Sensorized Brake Pads for Real-Time ABS Friction Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current antilock braking systems (ABS) and anti-slip regulation (ASR) face challenges in accurately measuring the coefficient of friction between tires and the ground, especially on slippery surfaces, leading to inefficiencies in braking performance and increased stopping distances due to reliance on estimates rather than real-time, precise measurements.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of sensorized brake pads with integrated sensors that measure braking torque and frictional forces, allowing for real-time adjustment of braking pressure and optimization of the ABS and ASR systems by directly measuring the coefficient of friction, using both slip-based and torque-based control logic to dynamically adjust braking parameters.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If sensorized brake pads with integrated sensors are implemented, then measurement precision of the coefficient of friction is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoefficient of friction measurementVSAvoidbrake pad structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple sensing functions (pressure sensors, temperature sensors, acceleration sensors) directly into the brake pad assembly, merging previously separate measurement systems into a single integrated component. This allows simultaneous measurement of normal force, friction force, temperature, and acceleration without requiring multiple separate devices, thereby improving measurement precision while managing device complexity through functional integration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The brake pad is designed as a multi-functional component that not only provides friction braking but also serves as a platform for multiple sensors (pressure, temperature, acceleration) and communication modules. This universal design allows the single brake pad structure to perform diverse functions including force measurement, temperature monitoring, and data transmission, resolving the contradiction between enhanced measurement capabilities and increased system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Productivity

If real-time measurement and adjustment of braking pressure is implemented, then braking performance is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebraking performanceVSAvoidcontrol system
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a closed-loop feedback system where sensors in the brake pad continuously measure actual braking conditions (force, pressure, temperature) and transmit this data to the control unit. The control unit processes this feedback information and dynamically adjusts braking pressure in real-time to optimize performance. This feedback mechanism enables high braking performance while managing control system complexity through automated real-time adjustment based on actual measured conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system transitions from static, pre-programmed braking control to dynamic, real-time adjustment of braking parameters based on actual measured conditions. The control unit continuously adapts braking pressure, force distribution, and other parameters according to live sensor data from the brake pads, enabling optimal braking performance under varying road and environmental conditions while maintaining manageable system complexity through adaptive control algorithms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Reliability

If multiple sensors are integrated into brake pads, then reliability of ABS system is improved, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveABS system reliabilityVSAvoidbrake pad production
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple sensing functions into a single integrated brake pad assembly, reducing the total number of separate components that would need to be manufactured and assembled. By combining pressure sensors, temperature sensors, and acceleration sensors into one unified structure, the system achieves high reliability through redundant measurement capabilities while simplifying the manufacturing process compared to installing multiple separate sensor units.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The multi-functional brake pad design allows a single manufactured component to serve multiple purposes: friction braking, force measurement, temperature monitoring, and acceleration detection. This universal design reduces manufacturing complexity by eliminating the need to produce and assemble multiple separate sensor housings and mounting structures, thereby improving reliability through integrated sensing while maintaining ease of manufacture through standardized production processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 significantly improves braking performance by reducing stopping distances, enhancing vehicle control, and increasing safety by using actual measurements of friction rather than estimates, effectively adapting to changing road conditions.

Implementation Method 1

a braking unit is typically used for slowing or stopping a moving vehicle, such as by friction between a generally non-rotating brake pad and a rotating brake disk or drum

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Implementation Method 2

Typically, sensorized brake pads include sensors, such as pressure sensors. This can enable the brake pad to detect and/or measure the pressure and forces applied to the brake pad

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPressure sensing:

Data Source

PatentUS11794707B2Antilock braking systems, devices, and methods using sensorized brake pads
Publication Date: 2023.10.24 ITT ITAL SRL
  • US11794707B2 patent drawing
  • US11794707B2 patent drawing
  • US11794707B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Various antilock braking systems, devices, and methods using sensorized brake pads are disclosed. In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides a method for improving the performance of an antilock braking (ABS) and anti-slip regulation (ASR) system of a vehicle. The method can include detecting the actual value of the coefficient of friction (e.g., between a tire and the ground), updating the coefficient of friction during braking using the braking torque data derived from at least one braking pad of each wheel, and adjusting brake force. For example, the brake force can be adjusted as a function of and/or to be approximately equal to the value of the actual tire-road friction during braking.