Vehicle monitoring system and method

Abstract

A vehicle monitoring system (190) comprising a sensor device (191) configured to acquire sensing data related to at least one of a position and a movement of a first component of a brake assembly (101, 102), the sensor device (191) configured to transmit the sensing data to a control device (199) of the monitoring system (190), the control device (199) configured to monitor a condition of the first component of the brake assembly (101, 102) and / or a second component of the brake assembly (101, 102) based on the sensing data and to transmit a signal indicative of the monitored condition to at least one of a remote hub (200) and a local device (11), and a method of monitoring a condition of a first component of a brake assembly (101, 102) comprising sensing at least one of a position and a movement of the first component and / or sensing at least one of a position and a movement of a second component of the brake assembly (101, 102), the position and / or movement of the first component and / or second component being indicative of a condition of the first component of the brake assembly (101, 102), and the method further comprising transmitting a signal indicative of the condition of the first component of the brake assembly (101, 102) to at least one of a local device (11) and a remote hub (200).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a vehicle monitoring system and a method for monitoring vehicle conditions, and particularly to, but not limited to, a vehicle monitoring system and method for monitoring the condition of one or more components of a vehicle braking system. Background Technology

[0002] Drum brakes and disc brakes are known in the field of vehicle braking systems. A vehicle driver can apply the service brake to slow or stop the vehicle. A parking brake can be applied to keep the vehicle stationary. It is known to incorporate automatic brake adjusters into vehicle braking systems, for example, to maintain a predetermined distance between the brake drum and brake pads, thereby maintaining braking accuracy, for example, when the brake pads wear due to use. Knowing whether the brakes are in an adjustable state is important. It is impossible to manually check whether the brakes are in an adjustable state while the vehicle is moving. Such an inspection is both time-consuming and potentially dirty work. Typically, vehicle users (e.g., drivers or mechanics) can only inspect one wheel end at a time. Other conditions and / or characteristics of the vehicle braking system also require periodic inspection—such as the condition of the brake pads or brake blocks. Similar limitations of current inspection methods generally also apply to these conditions or characteristics. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The purpose of this invention is to provide a vehicle monitoring system and method to improve one or more problems associated with existing monitoring or inspection methods.

[0004] The present invention provides a vehicle monitoring system, including a sensor device configured to acquire sensing data relating to at least one of the position and movement of a first component of a braking assembly, the sensor device being configured to transmit the sensing data to a control device of the monitoring system, the control device being configured to monitor the condition of the first component and / or a second component of the braking assembly based on the sensing data, and to transmit a signal indicating the monitored condition to at least one of a remote hub and a local device.

[0005] The vehicle monitoring system may include multiple sensor devices.

[0006] The vehicle monitoring system can be configured to monitor one or more of the following conditions: Brake regulator status, Brake pad condition Brake pad / brake drum interface surface condition Brake drum condition Cam condition, Brake block condition, Brake disc condition Actuator status, Disc brake condition.

[0007] The sensor device may be an accelerometer.

[0008] The sensor device can be configured to monitor the vibration of the component.

[0009] The data acquired by the sensor device can be compared with calibration data to determine or predict the condition of the component.

[0010] The vehicle monitoring system can be configured to monitor and / or transmit signals indicating the condition of the vehicle or each component while the vehicle is in motion.

[0011] The vehicle monitoring system according to any one of the preceding claims may be configured to monitor and / or transmit signals indicating the condition of said or each component during braking operations.

[0012] The present invention also provides a vehicle braking system that includes the vehicle monitoring system as described herein.

[0013] The present invention also provides a vehicle that includes the vehicle monitoring system as described herein.

[0014] The present invention provides a method for monitoring the condition of a first component of a braking assembly, comprising acquiring at least one of position data and motion data of the first component, and / or acquiring at least one of position data and motion data of a second component of the braking assembly, wherein the position data and / or motion data of the first component and / or the second component indicate the condition of the first component of the braking assembly, and the method further comprising transmitting a signal indicating the condition to at least one of a local device and a remote hub.

[0015] The method may include acquiring calibration data indicating the condition of the first component of the braking assembly, and comparing the position data and / or motion data with the calibration data to monitor the usage condition of the first component of the braking assembly.

[0016] The location data and / or motion data may be combined with one or more of the following: Other data related to the first component of the braking assembly, Data related to the second component of the braking assembly. Data related to the third component, Data related to vehicle condition or characteristics.

[0017] The condition of the first component of the braking assembly can be monitored while the vehicle is in use.

[0018] The condition of the first component of the braking assembly can be monitored while the vehicle is in motion.

[0019] The condition of the first component of the braking assembly can be monitored during braking operations. Attached Figure Description

[0020] To facilitate understanding of the present invention, preferred embodiments will now be described by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein: Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram of a two-vehicle convoy that includes a hub; Figure 2A It is a perspective view of a part of a vehicle braking system, including the drum brake actuator assembly; Figure 2B This is a cross-sectional view of a part of the drum brake actuator assembly; Figure 3 This is a side view of the brake regulator mechanism that works in conjunction with the brake actuator; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the components of a disc brake actuator assembly and a brake actuator; and Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a wheel assembly with a drum brake actuator. Detailed Implementation

[0021] Vehicle 10 includes multiple wheel-end units. For example, vehicle 10 may include a tractor unit and one or more trailer units. Vehicle 10 includes a braking system for braking one or more wheels of the vehicle. Vehicle 10 may include a monitoring system for monitoring one or more features of the vehicle. The monitored feature may be used to detect, monitor, analyze, or predict the condition of one or more components of vehicle 10. Vehicle 10 may be part of a fleet (e.g., such as...). Figure 1 (As shown). The convoy may include multiple vehicles 10 (two are shown in the figure, but it should be understood that the convoy may include more vehicles 10). Hub 200 is shown in the figure, and each vehicle 10 is able to communicate with hub 200.

