Torque Vectoring Trailer Sway Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trailer sway mitigation systems typically rely on braking to control trailer oscillation, which can be abrupt and unsettling for drivers, and do not effectively stabilize sway when the vehicle is traveling in a straight line without slowing down.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a torque vectoring device, controlled by a controller with sensors and software, that transfers drive torque between the rear wheels to stabilize trailer sway without braking, by determining the vehicle's yaw rate and torque distribution signals to counteract trailer oscillation in both straight-line and turning conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If existing trailer sway mitigation systems use braking to control trailer oscillation, then trailer sway is stabilized, but the vehicle slows down or stops and the driver experience becomes abrupt and unsettling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the braking system (mechanical friction-based deceleration) with a torque vectoring device that uses differential torque application to the rear wheels. This substitution allows sway control without the unwanted side effect of vehicle speed reduction, as the torque vectoring device can generate stabilizing moments while maintaining forward momentum.
Solution Approach 2:
The torque vectoring device acts as an intermediary mechanism between the engine's drive torque and the wheels. By introducing this intermediate torque distribution stage, the system can create differential forces at the wheels to counteract trailer sway while the main drive train continues to propel the vehicle forward without braking intervention.
2Stability of the object's composition
If existing systems brake the vehicle to control trailer sway, then oscillation is reduced, but the intervention becomes abrupt and disturbing to the driver
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes the abrupt mechanical braking action with a smoother torque vectoring mechanism. The torque vectoring device can apply differential torque in a controlled, progressive manner that is less perceptible to the driver compared to sudden brake application, thereby improving ease of operation and driver comfort while maintaining oscillation control.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional systems transfer torque between left and right wheels during turning, then vehicle manoeuvrability is improved, but they cannot address trailer sway when driving in a straight line
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the torque vectoring device to perform multiple functions: it can transfer torque between left and right rear wheels during turning maneuvers to improve vehicle handling, and simultaneously it can counteract trailer sway oscillations during straight-line driving. This multi-functionality achieves adaptability without proportionally increasing device complexity, as the same hardware platform serves both purposes.
Data Source
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AI summary
A system for stabilizing a sway of a trailer attached to a vehicle. In one embodiment, the system includes a controller, a plurality of sensors in electronic communication with the controller and transmitting sensor data to the controller, a torque vectoring device in electronic communication with the controller, and a computer readable memory storing instructions executed by the controller. The instructions cause the controller to evaluate the sensor data received from the sensors to determine a current vehicle yaw rate, a target vehicle yaw rate, and a yaw rate error of the vehicle. The instructions further cause the controller to determine if the vehicle is traveling in a straight line, to determine a torque distribution signal, and to transmit this signal to the torque vectoring device to stabilize the sway of the trailer without braking the vehicle.