Brake Circuit Leak Detection and Isolation via Dual Subsystem Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing brake systems for motor vehicles face challenges in quickly detecting and isolating leaks in primary or secondary circuits while maintaining braking performance and driver confidence, as current methods are not efficient in real-time leak identification and isolation.
Innovation Solution
A method and system utilizing a direct apply subsystem and an isolated apply subsystem to control fluid application in brake circuits, enabling simultaneous leak detection by sensing travel and pressure signals to determine the location of leaks in both primary and secondary circuits, allowing for rapid isolation of the leaking circuit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If traditional leak detection methods are used in brake systems, then the system structure remains simple, but the leak detection speed and accuracy are insufficient for real-time requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The brake system is divided into two independent hydraulic circuits (first circuit and second circuit), each with separate apply subsystems. This segmentation allows independent leak detection in each circuit without affecting the other, enabling faster localization of leaks while maintaining overall system simplicity through modular architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
Isolated apply subsystems are introduced as intermediary components that can independently apply hydraulic pressure to each circuit. These intermediaries enable separate control and detection of each circuit, allowing real-time leak detection through comparative analysis of pressure and travel signals without requiring complex centralized monitoring systems.
2Loss of time
If leak isolation is delayed to maintain braking performance, then brake performance is maintained, but the time to restore full braking capability after a leak is extended
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors pressure and travel signals from both circuits in real-time during normal operation, maintaining readiness to detect leaks immediately upon occurrence. This preliminary monitoring action enables instantaneous leak detection and isolation, minimizing the time loss while preserving braking performance through the redundant second circuit.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes changes in hydraulic pressure and component travel parameters as indicators of leak conditions. By continuously tracking these parameter variations in both circuits and comparing them against expected ranges, the system can rapidly identify leaks and switch to isolated operation of the unaffected circuit, quickly restoring full braking capability.
3Measurement precision
If simultaneous monitoring of both circuits is implemented, then leak location accuracy is improved, but the complexity of control systems increases
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring system is segmented into two independent detection channels, each monitoring one hydraulic circuit separately. Each channel compares pressure and travel signals independently, simplifying the control logic while achieving precise leak location through the combination of both channels' data. This segmented approach avoids the complexity of a fully integrated monitoring system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback loops that continuously compare actual pressure and travel signals against expected values for each circuit. When deviations are detected in one circuit, the feedback mechanism triggers isolation of that circuit while maintaining normal operation of the other, achieving precise leak location through simple comparative feedback rather than complex multi-variable analysis.
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 quick and accurate real-time detection and isolation of leaks in either circuit, minimizing fluid loss and restoring braking performance without impacting brake pedal feel or travel, thus enhancing driver confidence and safety.
Implementation Method 1
control an application of fluid to a first circuit and a second circuit... sensed fluid pressure developed by the isolated apply subsystem... sensed fluid pressure developed by the direct apply subsystem
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for detecting the location of and isolating a leak in a braking system by simultaneously controlling a direct apply subsystem (DAS) and an isolated apply subsystem (IAS) to enable fluid communication between the IAS and the first circuit; to block fluid communication of the DAS with the first circuit; to enable fluid communication of the DAS with the second circuit; and to block fluid communication of the IAS with the second circuit. A sensed travel of an isolated apply component and a sensed fluid pressure developed by the IAS may be used to determine if the leak is present in the first circuit, while simultaneously using the sensed travel of a direct apply component of the DAS, and a sensed fluid pressure developed by the DAS, to determine if the leak is present in the second circuit.