Parking Brake Emulator Spring Cam Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fully electronic parking brake modules lack the tactile feedback and operational feel of traditional mechanical parking brakes, which are often desired by drivers.
Innovation Solution
A parking brake emulator assembly that includes a mounting bracket, a rotatable brake lever, a spring system, and an angular sensor, which mimics the operation and feel of a mechanical parking brake by compressing springs to apply brake force and detecting lever position to control the electronic parking brake module.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a fully electronic parking brake module is used, then the automation and reliability of brake engagement are improved, but the tactile feedback and operational feel are lost
Solution Approach 1:
A mechanical emulator assembly with spring-loaded cam mechanisms is introduced as an intermediary between the driver's lever input and the electronic brake module. This emulator provides tactile feedback through mechanical spring resistance and cam surface interaction, while simultaneously transmitting motion to activate the electronic parking brake, thus mediating between electronic automation and mechanical feel
Solution Approach 2:
The emulator mechanically replicates the feel and operation of traditional cable-actuated parking brakes by using spring-loaded cam mechanisms that mimic the resistance and engagement characteristics of mechanical systems. This copying of mechanical characteristics allows drivers to experience familiar tactile feedback while the electronic system handles the actual brake application
2Ease of operation
If a mechanical parking brake system is used, then the tactile feedback and operational feel are improved, but the automation and integration with electronic control systems deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The emulator combines mechanical and electronic systems into a unified assembly where the mechanical cam and spring mechanisms are integrated with the electronic parking brake actuator. The mechanical components provide tactile feedback while the electronic module receives control signals, merging both systems into a single coordinated unit that delivers both tactile feedback and electronic control integration
Solution Approach 2:
The emulator assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides tactile feedback through mechanical spring resistance, transmits driver input to activate the parking brake, and interfaces with the electronic control system. This multi-functionality allows a single mechanism to address both the tactile feedback requirement and the electronic integration requirement
3Ease of operation
If spring mechanisms are added to emulate mechanical brake feel, then the tactile feedback is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The parking brake system is segmented into distinct functional modules: the electronic parking brake module, the mechanical emulator assembly with cam mechanisms, and the spring-loaded feedback components. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while working together as a system, making the complexity manageable through modular design
4Ease of operation
If cam surfaces and rollers are used to transmit force, then the operational feel is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanisms are designed to be self-aligning and self-adjusting during operation. The roller followers automatically position themselves on the cam surfaces through the mechanical interaction and spring pressure, reducing the need for high-precision pre-alignment during manufacturing. The system self-corrects minor variations through the mechanical geometry and spring-loaded contact
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
Provides drivers with the familiar feel and control of a mechanical parking brake while ensuring reliable engagement and disengagement of the parking brake mechanism, enhancing user experience and safety.
Implementation Method 1
Rotation of the brake lever from the neutral position to the brake application position moves the pinned connection to thereby move the spring guiding rod and the rear spring holder towards the front spring mounting flange, thereby compressing the spring
Implementation Method 2
a cam member with a first end pivotally coupled to the mounting bracket, a second end including a lever arm, and a cam surface located between the first and second ends that is configured to contact the roller component
Data Source
AI summary
A parking brake emulator assembly for a vehicle is provided. The emulator assembly includes a mounting bracket. The mounting bracket includes a front spring mounting flange with a spring mounting hole. The emulator assembly further includes a brake lever, a spring guiding rod, a spring, and a rear spring holder. The brake lever is rotatable relative to the mounting bracket into a neutral position and a brake application position. The spring guiding rod is coupled to the brake lever via a pinned connection, and extends through the spring and the rear spring holder. Rotation of the brake lever from the neutral position to the brake application position moves the pinned connection to thereby move the spring guiding rod and the rear spring holder towards the front spring mounting flange, thereby compressing the spring.