Self-Returning Retarder Actuator with Pressure Points
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for controlling motor vehicle retarders are prone to incorrect positioning, require complex operation, and lack continuous adjustment capabilities, leading to driver distraction and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
A method and device for controlling a braking device, such as a retarder, using a self-returning actuating element with distinct pressure points for stepwise and continuous adjustment of braking power, eliminating the need for additional switches and reducing driver interaction complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If latching steering column switches are used for controlling retarder braking power, then the driver can select from multiple braking levels, but the steering column switch can get into incorrect positions and the driver has to wander around to achieve maximum braking power
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a latching mechanism that requires the driver to actively select and hold a position, the patent inverts the approach by using a self-returning actuating element that automatically returns to a neutral position. The braking power is controlled by the duration and repetition of actuations rather than by holding a selected position, eliminating the problem of incorrect positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuating element is designed to automatically return to its neutral position without driver intervention. This self-service mechanism prevents the switch from remaining in incorrect positions and eliminates the need for the driver to manually reset or adjust the position after actuation.
2Ease of operation
If additional buttons or switches are added to the steering column switch for maximum braking power and switch-off functions, then these functions can be accessed quickly, but costs increase and operability is further complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The actuating element serves multiple functions through a single mechanism: it controls incremental braking power increases, maximum braking power activation, and complete switch-off. By varying the actuation pattern (single actuation, repeated actuations, or prolonged actuation), the same element performs what would traditionally require multiple separate controls.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of multiple separate controls (incremental adjustment, maximum power activation, and switch-off buttons) into a single actuating element. This consolidation reduces device complexity and cost while maintaining quick access to all braking power levels and functions.
3Ease of operation
If latching adjustment mechanisms are used for retarder control, then multiple stable positions are available, but continuous adjustment of braking power is not allowed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a static latching mechanism with fixed positions to a dynamic system where braking power can be continuously adjusted. The actuating element can be held in actuated positions for varying durations and can be repeatedly actuated, allowing the braking power to be dynamically modified rather than constrained to discrete stable positions.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2C
Figure 3I~3VI
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for controlling a braking system of a motor vehicle, in particular a commercial vehicle. The invention further relates to a device for controlling a braking system of a motor vehicle.The method for controlling a motor vehicle's braking system, the braking power of which is adjustable in predetermined stages, comprises an actuating element for controlling the braking system. Starting from its neutral position, the actuating element is adjustable in two different actuation directions (A, B). Starting from its neutral position (N), the actuating element can be moved in each of the two actuation directions (A, B) into two successively arranged functional positions and returns to its neutral position (N) upon release. Reaching the first functional position (P1, P4) requires an initial actuation force, and reaching the second functional position (P2, P3, P5, P6) requires overcoming a pressure point (D1, D2) by applying an actuation force greater than that required for the initial actuation force. The braking system may be a retarder.