Electric Parking Brake Release Sequencing to Reduce Jolt
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electric parking brakes in vehicles often cause a jolt when released, which can be unpleasant for occupants and may alarm them about a potential vehicle malfunction.
Innovation Solution
A two-stage release method for the parking brake, controlled by an electronic control unit, where the release is interrupted at a predetermined force threshold and resumed based on hydraulic pressure or time elapsed, dividing the jolt into two smaller, imperceptible jolts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the parking brake is released in a single step, then the release process is simple and quick, but a large jolt is felt by the vehicle occupants
Solution Approach 1:
The parking brake release process is divided into multiple sequential steps with different clamping force reduction rates. The first step reduces clamping force at a first rate, then interrupts, then resumes at a second rate (different from the first). This segmentation of the release process distributes the jolt into smaller, imperceptible increments rather than one large jolt, thereby maintaining operational simplicity while eliminating the harmful jolt effect.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the parking brake release is interrupted and resumed in two stages, then the jolt intensity is reduced, but the release process takes longer
Solution Approach 1:
The parking brake release employs periodic action by implementing an interrupted two-stage process. The release is paused at an intermediate clamping force level, then resumed. This periodic interruption and resumption allows the system to manage jolt perception while maintaining reasonable overall release time. The controlled pacing of the release stages optimizes the balance between comfort and time efficiency.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3A~3C
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for electrically controlling a parking brake for a motor vehicle, wherein a release of the parking brake is controlled (3) in two steps (D1, D2) separated by an interruption (I) of the release for a period of time linked to the fulfilment of a predetermined condition. This condition depends, according to one embodiment, on a hydraulic pressure (5) exerted by a hydraulic actuator of a service brake of the vehicle, and, according to another embodiment, on a predetermined time that has elapsed from the interruption.