Vehicle Traction Control via Road Friction Data Exchange
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Solution Overview
Problem
Platooned vehicles face challenges in maintaining traction on variable friction surfaces, particularly on non-moving conditions where traditional traction control methods are insufficient, leading to low implementation rates and inefficient vehicle performance.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle communication system where a first vehicle receives road surface information from a second vehicle and adjusts its operating parameters, such as powertrain output, to improve traction without explicitly identifying friction variations, using a controller and communication device to optimize pedal position and torque response based on estimated friction coefficients.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional traction control methods are used on non-moving conditions, then vehicle control is maintained, but traction on slippery surfaces is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary friction identification by analyzing wheel slip data before attempting vehicle movement. This preliminary action allows the traction control system to pre-calculate appropriate torque limits and control parameters, improving effectiveness when movement is attempted on slippery surfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors wheel slip, vehicle acceleration, and road conditions to provide real-time feedback to the traction control algorithm. This feedback loop enables dynamic adjustment of torque distribution and powertrain output, maintaining reliable control while improving the ability to move vehicles on low-friction surfaces.
2Extent of automation
If platooned vehicle communication is implemented with stringent regulation requirements, then automated control is improved, but implementation rate decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses road friction information as an intermediary data element that can be shared between vehicles through communication systems. Rather than requiring full automated platoon control infrastructure, vehicles exchange specific friction identification data that can be used to improve individual vehicle traction control, enabling easier implementation.
Solution Approach 2:
Each vehicle independently identifies road friction conditions using its own wheel slip data and sensor information. This self-service capability allows vehicles to improve their own traction control without relying on complex centralized control systems, thereby increasing implementation rate while maintaining automated control benefits.
3Measurement precision
If friction variation is explicitly identified before adjusting vehicle parameters, then traction control precision is improved, but response time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously pre-processes wheel slip data and maintains ready-to-use friction estimates even when not actively controlling traction. This preliminary action ensures that when traction control is needed, the system can immediately apply pre-calculated parameters without delay, maintaining both precision and rapid response.
Solution Approach 2:
The friction identification process operates continuously in the background, constantly updating road condition estimates based on ongoing wheel slip measurements. This continuous action ensures that accurate friction data is always available when needed, eliminating the time loss associated with on-demand friction measurement.
Data Source
AI summary
In one example, a first vehicle traveling on a road is provided. The vehicle comprises a communication device coupled in the first vehicle configured to receive information transmitted by a second vehicle traveling on the road, the information identifying road surface conditions experience by the second vehicle; and a controller configured to adjust a vehicle operating parameter of the first vehicle in response to receiving the transmitted information from the second vehicle.