Brake-by-Wire Feel Simulator Module With Tunable Counterforce
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing actuation devices in vehicles lack a flexible and adaptable mechanism to simulate the feel of resistance during operation, particularly in 'brake by wire' systems, which do not provide a direct mechanical connection for force feedback.
Innovation Solution
A feel simulator module is introduced, comprising a fixed and movable part connected by elastic means, with adjustable contact surfaces to generate a counterforce that mimics the desired resistance profile, compatible with various actuation devices like push-button, conventional pivoting, and organ-type pedals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a direct mechanical connection is used in brake by wire systems, then force feedback is provided, but the system cannot provide customizable resistance profiles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a feel simulator module as an intermediary component between the actuation device and the fixed portion of the vehicle. This module includes elastic means (such as springs) and contact means with configurable contact surfaces that generate counterforces to simulate realistic pedal feel without requiring a direct mechanical connection to the braking system, thereby enabling customizable resistance profiles while maintaining force feedback
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables parameter changes by allowing the contact surfaces to be configured with different profiles, geometries, and positions. By modifying the shape and characteristics of the contact surfaces on the contact means, the resistance profile experienced by the driver can be customized while maintaining reliable force feedback through the elastic means
2Measurement precision
If expensive force sensors are used for failure detection, then accurate measurement is achieved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a mechanical copy or simulation of the force feedback experience through the feel simulator module. Instead of using expensive force sensors to directly measure and detect failures in the braking system, the module replicates the desired force characteristics through elastic means and contact surfaces, enabling failure detection through simpler, more cost-effective mechanisms while maintaining measurement precision for the resistance profile
3Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed resistance mechanism is used, then simple structure is maintained, but adaptability to different actuation types is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves universality by designing the feel simulator module to be compatible with multiple types of actuation devices (pedal, push-button, organ-type). The module uses configurable contact surfaces and elastic means that can be adjusted to work with different actuation mechanisms, providing a universal solution that maintains adaptability without requiring complex customization for each actuation type
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 feel simulator module provides customizable force feedback, facilitating assembly and reducing friction and hysteresis, while being compatible with different actuation types, and allowing for cost-effective failure detection without the need for expensive force sensors.
Implementation Method 1
elastic means between the fixed part and the movable part which deform when the driver acts on the actuation device so that the elastic means generate a counterforce on the movable part
Data Source
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AI summary
Feel simulator module comprising a fixed part (10) and a movable part (11) opposite and movably coupled to the fixed part (10), the movable part (11) being displaced relative to the fixed part (10) when a driver actuates an actuation device (71) of a vehicle. The feel simulator module (1) comprises elastic means (4) which generate a counterforce on the movable part (11) which opposes the driver's actuation on the actuation device (71), and contact means coupled to the elastic means (4) which move over at least one contact surface (12, 13) actuated by the elastic means (4) when the movable part (11) is displaced. One of the parts (10, 11) comprises said at least one contact surface (12, 13), the elastic means (4) being supported on the other of said parts (10, 11).