Dynamic torque re-distribution for front-rear split brake systems

Abstract

The present disclosure provides "Dynamic Torque Re-distribution for Front and Rear Split Braking Systems". A method of controlling the use of brakes of a vehicle can include determining a set of parameters based on vehicle data and environmental data, creating a hierarchical classification of the set of parameters based on an effect of each of the set of parameters on a vehicle braking distance, receiving sensor data from a sensor suite of the vehicle associated with the set of parameters, and determining whether a condition has been triggered for each parameter in the set of parameters based on the sensor data and the hierarchical classification. In response to the condition being triggered for any parameter in the set of parameters, the method can enable front wheel braking and rear wheel braking, and in response to no condition being triggered for the set of parameters, the method can enable only one of the front wheel braking or the rear wheel braking.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The exemplary embodiments generally relate to vehicle braking systems, and more specifically to a system used to achieve the minimum braking system required for a vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] Vehicle braking inherently introduces additional noise to the vehicle's passengers. Sometimes, for basic braking situations, it is not necessary to use the entire braking system. In these basic braking situations, selectively using the vehicle's braking capacity may be all that is needed to bring the vehicle to a stop.

[0003] However, current braking system architectures may not allow for the disengagement of parts of the braking system. Therefore, it may be desirable to develop an architecture and control system that determines, based on vehicle and environmental data, when to engage only a portion of the braking system under desired conditions. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to an exemplary embodiment, a method for controlling the braking use of a vehicle can be provided. The method may include: determining a set of parameters based on vehicle data and environmental data; creating a hierarchical classification of the parameter set based on the impact of each parameter in the parameter set on the vehicle's braking distance; receiving sensor data from a sensor suite of the vehicle associated with the parameter set; and determining, based on the sensor data and the hierarchical classification, whether a condition has been triggered for each parameter in the parameter set. In response to a condition being triggered for any parameter in the parameter set, the method may enable both front and rear wheel braking, and in response to no condition being triggered for the parameter set, the method may enable only one of the front or rear wheel braking.

[0005] In another exemplary embodiment, a vehicle control system for a vehicle can therefore be provided. The vehicle control system may include: a front braking assembly operatively coupled to the front wheel assembly of the vehicle; a rear braking assembly operatively coupled to the rear wheel assembly of the vehicle; and a controller configured to perform a method of controlling the front and rear braking assemblies. The method may further include: determining a set of parameters based on vehicle data and environmental data; creating a hierarchical classification of the parameter set based on the impact of each parameter in the parameter set on the vehicle's braking distance; receiving sensor data from a sensor suite of the vehicle associated with the parameter set; and determining, based on the sensor data and the hierarchical classification, whether a condition has been triggered for each parameter in the parameter set. In response to triggering the condition for any parameter in the parameter set, the method may enable both front and rear wheel braking, and in response to no triggered condition for the parameter set, the method may enable only one of the front or rear wheel braking. Attached Figure Description

[0006] Having thus generally described the invention, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and in the drawings: Figure 1 A block diagram of a vehicle control system according to an exemplary embodiment is shown; Figure 2 A flowchart of an algorithm for VCM according to an exemplary embodiment is depicted, the algorithm forming an initial parameter set to determine the use of the front brake and the rear brake; Figure 3 A block diagram of the physical boundary map, characterized by an EBB module associated with braking control, is shown according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0007] Figure 4 A flowchart of an algorithm for VCM according to an exemplary embodiment is depicted, the algorithm monitoring a parameter set based on hierarchical classification to determine the use of the front and rear brakes; and Figure 5 A method for controlling braking according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0008] Some exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate some, but not all, exemplary embodiments. In fact, the examples described and depicted herein should not be construed as limiting the scope, applicability, or configuration of this disclosure. Rather, these exemplary embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable requirements. The same reference numerals always refer to the same elements. Furthermore, as used herein, the term “or” will be interpreted as a logical operator that produces a true result whenever one or more of its operands are true. As used herein, an operable connection should be understood to involve direct or indirect connections, in either case of which the connection enables functional interconnection of components operably linked to each other.

[0009] Furthermore, as used herein, terms such as “about” and “substantially” should be understood as explicit approximations that take into account variations in measurements that cannot be precisely measured or, as would be understood by those skilled in the art, are generally not precisely measured. Thus, for example, a parameter “about” or “substantially” given a value or characteristic should be understood as being sufficiently close to the given value or characteristic such that the performance of the object or product to which the parameter is applied appears from the perspective of a person skilled in the art as if the object or product exactly possessed the given value or characteristic.

