Parking Brake Actuator Position Sensing With Integrated Antenna
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing parking brake modules in motor vehicles rely on indirect measurement methods for detecting malfunctions, which are not entirely reliable and result in high production costs due to mechanical complexity and non-compliance with on-board diagnostics (OBD) requirements.
Innovation Solution
An actuator with a control rod and an integrated antenna, where a position sensor directly detects the presence and position of the antenna associated with the control rod, providing a reliable and direct measurement of the actuating device's operating condition, eliminating the need for indirect estimation and mechanical complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If indirect measurement methods are used to detect parking module configuration, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces indirect mechanical measurement methods with a direct electromagnetic sensing system. An antenna is integrated onto the control rod, and a position sensor detects its position directly, eliminating the need for complex mechanical linkages and intermediate measurement points. This substitution of mechanical systems with electromagnetic fields achieves both simplicity and high measurement precision.
2Ease of manufacture
If indirect estimation methods are used for position detection, then manufacturing costs are reduced, but reliability and OBD compliance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive and unreliable indirect mechanical estimation systems with a straightforward electromagnetic detection system. The antenna integrated on the control rod and the position sensor provide direct, reliable position feedback that is both cost-effective to manufacture and fully compliant with OBD requirements for accurate malfunction detection.
3Device complexity
If sensors are placed on kinematic mechanism components, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and anomaly detection capability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the measurement function from the kinematic mechanism components and places it directly on the control rod itself. By integrating the antenna directly onto the control rod and using a position sensor to detect its position, the system obtains direct measurement of the actuator's actual position without being affected by intermediate mechanical linkages or component failures.
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
The solution ensures reliable detection of anomalies downstream of the kinematic mechanism, reduces manufacturing costs, and complies with OBD standards by providing a direct and simple method for monitoring the actuating device's position and presence.
Implementation Method 1
A position sensor is arranged on a printed circuit, housed inside the body and faces the control rod and the antenna. The position sensor is configured to detect the presence and position of said antenna.
Data Source
AI summary
An actuator comprising a body at least partially containing a control rod operatively connected to a motor and to an actuating device of a parking brake. The motor is configured to move the control rod along an operating stroke at least from a first position (A) to a second position (B). An antenna is directly and integrally associated with the control rod, and the antenna is located inside the body. A position sensor is arranged on a printed circuit, housed inside the body and faces the control rod and the antenna. The position sensor is configured to detect the presence and position of the antenna.