Brake system

Abstract

A brake system (1) comprising a brake sense simulator device (2) and a brake pedal (3) wherein the brake pedal (3) is operatively connected to the brake sense simulator device (2), wherein the brake system (1) is configured such that actuation of the brake pedal (3) by a driver corresponds to a reaction force applied to the brake pedal (3) by the brake sensation simulator device (2) opposite the actuation of the brake pedal (3), and wherein the haptic feedback actuator (4) is configured to deliver haptic feedback to the brake pedal (3).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a braking system for a brake-by-wire (“BBW”) type vehicle having two or more wheels, the braking system being actuated by a driver using a brake pedal or lever, and to a method for actuating the braking system. Background Technology

[0002] In the BBW type braking system, there is decoupling between the force and displacement applied by the driver to the brake pedal or lever and the resulting braking force applied by the calipers to the vehicle wheels.

[0003] In the BBW braking system, the force and displacement applied by the driver to the brake pedal or lever are converted into electrical signals, which are processed by the control unit to control the actuation of the brake system's calipers.

[0004] Therefore, it is known to equip BBW braking systems with a brake feel simulator device that is connected to the brake pedal or lever and is configured to simulate the feel and stiffness of the brake pedal or lever in a conventional hydraulic braking system, thereby mimicking the "stiffness curve" of the brake pedal or lever.

[0005] The “stiffness curve” refers to the relationship between the displacement of the brake pedal or lever along its travel and the corresponding reaction force exerted by the simulator device on the brake pedal or lever and thus on the driver by the brake pedal or lever.

[0006] Driving safety and comfort depend heavily on the stiffness of the brake pedal or lever, which is simulated by a brake feel device.

[0007] Brake feel simulator devices, including master cylinders connected to the brake pedal, are known.

[0008] The master cylinder includes a floating element that moves by the driver's mechanical action on the brake pedal and has the function of pressurizing hydraulic fluid.

[0009] Hydraulic fluid is contained in a reservoir, which is fluidly connected to the master cylinder via a hydraulic connector.

[0010] In addition, the master cylinder is fluidly connected to the absorber via an additional hydraulic connection. The absorber is a device that typically has multiple elastic elements arranged in series and parallel, and the elastic elements are configured to apply an elastic reaction force opposite to the actuation of the brake pedal.

[0011] In known BBW braking systems, the decoupling between the force applied to the brake pedal by the driver and the braking force applied to the vehicle wheels by the calipers creates difficulties in returning tactile signals and feedback to the driver, such as brake pedal jerk, which is only triggered when the ABS system intervenes in conventional braking systems.

[0012] Furthermore, neither BBW braking systems nor traditional hydraulic braking systems are permitted to transmit driver-specific alarms or warning signals related to the braking system itself, such as parking brake engagement or disengagement warnings.

[0013] Another key aspect of the known BBW braking system is the large size of the known simulator unit. This makes it difficult to install the known simulator unit, whether in a suspended brake pedal configuration or a flat brake pedal configuration, in the limited space of a vehicle's passenger compartment. Due to its large size, the known simulator unit is typically installed in the vehicle's engine compartment, under the hood.

[0014] The large number of components also negatively impacts the cost and maintenance requirements of known simulator devices.

[0015] Another key aspect of known simulator devices relates to both actual and driver-perceived safety, as pressurized components exist within the passenger compartment, such as the simulator's master cylinder, which may be mounted close to the driver. In fact, a constant pressure of approximately 50 bar needs to be maintained within the master cylinder to ensure braking actuation. Summary of the Invention

[0016] The purpose of this invention is to provide a BBW-type braking system in order to eliminate at least some of the defects in the prior art.

[0017] A particular objective of this invention is to provide a braking system configured to send and transmit tactile signals and feedback to the driver, such as brake pedal vibration triggered by ABS intervention in conventional braking systems, or parking brake engagement or disengagement warnings.

[0018] Another particular object of the present invention is to provide a more compact braking system that is suitable for installation in the passenger compartment of a vehicle in either a suspended brake pedal configuration or a flat brake pedal configuration.

[0019] Another particular objective of this invention is to provide a braking system with lower cost and lower maintenance requirements.

[0020] Another particular object of the present invention is to provide a braking system with enhanced safety that is both practical and perceptible to the driver.

[0021] These and other objectives are achieved by the braking system according to claim 1.

[0022] The dependent claims relate to preferred and advantageous embodiments of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0023] To better understand the present invention and recognize its advantages, some non-limiting exemplary embodiments of the invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0024] - Figure 1 The illustration shows a braking system according to the prior art;

[0025] - Figure 2 The illustration shows a braking system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] - Figure 3 This is a front perspective view of the brake pedal of a braking system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] - Figure 4 yes Figure 3 The rear-view perspective view of the brake pedal shown;

[0028] - Figure 5 yes Figure 3 The side view of the brake pedal shown;

[0029] - Figure 6 yes Figure 3 The brake pedal shown is a bottom view;

[0030] - Figure 7 yes Figure 3 An exploded perspective view of the brake pedal is shown.

[0031] - Figure 8 This is a perspective view of a brake feel simulator device for a braking system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] - Figure 9 yes Figure 8 The diagram shows a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the braking sensation simulator device. Detailed Implementation

[0033] This invention relates to a braking system for brake-by-wire (“BBW”) type vehicles having two or more wheels, which can be actuated by the driver using a brake pedal or lever. Therefore, in this specification, unless otherwise specified, the term “brake pedal” broadly refers to both brake pedals for motor vehicles and brake levers for motorcycles, mopeds, etc. Furthermore, “electrical connection” refers to a connection used for the transmission of electricity and / or electrical signals.

[0034] Braking system 1

[0035] Referring to the accompanying drawings, the braking system is generally indicated by reference numeral 1.

[0036] Specifically, braking system 1 is a "BBW" type braking system.

[0037] The braking system 1 includes a braking feel simulator device 2.

[0038] In addition, the braking system 1 includes a brake pedal 3, which is operatively connected to the brake feel simulator device 2.