[0010] Some exemplary embodiments described herein can solve the above-mentioned problems. In this regard, for example, some embodiments can provide a vehicle control system to increase vehicle functionality. Thus, the vehicle control system can control braking usage to enhance vehicle performance and comfort.

[0011] Figure 1 A block diagram of an exemplary vehicle control system 100 is shown. Components of the vehicle control system 100 may be incorporated into the vehicle 110 (e.g., via a chassis 120 or frame operatively coupled to the vehicle 110, various components of the vehicle 110, and / or the vehicle 110's electronic control system). It is noteworthy that, although... Figure 1 Components of the vehicle control system 100 may be operatively coupled to vehicle 110, but it should be understood that such connections may be direct or indirect. Furthermore, some components of the vehicle control system 100 may be connected to vehicle 110 via intermediate connections to other components of chassis 120 or other electronic and / or mechanical systems or components. In some cases, chassis 120 may include or be defined by a frame, and the frame may additionally be formed from one or more cast subframes.

[0012] The vehicle control system 100 may include one or more input devices in the form of one or more control pedals. In some embodiments, the control pedals may include a brake pedal 115, which is typically operated by an operator 116 with their foot to initiate braking force or braking torque application at the wheels of the vehicle 110. The brake pedal 115 may be mechanically coupled to a front brake 130. In an exemplary embodiment, the front brake 130 may be a hydraulic brake operably coupled to a front brake assembly 135, and the brake pedal 115 may be hydraulically coupled to the front brake 130. The brake pedal 115 may also be operably coupled to a rear brake 140. In some cases, the rear brake 140 may be an electromechanical brake (EMB) operably coupled to a rear wheel assembly 145. The front brake 130 and the rear brake 140 may be operably coupled to a pedal travel sensor of a sensor suite 160 of the vehicle 110 to receive information indicating the position and angle of the brake pedal 115. The pedal travel sensor can provide data indicating the precise actuation and precise angle of the brake pedal 115 to help determine the desired braking degree of the operator 116.

[0013] In an exemplary embodiment, sensor suite 160 may include vehicle sensors and environmental sensors, and sensor suite 160 may provide sensor data to vehicle 110. Vehicle sensors may monitor the status and performance of various vehicle components / subassemblies 150 or the overall status of vehicle 110 as a whole. For example, vehicle sensors may include, but are not limited to, vehicle speed sensors, wheel speed sensors, vehicle weight sensors, accessory attachment sensors, vehicle mode sensors, braking torque sensors, braking torque change rate sensors, tire pressure monitoring sensors, vehicle pitch sensors, and pedal sensors. Environmental sensors may include, but are not limited to, temperature sensors, driving surface slope sensors, driving surface detection sensors, and precipitation sensors. In an exemplary embodiment, sensor data provided by sensor suite 160 may be provided as input to vehicle control module (VCM) 180. In some cases, sensor data may be provided as input directly to other vehicle control modules or provided to other vehicle control modules. Sensor data may be provided to vehicle control system 100 to enable vehicle control system 100 to control the use of front brake 130 and rear brake 140.

[0014] In an exemplary embodiment, VCM 180 may be a controller. In some cases, VCM 180 may include one or more control modules (i.e., sub-control modules or operatively coupled to other control modules). VCM 180 may include a processing circuitry system including a processor and memory. The processing circuitry system may be configured to provide electronic control of inputs to one or more functional units of the front brake 130 or rear brake 140, and to process data received at or generated therefrom at one or more functional units of the front brake 130 or rear brake 140. Thus, according to an exemplary embodiment, the processing circuitry system may be configured to perform data processing, control function execution, and / or other processing and management services. In some embodiments, the processing circuitry system may be embodied as a semiconductor chip or chipset. In other words, the processing circuitry system may include one or more physical packages (e.g., chips) comprising materials, components, and / or wires on a structural assembly (e.g., a substrate). The structural assembly may provide physical strength, size savings, and / or electrical interaction limitations for the component circuitry system included thereon. Therefore, in some cases, the processing circuitry system may be configured to implement embodiments of the invention on a single chip or as a single "system-on-a-chip." Thus, in some cases, a chip or chipset may constitute a component for performing one or more operations to provide the functionality described herein. In exemplary embodiments, other vehicle control modules may include similar processing circuitry systems.