[0022] refer to Figure 2A and Figure 2B The diagram illustrates a braking assembly 101. The braking assembly 101 may include a brake actuator 140, which is operable in response to a braking signal. The braking signal may be provided based on a braking demand, which may be provided via a user input device 180. The user input device 180 may be, for example, a pedal, lever, or switch. The braking demand input at the user input device 180 may be transmitted to the brake actuator 110 at or near the wheel end to apply braking force.

[0023] Braking demand can be supplied to an electronic controller or pneumatically to actuator 140. Actuator 140 is configured to transmit braking demand supplied via user input device 180 as braking force at the wheel end.

[0024] In one example, the brake actuation assembly 110 may be a drum brake assembly, comprising a brake drum 111, a brake shoe assembly 112 generally radially movable relative to the brake drum 111, and a brake pad assembly 113. In the illustrated example, the brake shoe assembly 112 includes a first brake shoe member 112a and a second brake shoe member 112b, each of which is generally radially movable relative to the brake drum 111. In the illustrated example, the brake pad assembly 113 includes a first brake pad member 113a and a second brake pad member 113b, each of which is associated with a corresponding brake shoe member 112a, 112b and is generally radially movable relative to the brake drum 111 together with the corresponding brake shoe members 112a, 112b. Movement of the brake shoe assembly 112 causes the brake pad assembly 113 to move in response to a brake signal to contact and disengage from the brake drum 111.

[0025] In the example shown, the braking signal is transmitted to the braking actuation assembly 110 via actuator 140. It should be understood that actuator 140 can take any suitable form.

[0026] In the example shown, actuator 140 causes a generally linear movement of lever 150. Lever 150 may be connected to brake adjuster mechanism 151. Brake adjuster mechanism 151 may be an automatic clearance adjuster. Brake adjuster mechanism 151 may be of a conventional type. Brake adjuster mechanism 151 may include a worm gear mechanism and a clutch. Brake adjuster mechanism 151 may be configured to automatically adjust to one of a plurality of positions. The positions of brake adjuster mechanism 151 may be discrete positions, where each position corresponds to a range of rotational movement (C, Ce, E) of arm 151a, which corresponds to the range of movement of lever 150. Each range of movement may be defined by a stroke-torque relationship, which may be defined according to one or more specifications. For example, this relationship may be used to calibrate monitoring device 190. It should be understood that although brake adjuster mechanism is a common component of brake assembly 101, it is not essential and may be omitted.

[0027] In the illustrated example, linear movement of lever 150 causes rotational movement of arm 151a of brake adjuster mechanism 151 about a first axis A. Brake adjuster mechanism 151 may be connected to shaft 152, which extends substantially parallel to and is rotatable about the first axis A. Shaft 152 may be connected to cam member 114, which engages with brake shoe assembly 112. Cam member 114 may be an S-shaped cam. Cam member 114 is rotatable about the first axis A. First cam surface 114a of cam member 114 engages with first brake shoe member 112a, and second cam surface 114b of cam member 114 engages with second brake shoe member 112b. Rotational movement of cam member 114 causes generally radial movement of said or each brake shoe member 112a, 112b and said or each brake pad member 113a, 113b relative to brake drum 111, thereby engaging or disengaging brake pad assembly 113 from brake drum 111 according to a brake signal. The braking assembly 101 may include an exciter ring 22.

[0028] As each or every brake pad member 113a, 113b wears, the radial movement of each or every brake shoe member 112a, 112b in applying the required braking force to the brake drum 111 may increase. The brake adjuster mechanism 151 is operable to automatically adjust the range of motion of the lever 150 by controlling the range of motion of the arm 151a of the brake adjuster 151, thereby enabling the application of the required braking force consistently, accurately, and safely. This maintains the driver experience—for example, the same braking force can be applied with a substantially constant range of pedal travel, regardless of the thickness of the brake pad members 113a, 113.

[0029] Disc brake systems are also known in this art. Figure 4 The diagram shows a braking assembly 102, in which an actuator 140 transmits braking demand to an actuation assembly 120. The actuation assembly 120 may be a disc brake assembly. The disc brake assembly 120 may include a brake block carrier assembly 121 and a brake block assembly 122, which includes a pair of brake blocks 122a, 122b and a rotor or brake disc 123. The disc brake assembly 120 may be of a conventional form and operate in a conventional manner. It should be understood that the actuator 140 of the braking assembly 102 may take any suitable form. The actuator 140 and the disc brake assembly 120 may be connected together.

[0030] The vehicle 10 may include one or more drum brake assemblies 101 and / or one or more disc brake assemblies 102.

[0031] Vehicle 10 may include a monitoring system 190.

[0032] The monitoring system 190 can be configured to monitor one or more conditions or features of the vehicle 10. The monitoring system 190 can be configured to monitor said or each condition or feature directly or indirectly. The monitoring system 190 can be configured to monitor the condition or features of components of the braking assemblies 101, 102.

