Variable Air Guiding Apparatus for Motor Vehicle Body
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air guiding apparatuses for motor vehicle bodies generate edge vortices when the rear wing extends, leading to increased air resistance, which is not effectively minimized by prior solutions.
Innovation Solution
A completely variable air guiding apparatus with a first air guiding element that moves into positions enclosing an angle less than 360° with the vehicle body, and a second element extending along the vehicle longitudinal axis, which can be partially received within the first element, and is configured to extend or retract to avoid vortices and reduce drag.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If the rear wing is extended to generate downforce, then the downforce is improved, but edge vortices are generated leading to increased air resistance
Solution Approach 1:
The air guiding apparatus is divided into multiple independent components: a first air guiding element (rear wing) that can be extended to generate downforce, and a second air guiding element (winglet) that can be independently positioned to counteract edge vortices. This segmentation allows each element to perform its specific function without interfering with the other, resolving the contradiction between generating downforce and minimizing air resistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The second air guiding element acts as an intermediary component that specifically addresses the harmful edge vortices generated by the first air guiding element. By positioning the second element at the lateral ends, it serves as a mediator that counteracts the harmful aerodynamic effects while allowing the first element to maintain its downforce-generating function.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If winglets are added to minimize edge vortices, then air resistance is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The second air guiding element is configured to be received within or alongside the first air guiding element, creating a nested arrangement. This nesting approach allows the winglet to be integrated into the existing structure rather than adding a completely separate component, thereby minimizing the increase in device complexity while still providing the necessary aerodynamic benefits.
Solution Approach 2:
Both air guiding elements are designed to be movable and adjustable rather than fixed, allowing the system to adapt to different driving conditions. The first element can be extended or retracted based on downforce requirements, while the second element can be positioned to optimize vortex counteraction, reducing the need for complex fixed multi-component structures.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the air guiding apparatus is made completely variable and movable, then aerodynamic optimization is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The complex aerodynamic optimization task is segmented into two independent adjustable elements, each with its own adjusting apparatus. This segmentation allows for simpler, more manageable adjustment mechanisms compared to a single complex variable structure, while still achieving comprehensive aerodynamic optimization through the coordinated action of both elements.
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 reduces fuel consumption and maintains a stable position at high speeds while minimizing air resistance and allowing the apparatus to be integrated into the vehicle's basic shape, with the option to extend only when required, thereby optimizing downforce and aerodynamics.
Implementation Method 1
A air guiding element (4) for flow control, which air guiding element (4) is configured to be moved, with the aid of an adjusting apparatus (5), into at least a first position and a second position
Implementation Method 2
As soon as the rear wing has extended from its flush positioning with the motor vehicle body, as is usually the case during driving operation, edge vortices are generated at lateral ends of the rear wing
Implementation Method 3
The second air guiding element is configured to extend, in an active position, in a direction of a vehicle longitudinal axis
Implementation Method 4
which edge vortices in turn lead to an increase in the air resistance of the motor vehicle body
Implementation Method 5
The air guiding element is configured to be moved, with the aid of an adjusting apparatus, into at least a first position and a second position
Data Source
AI summary
An air guiding apparatus for a motor vehicle body includes a first air guiding element configured to be received in the motor vehicle body and to be moved, with the aid of an adjusting apparatus, into at least a first position and a second position. The first air guiding element is received in the motor vehicle body in the first position and, in the second position, the first air guiding element encloses an angle which has a value of less than 360° with the motor vehicle body. The first air guiding element is configured to extend in a direction of a vehicle transverse axis. The air guiding apparatus further includes a second air guiding element configured to extend, in an active position, in a direction of a vehicle longitudinal axis. The second air guiding element is further configured to be received at least partially in the first air guiding element.