Redundant Brake Power Circuits With Modular Energy Storage Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electro-mechanical brake systems in vehicles lack a reliable redundant power supply system, risking braking functionality and stability in case of electrical transmission failure without pneumatic or hydraulic backup options.
Innovation Solution
A redundant power supply system with at least two separate circuits, each supplied by a dedicated power supply unit, featuring energy storage device modules connected in series, smart safety switches, and DC/DC converters for charging and balancing, ensuring continued operation even in the event of a malfunction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single power supply unit is used for electro-mechanical brake systems, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of braking functionality deteriorates in case of electrical transmission failure
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply system is segmented into multiple independent power supply units, each capable of independently supplying power to brake circuits. This segmentation allows the system to maintain braking functionality even if one power supply unit fails, thereby improving reliability without requiring a completely redundant complex system.
Solution Approach 2:
Different parts of the power supply system are assigned different quality levels and functions. The first power supply unit is configured to supply power for normal braking operations, while the second power supply unit is specifically designed to supply power for emergency or backup braking operations. This local differentiation of quality and function optimizes the overall system reliability.
2Reliability
If multiple energy storage modules are connected in series to provide redundant power, then the reliability improves, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The energy storage system is segmented into multiple modules connected in series, with each module capable of independent operation. This segmentation provides redundancy while maintaining a modular architecture that simplifies maintenance and replacement, balancing reliability improvement with manageable complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The energy storage modules are designed to serve multiple functions: they can operate individually or in combination, provide voltage multiplication when connected in series, and enable flexible configuration for different braking scenarios. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function.
3Reliability
If safety switches are implemented to decouple failed components, then the reliability and safety improve, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Safety switches are introduced as intermediary components between the power supply units and the brake circuits. These switches act as mediators that can isolate failed components while allowing the remaining functional components to continue operation, thereby improving safety without requiring complex control logic.
Solution Approach 2:
The safety switches are designed to automatically detect and respond to failure conditions, enabling the system to self-isolate failed components without requiring complex external control systems. This self-service capability improves safety while minimizing the addition of control complexity.
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 stable braking performance by providing redundant power to critical components, protecting against component failures and reducing costs by allowing partial circuit operation without complete replacement.
Implementation Method 1
at least two energy storage device modules connected in series configured such that the two modules together can supply electric power to brake actuators
Implementation Method 2
DC/DC converters for charging and balancing
Data Source
AI summary
A redundant power supply system for an electro-mechanical brake system for a vehicle is disclosed having at least two brake circuits, wherein each brake circuit has at least two energy storage device modules connected in series in a configuration so that the two modules together can supply electric power to wheel-end brake actuators.