[0039] The braking system 1 is configured such that the actuation of the brake pedal 3 by the driver corresponds to the reaction force applied to the brake pedal 3 by the brake feel simulator device 2, which is opposite to the actuation of the brake pedal 3.

[0040] According to an aspect of the invention, the braking system 1 further includes a haptic feedback actuator 4.

[0041] The tactile feedback actuator 4 is connected to the brake pedal 3.

[0042] In addition, the haptic feedback actuator 4 is configured to transmit haptic feedback to the brake pedal 3.

[0043] The term "haptic feedback actuator 4" also means "haptic feedback actuator".

[0044] Advantageously, the braking system 1 configured in this way allows tactile signals and feedback to be sent back to the driver by transmitting appropriate tactile feedback from the tactile feedback actuator 4 to the brake pedal 3, such as a jolt or vibration triggered when the ABS system intervenes.

[0045] Furthermore, the braking system 1 configured in this way allows the transmission of warning or alert signals, particularly related to the braking system 1 itself, to the brake pedal 3 and thus to the driver. These warnings may include, for example, an alert regarding the engagement or disengagement of the electronic parking brake (“EPB”), the activation or deactivation of the electronic stability control (“ESC”), the engagement or disengagement of the vehicle's ignition key, a malfunction warning for the braking system 1, or an activation or deactivation warning for regenerative braking. Additionally, the braking system 1 allows the transmission of warnings regarding insufficient or excessive braking force to the brake pedal 3, thus instructing the driver to increase braking force, for example, when the vehicle is approaching another vehicle and the current braking force is insufficient to avoid a collision.

[0046] According to an embodiment, the haptic feedback actuator 4 is configured to transmit vibrations to the brake pedal 3 according to one or more vibration modes or vibration "models," such as click vibrations, ramp vibrations with increasing or decreasing intensity, pulse vibrations, continuous intensity vibrations, or vibrations interspersed with pauses of varying durations, or continuous intensity vibrations of varying durations, or vibrations of varying frequencies, or vibrations of varying intensities. In particular, each vibration mode may correspond to a different signal or alarm. Advantageously, the braking system 1 configured in this way allows for the transmission of modulated signals or alarms to the driver.

[0047] According to the implementation, the haptic feedback actuator 4 is a piezoelectric actuator or an eccentric rotating mass motor (“ERM”) or a linear resonant actuator (“LRA”) or a solenoid actuator or a brushless actuator or a stepper actuator or a bass dithering actuator or a voice coil 27 (“voice coil”) or any combination thereof.

[0048] Preferably, the haptic feedback actuator 4 is a voice coil 27, and preferably passive, meaning it is powered by a power source outside the voice coil 27. Specifically, the haptic feedback actuator is powered by a battery or electrical circuit. Preferably, the electrical circuit is integrated within the brake pedal 3, and more preferably within the pedal crank 6 of the brake pedal 3. Therefore, the electrical circuit is hidden from view and does not obstruct the driver's view.

[0049] According to the implementation method, brake pedal 3 is the brake pedal of a motor vehicle.

[0050] According to an embodiment, the brake pedal 3 includes a pedal 5 fixed to the pedal crank 6.

[0051] Pedal 5 is fixed to the end of pedal crank 6. The opposite end of pedal crank 6 is operatively connected to brake feel simulator device 2.

[0052] The pedal 5 includes a pressing wall 7 and an opposite fixing wall 8.

[0053] The pressure wall 7 faces the driver and is configured to be pressed by the driver's foot to actuate the brake pedal 3.

[0054] Conversely, the fixed wall 8 faces the pedal crank 6 and is fixed to the pedal crank 6.

[0055] In addition, the pedal crank 6 includes a support wall 9, which faces the pedal 5 and is fixed to the pedal 5.

[0056] Specifically, the support wall 9 is fixed to the fixed wall 8 of the pedal 5.

[0057] According to the implementation method, the haptic feedback actuator 4 is positioned at the pedal 5.

[0058] According to the embodiment, the haptic feedback actuator 4 is positioned at the fixed wall 8 of the pedal 5.

[0059] According to the embodiment, the haptic feedback actuator 4 is positioned between the pedal 5 and the pedal crank 6.

[0060] Specifically, the haptic feedback actuator 4 is positioned between the fixed wall 8 of the pedal 5 and the support wall 9 of the pedal crank 6.

[0061] According to the embodiment, the support wall 9 forms a receiving seat 10 defined by the receiving wall 28. The receiving seat 10 opens toward the pedal 5.

[0062] According to the embodiment, the haptic feedback actuator 4 is housed within the housing 10.

[0063] Preferably, the haptic feedback actuator 4 is a voice coil 27 inserted into the receiving seat 10.

[0064] The haptic feedback actuator 4 is positioned against the pedal 5, preferably against the fixed wall 8 of the pedal 5. Advantageously, this contact between the haptic feedback actuator and the pedal 5 facilitates the transmission of vibration from the haptic feedback actuator 4 to the pedal 5.

[0065] According to the embodiment, the haptic feedback actuator 4 is rigidly fixed to the receiving wall 28.

[0066] According to the embodiment, the accommodating wall 28 is made of a metallic material.

[0067] Advantageously, this configuration facilitates the transmission of vibrations from the tactile feedback actuator 4 to the pedal 5, and thus to the driver, thereby avoiding damping of such vibrations.

[0068] According to the embodiment, the haptic feedback actuator 4 is positioned to transmit vibration primarily along the transmission direction of the pressing wall 7, which is substantially transverse to the pedal 5.

[0069] According to the embodiment, the haptic feedback actuator 4 is positioned at the center of the pedal 5.

[0070] Advantageously, such positioning facilitates the transmission of vibrations from the tactile feedback actuator 4 to the pedal 5, and thus to the driver.

[0071] According to the embodiment, the voice coil 27 defines an axis of symmetry 26. The voice coil 27 is positioned within the receiving seat 10 such that the axis of symmetry 26 of the voice coil 27 is transverse to the fixed wall 8 and / or pressing wall 7 of the pedal 5.

[0072] According to the embodiment, the voice coil 27 is configured to vibrate in a direction parallel to the axis of symmetry 26.