[0033] The monitoring system 190 may include sensor devices 191. The monitoring system 190 may include multiple sensor devices 191. Each sensor device 191 may be, for example, an accelerometer or an inertial measurement sensor. Each sensor device 191 may detect one, two, or three degrees of freedom of motion (in...). Figure 2A The motion is represented in x, y, and z. The type and / or location of each of the sensors 191 can be selected according to the application, such as the type of braking assembly and / or the type of vehicle 10 and / or the condition / characteristic to be monitored. The sensitivity of each of the sensors 191 can be selected according to the application and / or the condition / characteristic to be monitored. In other words, each of the sensors 191 can be configured and operated in a selected manner according to the application and / or the condition / characteristic to be monitored. The configuration of each of the sensors 191 may include selecting, designing, and / or positioning the most suitable sensor according to the application and / or the condition / characteristic to be monitored, and / or selecting and positioning the most suitable combination of sensors 191.

[0034] In one example, sensor device 191a may be positioned on lever 150. For example, sensor device 191a may be operated (configured) to monitor position and / or movement at least in the x-direction. Lever 150 may be operated to reciprocate substantially in the x-direction. Sensor device 191a may be configured to provide control device 199 with data indicating the position and / or movement of lever 150.

[0035] Sensor device 191b may be disposed on a portion of brake regulator mechanism 151. Sensor device 191b may be disposed on arm 151a. For example, sensor device 191b may be configured to detect movement in the x and / or y directions. Sensor device 191b may be configured to provide control device 199 with data indicating the position / movement of regulator mechanism 151.

[0036] Sensor device 191c may be positioned on shaft 152. Sensor device 191c may be configured to provide control device 199 with data indicating the position and / or movement of shaft 152.

[0037] The sensor device 191d can be mounted on the actuator 140, for example, on the body of the actuator 140, and transmit signals to the control device 199.

[0038] Sensor device 191e may be disposed on excitation ring 22. Sensor device 191e may be configured to detect position and / or motion, such as rotation and / or vibration of excitation ring 22 and / or one or more other components of braking assembly 101, and transmit signals to control device 199.

[0039] Sensor device 191f may be positioned on a portion of disc brake actuator 120, such as on brake block bracket assembly 121. Sensor device 191f may be configured to detect the position and / or movement of a portion of disc brake actuator 120 and transmit signals to control device 199.

[0040] Monitoring system 190 can be configured to continuously or substantially continuously monitor the stated or each feature / condition. Monitoring system 190 can be configured to monitor the stated or each condition / feature while vehicle 10 is moving. Monitoring system 190 can be configured to monitor the stated or each condition / feature while vehicle 10 is traveling. Additionally or alternatively, monitoring system 190 can be configured to monitor the stated or each feature or condition when vehicle 10 is stationary.

[0041] The monitoring system 190 may include a control device 199. The control device 199 may be configured to receive signals from said or each of the sensors 191. The control device 199 may be configured to transmit signals, for example, to a remote hub 200 and / or a local device 11, for example, to provide signals to a vehicle user. The control device may be configured to communicate with said or each of the sensors via wired and / or wireless communication methods. Wireless communication methods are advantageous, for example, because they simplify installation.

[0042] Control device 199 may be located locally or remotely from the location of the sensor 191. Control device 199 may be configured to receive, store, and / or analyze signals received from the sensor device 191. Control device 199 may be configured to determine and / or predict one or more conditions of one or more components of braking assemblies 101, 102. Control device 199 may be configured to determine and / or predict one or more conditions of braking assemblies 101, 102 based on sensor data (signals) received from the sensor device 191. Control device 199 may be configured to determine and / or predict one or more conditions of braking assemblies 101, 102 by comparing signals from the sensor device 191 with other data. Control device 199 may be a vehicle ECU, such as a central ECU, or a system ECU, such as an electronic braking system (EBS) ECU. Control device 199 may be dedicated to monitoring system 190.

[0043] Control device 199 may be configured to provide signals to local device 11 indicating one or more characteristics or conditions of brake assemblies 101, 102, or one or more components thereof, for example, to provide signals to users such as drivers or engineers performing inspections and / or maintenance. Local device 11 may be configured to provide signals in the form of visible signals (such as luminous indicators) and / or audible and / or tactile signals. Signals provided to local users may be provided in the cab of vehicle 10 and / or outside the vehicle, such as near the wheel ends. The location and / or configuration of local device 11 may be selected according to its application. For example, some conditions may be best signaled to the driver of the vehicle while it is in use, while other conditions may be best signaled near the wheel end units so that mechanics can detect them during inspections or maintenance. Control device 199 may be configured to provide signals to users of the vehicle in real-time or near real-time. Control device 199 may be configured to provide signals to users of vehicle 10, such as warning signals. For example, if a signal from monitoring system 190 indicates that a predetermined threshold has been reached or is about to be reached, control device 199 may provide a signal to the user.

[0044] Control device 199 may be configured to transmit signals to hub 200 indicating one or more characteristics or conditions of braking assemblies 101, 102 or one or more components of braking assemblies 101, 102. Hub 200 may be located remotely from vehicle 10; for example, hub 200 may be a fleet control center.

[0045] Control device 199 can be configured to transmit information to hub 200 regarding the condition or characteristics of one or more other vehicle components or systems. Signals provided by monitoring system 190 can be transmitted to hub 200 along with or in a similar manner to telematics data from other vehicles.