[0015] Figure 2 A flowchart of an algorithm for a vehicle-mounted motor (VCM) according to an exemplary embodiment is shown, which forms an initial set of parameters to determine the use of the front and rear brakes. The VCM 180 can be configured to execute an initial algorithm 200 to form a parameter set to determine the use of the front brake 130 and rear brake 140, which can begin at step 205 (process start). The start of algorithm 200 can be triggered by ignition or initial starting of the vehicle 110. In some cases, algorithm 200 can be triggered in response to the vehicle 110 shifting out of a specific gear (e.g., shifting out of parking). In an exemplary embodiment, algorithm 200 can also be executed periodically to form new parameter sets or to ensure the presence of appropriate parameters.

[0016] After Algorithm 200 begins at step 205, Algorithm 200 may determine a parameter set at step 210 based on vehicle data and environmental data. Vehicle data may include, but is not limited to, vehicle model or type, attachments or accessories configured to be attached to the vehicle (e.g., trailer attachments), vehicle component status, and available sensors of sensor suite 160 that can provide data to VCM 180. Environmental data may include, but is not limited to, weather forecasts, temperature data, and historical environmental data (e.g., seasonal weather trends). Using the vehicle data and environmental data, VCM 180 and Algorithm 200 can determine which parameters will affect the vehicle braking distance of a particular vehicle. In this respect, whether a trailer is attached may be part of the parameter set if vehicle 110 is a truck or a larger vehicle, and may not be part of the parameter set for smaller vehicles not configured for towing. Due to the importance of parameters to vehicle braking distance, some parameters (e.g., vehicle speed) may be shared across all vehicle types and models.

[0017] In some cases, the parameter set may include various parameters related to the vehicle 110 itself and the environment / conditions outside the vehicle 110. Some sample parameters in the parameter set may include, but are not limited to, vehicle speed, vehicle weight, accessories attached to the vehicle 110 (e.g., trailers), surface conditions of the vehicle 110's running surfaces, component status (e.g., braking status, tire pressure, etc.), road gradient, vehicle pitch, brake pedal actuation, brake pedal travel, brake torque request, temperature, and precipitation.

[0018] After determining the parameter set of vehicle 110, VCM 180 can create a hierarchical classification of the parameter set at step 220. The hierarchical classification of the parameter set can be based on the impact of each parameter in the parameter set on the vehicle's braking distance. The impact of each parameter on the vehicle's braking distance can be specific to the vehicle type or model. In some cases, lookup tables and databases can be used to determine the hierarchical classification of the parameter set for each vehicle 110. In some cases, vehicle speed can be the first parameter in the hierarchical classification because, regardless of other parameters within the parameter set, if the vehicle speed exceeds a certain threshold amount, the vehicle control system may require full braking capability. Similarly, if the vehicle speed exceeds a certain threshold amount, the vehicle control system may not need to check another parameter, such as driving surface conditions, and therefore, driving surface conditions may be lower in the case of hierarchical classification.

[0019] In some cases, after creating the hierarchical classification at step 220, VCM 180 may begin or continue receiving sensor data from sensor suite 160 at step 230. In this regard, VCM 180 may begin monitoring the parameter set determined in step 210 based on the hierarchical classification created in step 220 for the sensor data received from sensor suite 160. In an exemplary embodiment, sensor suite 160 may operate continuously, but sensor suite 160 may transmit sensor data to VCM 180 discontinuously, or VCM 180 may not always require the latest sensor data. Receiving sensor data at step 230 of algorithm 200 may also indicate the completion of the hierarchical classification. In some cases, VCM 180 may receive sensor data automatically and in real time, and VCM 180 may execute algorithm 200 automatically and in real time.

[0020] Figure 3 A flowchart of an algorithm for a VCM according to an exemplary embodiment is shown, which monitors a set of parameters based on hierarchical classification to determine the use of the front and rear brakes. VCM 180 can be configured to execute algorithm 300 after algorithm 200. In some cases, algorithms 200 and 300 may be a single algorithm configured to be executed by VCM 180. The start of algorithm 300 at step 305 may be in response to a change in vehicle 110 or a trigger from the vehicle. For example, in response to vehicle 110 shifting gears to reverse or out of parking, VCM 180 may receive sensor data at step 306. In an exemplary embodiment, steps 306 and 230 may be identical. Similar to step 230, sensor suite 160 may continuously collect sensor data and transmit / transmit sensor data only when required by VCM 180 and / or algorithm 300.