[0073] Advantageously, this configuration of the haptic feedback actuator 4 allows for more efficient transmission of haptic signals to the driver. Moreover, this configuration allows the vibration of the voice coil 27 to be transmitted primarily in a direction substantially parallel to the direction of the force applied by the driver to the pedal 5.

[0074] According to an embodiment, the braking system 1 includes at least one first sensor 11.

[0075] At least one first sensor 11 is connected to the brake pedal 3.

[0076] At least one first sensor 11 is configured to detect actuation and / or movement of the brake pedal 3.

[0077] According to the implementation, at least one of the first sensors 11 is a position sensor, a pressure sensor, a force sensor, or a combination thereof.

[0078] According to the embodiments, at least one first sensor 11 is a laser position sensor or an infrared pressure sensor or an elastomer sensor or a piezoelectric sensor or a Hall effect sensor or a magnetoresistive sensor or a linear magnetic sensor or a microelectromechanical system (“MEMS”) or a fiber optic sensor or a strain gauge or a proximity sensor or an eddy current sensor or a differential sine / cosine sensor or a torque sensor or a combination thereof.

[0079] According to an embodiment, at least one first sensor 11 is connected to the pedal crank 6 of the brake pedal 3.

[0080] Advantageously, this positioning of at least one first sensor 11 at the pedal crank 6 increases and maintains the measurement accuracy of at least one first sensor 11.

[0081] According to an embodiment, at least one first sensor 11 is positioned at the end of the pedal crank 6 opposite to the pedal 5.

[0082] According to the implementation, at least one first sensor 11 is positioned at the pedal 5.

[0083] According to the embodiment, at least one first sensor 11 is positioned at the haptic feedback actuator 4.

[0084] According to an embodiment, the braking system 1 includes at least one second sensor 24.

[0085] At least one second sensor 24 is different from at least one first sensor 11.

[0086] At least one second sensor 24 is configured to detect the actuation and / or movement of the brake 2 of the brake feel simulator device.

[0087] At least one second sensor 24 is located at the brake feel simulator device 2.

[0088] According to an embodiment, at least one second sensor 24 is configured to detect the movement of at least one component of the brake feel simulator device 2.

[0089] According to the implementation, at least one second sensor 24 is a position sensor, a pressure sensor, a force sensor, or a combination thereof.

[0090] According to the embodiments, at least one second sensor 24 is a laser position sensor or an infrared pressure sensor or an elastomer sensor or a piezoelectric sensor or a Hall effect sensor or a magnetoresistive sensor or a linear magnetic sensor or a microelectromechanical system (“MEMS”) or a fiber optic sensor or a strain gauge or a proximity sensor or an eddy current sensor or a differential sine / cosine sensor or a torque sensor or a combination thereof.

[0091] According to an embodiment, the braking system 1 includes an electronic processing unit 12.

[0092] The electronic processing unit 12 is electrically connected to the haptic feedback actuator 4.

[0093] According to an embodiment, the electronic processing unit 12 is also electrically connected to at least one first sensor 11.

[0094] According to an embodiment, the electronic processing unit 12 is also electrically connected to at least one second sensor 24.

[0095] The electronic processing unit 12 is configured to control the haptic feedback actuator 4 to transmit haptic feedback to the brake pedal 2. Specifically, the electronic processing unit 12 is configured to control the haptic feedback actuator 4 to transmit haptic feedback to the brake pedal 3 when the actuation and / or movement of the brake pedal 3 is detected by at least one first sensor 11, and / or when the actuation and / or movement of the brake feel simulator device 2 is detected by at least one second sensor 24.

[0096] Braking Sensing Simulator Device 2

[0097] According to the embodiments, the brake feel simulator device 2 can be dry, that is, not immersed in hydraulic fluid, or the brake feel simulator device 2 can be wet, that is, immersed in hydraulic fluid.

[0098] According to an embodiment, the brake feel simulator device 2 includes a storage unit 14 and an absorber 13.

[0099] The reservoir 14 is configured to contain hydraulic fluid.

[0100] The absorber 13 is configured to apply a reaction force to the brake pedal 3 opposite to the actuation of the brake pedal 3.

[0101] According to an embodiment, the absorber 13 is configured to contain hydraulic fluid.

[0102] According to the embodiment, the reservoir 14 and the absorber 13 are directly fluidly connected to each other via a first hydraulic conduit 15.

[0103] In addition, the first hydraulic conduit 15 includes a calibration hole 16 inserted between the reservoir 14 and the absorber 13.

[0104] Specifically, the calibration hole 16 is configured to dampen the flow of hydraulic fluid passing between the absorber 13 and the reservoir 14.

[0105] Advantageously, the brake feel simulator 2 configured in this way, in response to the actuation of the brake pedal 3, delivers a hydraulic fluid flow from the absorber 13 to the reservoir 14, the hydraulic fluid flow being damped by the calibration orifice 16.

[0106] This damping, combined with the contrast effect of the absorber 13, produces a reaction force in response to the actuation of the brake pedal 3, which mimics the stiffness curve of a conventional braking system.

[0107] Advantageously, the braking system 1, which includes the brake feel simulator device 2 configured in this way, is more compact than the braking system of the prior art and is suitable for installation in the passenger compartment of a vehicle in both a suspended brake pedal configuration and a flat brake pedal configuration.

[0108] In fact, the brake feel simulator device 2 constructed in this way does not have a master cylinder inserted between the reservoir 14 and the absorber 13, thus having a smaller overall size and volume.

[0109] Specifically, the brake feel simulator device 2 constructed in this way does not have a hydraulic press inserted between the reservoir 14 and the absorber 13.

[0110] Compared to existing technologies, the braking system 1, which includes the brake feel simulator device 2, has additional advantages because it is simplified since the braking system 1 does not have a master cylinder. This simplification results in lower cost and lower maintenance requirements.

[0111] With the added advantage that the braking system 1, which includes the brake feel simulator device 2, is thus constructed, it provides enhanced, realistic, and driver-perceived safety.

[0112] In fact, devices that continuously withstand high pressure—such devices would also require large dimensions—do not exist in the brake feel simulator device 2.

