Dual Function Device for Automatic Transmission Waiting Brake

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Solution Overview

Problem

Load carrying vehicles face challenges in temporarily stopping on inclined surfaces while the engine is running, requiring operators to maintain pressure on the service brake pedal for extended periods, which can be tiring and inefficient.

Innovation Solution

A dual function device in the automatic transmission system that maintains the drive mode when activated in drive mode and engages the brake mechanism when in neutral mode, allowing for a 'waiting brake' function that relieves the operator from continuously pressing the service brake pedal.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the service brake system is used for temporary stops on grades, then the vehicle can be held stationary, but the operator must continuously press the brake pedal causing fatigue and reduced efficiency

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperator convenienceVSAvoidtime spent maintaining brake pressure

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically applies the service brake when it detects the vehicle is stationary on a grade, eliminating the need for the operator to manually hold the brake pedal. The brake is applied in advance and maintained automatically during temporary stops for loading and dumping operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The braking system monitors vehicle status and automatically engages the service brake when conditions require it (stationary on grade), allowing the system to serve itself rather than requiring continuous operator input. The operator simply needs to indicate the desired stop, and the system handles the brake application and maintenance.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If the parking brake is used for temporary stops, then the brake mechanism is engaged, but the transmission must be in neutral position limiting drive mode availability

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebrake engagement reliabilityVSAvoidtransmission mode flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The invention separates the functions of the parking brake and service brake, using the service brake for temporary stops while the vehicle remains in drive mode. This segmentation allows the braking function to be independent from the transmission position requirement, enabling the vehicle to stay in drive mode during temporary stops.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The service brake system is given a dual function: it can be used for both emergency stopping and for holding the vehicle stationary during temporary stops on grades. This multi-functionality allows the same brake system to handle both stopping scenarios without requiring transmission position changes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS9625036B2Braking system

Publication Date: 2017.04.18 CATERPILLAR SARL

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to a vehicle having a braking system and a method of engaging the braking system. The braking system engages a brake mechanism as a waiting brake. The vehicle has a dual function device which is configured such that when the dual function device is activated when the vehicle transmission system is in a drive mode, the transmission system is maintained in that drive mode, and when the dual function device is activated when the transmission system is in the neutral mode, the brake mechanism is engaged.