[0021] In an exemplary embodiment, algorithm 300 can then determine whether a condition has been triggered for each parameter in the parameter set based on sensor data and hierarchical classification. In this regard, each parameter may have its own individual condition, and the order in which each condition has been triggered follows hierarchical classification. In an exemplary embodiment, the first parameter of the hierarchical classification, and therefore the first parameter monitored by algorithm 300, may be vehicle speed. At step 310, VCM 180 may determine via sensor data whether the vehicle speed is greater than a speed threshold. The speed threshold may depend on the vehicle type and model, as well as vehicle accessories (e.g., tire type, braking conditions, etc.). If it is determined at step 310 that the vehicle speed is greater than the speed threshold, VCM 180 may activate both the front brake 130 and the rear brake 140 at step 315.

[0022] If it is determined at step 310 that the vehicle speed is not greater than a speed threshold, then VCM 180 and algorithm 300 can proceed to step 320 to determine whether a second parameter in the hierarchical classification of the parameter set triggers a condition. In some cases, the second parameter may be vehicle weight, and VCM 180 may determine whether the vehicle weight is greater than a weight threshold based on sensor data. The weight threshold may be vehicle-specific, and a vehicle weight sensor may provide sensor data to determine whether vehicle 110 exceeds the weight threshold. In some cases, the weight threshold may be triggered by determining a specific vehicle attachment. For example, if VCM 180 determines that a trailer is operatively attached to vehicle 110, the weight threshold may be triggered automatically. In response to the condition that the second parameter of the hierarchical classification is triggered due to the vehicle weight being greater than the weight threshold, VCM 180 may activate both the front brake 130 and the rear brake 140 at step 325.

[0023] If it is determined at step 320 that the vehicle weight is not greater than a weight threshold, then VCM 180 and algorithm 300 can proceed to step 330 to determine whether a third parameter in the hierarchical classification of the parameter set triggers a condition. In some cases, the third parameter may be the driving surface conditions of vehicle 110, and the condition of the third parameter may be whether the driving surface is wet or icy. VCM 180 can determine whether the driving surface is wet or icy via many different methods. For example, in an exemplary embodiment, VCM 180 may check the driving mode of vehicle 110. If the driving mode of the vehicle is set for wet or icy conditions, the condition of the third parameter may be triggered. The operator 116 of vehicle 110 may set the driving mode, or VCM 180 may automatically set the driving mode based on sensor data from sensor suite 160.

[0024] VCM 180 can automatically determine whether a driving surface is wet or icy based on sensor data from a combination of sensors from sensor suite 160. For example, VCM 180 can utilize a temperature sensor and / or a precipitation sensor to determine whether a driving surface is wet or icy. In another example, VCM 180 can use a combination of sensors and sensor data to determine whether a driving surface is wet or icy using an estimate of the coefficient of friction (µ) of the driving surface. In response to a condition that triggers a third parameter of hierarchical classification due to VCM 180 determining that the driving surface is wet or icy, VCM 180 can activate the front brake 130 and the rear brake 140 at step 335.

[0025] If it is determined at step 330 that the driving surface is not wet or icy, VCM 180 and algorithm 300 can proceed to step 340 to determine whether a fourth parameter in the hierarchical classification of the parameter set triggers a condition. In some cases, the fourth condition may be road slope, and the fourth condition may be whether the road slope is greater than a road slope threshold. VCM 180 may determine the road slope of vehicle 110 via vehicle pitch or via a road slope sensor. In some cases, a camera may be included within sensor suite 160, and VCM 180 may use camera video footage to estimate the road slope. The road slope threshold may vary depending on the vehicle type and model. In response to the condition that triggers the fourth parameter of the hierarchical classification due to VCM 180 determining that the road slope is greater than the slope threshold, VCM 180 may activate both front brake 130 and rear brake 140 at step 445.

