Synchronous Actuator Control via Master Energy Link
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Solution Overview
Problem
Active motor vehicle components like spoilers require multiple actuators for synchronous operation to avoid undesired effects like the 'drawer effect' due to their size and motion constraints, leading to increased complexity and economic costs.
Innovation Solution
A master actuator is coupled directly to the control apparatus, with other actuators connected only for energy supply, eliminating the need for internal communication lines and allowing synchronous operation through energy synchronization, enabling a simpler and cost-effective design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If multiple actuators are used to move large second motor vehicle portions, then the displacement capability is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need for synchronous operation control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control functions of multiple actuators into a single control apparatus that simultaneously controls all actuators. This is achieved by electrically connecting all actuators in parallel to the same control apparatus, which provides synchronized control signals to all actuators, thereby coordinating their operation without requiring separate control systems for each actuator.
Solution Approach 2:
The control apparatus serves as a universal control unit that can control multiple different actuators (such as electric motors, pneumatic cylinders, or hydraulic cylinders) using the same control interface and signal transmission method. This multi-functional capability reduces the need for actuator-specific control logic and simplifies the overall system architecture.
2Adaptability or versatility
If each actuator is equipped with independent communication intelligence, then the control flexibility is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines all communication and control intelligence into a single central control apparatus rather than distributing intelligence to each actuator. All actuators are connected in parallel to this central unit, which sends synchronized control signals to all actuators simultaneously, eliminating the need for individual communication processors in each actuator.
Solution Approach 2:
The control apparatus uses identical control signals and communication protocols for all actuators, effectively copying the same control instructions to multiple actuators simultaneously. This approach maintains control flexibility while avoiding the need for complex individual actuator intelligence, as each actuator receives the same standardized control commands.
3Reliability
If communication infrastructure is added to each actuator for synchronized control, then the synchronous operation reliability is improved, but the installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges all communication infrastructure into a single central control apparatus that all actuators connect to in parallel. This centralized approach ensures synchronous operation reliability by providing a single source of synchronized control signals, while reducing installation complexity compared to implementing separate communication networks between each actuator.
Solution Approach 2:
The control apparatus serves as a universal communication hub that handles all synchronization and control functions for multiple actuators using a standardized interface. This multi-functional design ensures reliable synchronous operation while simplifying installation, as all actuators connect to the same universal control unit rather than requiring peer-to-peer communication infrastructure.
Data Source
AI summary
A motor vehicle having a first portion and a second portion movable relative thereto; the vehicle further includes an actuator arrangement by which the second portion is drivable relative to the first portion; and the vehicle having a control apparatus that is coupled to the actuator arrangement and controls the operation of the actuator arrangement; the actuator arrangement including at least two separate actuators arranged remotely from one another, which are each switchable between an operating state wherein an output member of the actuator outputs a force and/or a motion, and a passive state in which the output member does not, the actuators are synchronously operable in a synchronous operating mode, wherein one actuator, constituting a master actuator, is coupled directly to the control apparatus, and the at least one further actuator is connected to the energy supply of the master actuator only such that the at least one further actuator is supplied with operating energy, and is in the operating state, only when the master actuator is switched by the control apparatus into the operating state.