Auxiliary Brake Module Self-Testing via Pressure Comparison
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Solution Overview
Problem
In 'brake-by-wire' systems, the auxiliary brake module is rarely activated and thus requires frequent garage-based checks, which is costly and effort-intensive, posing a challenge for ensuring its readiness in case of integrated brake system failures.
Innovation Solution
A brake system with a master brake module and an auxiliary brake module, where the auxiliary module can be fluidically coupled or disconnected, equipped with sensors and a control unit to monitor fluid pressure, allowing for periodic functional tests without a garage visit, using an electrofluidic pressure-generating unit and hydraulic fluid reservoirs to ensure independent operation and quick pressure buildup.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the auxiliary brake module is activated only when there is a fault in the integrated brake system, then the auxiliary brake module can remain simple and cost-effective, but the functionality of the auxiliary brake module cannot be verified without frequent garage-based checks
Solution Approach 1:
The auxiliary brake module performs self-testing by comparing its own pressure generation capability with the master brake module. The control unit monitors whether the auxiliary module can generate the same pressure as the master module, enabling the system to self-verify functionality without external garage intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
Pressure sensors in both the master brake module and auxiliary brake module provide feedback to the control unit. The control unit compares the pressure values from both modules to determine whether the auxiliary module is functioning correctly, creating a closed-loop verification system.
2Reliability
If garage-based checks are performed at regular intervals to ensure auxiliary brake module readiness, then operational safety is maintained, but vehicle owner effort and costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The brake system performs automatic functional testing of the auxiliary module during normal operation or at scheduled intervals without requiring the vehicle owner to visit a garage. The control unit autonomously coordinates the testing sequence and evaluates results.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs functional tests of the auxiliary brake module in advance before actual failure occurs, during scheduled maintenance intervals or when specific conditions are met. This preliminary verification ensures readiness without waiting for actual fault conditions.
3Reliability
If the auxiliary brake module is designed to operate independently of the master brake module, then fallback capability is ensured, but the ability to perform integrated functional testing is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The fluidic connection between the master brake module and auxiliary brake module is made dynamic rather than fixed. The connection can be established or disconnected as needed, allowing the system to switch between independent operation mode and integrated testing mode based on functional requirements.
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 simple and frequent functional testing of the auxiliary brake module, reducing effort and cost, ensuring high operational safety by detecting faults and maintaining the module's readiness without additional owner effort, with notifications only for faults.
Implementation Method 1
an electrofluidic pressure-generating unit which is designed to selectively pressurize a volume flow of hydraulic fluid and supply it to the pressure connectors
Implementation Method 2
The master brake module and the auxiliary brake module each have at least one sensor for detecting a fluid pressure in the respective brake module
Implementation Method 3
the auxiliary brake module is configured to supply a pressure to the pressure connectors independently of the master brake module
Data Source
AI summary
A brake system for a vehicle is provided. The brake system is designed to selectively apply pressure to and release it from at least two pressure connectors for brake actuators, and each of the pressure connectors can be coupled to an associated brake actuator of a wheel of the vehicle. The brake system has a master brake module and an auxiliary brake module, wherein the master brake module and the auxiliary brake module each have at least one sensor for detecting a fluid pressure in the respective brake module, and with a control unit which is configured to monitor and compare a fluid pressure in the master brake module and in the auxiliary brake module by the measured values detected by the sensors, and, based on the pressure and/or pressure curve, to draw a conclusion about the functional capability of the auxiliary brake module. A method is furthermore provided for performing a functional test of the brake system.