[0026] If it is determined at step 340 that the road gradient is not greater than a gradient threshold, VCM 180 and Algorithm 300 can proceed to step 350 to determine whether the fifth parameter in the hierarchical classification of the parameter set triggers a condition. In some cases, the fifth parameter may be the pedal travel distance, and the condition for the fifth parameter may be whether the pedal travel distance is greater than a pedal distance threshold. The pedal travel distance may correspond to the distance traveled by brake pedal 115 in response to input from operator 116. The pedal travel distance may also correspond to the amount of braking torque desired by operator 116. In this respect, the greater the pedal travel distance, the greater the braking torque request. In some cases, the pedal travel distance may correspond to a deceleration request of vehicle 110, and whether the deceleration request is greater than a deceleration request threshold (e.g., 0.1 g or 0.3 g) may correspond to the condition of the fifth parameter in the hierarchical classification. In response to VCM 180 determining that the pedal travel distance is greater than a pedal distance threshold and triggering the condition of the fifth parameter in the hierarchical classification, VCM 180 may activate the front brake 130 and the rear brake 140 at step 355. If the condition of the fifth parameter is not triggered, VCM180 may activate only the front brake 130 or the rear brake 140 at step 356.

[0027] Figure 4 A flowchart of an algorithm for VCM according to an exemplary embodiment is shown, which monitors a set of parameters based on hierarchical classification to determine the use of the front and rear brakes. In some cases, the fourth and fifth parameters within algorithm 300 can be extended to include multiple thresholds for each parameter, as seen in algorithm 400. For example, as Figure 4As seen in Algorithm 400, step 340 of Algorithm 300 regarding determining whether the road slope is greater than a slope threshold can be replaced by steps 440 and 441. At step 440, VCM 180 can first determine whether the road slope is greater than a first slope threshold, and in response to the road slope being greater than the first slope threshold, VCM 180 can further determine at step 441 whether the road slope is greater than a second slope threshold. Then, in response to the road slope being greater than the second slope threshold, VCM 180 can activate both the front brake 130 and the rear brake 140 at step 445. In some cases, the second slope threshold is greater than the first slope threshold. For example, the first slope threshold could be 5%, and the second road slope threshold could be 10%.

[0028] In an exemplary embodiment, similar to algorithm 300, if VCM 180 determines that the road gradient is not greater than a first gradient threshold, then VCM 180 may determine at step 450 whether the pedal travel distance is greater than a first pedal distance threshold. In response to VCM 180 determining that the pedal travel distance is greater than the first pedal distance threshold, VCM 180 may activate both the front brake 130 and the rear brake 140 at step 455. If the pedal travel distance is not greater than the first pedal travel distance threshold, VCM 180 may activate only the front brake 130 or the rear brake 140 at step 456.

[0029] In response to VCM 180 determining that the road gradient is greater than a first gradient threshold but not greater than a second gradient threshold, VCM 180 may determine at step 450 whether the pedal travel distance is greater than a second pedal travel distance threshold. In response to VCM 180 determining that the pedal travel distance is greater than the second pedal travel distance threshold, VCM 180 may activate both the front brake 130 and the rear brake 140 at step 457. If the pedal travel distance is not greater than the second pedal travel distance threshold, VCM 180 may activate only the front brake 130 or the rear brake 140 at step 458.

[0030] In some cases, the first pedal distance threshold and the second pedal distance threshold are related to the first slope threshold and the second slope threshold. For example, if the first slope threshold is less than the second slope threshold, then the first pedal distance threshold can be greater than the second pedal distance threshold. In this respect, as the slope increases, the pedal distance threshold can be lower to maintain the same vehicle braking distance.

[0031] In an exemplary embodiment, additional parameters may be added to or replace previous parameters in the parameter set. For example, brake pad condition may be an additional parameter, and the condition for the brake pad condition parameter may include whether the brake pad wear is higher than a brake pad wear threshold. In some cases, in response to brake pad wear exceeding the brake pad wear threshold, VCM180 may activate both the front brake 130 and the rear brake 140. In an exemplary embodiment, brake pad condition may be a first parameter or an early parameter within a hierarchical classification because brake pad condition has a significant impact on vehicle braking distance.

[0032] As mentioned earlier, the threshold used to determine the triggering of a condition can be vehicle-specific and based on the vehicle model or type. In some cases, the threshold used can correspond to the ASIL rating. For example, the speed threshold for vehicle 110 can be determined based on the ASIL rating, either the maximum speed of front wheel braking or rear wheel braking only.

[0033] Figure 5 A method for controlling the braking use of a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment is described. At step 510, the method may determine a set of parameters based on vehicle data and environmental data. At step 520, the method may further create a hierarchical classification of the parameter set based on the impact of each parameter in the parameter set on the vehicle's braking distance. At step 530, the method may receive sensor data from a sensor suite of the vehicle associated with the parameter set. At step 540, the method may determine, based on the sensor data and the hierarchical classification, whether a condition has been triggered for each parameter in the parameter set. At step 550, the method may enable both front and rear wheel braking in response to triggering the condition for any parameter in the parameter set. At step 560, the method enables only one of the front or rear wheel braking in response to no triggered condition for the parameter set.

