Adaptive Regenerative Braking Torque for Variable Vehicle Loads
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Solution Overview
Problem
Heavy-duty vehicles equipped with electric motors lack user-selectable regenerative braking settings that mimic the operator-friendly experience of engine braking systems, and the effectiveness of regenerative braking is affected by vehicle and trailer weight and center of gravity.
Innovation Solution
A regenerative braking control system that includes user-selectable settings adjusted based on vehicle and trailer weight and center of gravity, using sensors, processors, and modules to dynamically control regenerative braking torque.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If regenerative braking system is implemented in electric vehicles, then energy recovery capability is improved, but operator control flexibility and braking performance adaptability deteriorate compared to engine braking systems with user-selectable settings
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts regenerative braking torque based on real-time detection of vehicle and trailer weights and center of gravity positions. The control module modifies braking characteristics automatically to provide operator-friendly settings that adapt to changing vehicle conditions, recreating the flexibility of engine braking systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates sensors to detect vehicle conditions (weight, center of gravity) and uses this feedback to automatically adjust regenerative braking torque. This closed-loop control enables the system to adapt to different operating scenarios and provide optimized braking performance without requiring manual operator intervention for each condition.
2Device complexity
If fixed regenerative braking torque is applied, then system simplicity is maintained, but braking performance deteriorates under varying vehicle and trailer weight conditions
Solution Approach 1:
Rather than using fixed torque, the system dynamically adjusts regenerative braking torque based on detected vehicle and trailer weights and center of gravity positions. This dynamic adjustment ensures consistent and reliable braking performance across varying load conditions while maintaining reasonable system complexity through automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The control module changes the regenerative braking torque parameter based on detected vehicle conditions. By adjusting this key parameter according to weight and center of gravity data, the system maintains reliable braking performance without requiring complex mechanical adjustments or multiple fixed-torque systems.
3Force
If regenerative braking torque is increased to improve braking capability, then braking effectiveness is improved, but operator comfort and control precision deteriorate without adjustable settings
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides operator-friendly regenerative braking settings by dynamically adjusting torque levels based on vehicle and trailer conditions. This creates multiple effective braking modes that adapt to the situation, allowing operators to select appropriate settings that balance braking capability with comfort and control precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The control module adjusts the regenerative braking torque parameter to provide different effective settings based on detected conditions. This enables operators to experience varied braking characteristics similar to engine braking systems, improving ease of operation while maintaining high braking capability when needed.
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
Provides operator-friendly regenerative braking settings that optimize braking performance by adjusting torque based on vehicle and trailer characteristics, enhancing the braking experience and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The regenerative braking system can supplement the friction braking system and can also recoup energy from the moving wheels of the vehicle to use to charge one or more battery-operated systems of the vehicle
Data Source
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AI summary
A regenerative braking control system for a vehicle can include one or more user interface elements located in a cabin of the vehicle. The user interface element(s) can correspond to a plurality of regenerative braking settings. Each of the regenerative braking setting(s) can correspond to a different amount of regenerative braking torque to apply to the wheel(s) of the vehicle. The system can include a processor operatively connected to the user interface element(s). The processor can be configured to detect a condition, the condition being at least one of a weight of the vehicle, a center of gravity of the vehicle, a weight of a trailer operatively connected to the vehicle, and a center of gravity of a trailer operatively connected to the vehicle. The processor can be configured to cause the amount of regenerative braking torque for the regenerative braking setting(s) to be adjusted based on the condition.