Restrained Vehicle Movement Using Compensated Drive and Brake Torque

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing vehicle maneuvering systems face challenges in achieving precise and low-latency movement at low speeds in small spaces, due to imprecise and latency-prone braking mechanisms.

Innovation Solution

A method and device for restrained vehicle movement, utilizing a drive unit to generate a restraining drive torque and a braking unit to generate a braking torque, which compensates for the drive torque to create a restraining torque, allowing for precise regulation of vehicle acceleration, speed, and distance without latency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If generic brakes are used as actuators for hesitation, then the braking function is achieved, but latency increases and precision deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebraking precisionVSAvoidbraking latency

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the traditional mechanical braking system with an electromagnetic actuator that generates braking torque through electromagnetic forces. This substitution eliminates the hydraulic pressure buildup latency inherent in mechanical brake systems, achieving both lower latency and higher precision in braking operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the operating parameters of the drive unit by utilizing regenerative braking capability, where the drive unit operates in reverse mode to generate braking torque. This parameter change allows the system to achieve precise braking control without the latency associated with traditional mechanical brake activation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If braking torque is generated through traditional brake systems, then vehicle deceleration is achieved, but latency and fading effects reduce reliability

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebraking reliabilityVSAvoidbraking response time

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent substitutes the traditional mechanical brake system with an electromagnetic actuation system that provides more reliable and consistent braking torque. This substitution eliminates the fading effect characteristic of mechanical brakes and reduces response time, thereby improving overall braking reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The drive unit serves dual functions: propulsion and braking. By utilizing regenerative braking, the system recovers energy during deceleration while providing reliable braking action, eliminating the need for separate brake systems and reducing latency through integrated control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Measurement precision

If volume must be displaced physically in brake systems, then braking force is generated, but latency and imprecision increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemovement regulation precisionVSAvoidpressure buildup time

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the hydraulic volume displacement mechanism with an electromagnetic actuator that generates braking torque directly through electromagnetic forces. This substitution eliminates the time required for hydraulic pressure buildup and provides precise, immediate control over braking magnitude.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system utilizes controlled periodic activation of the electromagnetic actuator to generate braking torque, allowing for precise regulation of braking force without the delays associated with hydraulic system response times.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

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 approach enables precise and comfortable vehicle maneuvering by preventing latency losses during braking, ensuring high driver comfort and safety, and allowing for accurate control of vehicle movement in tight spaces.

Implementation Method 1

generating a restraining drive torque by the drive unit; generating a braking torque by the braking unit to compensate for the restraining driving torque and thereby to generate a restraining torque in the vehicle

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectTorque: Torque

Implementation Method 2

The braking unit may be configured with a friction brake that is customary for vehicles

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS12311944B2Method, device and computer program product for the restrained movement of a vehicle

Publication Date: 2025.05.27 VOLKSWAGEN AG

AI summary

Technologies and techniques for the restrained movement of a vehicle with a drive unit for accelerating the vehicle, and a braking unit for braking the vehicle. A restraining drive torque is generated by the drive unit, and a braking torque is generated by the braking unit to compensate for the restraining drive torque and thereby to generate a restraining torque in the vehicle, and braking the vehicle by reducing the drive torque. A device and a computer program product may be configured to implement the restraining movement processes and a storage may be configured with a processor to execute the computer program product.