[0034] Therefore, a method for controlling the braking use of a vehicle can be provided. The method may include: determining a set of parameters based on vehicle data and environmental data; creating a hierarchical classification of the parameter set based on the impact of each parameter in the parameter set on the vehicle's braking distance; receiving sensor data from a sensor suite of the vehicle associated with the parameter set; and determining, based on the sensor data and the hierarchical classification, whether a condition has been triggered for each parameter in the parameter set. In response to a condition being triggered for any parameter in the parameter set, the method may enable both front and rear wheel braking, and in response to no triggered condition for the parameter set, the method may enable only one of the front or rear wheel braking.

[0035] Some embodiments of the system may include additional features, modifications, extensions, etc., to achieve further objectives or enhance the performance of the system. These additional features, modifications, extensions, etc., can be added in any combination of each other. The following is a list of various additional features, modifications, and extensions, which can be added individually or in any combination of each other. For example, determining the parameter set and creating a hierarchical classification may also be based on a lookup table specific to vehicle type or vehicle model. In some cases, vehicle speed may be a first parameter in the hierarchical classification of the parameter set, and whether the vehicle speed is greater than a speed threshold may be a condition of the first parameter. In an exemplary embodiment, vehicle weight may be a second parameter in the hierarchical classification of the parameter set, and whether the vehicle weight is greater than a weight threshold may be a condition of the second parameter. In some cases, vehicle weight may include determining whether a trailer attachment is operatively connected to the vehicle, and a weight threshold may be triggered in response to the operative connection of the trailer attachment to the vehicle. In an exemplary embodiment, the state of the vehicle's driving surface may be a third parameter in the hierarchical classification of the parameter set, and whether the state of the driving surface is wet or icy may be a condition of the third parameter. In some cases, whether the condition of the driving surface is wet or icy can be based on the vehicle mode currently being used. In an exemplary embodiment, whether the condition of the driving surface is wet or icy can be based on the coefficient of friction of the driving surface. In some cases, whether the condition of the driving surface is wet or icy can be based on precipitation measurements. In an exemplary embodiment, the road gradient can be the fourth parameter in the hierarchical classification of the parameter set, and whether the road gradient is greater than a gradient threshold can be a condition of the fourth parameter. In some cases, the brake pedal travel distance can be the fifth parameter in the hierarchical classification of the parameter set, and whether the brake pedal travel distance is greater than a pedal distance threshold can be a condition of the fifth parameter.

[0036] In another exemplary embodiment, a vehicle control system for a vehicle can therefore be provided. The vehicle control system may include: a front braking assembly operatively coupled to the front wheel assembly of the vehicle; a rear braking assembly operatively coupled to the rear wheel assembly of the vehicle; and a controller configured to perform a method of controlling the front and rear braking assemblies. The method may further include: determining a set of parameters based on vehicle data and environmental data; creating a hierarchical classification of the parameter set based on the impact of each parameter in the parameter set on the vehicle's braking distance; receiving sensor data from a sensor suite of the vehicle associated with the parameter set; and determining, based on the sensor data and the hierarchical classification, whether a condition has been triggered for each parameter in the parameter set. In response to triggering the condition for any parameter in the parameter set, the method may enable both front and rear wheel braking, and in response to no triggered condition for the parameter set, the method may enable only one of the front or rear wheel braking.

[0037] Those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains will conceive of many modifications and other embodiments of the invention set forth herein, benefiting from the teachings presented in the foregoing description and associated drawings. Therefore, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, while exemplary embodiments have been described in the context of certain exemplary combinations of elements and / or functions in the foregoing description and associated drawings, it should be understood that alternative embodiments may provide different combinations of elements and / or functions without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In this regard, combinations of elements and / or functions different from those explicitly described above are also contemplated, for example, as may be set forth in some of the appended claims. Where advantages, benefits, or solutions are described herein, it should be understood that such advantages, benefits, and / or solutions may be applicable to some exemplary embodiments but not necessarily to all exemplary embodiments. Therefore, any advantages, benefits, or solutions described herein should not be considered critical, essential, or necessary for all embodiments or the embodiments claimed herein. Although specific terminology is used herein, it is used only in a general and descriptive sense and not for limiting purposes.

