Towed Vehicle Braking System with Voltage-Controlled Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Towed vehicles lack an integrated braking system that can be conveniently installed and remain operational without requiring frequent installation and removal, leading to increased costs and inconvenience.
Innovation Solution
A braking system that includes a main controller, brake pedal connector, air pump, and pneumatic valve manifold, which automatically activates the towed vehicle's brakes based on the tow vehicle's braking conditions, using inertial sensors and a wireless interface to synchronize braking efforts and maintain system readiness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a portable braking system is used that rests on the floor of the vehicle cabin, then the system can be easily moved to another vehicle without modification, but it must be disconnected and stored out of the way each time the vehicle is unhitched, requiring frequent installation and removal
Solution Approach 1:
The braking system is divided into separate functional modules: a control unit that interfaces with the tow vehicle's braking system, a power unit with battery and motor, and a pedal actuation mechanism. This segmentation allows individual components to be independently installed or removed, reducing overall installation time while maintaining portability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system includes pre-installed mounting brackets and connection interfaces that are prepared in advance on the vehicle. The control unit and power unit are pre-wired with necessary connections, allowing for rapid attachment and detachment without requiring complex on-site installation procedures.
2Ease of operation
If a permanently installed braking system is used, then the driver can drive the vehicle with the braking system in place and installation costs are incurred once, but there is a further cost if it is ever moved to another vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system transitions from a fixed permanent installation to a dynamic semi-permanent state. The braking system can be easily mounted or dismounted from the vehicle using standardized interfaces, allowing it to remain installed during use but be relocated when needed, combining the benefits of both permanent and portable systems.
3Reliability
If the brake drive system operates continuously, then the towed vehicle brakes are always available to reduce stopping distance, but battery power is consumed continuously reducing operational duration
Solution Approach 1:
The brake drive system operates periodically rather than continuously. The controller activates the brake drive system only when specific conditions are detected, such as when the tow vehicle is braking or when the vehicle is detached and needs emergency braking capability. This periodic operation maintains reliability when needed while significantly reducing continuous battery power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The system includes a voltage detector that automatically monitors battery charge levels and the controller automatically activates or deactivates the brake drive system based on detected voltage thresholds. This self-service mechanism ensures the system remains available when needed while autonomously managing power consumption to extend battery operational duration.
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
The system effectively reduces stopping distances by automatically engaging the towed vehicle's brakes in sync with the tow vehicle, enhancing safety and convenience while minimizing installation and operational costs.
Implementation Method 1
A voltage detector is coupled to a battery to detect a voltage at the battery
Implementation Method 2
A brake drive system is connected to the brake pedal connector to actuate the brake of the towed vehicle through the brake pedal connector by applying a positive pressure to the brake pedal connector to move the brake pedal
Data Source
AI summary
A towed vehicle braking system is described that in some embodiments includes a brake pedal connector configured to connect to a brake pedal of a brake of a towed vehicle. A brake drive system is connected to the brake pedal connector to actuate the brake of the towed vehicle through the brake pedal connector by applying a positive pressure to the brake pedal connector to move the brake pedal. A voltage detector is coupled to a battery of the towed vehicle to detect the voltage at the battery and an ON/OFF circuit is coupled to the voltage detector to turn off the brake drive system in response to the detected voltage being above a predetermined voltage threshold.