Redundant Brake Pressure Generator Self-Testing Without Driver Input
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Solution Overview
Problem
In electronically slip-controllable external power braking systems with redundant brake pressure generation, the functional capability of secondary pressure generator assemblies is typically only activated upon failure of the primary assembly, necessitating regular testing to ensure readiness, but existing methods require driver intervention and additional mechanical components.
Innovation Solution
A method to test the functional capability of pressure generator assemblies automatically using existing pressure element-controlling components, where at least one pressure generator is actuated and valves are controlled to hydraulically connect both assemblies in parallel to a brake circuit, allowing for pressure and actuation path measurement and evaluation by sensors, without requiring driver action or additional mechanical components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the secondary pressure generator assembly is activated only upon failure of the primary assembly, then the system maintains simplicity in normal operation, but the functional capability of the secondary assembly cannot be verified without driver intervention and additional mechanical components
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses its own existing pressure element-controlling components (valves and pressure generators) to perform self-testing of the secondary pressure generator assembly, eliminating the need for external testing equipment or driver intervention. The control device automatically actuates the secondary assembly through the existing hydraulic circuitry and evaluates its response.
Solution Approach 2:
The existing pressure element-controlling components are designed to serve dual purposes: normal brake pressure regulation and functional testing of the secondary pressure generator assembly. This multi-functionality allows the system to verify reliability without adding dedicated testing hardware.
2Extent of automation
If driver intervention is required for testing, then the testing process can be simple, but it cannot be performed automatically at specified intervals or when the vehicle is stationary
Solution Approach 1:
The control device automatically initiates and executes the testing sequence without driver input. It actuates the secondary pressure generator assembly, monitors the response through sensors, and evaluates the results autonomously, enabling scheduled testing regardless of vehicle operating conditions or driver presence.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates sensor feedback to monitor pressures and actuation paths during testing. The control device evaluates this feedback information to determine whether the secondary assembly is functioning correctly, enabling automated decision-making about system reliability without driver interpretation.
3Reliability
If additional mechanical components are added for testing, then the functional capability can be thoroughly tested, but the system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The existing pressure element-controlling components serve dual purposes: normal brake operation and functional testing. By designing the testing capability into the existing hydraulic circuitry and control system, the patent eliminates the need for separate testing hardware while maintaining comprehensive verification of secondary assembly functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses its own existing components to perform self-diagnosis and functional verification. The secondary pressure generator assembly is tested using the primary assembly's controlling components, and the system evaluates its own operational status without external testing equipment.
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 automated testing of pressure generator assemblies, ensuring operational safety by identifying faults and issuing warnings or repair requests, and can be performed at specified intervals or under various environmental conditions, including when the vehicle is stationary.
Implementation Method 1
a pressure generator driven by an external force... sets this brake pressure through corresponding electrical controlling of the drive of a pressure generator
Implementation Method 2
both pressure generator assemblies are hydraulically contacted, parallel to one another, to at least one of the brake circuits
Implementation Method 3
On the basis of sensors that are provided, the occurrent pressures and/or paths of the actuation device of the brake system are measured and are evaluated
Data Source
AI summary
A method for the functional testing of a pressure generator assembly in an electronically slip-controllable power braking system having redundant brake pressure generation for an autonomously drivable motor vehicle. The method relates to carry out a regular test of the functional capacity of a secondary pressure generator assembly. A primary pressure generator assembly and the secondary pressure generator assembly are hydraulically connected, parallel to one another, to a brake circuit to which a wheel brake is connected. During the method, the wheel brake is decoupled from the brake circuit. At least one pressure generator of the primary pressure generator assembly, or a pressure generator of the secondary pressure generator assembly, is actuated in order to apply pressure to the brake circuit.