[0038] According to the present invention, a method for controlling the braking use of a vehicle includes: determining a set of parameters based on vehicle data and environmental data; creating a hierarchical classification of the parameter set based on the influence of each parameter in the parameter set on the vehicle's braking distance; receiving sensor data from a sensor suite of the vehicle associated with the parameter set; determining, based on the sensor data and the hierarchical classification, whether a condition has been triggered for each parameter in the parameter set; activating front wheel braking and rear wheel braking in response to any condition being triggered for any parameter in the parameter set; and activating only one of the front wheel braking or the rear wheel braking in response to no condition being triggered for the parameter set.

[0039] In one aspect of the invention, determining the parameter set and creating the hierarchical classification are also based on a lookup table specific to vehicle type or vehicle model.

[0040] In one aspect of the invention, vehicle speed is a first parameter in the hierarchical classification of the parameter set, and whether the vehicle speed is greater than a speed threshold is a condition of the first parameter.

[0041] In one aspect of the invention, vehicle weight is a second parameter in the hierarchical classification of the parameter set, and whether the vehicle weight is greater than a weight threshold is a condition of the second parameter.

[0042] In one aspect of the invention, the vehicle weight includes determining whether a trailer attachment is operatively connected to the vehicle, and wherein the weight threshold is triggered in response to the operative connection of the trailer attachment to the vehicle.

[0043] In one aspect of the invention, the state of the vehicle's driving surface is a third parameter in the hierarchical classification of the parameter set, and whether the state of the driving surface is wet or icy is a condition of the third parameter.

[0044] In one aspect of the invention, whether the state of the driving surface is wet or icy is based on the vehicle mode currently being used by the vehicle.

[0045] In one aspect of the invention, the state of the driving surface is wet or icy based on the coefficient of friction of the driving surface.

[0046] In one aspect of the invention, the state of the driving surface is wet or icy based on precipitation measurements.

[0047] In one aspect of the invention, road slope is a fourth parameter in the hierarchical classification of the parameter set, and whether the road slope is greater than a slope threshold is a condition of the fourth parameter.

[0048] In one aspect of the invention, the brake pedal travel distance is the fifth parameter in the hierarchical classification of the parameter set, and whether the brake pedal travel distance is greater than the pedal distance threshold is a condition of the fifth parameter.

[0049] According to the present invention, a vehicle control system for a vehicle is provided, comprising: a front braking assembly operatively coupled to a front wheel assembly of the vehicle; a rear braking assembly operatively coupled to a rear wheel assembly of the vehicle; and a controller configured to perform a method of controlling the front braking assembly and the rear braking assembly, the method further comprising: determining a set of parameters based on vehicle data and environmental data; creating a hierarchical classification of the parameter set based on the influence of each parameter in the parameter set on the vehicle's braking distance; receiving sensor data from a sensor suite of the vehicle associated with the parameter set; determining, based on the sensor data and the hierarchical classification, whether a condition has been triggered for each parameter in the parameter set; enabling front wheel braking and rear wheel braking in response to triggering the condition for any parameter in the parameter set; and enabling only one of the front wheel braking or the rear wheel braking in response to no triggered condition for the parameter set.

[0050] According to one embodiment, vehicle speed is a first parameter in the hierarchical classification of the parameter set, and whether the vehicle speed is greater than a speed threshold is a condition of the first parameter.

[0051] According to one embodiment, vehicle weight is a second parameter in the hierarchical classification of the parameter set, and whether the vehicle weight is greater than a weight threshold is a condition of the second parameter.

[0052] According to one embodiment, the vehicle weight includes determining whether a trailer attachment is operatively connected to the vehicle, and wherein the weight threshold is triggered in response to the operative connection of the trailer attachment to the vehicle.

[0053] According to one embodiment, the state of the vehicle's driving surface is a third parameter in the hierarchical classification of the parameter set, and whether the state of the driving surface is wet or icy is a condition of the third parameter.

[0054] According to one embodiment, whether the state of the driving surface is wet or icy is based on the vehicle mode currently being used by the vehicle.

[0055] According to one embodiment, the state of the driving surface is wet or icy based on the coefficient of friction of the driving surface.

[0056] According to one embodiment, road slope is the fourth parameter in the hierarchical classification of the parameter set, and whether the road slope is greater than a slope threshold is the condition of the fourth parameter.

