Actuating Device for Automotive Rear Spoiler Blade
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing actuating devices for mobile aerodynamic blades in automotive vehicle rear spoilers occupy a large vertical space, limiting design flexibility and aesthetics, and require a specific area for integration, which can compromise rear spoiler design and passenger space.
Innovation Solution
The actuating device is configured to burst in a transversal direction, reducing its vertical thickness by positioning the sliding unit far from the actuator and using a double gear wheel system that allows actuation on both sides of the blade, eliminating the need for a central actuation point.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the actuating device is positioned centrally below the blade with all elements at the same location, then the structure is simple, but the vertical space occupied is large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent redistributes actuating device elements along the longitudinal dimension of the spoiler rather than concentrating them vertically. The motor is positioned at one longitudinal extremity, the gear wheel at an intermediate position, and the sliding unit at the other extremity, transforming a vertical stacking problem into a longitudinal distribution solution that reduces vertical thickness while maintaining structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The actuating device is segmented into distinct functional modules (motor, gear wheel, sliding unit) that are spatially separated along the longitudinal axis. This segmentation allows each component to be optimally positioned for its function while collectively reducing the overall vertical envelope of the assembly
2Adaptability or versatility
If the cavity is enlarged to accommodate the actuating device, then the device can be integrated, but the rear spoiler inner panel must be lowered affecting passenger space
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of increasing cavity volume through vertical expansion that would lower the inner panel, the invention utilizes the longitudinal dimension of the spoiler to accommodate the actuating device. This dimensional shift allows full integration of the actuating functionality while preserving the vertical clearance required for passenger head space
3Productivity
If a powerful motor is used for fast deployment and retraction, then the blade can be actuated quickly, but the actuating device occupies more space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the use of a powerful motor for rapid blade actuation by distributing the motor longitudinally at one extremity of the spoiler, away from the blade's vertical projection. This spatial arrangement allows a high-power motor to be installed without increasing the vertical thickness of the actuating device assembly, thus achieving fast deployment while maintaining a compact vertical profile
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 configuration allows the actuating device to be placed in a narrower space, providing greater freedom in rear spoiler design, enabling the use of a larger motor for faster blade deployment and retraction, and maintaining a compact and efficient design.
Implementation Method 1
a drive unit formed by a motor connected to a center gear wheel
Implementation Method 2
a center gear wheel connected to a translation element... cooperate with a rack placed at the interface between the center gear wheel and the aerodynamic blade
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~6
Figure 7~10
AI summary
The invention relates to an actuating device (2) of a mobile aerodynamic blade (36) for an automotive vehicle (40) rear spoiler (42), comprising a drive unit (4) comprising a motor (6) and a main gear wheel (8), the actuating device (2) comprising : - at least one outer gear wheel (16), and - a transmission of movement element (18), the transmission of movement element (18) being connected to the main gear wheel (8) and to the outer gear wheel (16), the outer gear wheel (16) being configured to cooperate with a sliding unit (24) allowing to deploy and retract the mobile aerodynamic blade.