[0113] Conversely, the brake feel simulator device 2 is only subjected to low transient pressure peaks when the hydraulic fluid begins to flow from the absorber 13 to the reservoir 14.

[0114] The braking sensation simulator device 2 is configured to contain a continuous hydraulic fluid in the absorber 13 and the reservoir 14.

[0115] According to an embodiment, the brake feel simulator device 2 includes a hydraulic fluid with fluid continuity housed in an absorber 13 and a reservoir 14.

[0116] Therefore, in the operating configuration, hydraulic fluid fills the absorber 13, the first hydraulic conduit 15, and at least part of the reservoir 14.

[0117] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the absorber 13 extends along the actuation axis 17 between the first end of the absorber and the opposite second end of the absorber.

[0118] According to an embodiment, the first hydraulic conduit 15 extends in a direction substantially transverse to the actuation axis 17.

[0119] Advantageously, this configuration reduces the overall volume of the braking sensation simulator device 1.

[0120] According to an embodiment, the absorber 13 is configured to be connected to the brake pedal 3 at the first end of the absorber.

[0121] Furthermore, the absorber 13 is configured to be actuated by the brake pedal 3 at the first end of the absorber.

[0122] According to an embodiment, the absorber 13 is configured such that actuation of the brake pedal 3 corresponds to pressurization of the hydraulic fluid contained in the absorber 13, which in turn delivers the hydraulic fluid flow from the absorber 13 through the first hydraulic conduit 15 to the reservoir 14.

[0123] According to an embodiment, the absorber 13 includes a circumferential wall 18 that extends substantially in a direction parallel to the actuation axis 17 between the first end and the second end of the absorber.

[0124] The circumferential wall 18 defines a receiving compartment 19 located within the circumferential wall 18, the receiving compartment 19 being configured to receive hydraulic fluid.

[0125] According to an embodiment, the reservoir 14 includes a receiving wall and a bottom wall.

[0126] The bottom wall is basically transverse to the receiving wall.

[0127] The bottom wall and the receiving wall form an internal compartment, which is configured to contain hydraulic fluid.

[0128] According to one embodiment, the receiving wall forms a top-up opening. Preferably, the top-up opening is positioned opposite the bottom wall.

[0129] The replenishment opening is configured to allow the replenishment of hydraulic fluid in reservoir 14.

[0130] The supplementary opening can be closed with a cover.

[0131] According to an embodiment, the first hydraulic conduit 15 extends through the bottom wall of the reservoir 14 and the circumferential wall 18 of the absorber 13.

[0132] Therefore, the first hydraulic line 15 connects the reservoir compartment to the accommodating compartment 19.

[0133] Advantageously, this configuration reduces the overall volume of the braking feel simulator device 2.

[0134] According to the embodiment, the storage device 14 is fixed to the absorber 13.

[0135] According to the embodiment, the storage device 14 and the absorber 13 are made as one unit.

[0136] According to the embodiment, the bottom wall extends in a plane substantially parallel to the actuation axis 17, and the receiving wall is substantially transverse to the actuation axis 17.

[0137] According to the embodiment, the bottom wall of the reservoir 14 substantially overlaps with a portion of the circumferential wall 18 of the absorber 13.

[0138] According to the embodiment, the reservoir 14 is at least partially in communication with the absorber 13.

[0139] According to an embodiment, the bottom wall of the reservoir 14 is at least partially in communication with the circumferential wall 18 of the absorber 13.

[0140] According to an alternative implementation, the reservoir 14 differs from the absorber 13. The fluid connection between the reservoir 14 and the absorber 13 is ensured by a first hydraulic conduit 15.

[0141] Advantageously, the storage 14 constructed in this way can be freely positioned and oriented relative to the absorber 13.

[0142] According to one embodiment, the first hydraulic conduit includes a flexible conduit extending between the reservoir 14 and the absorber 13.

[0143] According to the embodiment, the calibration hole 16 is configured to generate the damping required by the driver.

[0144] According to the embodiment, the calibration hole 13 forms a cross section with a diameter between 0.7 mm and 1.5 mm.

[0145] According to the embodiment, the calibration hole 13 has a length of less than 3.0 mm.

[0146] According to the embodiment, the first hydraulic pipe 15 has a length of less than 10.0 mm.

[0147] According to this embodiment, the distance between the storage compartment and the accommodating compartment 19 is less than 3.0 mm.

[0148] According to the embodiment, the first hydraulic pipe 15 has a length of less than 3.0 mm.

[0149] According to this embodiment, the distance between the storage compartment and the accommodating compartment 19 is less than 3.0 mm.

[0150] According to an embodiment, the absorber 13 includes at least one elastic element 23 positioned within the accommodating compartment 19.

[0151] At least one elastic element 23 is configured to apply a reaction force in response to actuation of the brake feel simulator device 2. Specifically, at least one elastic element 23 is configured to apply a reaction force to the brake pedal 3 in response to actuation of the brake pedal 3 by the driver.

[0152] At least one elastic element 23 is configured to be biased in a direction substantially parallel to the actuation axis 17.

[0153] According to an embodiment, the absorber 13 includes a plurality of elastic elements 23 arranged in series and / or in parallel within a receiving compartment 19.

[0154] According to one embodiment, the elastic element 23 includes a plurality of helical compression springs that are substantially coaxial with the actuation axis 17.

[0155] According to the embodiments, the elastic element 23 includes a conical spring washer and / or a square spring and / or a torque spring and / or a strip spring and / or a shaped spring.

[0156] According to an embodiment, in the operating configuration, at least one elastic element 23 is immersed in hydraulic fluid.

[0157] Preferably, a plurality of helical compression springs positioned substantially coaxial with the actuation axis 17 are immersed in hydraulic fluid.

[0158] According to an embodiment, the brake feel simulator device 2 includes a second hydraulic conduit 20 that fluidly connects the reservoir 14 to the absorber 13.

[0159] The second hydraulic pipe 20 is different from the first hydraulic pipe 15.

[0160] Advantageously, the second hydraulic conduit 20 is configured to allow hydraulic fluid to be returned from the reservoir 14 to the absorber 13 more quickly after the actuation release of the brake feel simulator device 2.

