Multi-Directional Vehicle Braking Device with Ground-Penetrating Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing braking devices for vehicles, particularly on steep terrain, are ineffective as they rely solely on friction and are limited to one direction of movement, failing to provide a reliable braking effect and control when used off-road or on steep slopes.
Innovation Solution
A braking device with at least two movably connected braking elements that can be moved from a transport position to a braking position in different directions, utilizing a spring for enhanced force and penetration into the ground, and featuring plate-shaped elements with tapered contours and webs for effective engagement and fixation, allowing for braking in multiple directions and on uneven surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single brake element is used that moves in one direction, then the device complexity is reduced and manufacturing is simpler, but the braking device cannot provide reliable braking in multiple directions of vehicle travel
Solution Approach 1:
The braking device is divided into multiple independent brake elements (at least two), each capable of moving in different directions. This segmentation allows each element to independently engage the ground in its respective direction, providing comprehensive braking coverage for multi-directional vehicle movement without requiring an overly complex integrated system.
Solution Approach 2:
Each brake element is designed with universal functionality to perform braking in its specific direction of movement. The elements are configured to engage the ground surface through their respective movement paths, creating a multi-functional braking system that handles various driving directions (forward, backward, lateral) using standardized component designs.
2Reliability
If brake elements rely solely on friction to brake the vehicle, then the design is simpler, but the braking effect is insufficient on steep terrain and uneven surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The brake elements are designed with non-uniform cross-sectional shapes that are optimized for specific engagement conditions. Elements may have varying thicknesses, contours, or geometric features tailored to their specific engagement requirements with different ground surfaces, providing enhanced penetration and anchoring capability on steep or uneven terrain while maintaining manufacturability through standardized forming processes.
3Reliability
If the brake element is designed to penetrate the ground for positive engagement, then the braking effect is significantly improved, but the force required to move the brake element to the braking position increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs counterbalancing mechanisms such as springs or gravity-assisted positioning to offset the force required to move brake elements into the ground-penetrating braking position. The counterweight or spring force pre-positions the elements or assists their movement, reducing the actuation force needed from the control system while enabling deep penetration for reliable ground engagement.
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 solution enables efficient braking in various directions, providing a reliable braking effect on steep terrain by combining friction and form-fit engagement, preventing vehicle loss of control and reducing the risk of accidents.
Implementation Method 1
a spring is connected to the first and/or second brake element, which relaxes when the brake element moves from the transport position to the braking position. This accelerates the movement of the brake elements from the transport position to the braking position and carries it out with significantly more force
Implementation Method 2
a braking effect is achieved by a brake plate that is brought into direct contact with the ground. The resulting friction between the brake plate and the ground thus produces a braking effect that reduces the vehicle's speed
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a braking device (1) for a vehicle (2), comprising a braking element (4) movably connected to a housing (3), which can be moved from a transport position to a braking position by means of a movement in a first direction of movement (6a), in which a surface (7) can be contacted by the braking element (4) when the braking device (1) is arranged on a vehicle (2). In order to achieve a braking effect in different directions of movement of the vehicle (2) and to fix the vehicle (2) by wedging the braking elements (4, 5) in the surface (7), the invention provides that at least a second braking element (5) is provided, which is movably connected to the housing (3) and can be moved from a transport position to a braking position by means of a movement in a second direction of movement (6b) different from the first direction of movement (6a).Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for braking a vehicle (2), in particular a tractor, in the terrain with a braking device (1) having a brake element (4) movably connected to a housing (3), which is brought from a transport position to a braking position by means of a movement in a first direction of movement (6a), in which the brake element (4) engages in a surface (7).