Spring-Operated Fail-Safe Module for Active Grille Shutters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Active grille systems for vehicle engine compartments face challenges in controlling airflow during electrical or actuator failures, leading to potential overheating when vanes are stuck in the closed position, necessitating a fail-safe mechanism to move vanes to an open position independently of the primary power source.
Innovation Solution
A fail-safe module with a link bar system that disconnects vanes from the primary actuator in case of power failure, using an independent power source to move vanes to a safe position, ensuring airflow is maintained and preventing overheating.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If an electrically driven actuator is used to control the vanes, then the ability to control airflow is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to potential power or actuator failure
Solution Approach 1:
The spring is pre-loaded in the fail-safe module to store mechanical energy in advance. When power failure occurs, this pre-stored energy automatically activates the cam mechanism to rotate the vanes to the open position, ensuring reliable operation during critical failure conditions without requiring additional power sources or complex control systems.
2Device complexity
If the fail-safe module is always engaged with the actuator, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to move vanes independently during failure deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The fail-safe module incorporates a cam mechanism that dynamically transitions between engaged and disengaged states. During normal operation, the cam remains engaged with the actuator, allowing synchronized control. Upon detecting actuator failure or power loss, the cam automatically disengages and rotates under spring force to independently position the vanes in the open state, providing both integration and independent fail-safe operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A fail safe module for an active grille having two or more vanes movable between an open position and a closed position. In the event of failure of an electrically driven actuator, a fail safe module connected between a driven vane of the two or more vanes and the electrically driven actuator moves the vanes to a fail-safe position. The fail safe module has a locked and unlocked position. When the fail safe module is in the locked position the fail safe module, the electrically driven actuator and the two or more vanes move together in response to the power provided by the electrically driven actuator. When the fail safe module is in the unlocked position, the fail safe module disengages the two or more vanes from the electrically driven actuator and moves the two or more vanes to the fail-safe position.