[0161] According to an embodiment, the second hydraulic line 20 includes a check valve 21 inserted between the reservoir 14 and the absorber 13.

[0162] The check valve 21 is configured to allow hydraulic fluid to flow from the reservoir 14 to the absorber 13 and to prevent hydraulic fluid from flowing from the absorber 13 to the reservoir 14.

[0163] Therefore, during the actuation of the brake feel simulator 2, the absorber 13 pushes hydraulic fluid toward the reservoir 14 through the first hydraulic line 15 and the calibration port 16, thereby damping the flow of hydraulic fluid. The check valve 21 ensures that the hydraulic fluid flow from the absorber 13 to the reservoir 14 flows only through the first hydraulic line 15. Conversely, after the brake feel simulator 2 is released, the hydraulic fluid flows out of the absorber 13 more rapidly because it flows out through both the first hydraulic line 15 and the second hydraulic line 20.

[0164] According to the embodiment, the second hydraulic pipe 20 extends parallel to the first hydraulic pipe 15.

[0165] Advantageously, this configuration reduces the overall volume of the braking feel simulator device 2.

[0166] According to one embodiment, the absorber 13 includes a thrust shaft 22. The thrust shaft 22 is configured to be biased against at least one elastic element 23 in response to actuation of the brake pedal 3.

[0167] The thrust shaft 22 is positioned within the accommodating compartment 19.

[0168] According to one embodiment, the thrust shaft 22 is configured to be biased against at least one elastic element 23 and translated along the actuation axis 17 via the brake pedal 3. Therefore, the absorber 13 applies a force opposite to the actuation of the brake pedal 3.

[0169] According to an embodiment, at least one second sensor 24 is configured to detect the movement of the thrust shaft 22 within the absorber 13.

[0170] Preferably, at least one second sensor 24 is configured to detect the translation of the thrust shaft 22 along the actuation axis 17.

[0171] Advantageously, this translation of the thrust shaft 22, which can be actuated by the brake pedal 3, can be correlated with the driver's movement of the brake pedal 3. The movement of the brake pedal 3 can be used to determine the braking force required by the driver from the braking system 1.

[0172] According to one embodiment, at least one sensor 24 is positioned within the absorber 13. Preferably, at least one second sensor 24 is positioned within the accommodating compartment 19.

[0173] According to one embodiment, at least one second sensor 24 is positioned to be connected to the thrust shaft 22.

[0174] According to the embodiment, the brake pedal 3 is connected to the absorber 13 such that actuation of the brake pedal 3 corresponds to pressurization of the hydraulic fluid contained in the absorber 13, which in turn delivers the hydraulic fluid flow from the absorber 13 to the reservoir 14 through the first hydraulic conduit 15.

[0175] According to the embodiment, the brake pedal 3 is connected to the absorber 13 by means of a mechanical connector 25, preferably by means of a hinged connector.

[0176] Therefore, the actuation force applied by the driver to the brake pedal 3 is mechanically transmitted to the absorber 13.

[0177] Advantageously, there is no hydraulic connection between the brake pedal 3 and the absorber 13.

[0178] Specifically, the braking system 1 is configured such that the driver's actuation of the brake pedal 3 corresponds to a reaction force applied to the brake pedal 3 by the brake feel simulator device 1, which is opposite to the actuation of the brake pedal 3.

[0179] The reaction force applied to the brake pedal 3 by the brake feel simulator device 2, which is opposite to the actuation of the brake pedal 3, is obtained by the combined effect of the absorber 13 and the calibration hole 16.

[0180] The absorber 13 is configured to generate a reaction force opposite to the actuation of the brake pedal 3, for example, by means of at least one elastic element 23 configured to counteract the actuation of the brake pedal 3.

[0181] The calibration hole 16 is configured to generate a damping force on the hydraulic fluid delivered from the absorber 13 to the reservoir 14 through the first hydraulic conduit 15 when the brake pedal 3 is actuated, and the damping force counteracts the actuation of the brake pedal 3.

[0182] The combined counteracting effect of the absorber 13 and the calibration hole 16 is configured to simulate the feel and stiffness of a brake pedal or lever in a conventional hydraulic braking system.

[0183] When the brake pedal 3 is released, the hydraulic fluid previously supplied from the absorber 13 to the reservoir 14 flows out of the reservoir 14 to the absorber 13 through the first hydraulic conduit 15, and possibly through the second hydraulic conduit 20.

[0184] According to an embodiment, the braking system 1 includes a plurality of additional sensors electrically connected to the electronic processing unit 12.

[0185] According to an embodiment, the additional sensor is configured to detect at least one driving parameter, preferably multiple driving parameters.

[0186] According to the implementation, the additional sensor is configured to detect one or more of the following driving parameters: engagement or disengagement of the electronic parking brake (“EPB”), and / or activation or deactivation of the electronic stability controller (“ESC”), and / or insertion or removal of the vehicle ignition key, and / or malfunction of the braking system 1, and / or activation or deactivation of regenerative braking performed by the braking system 1, and / or detection of the strength of the braking force actuated by the braking system 1, and / or detection of the distance of the vehicle with the braking system 1 engaged relative to other vehicles.

[0187] Furthermore, the electronic processing unit 12 is configured to control the tactile feedback actuator 4 to transmit tactile feedback to the brake pedal 3 when the additional sensor performs one or more of the above-described detections.

[0188] According to an embodiment, the braking system 1 includes at least one brake caliper.

[0189] The electronic processing unit 12 is electrically connected to at least one brake caliper and brake feel simulator device 2 and / or brake pedal 3.

[0190] The electronic processing unit is configured to actuate at least one brake caliper when the actuation and / or movement of the brake feel simulator device 2 is detected, and / or when the actuation and / or movement of the brake pedal 3 is detected.

[0191] Method for actuating braking system 1

[0192] According to another aspect of the invention, a method for actuating the braking system 1 as described above is described herein.

[0193] Specifically, braking system 1 includes at least the following types of braking systems:

[0194] - Brake feel simulator device 2 and brake pedal 3, wherein brake pedal 3 is operatively connected to brake feel simulator device 2, and braking system 1 is configured such that actuation of brake pedal 3 by the driver corresponds to a reaction force applied to brake pedal 3 by brake feel simulator device 2 in the opposite direction to actuation of brake pedal 3.

