Dual Brake System for Rotatable Power Transfer Device

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current automobile systems lack real-time driver control over friction and regenerative brake systems for rotatable power transfer devices, such as driveshafts, which limits user input in braking operations.

Innovation Solution

A dual brake system configuration with a regenerative brake system and a friction brake system, each actuated by a separate user interface (e.g., brake pedals), allowing independent or collective control over the power transfer device and load rotation, with a control system to manage user inputs and energy storage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If a single electronically controlled brake system is used for rotatable power transfer devices, then automation and energy recovery are improved, but real-time user control and responsiveness are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectronic brake controlVSAvoiduser control
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The brake system is segmented into two independent subsystems: a friction brake system with its own user interface and a regenerative brake system with its own user interface. This segmentation allows each subsystem to be controlled independently by the user in real-time, while still benefiting from electronic control and automation features within each subsystem.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Loss of energy

If regenerative braking is implemented without separate user control, then energy efficiency is improved, but user adaptability and control flexibility are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy recoveryVSAvoiduser control flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The brake system is segmented into two independent subsystems: a friction brake system with its own user interface and a regenerative brake system with its own user interface. This segmentation allows each subsystem to be controlled independently by the user in real-time, while still benefiting from electronic control and automation features within each subsystem.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically adapts to user needs by allowing real-time switching between friction braking and regenerative braking modes through separate user interfaces. The user can adjust the braking mode and intensity dynamically based on driving conditions, energy recovery needs, and personal preferences.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 real-time user control over braking operations, improving the ability to manage vehicle speed and kinetic energy through independent or combined use of regenerative and friction braking, enhancing safety and control during driving.

Implementation Method 1

a regenerative brake system for braking rotation of the drivetrain components

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

a friction brake system for braking rotation of drivetrain components

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS9387833B1Braking a rotatable power transfer device
Publication Date: 2016.07.12 VECNA ROBOTICS INC
  • US9387833B1 patent drawing
  • US9387833B1 patent drawing
  • US9387833B1 patent drawing

AI summary

Systems and methods are provided involving a rotatable power transfer device configured with a first brake system and a second brake system. During a first of the methods, rotation of the power transfer device is braked using the first brake system. The first brake system may be actuatable by a first user interface; e.g., a brake pedal. The second brake system may be actuatable by a second user interface; e.g., a brake pedal.