[0046] Each or every sensor 191 is operable (configured) to continuously and / or substantially continuously sense data. Each or every sensor 191 is operable (configured) to continuously and / or substantially continuously transmit data to the control device 199. Each or every sensor device 191 is operable (configured) to sense and / or transmit data to the controller while the vehicle is moving (e.g., driving). Each or every sensor device 191 is operable (configured) to sense and / or transmit data to the control device during braking operations.

[0047] Control device 199 may be configured to continuously and / or substantially continuously monitor the aforementioned features / conditions. Control device 199 may be configured to monitor the aforementioned features / conditions while vehicle 10 is moving. Monitoring system 199 may be configured to monitor the aforementioned features / conditions while vehicle 10 is in motion. Control device 199 may be configured to monitor the aforementioned features / conditions during braking operations. Control device 199 may be configured to transmit signals indicating features or conditions of components of braking assemblies 101, 102 to hub 200 in real-time or near real-time. It should be understood that, additionally or alternatively, data may be processed and / or transmitted in batches and / or at predetermined time intervals. Control device 199 may be configured to transmit data in response to a data request, such as a data request from hub 200. Additionally or alternatively, control device 199 may be configured to transmit data periodically, and / or in response to receiving signals from one or more sensor devices 191 indicating that a predetermined threshold has been reached and / or is approaching. Control device 199 can be configured to monitor the aforementioned conditions / features while vehicle 10 is moving. Control device 199 can also be configured to monitor the aforementioned conditions / features while vehicle 10 is in motion.

[0048] The configuration and / or operation of the monitoring system 190 may depend on the conditions or characteristics it intends to monitor. The location of the monitoring system 190 may depend on the conditions or characteristics it intends to monitor.

[0049] The monitoring system 190 may be provided as part of the vehicle braking assemblies 101, 102. Each sensor 191 may be fixed or connected to a component of the vehicle braking assemblies 101, 102. Each sensor device 191 may communicate with the control device 199 via wired or wireless communication methods. The control device 199 may be located remotely from the braking assembly 100. The control device 199 may be a control device provided as part of the vehicle braking system, such as an EBS controller; or it may be part of a central vehicle control unit (ECU), such as a vehicle telematics ECU.

[0050] The monitoring system 190 can be operated (configured) to monitor the condition or characteristics of the components of the braking assemblies 101, 102 by monitoring the position and / or movement of one or more components of the braking assemblies 101, 102.

[0051] The data provided by the monitoring system 190 can be used in combination with and / or modified by data from other components and / or systems of the vehicle 10 and related data.

[0052] The control device 199 can be configured to compare the data provided by the monitoring system 190 with other data indicating the condition or characteristics of the components in order to monitor the condition or characteristics of the components of the braking assemblies 101, 102.

[0053] The monitoring system 190 can be configured to monitor the condition or characteristics of the brake actuator 140. The monitoring system 190 can be configured to monitor the condition or characteristics of the components of the brake actuator 140. The monitoring system 190 can be configured to monitor the position and / or movement of one or more components of the brake actuator 140.

[0054] The monitoring system 190 can be configured to monitor the condition or characteristics of the execution components 110 and 120. The monitoring system 190 can be configured to monitor the position or movement of the execution components 110 and 120. The monitoring system 190 can be configured to monitor the position or movement of the components of the execution components 110 and 120.

[0055] The monitoring system 190 can be configured to monitor the condition or characteristics of the brake drum 111 of the braking assembly 100.

[0056] The monitoring system 190 can be configured to monitor the condition or characteristics of the brake pad members 113a, 113b of the brake assembly 100. The monitoring system 190 may be able to monitor the condition or characteristics of the brake pad members 113a, 113b by monitoring the position and / or movement of the components of the brake assembly 101.

[0057] The monitoring system 190 can be configured to monitor the condition or characteristics of the cam member 114 of the brake actuation assembly 110.

[0058] The monitoring system 190 can be configured to monitor the condition or characteristics of the brake regulator 151. The monitoring system 190 can be configured to monitor the position and / or movement of the brake regulator 151. The monitoring system 190 is operable (configured) to determine the position and / or movement of the brake regulator mechanism 151 to monitor the condition or characteristics of the brake assembly 100.

[0059] The monitoring system 190 can be configured to monitor the condition or characteristics of the disc brake actuator 120.

[0060] The monitoring system 190 can be configured to monitor one or more conditions or characteristics of the brake caliper assembly. The monitoring system 190 can be configured to monitor one or more conditions or characteristics of one or more brake pad members 122a, 122b. The monitoring system 190 can be configured to monitor one or more conditions or characteristics of the brake disc 123 of the disc brake actuator assembly 120.

[0061] The monitoring device 190 can be configured to monitor the condition of wheel components, such as tire balance.

[0062] Brake regulator status Monitoring the condition or characteristics of a vehicle's brake modulator may be necessary. Providing information indicating the condition of the brake modulator mechanism to local device 11 (e.g., to the user of vehicle 10) and / or remotely (e.g., to hub 200) may be necessary. The remote location could be a control center, such as a fleet operator's control center. Vehicle 10 is inspected periodically, for example, four times a year. However, if the brake modulator mechanism malfunctions, is out of tune, or otherwise does not operate as expected or anticipated, it is beneficial to rectify it as soon as possible. Monitoring system 190 can enable data indicating the condition / characteristics of brake modulator mechanism 151 to be provided to local users (e.g., the driver of vehicle 10) and / or remote "users" (e.g., the fleet operator). This allows for the appropriate performance / scheduling of inspections and / or maintenance. It should be understood that the brake modulator mechanism 151 shown and described herein is merely an example, and the methods and apparatus described herein can be used to provide indications of the condition or characteristics of any type of brake modulator.