[0195] - Haptic feedback actuator 4, haptic feedback actuator 4 is connected to brake pedal 3, wherein haptic feedback actuator 4 is configured to transmit haptic feedback to brake pedal 3;

[0196] - Electronic processing unit 12;

[0197] - Multiple additional sensors electrically connected to the electronic processing unit 12, wherein the additional sensors are configured to detect at least one driving parameter, preferably multiple driving parameters.

[0198] The method includes the following steps:

[0199] - Detect at least one driving parameter by means of an additional sensor, preferably multiple driving parameters;

[0200] When one or more driving parameters are detected by an additional sensor, the tactile feedback actuator 4 is controlled by the electronic processing unit 12 to transmit tactile feedback to the brake pedal 3.

[0201] According to an implementation method, the method includes the following steps:

[0202] - Detect at least one of the following drive parameters using an additional sensor:

[0203] - Engagement or disengagement of the electronic parking brake, and / or

[0204] - Enabling or disabling the electronic stability controller, and / or

[0205] - Inserting or removing the vehicle ignition key, and / or

[0206] - Fault in braking system 1, and / or

[0207] -Activation or deactivation of regenerative braking performed by braking system 1, and / or

[0208] - Combining the distance of the vehicle equipped with braking system 1 relative to other vehicles, and / or

[0209] - The intensity of the braking force actuated on the vehicle by the braking system 1;

[0210] - When at least one of the driving parameters is detected by an additional sensor, the tactile feedback actuator 4 is controlled by the electronic processing unit 12 to transmit tactile feedback to the brake pedal 3.

[0211] According to an implementation method, the method includes the following steps:

[0212] - The distance between the vehicle equipped with braking system 1 and other vehicles is detected by means of additional sensors;

[0213] - The intensity of the braking force actuated by the braking system 1 on the vehicle is detected by means of an additional sensor;

[0214] -The electronic processing unit 12 calculates whether the strength of the braking force actuated by the braking system 1 on the vehicle and detected by additional sensors is sufficient to prevent a collision with other vehicles, and

[0215] If the haptic feedback is insufficient to prevent a collision with other vehicles, the haptic feedback actuator 4 is controlled by the electronic processing unit 12 to transmit haptic feedback to the brake pedal 3.

[0216] According to another aspect of the invention, a method for actuating the braking system 1 as described above is described herein.

[0217] Specifically, braking system 1 includes at least the following types of braking systems:

[0218] - Braking sensation simulator device 2;

[0219] - Brake pedal 3, wherein the brake pedal 3 is operatively connected to the brake feel simulator device 2, and wherein the braking system 1 is configured such that actuation of the brake pedal 3 by the driver corresponds to a reaction force applied to the brake pedal 3 by the brake feel simulator device 2 in the opposite direction to the actuation of the brake pedal 3.

[0220] - Haptic feedback actuator 4, haptic feedback actuator 4 is connected to brake pedal 3, wherein haptic feedback actuator 4 is configured to transmit haptic feedback to brake pedal 3;

[0221] - Electronic processing unit 12;

[0222] - At least one first sensor 11 and / or at least one second sensor 24 electrically connected to the electronic processing unit 12;

[0223] The method includes the following steps:

[0224] - The actuation and / or movement of the brake pedal 3 are detected by means of at least one first sensor 11; or

[0225] - The actuation and / or motion of the brake feel simulator device 2 are detected by means of at least one second sensor 24;

[0226] - When detection is performed by at least one first sensor 11 or at least one second sensor 24, the tactile feedback actuator 4 is controlled by the electronic processing unit 12 to transmit tactile feedback to the brake pedal 3.

[0227] Alternatively, the method described above may include the following additional steps:

[0228] - By means of electronic processing unit 12, different vibration modes are associated with various driving parameters that can be detected by additional sensors and / or at least one first sensor 11 and / or at least one second sensor 24;

[0229] - Multiple driving parameters are detected by means of additional sensors and / or at least one first sensor 11 and / or at least one second sensor 24;

[0230] - Based on the vibration mode associated with the corresponding drive parameters, the tactile feedback actuator 4 is controlled by the electronic processing unit 12 to transmit tactile feedback to the brake pedal 3.

[0231] Advantageously, this method allows for more effective delivery of alarms and signals to the driver, as each different alarm and signal is associated with a different vibration pattern.

[0232] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that they will be able to make changes or adaptations to this invention without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

[0233] List of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0234] 1. Braking system

[0235] 2. Braking Sensing Simulator Device

[0236] 3. Brake pedal

[0237] 4. Haptic feedback actuator

[0238] 5. Pedal

[0239] 6. Pedal Crank

[0240] 7. Press the wall

[0241] 8. Fixed wall

[0242] 9. Supporting wall

[0243] 10. Reservoir

[0244] 11. First sensor

[0245] 12. Electronic processing unit

[0246] 13. Absorber

[0247] 14. Storage container

[0248] 15. First hydraulic pipeline

[0249] 16. Calibration Hole

[0250] 17. Actuation axis

[0251] 18. Zhou Xiangbi

[0252] 19. Enclosure compartment

[0253] 20. Second hydraulic pipeline

[0254] 21. Check valve

[0255] 22. Thrust shaft

[0256] 23. Elastic element

[0257] 24. Second sensor

[0258] 25. Mechanical connectors

[0259] 26. Axis of symmetry

[0260] 27. Voice coil

[0261] 28. Reception wall.

Claims

1. A braking system (1), said braking system (1) comprising a brake feel simulator device (2) and a brake pedal (3), wherein, The brake pedal (3) is operatively connected to the brake feel simulator device (2). The braking system (1) is configured such that actuation of the brake pedal (3) by the driver corresponds to a reaction force applied to the brake pedal (3) by the brake feel simulator device (2) that is opposite to the actuation of the brake pedal (3). The braking system (1) includes a tactile feedback actuator (4) connected to the brake pedal (3). And therein, the tactile feedback actuator (4) is configured to transmit tactile feedback to the brake pedal (3).

