Brake Clearance Detection via Acoustic Signal Analysis
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining the clearance of a motor vehicle's braking device are either not precise enough for reliable maintenance prognosis or are overly complex and costly.
Innovation Solution
A method that detects the starting and end points of a braking process using sensor units and processing units, allowing for precise determination of the current clearance by analyzing acoustic and ultrasonic signals, enabling accurate prognosis of brake component replacement needs while maintaining simplicity and reducing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If known systems and methods are used to determine clearance, then the system can be implemented, but the measurement precision is not sufficient for reliable maintenance prognosis
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical measurement systems with an acoustic field-based detection method. By using acoustic sensors to capture sounds during brake pad contact with the brake disc and analyzing the acoustic signal characteristics (frequency, amplitude, time pattern), the system achieves precise clearance measurement without mechanical contact, thereby improving both measurement precision and reliability for maintenance prognosis.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from direct mechanical distance measurement to acoustic signal analysis. By monitoring changes in acoustic parameters (sound frequency, intensity, duration) during the braking process, the system indirectly but precisely determines clearance values, achieving reliable maintenance prognosis through parameter transformation.
2Measurement precision
If complex and expensive systems are designed to determine clearance precisely, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes complex mechanical measurement apparatus with a simple acoustic sensing system. The acoustic sensors and signal processing unit provide precise clearance measurement capabilities while maintaining system simplicity, avoiding the need for complex mechanical gauges, lasers, or sophisticated sensor arrays used in traditional precise measurement systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs cost-effective acoustic sensors and processing methods that can be implemented using inexpensive components. The system uses standard acoustic detection technology and simple signal analysis algorithms, avoiding expensive specialized measurement equipment, thereby achieving precise measurement at low cost.
3Measurement precision
If complex and expensive systems are designed to determine clearance precisely, then measurement precision improves, but manufacturing and maintenance costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes inexpensive acoustic sensors and standard processing units that are readily available and cost-effective to manufacture. The system avoids expensive specialized components, making production economical while maintaining high measurement precision through intelligent signal processing rather than expensive hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the existing acoustic environment during braking as the measurement medium, requiring no additional expensive infrastructure or calibration equipment. The brake system itself generates the acoustic signals needed for measurement, eliminating the need for separate test equipment or complex installation procedures.
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 precise and reliable determination of the braking device's clearance, ensuring timely maintenance and reducing production and maintenance costs, thereby enhancing safety and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
detecting parameters for determining a starting point and an end point of a build-up process of a braking process by means of a sensor unit
Implementation Method 2
analyzing acoustic and ultrasonic signals
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
Method for determining a current air clearance of a brake device (10) of a motor vehicle (80), comprising the steps of acquiring (100) parameters to determine the start point (T1) and end point (T2) of a build-up process of a braking process by means of a sensor unit (4), determining (200) the start point (T1) and end point (T2) of the build-up process based on the acquired parameters by means of a processing unit (6), and determining (300) the air clearance of the brake device (10) based on the determined start point (T1) and end point (T2) of the build-up process by means of the processing unit (6).