Multi-Axis Chassis Dynamometer Roll And Yaw Simulation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional dynamometers are limited to single-axis motion simulation, which hinders the testing and evaluation of automated and connected automated vehicles that operate with reduced or no human input, necessitating improved systems for multi-axis motion simulation.

Innovation Solution

A chassis dynamometer system that supports vehicles with motorized rollers capable of rotating in both roll and yaw directions, allowing for simultaneous simulation of lateral and longitudinal dynamics, and includes a restraint system for vertical, lateral, and longitudinal motion, controlled by a controller that can switch between different evaluation modes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional single-axis dynamometers are used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability for testing automated vehicles is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetesting capability for automated vehiclesVSAvoiddynamometer configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from single-axis (longitudinal only) to multi-axis motion simulation by adding rotational mounts that enable lateral and vertical motion dimensions. This dimensional expansion allows comprehensive testing of automated vehicle dynamics including steering, suspension, and stability control without requiring multiple separate testing systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The dynamometer system is designed to perform multiple testing functions simultaneously - longitudinal motion, lateral motion, vertical motion - making it a universal testing platform for various automated vehicle scenarios. This multi-functionality replaces the need for multiple specialized single-axis dynamometers, improving adaptability while managing complexity through integrated design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multi-axis motion simulation is implemented, then testing comprehensiveness is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemotion simulation capabilityVSAvoidroller and mount configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The dynamometer system segments motion simulation into independent rotational mounts, each handling specific axes (longitudinal, lateral, vertical). This modular segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while collectively providing comprehensive multi-axis simulation capability, managing overall system complexity through functional decomposition.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple rotational mounts are merged into an integrated system where they operate concurrently to simulate complex vehicle dynamics. The merging of these motion simulation capabilities into a single unified platform achieves comprehensive testing capability while sharing common control and measurement infrastructure, thereby managing complexity through integration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Manufacturing precision

If concurrent rotation of rollers and rotational mounts is performed, then simulation accuracy is improved, but control complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemotion simulation accuracyVSAvoidcontrol system
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control system incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor the actual motion of rollers and rotational mounts, comparing them against commanded positions. This feedback enables real-time adjustments to maintain synchronization and accuracy during concurrent rotation, managing control complexity through closed-loop control rather than open-loop coordination.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically adjusts rotation speeds and positions of rollers and rotational mounts based on real-time testing requirements. This dynamic control allows accurate simulation of varying vehicle motion scenarios while managing control complexity through adaptive algorithms that respond to changing test conditions rather than requiring fixed pre-programmed sequences.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS20250314558A1Methods and apparatus for lateral vehicle motion in chassis dynamometer
Publication Date: 2025.10.09 THE ARIZONA BOARD OF REGENTS ON BEHALF OF THE UNIV OF ARIZONA
  • US20250314558A1 patent drawing
  • US20250314558A1 patent drawing
  • US20250314558A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A dynamometer system may comprise motorized rollers disposed on motorized rotational mounts such that the dynamometer may simulate lateral motion as well as longitudinal motion of a vehicle under test. A dynamometer system may comprise at least one roller for supporting a vehicle tire. The roller may be supported by a turn table. The roller and the turn table may be coupled to direct-drive rotational motors. The roller and the turn table may be configured to rotate about perpendicular axis. The dynamometer may be operated in a variety of modes which may allow for at least one of or combinations of evaluation of lateral dynamics, longitudinal dynamics, or vertical dynamics of a vehicle under test. In this manner, more realistic evaluation of vehicle performance can be obtained in a controlled environment.