Electromechanical Brake Failure Detection Using Drive Torque Signal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for diagnosing electromechanical brakes in industrial trucks do not effectively check the mechanical integrity and function before or during operation, posing a safety risk as they only assess electrical circuitry functionality without ensuring mechanical functionality.
Innovation Solution
An arrangement and method that applies a drive torque signal to the electrical traction motor while the electromechanical brake is in an active braking position, detecting any movement to indicate mechanical failures, such as foreign objects or mechanical malfunctions, using a control unit and movement detection sensor, ensuring the brake's mechanical integrity is checked during startup and shutdown.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the electromechanical brake is engaged in active braking position, then braking function is provided, but unintended movement may occur if mechanical failure exists
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit continuously monitors the electrical traction motor for unintended movement while the electromechanical brake is engaged. When movement is detected despite the brake being in active braking position, the control unit identifies this as a mechanical failure and can alert the operator or prevent vehicle operation, providing feedback about the brake system's actual state.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs a preliminary check by applying drive torque signal while the brake is engaged, before allowing normal vehicle operation. This preliminary action detects mechanical failures (such as foreign objects blocking the brake) that would cause unintended movement, preventing unsafe operation.
2Measurement precision
If drive torque signal is applied while brake is active, then mechanical failures can be detected, but false positives may occur during normal operation
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit dynamically adjusts its monitoring based on the operational state. It applies drive torque signal and monitors for movement only when the electromechanical brake is confirmed to be in the active braking position and under specific test conditions, rather than continuously during all operations. This dynamic approach reduces false positives while maintaining detection accuracy.
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
This approach enhances safety by detecting various mechanical failures in the electromechanical brake system, preventing unintended movement and ensuring the vehicle is parked or started safely by indicating mechanical failures, thus improving the overall safety and reliability of the brake system.
Implementation Method 1
The brake force is applied by the electromechanical brake to the drive shaft using springs, and is released using inductive coils and magnetism
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an arrangement and method for detecting failure of an electromechanical brake in an electromechanical drive system. The arrangement being characterized in that it comprises a control unit arranged to: send a drive torque signal to an electrical traction motor in the electromechanical drive system while the electromechanical brake is in an active braking position, detect if said applied drive torque causes a driving movement in the electrical traction motor, and indicate a mechanical failure of the electromechanical brake in case a driving movement in the electrical traction motor is caused by said applied drive torque. The invention further relates to a method for detecting failure of an electromechanical brake in an electromechanical drive system, and an industrial truck comprising the arrangement.