Brake and Steering Test Synchronization With Clear Operator Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vehicle testing systems face challenges in efficiently and clearly monitoring the results of simultaneous braking and steering tests, leading to potential confusion and undesirable delays.
Innovation Solution
A synchronized system and method for testing braking and steering systems using electropneumatic modules and steering actuators, allowing for simultaneous testing with distinct auditory and visual feedback to facilitate clear observation by the operator.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple vehicle system tests are performed simultaneously, then testing efficiency is improved, but operator confusion increases and monitoring difficulty worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the testing process by assigning unique identifiers to different test components (brake solenoids, steering actuators) and organizing them into distinct groups. Each test element is individually identifiable through specific auditory signals and visual indicators, allowing simultaneous testing while maintaining operator awareness of each component's status separately.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements multiple feedback channels including distinct auditory signals for different brake solenoid activations and visual feedback through steering wheel position indicators. This multi-sensory feedback system allows operators to monitor multiple simultaneous tests without confusion by providing differentiated signals for each test element.
2Ease of operation
If multiple vehicle system tests are performed sequentially, then operator monitoring is simplified, but vehicle operational delays increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous testing by overlapping brake system tests and steering system tests in time. While brake solenoids are being activated and auditory signals are being generated, the steering actuator simultaneously operates and visual indicators are displayed. This continuous parallel operation eliminates idle time between test sequences while maintaining clear operator monitoring through differentiated feedback signals.
3Reliability
If brake solenoids are activated to produce audible test signals, then valve operation verification is improved, but noise levels increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent assigns different auditory characteristics to solenoids based on their location and function. Each brake circuit's solenoid produces a distinct audible signal pattern that can be localized to its specific vehicle side and brake system component. This allows operators to verify valve operation reliability through audible signals while potentially reducing overall noise exposure by identifying and isolating specific noise sources.
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 efficient and simultaneous testing of braking and steering systems without delays, ensuring clear monitoring and recording of test results by the operator.
Implementation Method 1
Each electropneumatic module is associated with a corresponding brake for a corresponding wheel of the vehicle and includes a solenoid configured to control fluid communication between a brake actuator for the corresponding brake and one of a fluid source and atmosphere
Implementation Method 2
a steering actuator configured to cause rotation of a steering wheel of the vehicle
Data Source
AI summary
A system for testing braking and steering systems of a vehicle includes a steering actuator to cause rotation of the steering wheel and electropneumatic modules associated with each wheel brake that include a solenoid controlling fluid communication between a brake actuator of the wheel brake and one of a fluid source and atmosphere. A controller transmits a first control signal to an electropneumatic module associated with a wheel brake on one side of the vehicle to actuate the solenoid of the electropneumatic module. The controller transmits a second control signal to the steering actuator to cause rotation of the steering wheel at least one of prior to, partially simultaneously to and during the actuation of the solenoid of the electropneumatic module and in a rotational direction towards the same side of the vehicle.