Safety-Critical Vehicle Actuator Voltage Boosting
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing safety-critical vehicle actuators, such as those in braking and steering systems, do not operate at their full potential due to voltage dips in the vehicle electrical system, which can compromise performance and safety.
Innovation Solution
The safety-critical vehicle actuator signals the alternator to output a raised voltage for a predetermined time upon activation, enabling improved and stable performance, particularly in hybrid hydraulic/electrical systems, and allowing for the use of smaller, lighter, and less costly components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the actuator parameters are adapted to prevent voltage dips, then the voltage stability is improved, but the actuator performance is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by signaling the alternator to output raised voltage before the actuator is actually activated. This anticipatory voltage boost ensures that when the actuator does activate, it receives sufficient voltage to operate at full performance without causing voltage dips that would require performance adaptation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements dynamics by making the voltage output dynamic rather than static. The alternator switches between normal voltage operation and raised voltage operation based on real-time signals from the actuator, allowing the system to adapt voltage supply to match actual actuator needs without compromising performance.
2Reliability
If larger components are used to ensure adequate voltage supply, then the voltage stability is improved, but the weight and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies parameter changes by dynamically altering the voltage parameter from the standard 12V to a raised voltage level (e.g., 15V or higher) when needed. This allows the use of smaller, lighter electrical components since the raised voltage provides sufficient power without requiring oversized wiring, connectors, and other electrical components designed for higher continuous current loads.
3Device complexity
If the alternator responds slowly to voltage requests, then the system complexity is reduced, but the actuator response time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback by creating a closed-loop communication between the actuator and alternator. The actuator signals its activation status and voltage needs to the alternator, which then responds by adjusting its output voltage accordingly. This feedback mechanism ensures rapid alternator response without requiring complex control systems, as the actuator itself provides the control signal.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enhances the responsiveness and efficiency of safety-critical actuators, reducing stopping distances and improving steering response while reducing component weight and cost, and integrates well with forward collision avoidance systems for enhanced safety.
Implementation Method 1
an alternator of the vehicle to output a raised voltage for a pre-determined time period
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments herein relate to an arrangement and method for improving the performance of a safety-critical vehicle actuator, in particular a safety-critical vehicle actuator powered directly or indirectly from a vehicle electrical system. The safety-critical vehicle actuator is arranged to, upon activation thereof, signal to an alternator of the vehicle to output a raised voltage for a pre-determined time period.