[0063] One or more sensors 191a, 191b, 191c may be provided, for example, at the positions described above.

[0064] Signals provided by the sensors 191a, 191b, 191c can indicate the position and / or movement of the brake regulator mechanism 151, allowing the monitoring system 190 to be configured / operable to determine whether the brake assembly 101 is in an adjusted or misaligned state, and / or to determine the condition of the brake regulator mechanism (e.g., whether the regulator mechanism 151 is worn / faulty / about to fail). The monitoring system 190 can be configured to determine the degree to which the brake assembly 101 is in an adjusted or misaligned state, and / or the degree of wear. The illustrated regulator mechanism 151 includes a worm gear mechanism and a clutch. The monitoring system can be configured to monitor whether the clutch and / or worm gear mechanism is worn and / or faulty.

[0065] Calibration can be performed when the brake modulator mechanism is in a known position (e.g., under adjustment or completely misaligned). Monitoring system 190 can transmit signals from or to each of the sensors 191a, 191b, 191c to control device 199. These signals can be correlated with or compared to a known position to determine the in-use position and / or movement of the brake modulator mechanism 151, thereby determining the condition / characteristics of the brake modulator mechanism 151. The signals provided by monitoring system 190 can be compared, combined, and / or modified by other vehicle data.

[0066] Brake pad condition It is desirable to provide local or remote users with indications of the condition or characteristics of the brake pads of the drum brake assembly 110. For example, the condition or characteristics of the brake pads 113 may be the thickness of the pads or each pad member 113a, 113b, and / or the roughness (or smoothness) of the interface surface of the pads that engage with the brake drum 111.

[0067] One or more sensors 191a, 191b, 191c may be provided at the aforementioned locations. The monitoring system 190 may be configured to determine one or more conditions / characteristics of the aforementioned or each brake pad component 113a, 113b.

[0068] The signals provided by the sensors 191a, 191b, 191c can indicate a condition, such as the thickness of one or both of the brake pad members 113a, 113b.

[0069] Position or motion data provided by the sensors 191a, 191b, 191c can be used to determine a value indicating the distance between the brake pad members 113a, 113b, which can be used to determine the thickness of the brake pad members 113a, 113b.

[0070] The monitoring system 190 can be configured such that signals indicating a predetermined position and / or movement can indicate a failure or impending failure of a component of the braking assembly 100, for example, this could indicate that the said or each liner component 113a, 113b has worn to a level that requires or recommends replacement.

[0071] Calibration data, including position and / or motion data, can be obtained, for example when brake pad components 113a and 113b are new. Changes in motion or position data compared to calibration data can indicate wear on brake pad components 113a and 113b. Calibration data can be obtained under various conditions, such as different braking temperatures, braking demands, pressures, and loads.

[0072] Brake drum / brake pad surface / interface condition Motion data, including vibration data, provided by the sensors 191a, 191b, 191c can be used to determine the roughness / smoothness of the interface surface of the brake drum 111 and / or each brake pad component 113a, 113b. It is known that the interface surfaces of the brake drum 111 and / or pad components 113a, 113b become glazed over time—this reduces the friction value of the interface and decreases braking efficiency. As calibration data, vibration data of a new brake drum 111 and / or a new brake pad component 113a, 113b can be obtained when braking is applied. The vibration profile or characteristics of the brake drum / pad combination may depend on the roughness / smoothness of the brake drum 111 and / or the brake pad component 113a, 113b. The calibration data can be compared with data from use to determine how the surface texture of the pads and / or drum changes over time / after use. Multiple calibration profiles can be obtained (e.g., under different temperatures and different braking pressures, loads, etc.) to improve the accuracy of "in-use" monitoring. Calibration data (such as one or more vibration curves) can be acquired / updated each time maintenance and / or inspection is performed.

[0073] Calibration may include storing vibration “characteristics” or curves of the brake assembly when braking is applied (i.e., when the brake pad members 113a, 113b or each brake pad member 113a, 113b are in contact with the brake drum 111). These vibration characteristics will depend on the smoothness of the surface of the brake drum 111 and the smoothness of the surfaces of the brake pad members 113a, 113b or each brake pad member 113a, 113b. One or more sensors 194 may be used to acquire the vibration characteristics of the brake assembly. For example, these vibration characteristics may be acquired / updated each time the brake pads are replaced and / or during inspection and / or maintenance.

[0074] The interface between the brake drum 111 and the brake pad members 113a, 113b may become enamelted over time, meaning that the required braking force may not be able to be applied. The brake modulator monitoring system 190 may be configured to indicate that enamelting has occurred.

[0075] The surface of the brake drum 111 may become smoother, so that when braking is applied, the signals from the sensor 191 during use differ from the expected vibration characteristics (e.g., calibration data).

[0076] Figure 5 A wheel assembly 20 is shown. The wheel assembly 20 includes a hub assembly 21 and an excitation ring 22, enabling the acquisition and transmission of wheel data to a control device. A sensor 191e may be associated with the excitation ring 22 to acquire motion data, such as vibration data of the wheel assembly. The sensor 191e may be configured / operated to acquire data while the vehicle is in motion, such as during driving and braking. Data from the sensor 191e may be used in conjunction with ABS data.

