Photo: Screenshot from YouTube
Daimler AG has filed a patent for a system that can cool a vehicle’s tires using water spray. The technology apparently can collect and store water, only to then then spray it on tires whenever needed.
The complex system has the role of controlling tire temperatures, and we expect it to be used in high-performance cars built by the German corporation. However, the applications of the technology could be expanded to regular models.
Instead of requiring refills by the user, the system collects water from beneath the windshield and rear window, places where the liquid usually rests after a vehicle drives in the rain or snow. The car’s heating system is then used to control the temperature of the water.
A network of sensors monitors tire temperature for each wheel, and a computer compares it to outside temperature to determine whether water spray is necessary.
If the algorithm calls for water, a set of dedicated injectors will spray cooled or heated water on the tires. The patent application explains that the system would help reduce ice and snow buildup during the winter, while cold water would reduce tire temperature during the summer.
Through the control of tire temperature, Mercedes-Benz will be able to extend a tire’s life, as well as to improve its performance in all driving conditions. Furthermore, cars fitted with the system should be safer, as the tires will have a reduced risk of explosion if their temperature is controlled in all conditions.
The patent filing (PDF below) shows a Mercedes-Benz sedan that features the system. The automaker seems to have fitted three injectors into the wheel well to deal with water spray. If an extra injector would be installed, it could help cool the brakes.
A system like this is employed in the world of truck racing, where brake cooling is essential to optimal performance. Modern cars use ventilated and/or drilled brake discs to dissipate heat, and some models with special requirements have dedicated ducts to feed air to the front discs. The system from Mercedes-Benz could also have this role in some models, as minor modifications would be needed to spray water on the discs.
Instead of requiring refills by the user, the system collects water from beneath the windshield and rear window, places where the liquid usually rests after a vehicle drives in the rain or snow. The car’s heating system is then used to control the temperature of the water.
A network of sensors monitors tire temperature for each wheel, and a computer compares it to outside temperature to determine whether water spray is necessary.
If the algorithm calls for water, a set of dedicated injectors will spray cooled or heated water on the tires. The patent application explains that the system would help reduce ice and snow buildup during the winter, while cold water would reduce tire temperature during the summer.
Through the control of tire temperature, Mercedes-Benz will be able to extend a tire’s life, as well as to improve its performance in all driving conditions. Furthermore, cars fitted with the system should be safer, as the tires will have a reduced risk of explosion if their temperature is controlled in all conditions.
The patent filing (PDF below) shows a Mercedes-Benz sedan that features the system. The automaker seems to have fitted three injectors into the wheel well to deal with water spray. If an extra injector would be installed, it could help cool the brakes.
A system like this is employed in the world of truck racing, where brake cooling is essential to optimal performance. Modern cars use ventilated and/or drilled brake discs to dissipate heat, and some models with special requirements have dedicated ducts to feed air to the front discs. The system from Mercedes-Benz could also have this role in some models, as minor modifications would be needed to spray water on the discs.
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