Variable Aerodynamic Device Linkage Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aerodynamic devices for vehicles, such as air brakes and wings, often require elevation before deployment, making them unsuitable for impromptu use and lacking versatility in function, particularly in transitioning between stowed and braking positions while in motion.
Innovation Solution
A variable aerodynamic device with a wing element, linear actuator, and linkage system that allows continuous movement between stowed, downforce, and air brake configurations using a single pair of actuators, enabling the device to function as both a wing for increased downforce and an air brake without separate elevation actions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a panel is elevated on pylons before deployment as an air brake, then the brake can be positioned correctly for braking, but the device requires additional actuators and cannot be used for impromptu braking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the elevation function and braking deployment into a single integrated motion. The wing element moves directly from a flush stowed position to a braking position where it projects above the bodywork, eliminating the need for separate elevation actuators and pylons. This single integrated action reduces device complexity while maintaining reliable braking function.
Solution Approach 2:
The wing element serves multiple functions: it acts as a streamlined fairing when flush with the bodywork, provides downforce when tilted at intermediate angles, and functions as an air brake when projected above the bodywork. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated elevation mechanisms, reducing actuator requirements while maintaining reliable braking.
2Ease of operation
If an air brake is designed to lie flush with bodywork and tilt forwards without elevation, then deployment is simplified, but the device cannot act as a wing to increase downforce
Solution Approach 1:
The wing element is designed to be dynamically adjustable to at least three distinct positions: flush with bodywork (streamlined), tilted at intermediate angles (downforce), and projected above bodywork (air brake). This dynamic positioning capability allows the single device to adapt to different aerodynamic requirements while maintaining ease of deployment through a single tilting motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the angular parameter of the wing element relative to the bodywork to achieve different functions. By varying the tilt angle from 0 degrees (flush) through intermediate angles (downforce) to larger angles (air brake), the device achieves multiple aerodynamic functions without requiring separate elevation actions, thus maintaining deployment simplicity while increasing versatility.
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple actuators are used to elevate and position the air brake panel, then precise positioning is achieved, but mechanical efficiency and response time are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the elevation function from the positioning system, allowing the wing element to move directly from a flush stowed position to operational positions without intermediate elevation steps. This eliminates redundant actuators and mechanical steps, improving response time and mechanical efficiency while maintaining adequate positioning accuracy through the simplified single-degree-of-freedom motion.
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
Enables seamless transition between configurations while the vehicle is in motion, reducing the need for additional actuators and allowing for automatic deployment as an air brake, enhancing mechanical efficiency and practicality by using a hydraulic ram and electronic control unit for quick positioning and integration with the vehicle's braking system.
Implementation Method 1
a linear actuator mounted between the body and a first location on the wing element for moving the rear of the wing element between a raised position and a lowered position
Implementation Method 2
a linkage mounted between the body and the wing element, the linkage being pivotally coupled to the wing element at a second location forwards of the first location
Implementation Method 3
the wing element is capable of imposing a downforce on the body as a result of the action of rearward airflow on the wing
Data Source
AI summary
A variable aerodynamic device for a vehicle, comprising: a wing element (1) having a front and a rear; a frame or body (2) for mounting to a vehicle; a linear actuator (4, 5) mounted between the body (2) and a first mounting point or first location (8) on the wing element for moving the rear of the wing element between a raised position and a lowered position relative to the body; and a guide strut or linkage (9) mounted between the body and the wing element, the linkage being pivotally coupled to the wing element at a second mounting point or second location (10) forwards of the first location (8); the linkage being configured such that when the rear of the wing element is moved by the linear actuator between the raised position and the lowered position, the second location moves rearwardly relative to the body.