Vehicle Shaft Rotation Control for Drag Racing Traction
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Solution Overview
Problem
In automotive racing, particularly in drag racing, the loss of traction between tires and the track surface leads to reduced acceleration and longer race times due to wheel slippage, as existing technologies fail to dynamically control vehicle shaft rotation rates effectively to maintain optimal traction throughout the race.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method generates a target run curve based on historical vehicle data, allowing for variable shaft rotation rates to be adjusted automatically during a race, using ignition timing adjustments and cylinder dropping to maintain optimal traction by comparing actual rotation rates to target rates in real-time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a constant threshold rotation rate is used for the entire race, then the control system is simple to implement, but the vehicle cannot achieve optimal performance at different points in the race
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic target rotation rate that varies throughout the race duration. Instead of using a constant threshold, the system defines a target rotation rate profile that changes over time, allowing the vehicle to achieve optimal performance at different points in the race. The controller continuously compares actual rotation rate to this time-varying target and adjusts engine power accordingly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent pre-calculates and stores a target rotation rate profile before the race begins. This profile is determined based on desired vehicle performance characteristics and is available to the controller throughout the race, enabling real-time control adjustments without complex on-the-fly calculations.
2Speed
If manual adjustments by the driver are required, then the control system is simpler, but the driver cannot react quickly enough to maintain optimal traction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a closed-loop feedback control system where the controller continuously monitors the actual vehicle rotation rate, compares it to the target rotation rate profile, and automatically adjusts engine power output. This automatic feedback mechanism enables much faster reaction times than manual driver adjustments, allowing the system to respond immediately to traction conditions.
3Speed
If the vehicle shaft rotation rate is not controlled, then the engine can operate at maximum power, but wheel slippage occurs resulting in lost acceleration
Solution Approach 1:
The controller continuously monitors actual vehicle shaft rotation rate and compares it to the target rotation rate profile. When the actual rate deviates from the target (indicating wheel slippage or excessive rotation), the controller automatically adjusts engine power output to correct the condition, preventing wheel slippage while maintaining optimal acceleration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical traction control methods with electronic control of the engine ignition system. By controlling ignition timing and engine power output through electronic means, the system can precisely modulate wheel rotation to maintain optimal traction without mechanical intervention.
Data Source
AI summary
In general, the subject matter described in this disclosure can be embodied in methods, systems, and program products for performing vehicle control. A computing system determines a difference between a recent rate of change and a historical rate of change of a rotating vehicle shaft of a vehicle during a vehicle race. The computing system determines that the difference between the recent rate of change of the rotating vehicle shaft and the historical rate of change of the rotating vehicle shaft satisfies a criteria for limiting vehicle power, wherein the computing system changes the criteria for limiting vehicle power during the vehicle race. The computing system sends a signal for receipt by a vehicle component of the vehicle, to cause the vehicle component to limit rotation of the rotating vehicle shaft.