Vertical Sliding Shutter for Vehicle Cooling Air Intake
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for opening and closing cooling air intakes on vehicles are inefficient due to longitudinal dimensions, complexity in control mechanisms, and susceptibility to deformation from airflow, which negatively impact aerodynamics and fuel consumption.
Innovation Solution
A device featuring vertically sliding shutters with lateral guides and a linear actuator, allowing for adjustable positioning and reduced longitudinal space occupation, with optional safety mechanisms and adaptable dimensions to fit various vehicle openings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If horizontally pivoted shutters are used to control airflow through radiator cores, then airflow management is achieved, but the device occupies excessive longitudinal space and becomes complex in control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The shutter mechanism is changed from horizontal pivoting to vertical sliding motion. The shutter moves vertically within a frame structure, transitioning the control dimension from horizontal rotation to vertical translation. This dimensional change reduces the longitudinal space required while simplifying the control mechanism to a linear actuator system rather than complex leverages and kinematic mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The shutter is divided into multiple horizontal segments or slats that can move independently or collectively. Each segment is guided by lateral guides within the frame, allowing for simplified control of individual sections. This segmentation enables the complex airflow management function to be achieved through simpler, modular control elements rather than a single complex pivoting mechanism.
2Productivity
If horizontally pivoted shutters are used to control airflow, then airflow management is achieved, but the shutters are prone to deformation from air impact
Solution Approach 1:
The shutter orientation and motion are changed from horizontal pivoting to vertical sliding. The shutter panels are positioned vertically within the frame, presenting a more aerodynamic profile that reduces the impact surface area exposed to horizontal airflow. This dimensional reorientation stabilizes the shutter structure by minimizing direct air impact on the moving components.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame structure enclosing the vertically sliding shutter provides aerodynamic protection. The frame acts as a shield that deflects and distributes airflow around the shutter mechanism, converting the potentially harmful direct air impact into a beneficial flow pattern that reduces stress on the shutter while maintaining airflow control functionality.
3Device complexity
If vertically sliding shutters with lateral guides are used, then longitudinal space is reduced and control complexity is minimized, but the device requires precise alignment and guidance mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The lateral guides serve multiple functions simultaneously: they provide precise alignment for vertical sliding motion, act as structural support elements within the frame, and function as aerodynamic fairings that streamline airflow around the shutter. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate precision alignment components, making the manufacturing requirements more manageable while maintaining control simplicity.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention refers to a device for opening and closing a cooling air intake on the front part of a vehicle, comprising: a frame (7) with a closed structure, suitable to be applied inside said front part of the vehicle, in correspondence of said one or more air intakes; a shutter (8) suitable to slide in the frame between two positions, a first of said position being in correspondence of a respective air intake, so that in said first position the shutter completely closes the air intake, a second position leaving said air intake completely open; means for actuating said sliding.