Vehicle Mirror with Adjustable Orientation for Drag Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle exterior mirror systems do not effectively manage aerodynamic drag while maintaining functional visibility, especially at varying vehicle speeds and operational conditions.
Innovation Solution
A multi-purpose exterior mirror module with an integrated image sensor and adjustable reflective surface, controlled by an actuator and controller, which can change orientation to minimize drag by altering its surface area exposure in airflow directions, functioning as both a conventional mirror and an airfoil.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the mirror assembly uses a large surface area to maintain visibility, then the viewing function is improved, but the aerodynamic drag increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mirror assembly is made dynamically adjustable through an actuator mechanism that allows the mirror to rotate between a first position (providing large surface area for visibility) and a second position (reducing surface area to minimize aerodynamic drag). This dynamic reconfiguration enables the system to adapt to different operational conditions, resolving the contradiction between maintaining visibility and reducing drag.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the mirror assembly is made adjustable to reduce drag, then the aerodynamic performance is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mirror assembly is segmented into movable and stationary portions, with the movable portion containing the mirror element that can be independently adjusted. This segmentation allows the drag-reduction function to be isolated to a specific component, simplifying the overall system architecture while still achieving the desired aerodynamic performance through controlled movement of the mirror element.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the mirror assembly rotates to minimize drag, then the aerodynamic efficiency is improved, but the viewing function may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The mirror assembly operates periodically, alternating between a first position optimized for visibility during low-speed or stationary conditions and a second position optimized for drag reduction during high-speed operation. The controller manages this periodic switching based on vehicle speed and operational conditions, ensuring that the viewing function is maintained when needed while achieving aerodynamic efficiency when appropriate.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3
AI summary
A multi-purpose exterior mirror module for a vehicle comprising an image sensor configured to capture image data and a reflective surface disposed on a side portion. A housing is configured to support the reflective surface and the image sensor in connection with the vehicle. An actuator is configured to adjust an orientation of the reflective surface about an adjustment axis. A controller is in communication with the image sensor and the actuator. The controller is configured to control the actuator to adjust an orientation of the reflective surface about the adjustment axis.