Vehicle Wheel Element with Movable Flap for Brake Cooling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vehicle wheels face a trade-off between brake cooling and aerodynamic efficiency, as openings for air circulation to cool brakes detract from aerodynamics, increasing energy consumption.
Innovation Solution
A wheel element with movable flaps that pivot between closed and open positions to optimize aerodynamics during travel, allowing air to circulate for brake cooling only when necessary, utilizing mechanical components without electrical systems, and incorporating temperature-sensitive materials to automate flap positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If openings are added to the wheel to allow air circulation for brake cooling, then brake cooling efficiency is improved, but aerodynamic performance deteriorates and energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the wheel cover movable between open and closed positions rather than fixed. The cover can dynamically adjust its state based on operating conditions - remaining closed during normal travel to optimize aerodynamics and open during braking to enable brake cooling. This dynamic adaptability resolves the contradiction by allowing the system to have different configurations for different functional requirements.
2Use of energy by moving object
If a solid flange is added over the entire surface of the wheel to optimize aerodynamics, then energy consumption is reduced, but brake cooling capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the wheel assembly into separate functional components: a solid aerodynamic cover and a movable flap system. The cover can remain substantially solid to maintain aerodynamic efficiency, while the segmented flap mechanism can be selectively opened to provide brake cooling when needed. This segmentation allows independent optimization of both aerodynamics and cooling functions.
3Temperature
If movable flaps are added to enable dynamic opening for brake cooling, then brake cooling is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by designing the movable flap system to operate automatically based on physical principles rather than requiring external control systems. The flap mechanism uses pressure differential, centrifugal force, or elastic memory to automatically open during braking conditions and close during normal travel, eliminating the need for sensors, actuators, or electronic control. This self-service approach enables complex functionality while minimizing additional system complexity.
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
The solution ensures effective brake cooling while minimizing energy consumption by optimizing aerodynamics, providing an aesthetic effect, and automatically adjusting flap positions based on speed and temperature.
Implementation Method 1
The elastic member may be made of a material suitable for deforming as a function of temperature, causing the shutter to pivot into the open position from a predetermined temperature
Implementation Method 2
The actuating means can be adapted to cause the shutter to pivot as a function of one or more parameters of the group comprising the speed of rotation of the wheel
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a wheel element (1) of a vehicle (II) intended to be positioned on a wheel (I) comprising a rim on which a tire and a spoke are received, the wheel (I) defining a plane (VI) passing through an outer sidewall of the tire. The wheel element (1) comprises (i) a body (2) configured to be positioned on the spoke of the wheel (I) and (ii) at least one flap (4) rotatable relative to the body (2) between a closed position in which the flap (4) is positioned substantially in the plane (VI) of the wheel (I) and an open position in which the flap (4) is positioned in a plane inclined relative to the plane (VI) of the wheel (I). The wheel element (1) comprises means for actuating the flap(s) (4) which allow the flap (4) to be pivoted in the open or closed position.