[0077] Calibration data can be acquired and used in a similar manner to that described above. For example, when a vehicle is braked (e.g., during anti-lock braking), one or more motion (e.g., vibration) curves can be obtained.

[0078] Brake drum condition Monitoring device 190 may be configured to monitor the condition of brake drum 111. Monitoring device 190 may be configured to monitor the shape or cross-section of brake drum 111. For example, brake drum 111 may become deformed; for instance, brake drum 111 may no longer be circular in cross-section. This may occur over time, through use, and / or due to impact or other damage. Brake drum 111 may become or become generally elliptical.

[0079] Monitoring system 190 may include sensor device 191e. Sensor device 191e may be an ABS sensor. Signals from monitoring system 190 may be compared with data from another sensor. The sensor data compared with the monitoring system data may be unaffected by the shape (e.g., ellipticity) of brake drum 111. The other sensor may be, for example, a wheel speed sensor. If brake drum 111 is not circular, signals from monitoring system 190 may show disturbances or "mismatches" compared to other signals. Such disturbances or mismatches may indicate a deformity of brake drum 111, such as ellipticity. The determined degree of deformity (e.g., ellipticity) may be compared with a threshold and the signal may be provided to local device 11 and / or hub 200.

[0080] Cam status When a cam member is provided as part of the brake actuation assembly 110, the cam member 114 may wear over time / with repeated use. Wear on the cam surfaces 114a, 114b may affect the amount of rotation of the cam member 114 and shaft 152 required to bring the brake pad 113 into contact with the brake drum 111. The monitoring system 190 may be configured to monitor the movement of the shaft 152, for example, using a sensor 191c. The monitoring system 190 may be configured / operable to monitor the wear condition of said or each of the cam surfaces 114a, 114b.

[0081] The bearings provided to facilitate the rotation of shaft 152 may also wear over time / with repeated use, which may affect the vibration profile, which can be monitored by any one or a combination of sensors 191a, 191b, 191c. Bearing wear may also increase the time required for actuator 120 to enter / exit the braking state. Monitoring system 190 can monitor the movement of any or all of shaft 152, adjuster arm 151a, and rod 150 to determine the speed of movement. This can be compared with calibration data and / or expected data to determine the condition of the bearings.

[0082] Actuator status Monitoring system 190 is configurable / operable to monitor the condition of actuator 140. Control device 199 can compare signals from said or each of the sensors 191 with measurements indicating the position and / or movement of actuator 140, which may indicate whether the spring brake of vehicle 10 is applied and / or whether the service brake of vehicle 10 is applied and to what extent. For example, if signals provided by monitoring system 190 indicate that brake assemblies 101, 102 have been released, such as braking force being removed or reduced, but actuator 140 is stuck (e.g., due to a broken actuator spring), controller 199 may be configured / operable to determine that the signals from monitoring system 199 are not the expected signals when considering other sensor data; for example, this may indicate a malfunction or damage to the actuator.

[0083] Disc brake condition The monitoring system 190 can be configured / operated to monitor one or more features / conditions of the disc brake assembly 102.

[0084] Sensor 191d and / or sensor device 191f may be provided. Sensor 191d may be positioned on actuator 140, for example, on the outer surface of actuator 140. Monitoring system 190 is operable (configured) to monitor the position and / or movement of actuator 140, which may indicate the condition of braking assembly 120. Actuator 140 may be connected to brake caliper of braking assembly 120, so the position and / or movement of actuator 140 may indicate the position and / or movement of brake caliper and / or any other part of brake actuation assembly 120. For example, the condition may be the thickness or wear degree of one or both brake pads 122.

[0085] Calibration can be performed to determine the relationship between the position / motion sensed by the sensor device 191d and the condition to be monitored.

[0086] Sensor 191f can be positioned on brake pad bracket assembly 121. Monitoring system 190 can be used to monitor the position of the brake caliper on its associated brake torque plate / support bridge mount. For example, movement such as the travel distance of the brake pads 122a, 122b can be monitored to determine the thickness and / or wear of the brake pads 122a, 122b.

[0087] The vibration curve of the disc brake actuator 120 can be monitored to determine the friction value at the interface between the brake disc / rotor 123 and the brake pad 122. Polishing may occur on the interface surface, thereby reducing the effectiveness of the disc brake actuator 120 in decelerating the wheel / vehicle 10.

[0088] The monitoring system 190 is configurable to monitor the condition of the brake disc (rotor) 123 of the disc brake actuator assembly 120. The condition of the brake disc 123 to be monitored can be "runout" of the brake disc 123. Runout may occur over time, such as due to wear or damage, or it may be present at installation due to misalignment between the brake disc and other components of the disc brake actuator assembly 120. The brake disc 123 may be installed skewed, for example, not substantially parallel to the wheel hub. Runout means that as the brake disc 123 rotates, the distance between the brake disc 123 and each brake pad assembly 122 changes. This fluctuation can be monitored by the monitoring system 190. The condition of the brake disc 123 (e.g., orientation, degree of runout) can be monitored by the monitoring system 190 monitoring the position and / or movement of the actuator 140 and / or the movement of the brake pad carrier assembly 121. The condition of the brake disc 123 indicated by the monitoring system can be compared with a predetermined threshold or condition, and a signal is sent to the local device 11 and / or hub 200 when the predetermined threshold / condition is reached or about to be reached.

