Vehicle Brake Control Pad With Sliding Cover Against Obstruction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric control devices for vehicle braking and acceleration are sensitive to foreign objects that can hinder or block operation, lacking redundancy and fail to provide backup options when such obstructions occur.
Innovation Solution
A linear guidance system with a sliding cover and redundant sensor assemblies that ensure operation even with foreign body intrusion, providing backup control signals and driver warnings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the control device is installed close to the floor covering with limited space, then the device achieves compact integration and aesthetic appearance, but it becomes sensitive to foreign bodies that can block operation
Solution Approach 1:
The control device is divided into separate functional modules: the actuating pad assembly, the piston-cylinder unit, and the electronic components. This segmentation allows the foreign body detection function to be isolated and addressed independently, with sensors specifically positioned to detect obstructions in the pad-cylinder interface without affecting the entire device's compact installation.
Solution Approach 2:
A sensor system acts as an intermediary between the mechanical components and the control electronics. The sensor detects foreign bodies between the actuating pad and cylinder, providing early warning before complete blockage occurs, thus maintaining reliability without requiring additional installation space.
2Ease of operation
If the control device relies entirely on movement detection to generate control signals, then the device achieves simple operation, but it becomes completely disabled when foreign bodies block the mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit is programmed with preliminary backup logic that activates alternative control strategies when foreign body blockage is detected. Instead of waiting for complete system failure, the system proactively switches to backup modes (such as direct electronic control or warning signals) before the primary movement-detection method becomes unusable.
Solution Approach 2:
Redundant sensor assemblies are installed as a cushion against complete system failure. These backup sensors provide alternative detection paths that can identify pad movement even when the primary detection method is blocked by foreign bodies, ensuring continuous operational capability.
3Volume of moving object
If the pad is positioned close to the cylinder housing, then the device achieves compact design, but foreign objects can lodge between them and hinder operation
Solution Approach 1:
The harmful effect of foreign body intrusion is extracted and isolated by positioning sensors specifically at the interface between the actuating pad and cylinder. These sensors detect the presence of foreign bodies before they can cause complete blockage, allowing the system to take corrective action while maintaining the compact volume of the overall device.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the control device are given different functional properties. The interface region between the pad and cylinder is equipped with specialized foreign body detection sensors, while other regions maintain their primary functions. This local quality enhancement protects against foreign bodies without increasing the overall device volume.
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
Ensures robust and reliable operation by preventing blockage from foreign objects and offering backup functionality, integrating seamlessly into vehicle interiors while maintaining aesthetic and functional integrity.
Implementation Method 1
an auxiliary spring guiding and holding or returning the cover to its upper rest position
Implementation Method 2
a spring system with a spring for returning the piston to its rest position
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 2A
AI summary
The device comprises: a cylinder (12) receiving a piston (2) equipped with an actuating pad (23), a spring system (3) for returning the piston (2), a sensor (4) for the translation of the piston (2), and an operating unit (5) for generating a signal (SC). A sliding cover (6) surrounding the cylinder (12) from the base (11) to below the pad (23), independent of the movement of the piston (1) during its descent, leaving a gap between its top (62) and the underside (233) of the pad (23), is slidably connected to the base (11) by a guide (7) with an auxiliary spring (72) that returns the cover (6) to its raised rest position. The cover (6) allows the piston (2) to be depressed to activate the function and signal the fault.