electrical energy. The invention also relates to an aircraft comprising an energy conversion system for converting wind energy into electrical energy. Finally, the invention relates to the use of the energy conversion system according to the invention for improving the driving characteristics of vehicles.The invention also relates to a wind deflection system for vehicles, comprising an energy conversion system for converting wind energy into electrical energy, comprising a rotor, a flow channel, and a wind funnel. Furthermore, the invention relates to a kit of parts comprising a vehicle and a wind deflection system according to the invention.