2. The braking system (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The haptic feedback actuator (4) is configured to transmit vibrations to the brake pedal (3) according to one or more of the following vibration modes: - Click-type vibration, -Increase or decrease the ramp-like vibration, -Pulse vibration, -Continuous intensity vibration, - Interspersed with vibrations that paused for varying durations. - Continuous intensity vibrations of varying durations Vibrations at different frequencies - Vibrations of different intensities.

3. The braking system (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The haptic feedback actuator (4) is: - Piezoelectric actuator, or -Eccentric rotary mass motor, or - Linear resonant actuator, or -Solenoid actuator, or - Brushless actuator, or -Stepper actuator, or - Bass dithering actuator, or -vowel (27), or -A combination of the above, And / or wherein the haptic feedback actuator (4) is a passive voice coil (27), and optionally wherein the haptic feedback actuator (4) is powered by electrical wiring integrated within the brake pedal (3).

4. The braking system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The brake pedal (3) includes a pedal (5) fixed to a pedal crank (6). The pedal (5) is fixed to the end of the pedal crank (6), and the opposite end of the pedal crank (6) is operatively connected to the brake feel simulator device (2). The pedal (5) includes a pressing wall (7) and an opposite fixed wall (8), wherein the pressing wall (7) faces the driver and is configured to be pressed by the driver's foot to actuate the brake pedal (3). The fixed wall (8) faces the pedal crank (6) and is fixed to the pedal crank (6), wherein the pedal crank (6) includes a support wall (9), the support wall (9) faces the pedal (5) and is fixed to the fixed wall (8) of the pedal (5). And therein, the tactile feedback actuator (4) is positioned at the pedal (5).

5. The braking system (1) according to claim 4, wherein, The tactile feedback actuator (4) is positioned between the fixed wall (8) of the pedal (5) and the support wall (9) of the pedal crank (6).

6. The braking system (1) according to claim 4 or 5, wherein, The support wall (9) forms a receiving seat (10), which is defined by the receiving wall (28) and opens toward the pedal (5), wherein the haptic feedback actuator (4) is accommodated within the receiving seat (10), and wherein, preferably, the haptic feedback actuator (4) is a voice coil (27) inserted within the receiving seat (10). And / or wherein the haptic feedback actuator (4) is positioned to abut against the pedal (5), And / or wherein the haptic feedback actuator (4) is rigidly fixed to the receiving wall (28), And / or wherein the receiving wall (28) is made of a metallic material, And / or wherein the haptic feedback actuator (4) is positioned to transmit vibration primarily along the transmission direction of the pressing wall (7) generally transverse to the pedal (5), And / or wherein the haptic feedback actuator (4) is positioned at the central portion of the pedal (5), And, preferably, the voice coil (27) defines an axis of symmetry (26), and the voice coil (27) is positioned within the receiving seat (10) such that the axis of symmetry (26) of the voice coil (27) is transverse to the fixed wall (8) and / or the pressing wall (7) of the pedal (5), and wherein, preferably, the voice coil (27) is configured to vibrate in a direction parallel to the axis of symmetry (26).

7. The braking system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, the braking system (1) comprising at least one first sensor (11), in, The at least one first sensor (11) is connected to the brake pedal (3) and configured to detect actuation and / or movement of the brake pedal (3). And, preferably, wherein the at least one first sensor (11) is: - Position sensor, or - Pressure sensor, or -Force sensor, or - Laser position sensor, or - Infrared position sensor, or - Elastomer sensor, or - Piezoelectric sensor, or Hall effect sensor, or -Magnetic reluctance sensor, or - Linear magnetic sensor, or -Microelectromechanical systems, or - Fiber optic sensor, or - Strain gauge, or - Proximity sensor, or -Eddy current sensor, or - Differential sine and cosine sensor, or - Torque sensor, or -A combination of the above.

8. The braking system (1) according to claims 7 and 4, wherein, The at least one first sensor (11) is connected to the pedal crank (6) of the brake pedal (3). Preferably, the at least one first sensor (11) is connected to the pedal crank (6) of the brake pedal (3) at the end of the pedal crank (6) opposite to the pedal (5). Alternatively, at least one of the first sensors (11) may be located at the tactile feedback actuator (4).

9. The braking system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, the braking system (1) comprising at least one second sensor (24), in, The at least one second sensor (24) is configured to detect actuation and / or movement of the brake feel simulator device (2), and the at least one second sensor (24) is positioned at the brake feel simulator device (2). And, preferably, wherein the at least one second sensor (24) is: - Position sensor, or - Pressure sensor, or -Force sensor, or - Laser position sensor, or - Infrared position sensor, or - Elastomer sensor, or - Piezoelectric sensor, or Hall effect sensor, or -Magnetic reluctance sensor, or - Linear magnetic sensor, or -Microelectromechanical systems, or - Fiber optic sensor, or - Strain gauge, or - Proximity sensor, or -Eddy current sensor, or - Differential sine and cosine sensor, or - Torque sensor, or -A combination of the above.

10. The braking system (1) according to claims 7 and 9, wherein the braking system (1) includes an electronic processing unit (12), in, The electronic processing unit (12) is electrically connected to the haptic feedback actuator (4), the at least one first sensor (11), and the at least one second sensor (24). And wherein the electronic processing unit (12) is configured to: when the actuation and / or movement of the brake pedal (3) is detected by the at least one first sensor (11), and / or when the actuation and / or movement of the brake feel simulator device (2) is detected by the at least one second sensor (24), control the tactile feedback actuator (4) to transmit tactile feedback to the brake pedal (3).

