Adjustable Brake Booster Equilibrium Offset
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing brake boosters are limited by a dynamic balance that restricts the operating modes of servomotors, as they maintain a constant relative position between the control rod and push rod, which does not allow for adjustable braking assistance ratios or compensation for varying vehicle conditions.
Innovation Solution
A brake control device with a processor that generates control setpoints to create a non-zero offset between the position of equilibrium of the brake pedal and the push rod, allowing for dynamic adjustment of the braking assistance ratio based on vehicle conditions, driver behavior, and braking characteristics, using an electric motor and hydraulic fluid pressure to modify the equilibrium position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a dynamic balance is maintained between the control rod and push rod in known brake boosters, then the system operates reliably with constant assistance ratio, but the operating modes of servomotors are restricted and adjustment of braking assistance ratio is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the equilibrium position of the push rod movable rather than fixed. The processor dynamically adjusts the target equilibrium position based on detected brake pedal position and braking conditions, enabling variable assistance ratios. This transforms the static balance system into a dynamic one where the equilibrium point can shift to provide different levels of braking assistance according to real-time conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of equilibrium position from a fixed geometric value to a variable target position that can be adjusted by the processor. By modifying the target equilibrium position parameter based on brake pedal position and braking characteristics, the system achieves variable assistance ratios without requiring complex mechanical reconfiguration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the relative position between control rod and push rod is kept constant, then the manufacturing and operation are simplified, but the braking assistance cannot be adjusted for different vehicle conditions or emergency braking scenarios
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by continuously detecting the brake pedal position and using this information to adjust the target equilibrium position of the push rod. The processor receives feedback on brake pedal position and braking conditions, then modifies the equilibrium position to provide appropriate assistance ratio, creating a closed-loop control system that adapts to varying vehicle conditions while maintaining operational simplicity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a non-zero offset is created between equilibrium positions, then adjustable braking assistance ratios are enabled, but the device complexity increases due to additional control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms with an electronic control system. Instead of using additional mechanical linkages or adjustable components to create the offset, the system uses a processor that calculates and controls the equilibrium position based on electronic sensors detecting brake pedal position. This substitution of mechanical complexity with electronic control achieves the same functionality with reduced mechanical complexity.
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
Enables adjustable braking assistance ratios and improved braking characteristics, such as emergency braking assistance, by dynamically adjusting the equilibrium position between the brake pedal and push rod, enhancing the vehicle's braking performance and comfort.
Implementation Method 1
using an electric motor and hydraulic fluid pressure to modify the equilibrium position
Implementation Method 2
a reaction device exerting a reaction force on said first mobile assembly
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates mainly to a brake booster that is adjustable, particularly as regards the magnitude of the jump. Advantageously, according to the invention, the "target" value of operational equilibrium of the actuator of the brake booster is modified. A target value for a signal delivered by a position sensor is defined by programming the computer whereby choosing a coefficient from a program as a function of the braking characteristic or characteristics that are to be implemented. Once the reference value has been determined, the computer drives the actuator with a reference value to cause it permanently and dynamically to attain the predefined and/or preselected target value. The reference can be calculated as a function of torque, as a function of load, as a function of position, etc. The invention applies particularly to the motor industry. The invention applies chiefly to the braking industry.