[0089] Calibration data, such as the vibration curve and / or range of motion of the disc brake assembly 120, can be obtained and used to determine the characteristics of the disc brake assembly 120 when the vehicle is in use (e.g., during driving and / or braking).

[0090] The term “monitor” as used in this article is intended to include detection, identification, monitoring and / or prediction.

[0091] While this document mentions and / or describes examples of certain conditions and characteristics, it should be understood that the examples described do not constitute an exhaustive list of conditions or characteristics that can be monitored, detected, identified, and / or predicted. Examples of conditions or characteristics may include location, motion, operating condition, failure condition, size, texture (e.g., roughness or smoothness), temperature, wear, speed, acceleration, service life, etc. It should also be understood that this list is not exhaustive.

[0092] The term “movement” as used herein may include anticipated motion (e.g., motion performed), and / or consequential / unintended motion (e.g., vibration or resonance), unless a particular type of motion is specifically described.

[0093] While this document describes a single monitoring system 190 having one or more sensors 191, vehicle 10 may include multiple monitoring systems 190, each having one or more sensors 191. Each monitoring system 190 may be configured to monitor its own condition or characteristic. Each monitoring system 190 may operate independently, or, in the case of multiple monitoring systems 190, may operate in conjunction with other monitoring systems 190.

[0094] Each sensor 191 of the aforementioned monitoring system 190 may be independent and provided as a supplement or replacement for other sensors described herein. Each sensor 191 and / or each monitoring system 190 may be configured according to its location. For example, after installation in a vehicle, each sensor 191 and / or monitoring system 190 may be configured based on its location relative to another component (e.g., control device 199). This means that only a small number of sensor 191 and / or monitoring system 190 types (e.g., one type) may be required, thus simplifying inventory management. When the sensor 191 and / or monitoring system 190 is installed and a communication link is established with the control device 199, data related to the distance from the control device 199 can be transferred between the control device 199 and the sensor 191. The control device 199 may be configured to determine the location of the sensor 191 and / or monitoring system 190 in the vehicle, and thus may be configured to determine which conditions / features the sensor 191 (and / or its associated monitoring system 190) intends to monitor. The sensor 191 (and / or monitoring system 190) can then be configured to operate according to its intended function.

[0095] Each of the monitoring systems 190 can be calibrated. Calibration may include determining the relationship between the data sensed by each of the sensor devices 191a-f and the condition / feature to be monitored. The relationship between individual conditions and features can be determined. For example, the condition of one component can indicate the condition of another component. This can reduce the number of monitoring systems 190 and / or sensor devices 191 required. Calibration may take into account known factors / data and / or environmental conditions that may affect data in use, thereby ensuring that the signals or indications emitted by the monitoring systems are as accurate as possible.

[0096] Data provided by monitoring system 190 can be compared and / or combined with data received from other sensors or other data available to control device 199, and / or modified therefrom. Signals provided by monitoring system 190 can be compared and / or combined with other vehicle data. For example, control device 199 can send and / or receive other signals related to components of braking assemblies 101, 102. Other vehicle data may include load data, vehicle / wheel speed, acceleration and / or deceleration, duration of braking events, trailer-related data, etc.

[0097] Data from other sources can be used to adjust or correct data from said or each sensor 191 and / or said or each monitoring system 190, and / or vice versa. This can improve the accuracy of monitoring and / or reduce the likelihood / frequency of erroneous readings / indications. For example, monitoring the temperature of brake assembly components can allow for corresponding adjustments to data received from monitoring system 190, or the application of a suitable data model or mask. Adjustment of a hot brake (e.g., a brake that has been used) differs from adjustment of a cold brake, for example because the heated brake drum 111 expands slightly, thus changing the distance each brake shoe 112 needs to travel to reach brake drum 111. Therefore, it is advantageous to know whether the signal provided by monitoring system 190 is related to a cold brake or a hot brake so that, for example, any determination made based on the position or movement of brake adjuster 151 is as accurate as possible. Tolerances and / or adjustments can be applied to the data provided by said or each monitoring system 190 to take into account factors that affect the data. Since measured data may be more accurate than calculated or assumed data, measured data can be used directly.

[0098] The control device 199 can be configured / operated to diagnose faults based on unexpected data, or data that does not support other data or is not supported by other data.

[0099] Signals from the monitoring system 190 can be used to provide local users (e.g., drivers or engineers) with indications about conditions / characteristics. If maintenance has already been performed, such as the inspection or repair of brake assemblies 101 and 102, errors may occur during the reassembly of these assemblies. Providing indications such as that the brake adjuster mechanism 151 is not in the expected position for newly replaced brake pads can alert the user that further inspection and / or adjustment may be necessary. This has the advantage of reducing the likelihood of the vehicle 10 being driven under undesirable or inappropriate conditions and also improving the reliability of data provided by the monitoring system 190 in the future.

[0100] The signals provided by each monitoring system 190 can be delivered to the hub 200 in real time (or near real time). This allows vehicle maintenance to be scheduled at the appropriate time, rather than relying on driver reports or waiting for actual failures in the brake components 101, 102, which could have collateral effects (e.g., damage to other vehicle components) and / or create urgent maintenance needs, which could be inconvenient, for example, if the vehicle is not near a service point, and / or if the vehicle was intended for use but is unavailable during inspection / maintenance.

