Performance Electric Parking Brake Controller Actuation Logic
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electric parking brake systems fail to replicate the performance-based driving characteristics of mechanical parking brake systems, lacking the ability to apply variable braking forces to rear wheels based on driver input.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a performance electric parking brake (PEPB) system that includes a controller managing hydraulic and electromechanical actuation of brake calipers, using a parking brake lever to control braking forces via a hydraulic control unit and rear wheel brake caliper electric motors, with position and speed thresholds to determine appropriate braking pressures and modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional electric parking brake systems use hydraulic control unit to provide hydraulic pressure to all four wheels, then the vehicle can be steadily slowed and brought to a controlled stop, but the system fails to replicate the performance-based driving characteristics of mechanical parking brake systems that apply variable braking forces to rear wheels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the braking system into distinct control paths: conventional hydraulic braking for all wheels versus performance electric parking brake control for rear wheels only. The controller separates normal braking operations from performance parking brake operations, allowing independent control of rear brake calipers via electromechanical actuators while maintaining standard hydraulic control for other conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between different braking modes based on detected operating conditions. When performance parking brake mode is detected, the controller activates electromechanical actuation of rear brake calipers; otherwise, conventional hydraulic control is used. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to replicate mechanical parking brake characteristics when needed while maintaining conventional operation otherwise.
2Ease of operation
If the system applies hydraulic pressure to all four wheels for steady stopping, then controlled stop is achieved, but variable braking forces to rear wheels based on driver input cannot be applied
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different braking control qualities to different wheels based on the operating mode. In performance parking brake mode, variable braking forces are applied specifically to rear wheels based on parking brake lever position, while front wheels maintain conventional hydraulic control. This localized differentiation enables mechanical-like performance characteristics without compromising overall braking reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller continuously monitors parking brake lever position and vehicle operating conditions to determine the appropriate braking mode. Based on this feedback, the system dynamically adjusts the actuation method for rear brake calipers, switching between conventional hydraulic control and performance electric parking brake control with electromechanical actuators to match driver intent and maintain reliable braking.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional mechanical parking brake systems use cable connection to rear brakes, then variable braking force based on lever position is achieved, but the system lacks the controlled stopping capability of hydraulic systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces electromechanical actuators as intermediary devices between the controller and rear brake calipers in performance parking brake mode. These actuators convert electrical control signals into mechanical braking force, enabling variable braking force control based on lever position while eliminating the need for direct cable connections. This intermediary mechanism replicates mechanical parking brake characteristics with improved control precision.
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
Enables drivers to select performance modes that apply variable braking forces to rear wheels, mimicking mechanical systems, thereby enhancing control and performance in various driving conditions.
Implementation Method 1
the hydraulic control unit of the vehicle to provide hydraulic pressure to all four wheels of the vehicle
Implementation Method 2
rear wheel brake caliper electric motors
Data Source
AI summary
Performance electric parking brake controllers determine braking control signals for a performance electric parking brake system of a vehicle based on differing sets of operating conditions of the vehicle. A controller is configured to electromechanically actuate rear brake calipers of the vehicle in response to a first set of operating conditions of the vehicle, to hydraulically actuate front brake calipers and the rear brake calipers of the vehicle in response to a second set of operating conditions of the vehicle, and to hydraulically actuate only the rear brake calipers in response to a third set of operating conditions of the vehicle.