Variable Deflector Apparatus for Vehicle Side Step Aerodynamics
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Solution Overview
Problem
The aerodynamic performance of vehicles equipped with side steps is deteriorated due to the protrusion of the side step, leading to reduced fuel efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A variable deflector apparatus is mounted to the side step, comprising a drive device, a side deflector that can be perpendicularly drawn out downwards, and a front deflector that unfolds to cover the lower portion of the side step, with a vehicle-speed sensor and controller to adjust the extent of deployment based on vehicle speed, enhancing aerodynamic performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the side step is fixedly mounted to the vehicle body, then the passenger can easily get on or off the vehicle, but the aerodynamic performance of the vehicle is deteriorated due to the side step protruding laterally
Solution Approach 1:
The side step is transformed from a fixed structure to a movable one that can change its position between a deployed state (protruding laterally for passenger access) and a retracted state (aligned with the vehicle body for aerodynamic efficiency). This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction by allowing the side step to adapt its configuration based on operational requirements.
2Ease of operation
If the side step protrudes laterally when the vehicle is being driven, then the passenger can access the vehicle, but fuel efficiency is undesirably reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The side step automatically adjusts its position based on vehicle operating conditions. During driving, it retracts to minimize aerodynamic drag and energy loss. When the vehicle is stationary, it deploys to facilitate passenger access, thus resolving the energy efficiency contradiction.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a variable deflector apparatus is added to the side step, then aerodynamic performance is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The side step assembly is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as both a structural support element and an aerodynamic deflector. The same components that provide mechanical support also guide air flow, eliminating the need for separate aerodynamic devices and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The aerodynamic deflector function is merged with the side step structure itself. The side step is designed with specific geometric features that guide air flow along the vehicle body, combining the mechanical function of passenger access with the aerodynamic function of drag reduction in a single integrated component.
Data Source
AI summary
A variable deflector apparatus for a side step of a vehicle may include a drive device, a side deflector operated by power transmitted from the drive device, the side deflector configured to be received in the side step when the side deflector is not deployed and to be perpendicularly drawn out downwards from the side step when the side deflector is deployed, thus improving aerodynamic performance of the vehicle, and a front deflector connecting a front end of the side step with a front end of the side deflector, the front deflector being kept folded when the side deflector is not deployed and configured to be unfolded to cover a lower portion of the front end of the side step when the side deflector is deployed, thus improving the aerodynamic performance of the vehicle.