[0101] Some vehicles (e.g., fleet vehicles) may include communication systems to enable, for example, two-way communication between the vehicle and a control center. For instance, after processing data transmitted from vehicle 10 to the control center, the control center may provide signals to the vehicle user. For example, hub 200 may provide signals to control device 199 to remind the driver of vehicle 10 of recommended or required checks or maintenance, such as by illuminating warning lights or emitting audible signals.

[0102] The signals or indications provided by the monitoring system 190 may be stored locally or substantially locally (e.g., by control device 199) or remotely (e.g., at hub 200). Data may be analyzed over time (e.g., by control unit 199 and / or hub 200) to provide information about vehicle 10 and / or its components, and / or to make assumptions or predictions about vehicle 10 or its components. For example, patterns may emerge that enable more efficient maintenance planning. For instance, it may be possible to predict and / or schedule an appropriate time for inspection / maintenance / replacement of one or more components of vehicle 10. If vehicle 10 is part of a fleet, this also enables more efficient fleet planning, as inspection and maintenance schedules can be developed based on data from individual vehicles and / or collective data involving multiple vehicles in the fleet.

[0103] Each monitoring system 190, each sensor 191, and / or each control device 199 may have a sleep state, for example, to conserve battery life. The sleep state may be a normally used state, and / or a state adopted after a period of inactivity. The sleep state may be exited upon receiving a "wake-up" command (e.g., a request for data) and / or after a predetermined time has elapsed in the sleep state.

[0104] Vehicle components (such as braking system components) are typically inspected as part of routine vehicle testing and maintenance. However, prematurely replacing parts in anticipation of failure before the next routine inspection is environmentally disadvantageous. This invention enables the inspection and replacement of components at the most appropriate time—e.g., before actual failure (but not prematurely), and / or when the vehicle is near a service point and / or idle (i.e., when the vehicle is not needed for the required inspection / maintenance period). This also has the advantages of fewer unnecessary trips by the vehicle and / or optimized routes, which may also have environmental benefits.

[0105] The terms “comprising” and “including”, and variations thereof, as used in this specification and claims, mean to include the specified features, steps, or whole. These terms should not be construed as excluding the presence of other features, steps, or components.

[0106] The invention may also be widely present in any and all combinations of the components, elements, steps, examples, and / or features mentioned or indicated herein, whether alone or collectively in any and all combinations of two or more of the said components, elements, steps, examples, and / or features. In particular, one or more features in any embodiment described herein may be combined with one or more features in any other embodiment described herein.

[0107] Any feature disclosed in any one or more of the public documents cited herein may be combined with this disclosure for protection.

[0108] Although certain exemplary embodiments of the invention have been described, the scope of the appended claims is not intended to be limited to these embodiments. The claims are to be interpreted literally, purposefully, and / or including equivalents.

Claims

1. A vehicle monitoring system, comprising a sensor device configured to acquire sensing data relating to at least one of the position and movement of a first component of a braking assembly, the sensor device being configured to transmit the sensing data to a control device of the monitoring system, the control device being configured to monitor the condition of the first component and / or a second component of the braking assembly based on the sensing data, and to transmit a signal indicating the monitoring condition to at least one of a remote hub and a local device.

2. The vehicle monitoring system according to claim 1, characterized in that, It includes multiple sensor devices.

3. The vehicle monitoring system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, It is configured to monitor one or more of the following conditions: Brake regulator status, Brake pad condition Brake pad / brake drum interface surface condition Brake drum condition Cam condition, Brake block condition, Brake disc condition Actuator status, Disc brake condition.

4. The vehicle monitoring system according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The sensor device is an accelerometer.

5. The vehicle monitoring system according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The sensor device is configured to monitor the vibration of the component.

6. The vehicle monitoring system according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The data acquired by the sensor device is compared with calibration data to determine or predict the condition of the component.

7. The vehicle monitoring system according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, It is configured to monitor and / or transmit signals indicating the condition of the said or each component while the vehicle is in motion.

8. The vehicle monitoring system according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, It is configured to monitor and / or transmit signals indicating the condition of the said or each component during braking operation.

9. A braking system for a vehicle, comprising the vehicle monitoring system according to any one of the preceding claims.

10. A vehicle comprising the vehicle monitoring system according to any of the preceding claims.

11. A method for monitoring the condition of a first component of a braking assembly, comprising acquiring at least one of position data and motion data of the first component, and / or acquiring at least one of position data and motion data of a second component of the braking assembly, wherein the position data and / or motion data of the first and / or second components indicate the condition of the first component of the braking assembly, and the method further comprising transmitting a signal indicating the condition to at least one of a local device and a remote hub.

12. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that, This includes acquiring calibration data indicating the condition of the first component of the braking assembly, and comparing the position data and / or motion data with the calibration data to monitor the usage condition of the first component of the braking assembly.

13. The method according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that, The location data and / or motion data can be combined with one or more of the following: Other data related to the first component of the braking assembly, Data related to the second component of the braking assembly. Data related to the third component, Data related to vehicle condition or characteristics.

14. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that, The condition of the first component of the braking assembly is monitored while the vehicle is in use.

15. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 14, characterized in that, The condition of the first component of the braking assembly is monitored while the vehicle is in motion.

16. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 15, characterized in that, The condition of the first component of the braking assembly is monitored during braking operations.

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