Dive planes have gotten extra frequent on efficiency automobiles as a solution to improve downforce, however a Ford patent utility hints at a extra subtle model of those aero aids.

As a substitute of being fastened in place like regular dive planes, the patent utility describes deployable variations that could possibly be adjusted based mostly on completely different automobile parameters. Motion could be managed by actuators, in response to the appliance, which was printed by the US Patent and Trademark Workplace (USPTO) Jun. 8, 2023, however initially filed Dec. 7 , 2021.

Ford deployable dive planes patent picture

Mounted on the entrance corners of a automobile, dive planes can generate extra downforce and assist with the aerodynamic steadiness of the automotive. As a result of they stick out of the bodywork at a perpendicular angle, they give the impression of being a bit like miniature variations of submarine dive planes, which seems to be the place the title comes from.

Nonetheless, as Ford notes within the patent utility, any fastened aerodynamic system will solely work correctly in sure circumstances. Having dive planes that may deploy when wanted and retract at different instances affords better flexibility, a bit just like the retractable rear spoilers that are actually frequent on efficiency automobiles. A Bugatti Chiron can elevate its rear wing for max downforce or decrease it to cut back drag, so why not do the identical with dive planes?

Ford deployable dive planes patent picture

That appears to be what the Blue Oval goes for right here. The appliance says the proposed deployable dive aircraft system could possibly be used to “optimize drag, raise, and different aerodynamic properties,” benefitting “each buyer confidence and automobile functionality with much less compromise.”

As with all patent materials, although, there us no assure deployable dive planes will seem on a future Ford manufacturing automobile. Ford isn’t any stranger to efficiency automobiles, although, so there’ll probably be no scarcity of potential functions for this concept. It could possibly be a great match for efficiency EVs, the place the drag-reduction advantages of retractable dive planes could be particularly related for maximizing vary.