[0057] According to one embodiment, the brake pedal travel distance is the fifth parameter in the hierarchical classification of the parameter set, and whether the brake pedal travel distance is greater than the pedal distance threshold is the condition of the fifth parameter.

Claims

1. A method for controlling the braking of a vehicle, the method comprising: The parameter set is determined based on vehicle data and environmental data; A hierarchical classification of the parameter set is created based on the impact of each parameter in the parameter set on the vehicle braking distance; Receive sensor data from the sensor suite of the vehicle associated with the parameter set; Based on the sensor data and the hierarchical classification, it is determined whether a condition has been triggered for each parameter in the parameter set; In response to the condition being triggered for any parameter in the parameter set, front wheel braking and rear wheel braking are activated; and In response to the absence of a trigger condition for the parameter set, only one of the front wheel braking or the rear wheel braking is activated.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein determining the parameter set and creating the hierarchical classification are further based on a lookup table specific to vehicle type or vehicle model.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein the vehicle speed is a first parameter in the hierarchical classification of the parameter set, and Whether the vehicle speed is greater than the speed threshold is a condition of the first parameter.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein the vehicle weight is a second parameter in the hierarchical classification of the parameter set, and Whether the vehicle weight is greater than the weight threshold is a condition of the second parameter.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein the vehicle weight includes determining whether the trailer attachment is operably connected to the vehicle, and The weight threshold is triggered in response to the trailer attachment being operably connected to the vehicle.

6. The method of claim 4, wherein the state of the vehicle's driving surface is the third parameter in the hierarchical classification of the parameter set, and Whether the condition of the driving surface is wet or icy is the condition of the third parameter.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein whether the state of the driving surface is wet or icy is based on the vehicle mode currently being used by the vehicle, the coefficient of friction of the driving surface, or a precipitation measurement.

8. The method of claim 6, wherein the road slope is the fourth parameter in the hierarchical classification of the parameter set. Whether the road slope is greater than the slope threshold is a condition of the fourth parameter. Wherein, the brake pedal travel distance is the fifth parameter in the hierarchical classification of the parameter set, and Whether the brake pedal travel distance is greater than the pedal distance threshold is the condition of the fifth parameter.

9. A vehicle control system for a vehicle, the vehicle control system comprising: A front braking assembly operatively connected to the front wheel assembly of the vehicle; A rear brake assembly operatively connected to the rear wheel assembly of the vehicle; as well as A controller, configured to perform a method of controlling the front braking assembly and the rear braking assembly, the method further comprising: The parameter set is determined based on vehicle data and environmental data; A hierarchical classification of the parameter set is created based on the impact of each parameter in the parameter set on the vehicle braking distance; Receive sensor data from the sensor suite of the vehicle associated with the parameter set; Based on the sensor data and the hierarchical classification, it is determined whether a condition has been triggered for each parameter in the parameter set; In response to the condition being triggered for any parameter in the parameter set, front wheel braking and rear wheel braking are activated; and In response to the absence of a trigger condition for the parameter set, only one of the front wheel braking or the rear wheel braking is activated.

10. The vehicle control system of claim 9, wherein the vehicle speed is a first parameter in the hierarchical classification of the parameter set, and Whether the vehicle speed is greater than the speed threshold is a condition of the first parameter.

11. The vehicle control system of claim 10, wherein the vehicle weight is a second parameter in the hierarchical classification of the parameter set, and Whether the vehicle weight is greater than the weight threshold is a condition of the second parameter.

12. The vehicle control system of claim 11, wherein the vehicle weight includes determining whether the trailer attachment is operably connected to the vehicle, and The weight threshold is triggered in response to the trailer attachment being operably connected to the vehicle.

13. The vehicle control system of claim 11, wherein the state of the vehicle's driving surface is a third parameter in the hierarchical classification of the parameter set, and Whether the condition of the driving surface is wet or icy is the condition of the third parameter.

14. The vehicle control system of claim 13, wherein whether the state of the driving surface is wet or icy is based on the vehicle mode currently being used by the vehicle or the coefficient of friction of the driving surface.

15. The vehicle control system of claim 13, wherein the road gradient is the fourth parameter in the hierarchical classification of the parameter set. Whether the road slope is greater than the slope threshold is a condition of the fourth parameter. Wherein, the brake pedal travel distance is the fifth parameter in the hierarchical classification of the parameter set, and Whether the brake pedal travel distance is greater than the pedal distance threshold is the condition of the fifth parameter.

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