MR Fluid Brake Clutch Modulation for Fast Manual ABS Response
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing manually-actuated brake systems, such as those using hydraulic actuators, often suffer from limited mechanical bandwidth, leading to poor dynamic response and inadequate force modulation, particularly in applications like motorcycle ABS systems where rapid adjustments are needed.
Innovation Solution
A braking control apparatus employing magnetorheological (MR) fluid clutches, coupled with sensors and a processing unit, to modulate torque and assist in braking by dynamically adjusting the braking force based on the braking state of a load, thereby enhancing the system's ability to adapt to changing conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If standard hydraulic actuators are used to modulate braking force, then the system structure is simple, but the mechanical bandwidth is limited leading to poor dynamic response
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical/hydraulic actuators with a magnetorheological (MR) fluid-based actuation system. The MR fluid clutch apparatus uses magnetic field control to modulate torque transmission, eliminating the need for complex hydraulic valves and actuators while achieving superior dynamic response and bandwidth.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state and properties of the MR fluid through magnetic field application. By varying the magnetic field strength, the viscosity and torque transmission characteristics of the MR fluid are dynamically adjusted, enabling rapid and precise control of braking force without mechanical moving parts in the fluid path.
2Adaptability or versatility
If hydraulic systems are used for force regulation, then the system is lightweight, but the bandwidth is insufficient for rapid force adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes hydraulic force regulation mechanisms with an MR fluid clutch system that directly couples the torque source to the braking transmission. This eliminates hydraulic fluid compression and valve response delays, providing immediate force modulation capability with superior adaptability to changing braking conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamically controllable torque transmission system using MR fluid properties. The magnetic field can be rapidly adjusted to change the fluid's viscosity and torque capacity in real-time, enabling the system to adapt to varying braking demands with fast response time and continuous force modulation.
3Ease of operation
If rigid interfaces or standard actuators are used, then the system structure is straightforward, but the sense of touch is degraded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces rigid mechanical interfaces and standard actuators with an MR fluid-based coupling system. The MR fluid provides a compliant, adaptable connection between the torque source and braking transmission, maintaining mechanical bandwidth and enhancing the rider's sense of touch by transmitting road feedback more naturally while still providing precise force control.
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
The MR fluid clutch system provides high dynamic response and fine control over braking force, improving the sense of touch and preventing wheel locking or excessive spinning by dynamically adjusting torque transmission in real-time.
Implementation Method 1
at least one magnetorheological (MR) fluid clutch apparatus having an input coupled to the at least one torque source to receive torque from the torque source, the MR fluid clutch apparatus controllable to transmit a variable amount of torque
Data Source
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Figure 1B
Figure 2
AI summary
A braking control apparatus comprises at least one torque source. At least one magnetorheological (MR) fluid clutch apparatus having an input coupled to the at least one torque source to receive torque from the torque source, the MR fluid clutch apparatus controllable to transmit a variable amount of torque via an output thereof. A modulation interface couples the output of the at least one MR fluid clutch apparatus to a braking power transmission of a brake system. At least one sensor provides information indicative of a braking state of the load. A processing unit receives the information indicative of the braking state of the load and for outputting a signal to control the at least one MR fluid clutch apparatus in exerting a desired force on the braking power transmission to assist in braking the load. A method for assisting a manually-actuated braking of a vehicle is also provided.