Multi-Trailer ABS Status Evaluation via Mass Plausibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Commercial vehicles with multiple trailers face challenges in maintaining control during braking events due to complex vehicle dynamics, misalignment, varying surface conditions, and unreliable automated trailer braking systems, which can lead to unstable braking and increased risks of jack-knifing, overturning, and collisions.
Innovation Solution
A system that determines the operational status of anti-lock braking systems in a chain of multiple trailers by estimating total vehicle mass and load, performing plausibility analysis to ensure all trailers and dollies are communicating with the controller, and adapting brake application to account for variations in braking capacity, allowing for tailored brake application and improved stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If full automated trailer braking pressure is applied, then braking efficiency is improved, but vehicle stability deteriorates when trailer ABS status is unknown
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the braking strategy based on real-time detection of trailer ABS status. When all trailers are confirmed to have functional ABS, full automated braking pressure is applied for maximum efficiency. When trailers are detected as non-reporting or lacking ABS, the system automatically modifies the braking application to maintain stability, demonstrating adaptive dynamic control
2Measurement precision
If mass measurement and plausibility analysis are implemented, then accurate detection of trailer ABS status is achieved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses existing vehicle mass measurement capabilities and trailer load sensing systems to detect ABS status, rather than requiring separate dedicated detection hardware. The controller performs plausibility analysis by comparing mass measurements with load reports using existing communication infrastructure, achieving accurate detection while minimizing additional system complexity
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and method are provided for determining the braking status of trailers and dollies in a multi-trailer vehicle train. A vehicle controller receives inputs from the vehicle to determine an estimate of the total vehicle mass from the dynamic response of the vehicle to an input such as application of engine torque, and to determine an estimate of the loads of the vehicle based on information provided from trailers and dollies communicating with the vehicle controller. A plausibility analysis is conducted to determine whether the estimates are within a tolerance range indicative of whether all of the trailers and dollies are communicating with the vehicle controller. If the vehicle controller determines that not all of the trailer and dolly anti-lock braking and/or stability control systems are available, the vehicle controller may in subsequent braking events command trailer and dolly brake application at a reduced level intended to avoid trailer and dolly wheel skidding.