Brake Fluid Sensor Testing via Electromechanical Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for testing brake fluid sensors in vehicle braking systems are not cost-effective or straightforward, particularly in autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles where accurate monitoring is critical but challenging due to limited driver intervention.
Innovation Solution
A method involving an electromechanical braking force generating device to alter the fluid level in the reservoir, detecting signals from the brake fluid sensor to verify its functionality, using a valve arrangement and control valves to manage fluid flow and pressure, ensuring quick and reliable testing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional testing methods are used for brake fluid sensors, then the testing process becomes complex and costly, but the sensor functionality cannot be reliably verified in autonomous vehicles
Solution Approach 1:
The braking force generating device performs self-testing by using its own operational components (pump, fluid reservoir, sensor) to automatically verify sensor functionality during normal braking operations, eliminating the need for separate complex testing equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The braking force generating device serves dual purposes: it performs the primary function of generating braking force while simultaneously functioning as a testing device for the brake fluid sensor, allowing one system to fulfill multiple roles
2Reliability
If the driver monitors the brake system in traditional vehicles, then the driver can react to sensor failures, but in autonomous vehicles the driver cannot intervene and the system must be more reliable
Solution Approach 1:
The brake fluid sensor provides continuous feedback to the control unit about fluid levels and system status, enabling the autonomous vehicle's computer system to monitor and respond to brake system conditions without driver intervention, maintaining reliability through automated surveillance
3Productivity
If manual testing procedures are used for brake fluid sensors, then detailed inspection is possible, but the testing is time-consuming and not cost-effective
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic self-diagnosis and testing during normal operation, eliminating the need for manual inspection procedures and reducing both time and labor costs while maintaining thorough verification of sensor functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The monitoring and testing functions operate continuously during normal braking operations rather than requiring separate dedicated testing sessions, maximizing productivity by utilizing existing operational time for dual purposes
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 simple testing of brake fluid sensor functionality, ensuring accurate fluid level detection, which is crucial for autonomous vehicles by using an electromechanical system to simulate fluid level changes and verify sensor responses.
Implementation Method 1
The braking force generating device can comprise at least one electromotor and at least one spindle arrangement. The at least one electromotor can, via the at least one spindle arrangement, drive the at least one piston
Implementation Method 2
The at least one braking force generating device moreover has at least one piston and at least one cylinder in which the piston is guided displaceably. The brake fluid can be pressurized by the at least one braking force generating device
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a method for testing a brake fluid sensor of a vehicle braking system, wherein the brake fluid sensor can indicate the fluid level in the fluid reservoir, wherein the method has the following steps: (1) Altering the fluid level in at least one region of the at least one fluid reservoir by means of at least one braking force generating device; and (2) Detecting whether the at least one brake fluid sensor emits a signal indicating the modified fluid level in the at least one region of the at least one fluid reservoir.