Regenerative Braking Feedback for Tracked Work Machines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Self-propelling work machines, such as bulldozers, face challenges with existing braking systems that require large mechanical brakes and limited regenerative braking due to battery constraints, leading to inefficient energy use and increased wear on mechanical components.
Innovation Solution
A braking apparatus that utilizes regenerative braking by feeding back electrical motor braking power to the internal combustion engine via a generator, with a controller adjusting the load on auxiliary units to optimize braking power and reduce mechanical brake usage, allowing for efficient energy use and extended component life.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If large mechanical brakes are used for intensive braking procedures, then braking reliability is improved, but device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces part of the mechanical braking system with an electrical braking system using the electric motor as a generator. During braking, the electric motor operates in generator mode, converting kinetic energy into electrical energy that is fed back to the battery, thereby reducing the load on mechanical brakes and extending their lifespan.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the electric motor from motor mode to generator mode during braking. This parameter change allows the motor to absorb kinetic energy and convert it to electrical energy, providing a variable braking force that complements the mechanical braking system.
2Use of energy by moving object
If regenerative braking is used to reduce mechanical brake usage, then energy efficiency is improved, but braking power may be insufficient under high demand
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the electrical braking system and mechanical braking system into a unified braking system. The control unit coordinates both systems to work together, using regenerative braking for normal conditions and mechanical brakes for high-demand situations, thereby achieving both energy efficiency and sufficient braking power.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic braking system that automatically adjusts the distribution between regenerative and mechanical braking based on real-time conditions such as braking demand, battery state of charge, and vehicle speed. This dynamic adjustment ensures optimal energy efficiency while maintaining adequate braking power.
3Reliability
If battery constraints limit regenerative braking capacity, then battery safety is improved, but energy recovery is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs feedback control where the control unit continuously monitors battery state of charge, temperature, and other parameters. Based on this feedback, the system dynamically adjusts the amount of regenerative braking applied, maximizing energy recovery while keeping the battery within safe operating limits.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts regenerative braking capacity based on real-time battery conditions. When the battery can accept more energy, regenerative braking is maximized; when the battery is near full charge or overheating, the system reduces regenerative braking to maintain battery safety, thereby optimizing the balance between energy recovery and battery protection.
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
This solution enables energy-efficient braking with reduced wear on mechanical brakes and improved operational efficiency by primarily using regenerative braking, minimizing the need for mechanical brakes and extending their lifespan.
Implementation Method 1
a generator drivable by an internal combustion engine for the supply of the electric drive with electrical energy
Implementation Method 2
an electric drive comprising at least one electric motor
Implementation Method 3
The braking apparatus provides regenerative braking via the electric drive
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems are provided related to a self-propelling work machine in the form of a tracked vehicle having an electric drive, with a generator drivable by an internal combustion engine, an auxiliary unit connected to the engine, and a braking apparatus for braking the work machine. The braking apparatus provides regenerative braking by the electric drive and comprises a feedback apparatus for feeding back electrical motor braking power of the electric motor to the generator to apply the motor braking power on the engine and on the auxiliary unit. A controller automatically increases or decreases the electrical load of the auxiliary unit based on the electrical motor braking power fed back to the engine and/or based on an engine speed.