11. The braking system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The brake feel simulator device (2) includes a reservoir (14) and an absorber (13), wherein the reservoir (14) is configured to contain hydraulic fluid, and the absorber (13) is configured to apply a reaction force to the brake pedal (3) opposite to the actuation of the brake pedal (3). The reservoir (14) and the absorber (13) are directly fluidly connected to each other via a first hydraulic conduit (15). The absorber (13) extends along the actuation axis (17) between a first end and a second end, and the absorber (13) includes a circumferential wall (18) that extends substantially parallel to the actuation axis (17) between the first and second ends. The circumferential wall (18) defines a receiving compartment (19) located within the circumferential wall (18), the receiving compartment (19) being configured to receive the hydraulic fluid. The absorber (13) includes at least one elastic element (23) positioned within the accommodating compartment (19). The absorber (13) includes a thrust shaft (22) configured to be biased against at least one elastic element (23) in response to actuation of the brake pedal (3), wherein the thrust shaft (22) is positioned within the receiving compartment (19), and wherein the thrust shaft (22) is configured to be biased by the brake pedal (3) against the at least one elastic element (23) and translated along the actuation axis (17), such that the absorber (13) applies a force opposite to the actuation of the brake pedal (3), and wherein the at least one second sensor (24) is configured to detect the movement of the thrust shaft (22) within the absorber (13). And / or wherein the at least one second sensor (24) is configured to detect the translation of the thrust shaft (22) along the actuation axis (17), And / or, the at least one second sensor (24) is positioned within the absorber (13), And / or, the at least one second sensor (24) is positioned within the accommodating compartment (19), And / or, the at least one second sensor (24) is positioned to be connected to the thrust shaft (22).

12. The braking system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, the braking system (1) comprising an electronic processing unit (12) electrically connected to the haptic feedback actuator (4) and a plurality of additional sensors electrically connected to the electronic processing unit (12), in, The additional sensor is configured to detect at least one driving parameter, preferably, the additional sensor is configured to detect one or more of the following driving parameters: - Engagement or disengagement of the electronic parking brake, and / or - Enabling or disabling the electronic stability controller, and / or - Inserting or removing the vehicle ignition key, and / or - Failure of the braking system (1), and / or - The activation or deactivation of regenerative braking performed by the braking system (1), and / or - The intensity of the braking force actuated by the braking system (1), and / or -Based on the distance of the vehicle equipped with the braking system (1) relative to other vehicles, And wherein the electronic processing unit (2) is configured to control the tactile feedback actuator (4) to transmit tactile feedback to the brake pedal (3) when one or more of the detections are performed by the additional sensor.

13. A method for actuating a braking system (1), said braking system (1) being a type of braking system comprising at least the following: - Braking sensation simulator device (2); - Brake pedal (3), where, The brake pedal (3) is operatively connected to the brake feel simulator device (2), and the braking system (1) is configured such that actuation of the brake pedal (3) by the driver corresponds to a reaction force applied to the brake pedal (3) by the brake feel simulator device (2) in the opposite direction to the actuation of the brake pedal (3). - A tactile feedback actuator (4) connected to the brake pedal (3), wherein the tactile feedback actuator (4) is configured to transmit tactile feedback to the brake pedal (3); - Electronic processing unit (12); - Multiple additional sensors, the multiple additional sensors being electrically connected to the electronic processing unit (12), and wherein the additional sensors are configured to detect at least one driving parameter, preferably, the additional sensors are configured to detect multiple driving parameters; The method includes the following steps: - Detect at least one driving parameter by means of the additional sensor, preferably, detect multiple driving parameters by means of the additional sensor; When one or more of the driving parameters are detected by the additional sensor, the tactile feedback actuator (4) is controlled by the electronic processing unit (12) to transmit tactile feedback to the brake pedal (3).

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein the method comprises the following steps: - Detect at least one of the following driving parameters using the additional sensor: - Engagement or disengagement of the electronic parking brake, and / or - Enabling or disabling the electronic stability controller, and / or - Inserting or removing the vehicle ignition key, and / or - Failure of the braking system (1), and / or - The activation or deactivation of regenerative braking performed by the braking system (1), and / or -Based on the distance of the vehicle equipped with the braking system (1) relative to other vehicles, and / or - The intensity of the braking force actuated on the vehicle by the braking system (1), - When at least one of the driving parameters is detected by the additional sensor, the tactile feedback actuator (4) is controlled by the electronic processing unit (12) to transmit tactile feedback to the brake pedal (3). Alternatively, the method may include the following steps: - The distance between the vehicle equipped with the braking system (1) and other vehicles is detected by means of the additional sensor; -The intensity of the braking force actuated by the braking system (1) on the vehicle is detected by means of the additional sensor; -The electronic processing unit (12) calculates whether the strength of the braking force actuated by the braking system (1) on the vehicle and detected by the additional sensor is sufficient to prevent a collision with other vehicles, and If it is insufficient to prevent a collision with other vehicles, the electronic processing unit (12) controls the tactile feedback actuator (4) to transmit tactile feedback to the brake pedal (3).

15. A method for actuating a braking system (1), said braking system (1) being a type of braking system comprising at least the following: - Braking sensation simulator device (2); - Brake pedal (3), where, The brake pedal (3) is operatively connected to the brake feel simulator device (2), and the braking system (1) is configured such that actuation of the brake pedal (3) by the driver corresponds to a reaction force applied to the brake pedal (3) by the brake feel simulator device (2) in the opposite direction to the actuation of the brake pedal (3). - A tactile feedback actuator (4) connected to the brake pedal (3), wherein the tactile feedback actuator (4) is configured to transmit tactile feedback to the brake pedal (3); - Electronic processing unit (12); - At least one first sensor (11) and / or at least one second sensor (24) electrically connected to the electronic processing unit (12); The method includes the following steps: - The actuation and / or movement of the brake pedal (3) are detected by means of the at least one first sensor (11); or - The actuation and / or motion of the brake feel simulator device (2) are detected by means of the at least one second sensor (24); - When the detection is performed by the at least one first sensor (11) or the at least one second sensor (24), the tactile feedback actuator (4) is controlled by the electronic processing unit (12) to transmit tactile feedback to the brake pedal (3).

16. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the method comprises the following additional steps: - By means of the electronic processing unit (12), different vibration modes are associated with various driving parameters that can be detected by the additional sensor and / or the at least one first sensor (11) and / or the at least one second sensor (24); - Various driving parameters are detected by means of the additional sensor and / or the at least one first sensor (11) and / or the at least one second sensor (24); - Based on the vibration mode associated with the corresponding driving parameters, the electronic processing unit (12) controls the tactile feedback actuator (4) to transmit tactile feedback to the brake pedal (3).

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