Turbine Insert for Vehicle Wheel Aerodynamics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Standard vehicle wheel trims lack optimal aerodynamic characteristics, impacting vehicle aerodynamics and brake cooling, while existing aerodynamic hubcaps compromise on cooling efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A turbine insert with aerodynamically contoured radial blades, resembling an 'aircraft wing' profile, is inserted into radial openings of the wheel, redirecting airflow to improve aerodynamics and cooling, featuring adjustable orientation and fixation mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If standard wheel trim with large openings is used, then brake cooling is improved, but aerodynamic drag increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel trim is segmented into multiple functional zones: aerodynamic blades for drag reduction, openwork areas for brake cooling, and decorative elements for styling. This segmentation allows each zone to independently optimize its function without compromising others.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the wheel trim have different properties: the aerodynamic blades have smooth contoured surfaces for airflow management, while the openwork areas have open structures for cooling. This local differentiation enables simultaneous optimization of aerodynamics and cooling.
2Loss of energy
If aerodynamic hubcaps with minimal openings are used, then aerodynamic drag is reduced, but brake cooling deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel trim is segmented into multiple functional zones: aerodynamic blades for drag reduction, openwork areas for brake cooling, and decorative elements for styling. This segmentation allows each zone to independently optimize its function without compromising others.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the wheel trim have different properties: the aerodynamic blades have smooth contoured surfaces for airflow management, while the openwork areas have open structures for cooling. This local differentiation enables simultaneous optimization of aerodynamics and cooling.
3Loss of energy
If wheel inserts are added for aerodynamic improvement, then aerodynamic drag is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The aerodynamic blades, openwork cooling areas, and decorative elements are merged into a single integrated wheel trim component. This integration eliminates the need for separate inserts and assembly steps, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining aerodynamic benefits.
Solution Approach 2:
The wheel trim serves multiple functions simultaneously: aerodynamic drag reduction through contoured blades, brake cooling through openwork areas, and vehicle styling through decorative elements. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate components for each function.
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
The turbine insert optimizes aerodynamic drag, enhances brake cooling, and offers customizable styling with minimal impact on production costs, achieving a CO2 reduction of 1g/Km and attractive structural design.
Implementation Method 1
The turbine insert comprises at least one aerodynamic blade, substantially radial, of cross-section with an 'aircraft wing' profile, oriented to move the air from one side of the wheel to the other side of the wheel during the rotation of the latter
Implementation Method 2
Depending on the orientation of the airfoils, the movement of air caused by the rotation of the wheel is a suction movement, that is to say a movement of air from the outer face of the wheel towards the inner face of the wheel, or a blowing movement, that is to say a movement of air from the inside face of the wheel towards the outside face of the wheel
Data Source
Figure 1~3A
Figure 4~6
AI summary
The invention relates to a turbine insert (20) for a vehicle wheel. The wheel (10) comprises a rim (11), a hub (12), and a spoked structure connecting the hub (12) to the rim (11) and defining radial cutouts. The turbine insert (20) according to the invention is intended to be inserted into a radial cutout and comprises at least one substantially radial aerodynamic blade (25) with an "airplane wing" profile cross-section, oriented to move air from one side of the wheel (10) to the other side of the wheel during its rotation. Positioning means for the turbine insert (20) to allow it to be placed in a radial cutout are provided, as well as means for securing the turbine insert (20) in position within the radial cutout.