Trailer Brake Valve Layout for Roll Stability Under Contamination

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Solution Overview

Problem

Highly integrated mechatronic brake systems in trailer vehicles are prone to premature failure in emerging markets due to lack of trained service networks and maintenance, leading to safety issues and high replacement costs, as they are complex and sensitive to contamination.

Innovation Solution

A trailer brake control system with a simple single-channel RSP system using load, exhaust, and relay valves, which allows for accurate brake pressure control and separation from ABS valves, enabling easier maintenance and reduced risk of system shutdown even in contaminated conditions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If highly integrated mechatronic brake systems are used, then device complexity is reduced and installation is simplified, but reliability deteriorates due to sensitivity to contamination and lack of trained service networks

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomponent countVSAvoidsystem reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The brake control system is divided into separate functional modules: ABS control unit and RSP control unit, each housed in separate enclosures. This segmentation allows independent maintenance and reduces the risk of total system failure, as contamination or malfunction in one module does not affect the other.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A pilot line connects the RSP control unit to the ABS control unit, serving as an intermediary that allows the RSP unit to influence brake pressure without direct integration. This mediator approach enables functional integration while maintaining physical separation and independence of the control units.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If additional functionality such as roll stability control is added, then system capability is improved, but device complexity increases and space requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebrake system functionalityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The ABS control unit serves multiple functions: it controls ABS braking and also receives pilot signals from the RSP control unit to modulate brake pressure for roll stability control. This multi-functionality allows the system to provide both ABS and RSP capabilities without requiring completely separate control systems.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The RSP control functionality is nested within the existing brake system architecture by using a separate RSP control unit that communicates with the ABS control unit through a pilot line. The RSP unit operates independently but its effects are nested within the overall brake control system through the shared brake cylinders and pilot line connection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Adaptability or versatility

If additional functionality such as roll stability control is added, then system capability is improved, but space requirements on the trailer increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebrake system functionalityVSAvoidtrailer space
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses separate compact control units for ABS and RSP functions, each with its own enclosure. This segmentation allows for compact, modular installation that minimizes space requirements compared to a fully integrated system, while still providing advanced functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The RSP control unit uses a simplified control architecture that mirrors the essential functions of the ABS control unit but is optimized for roll stability control. This copying approach allows the system to provide additional functionality without duplicating the entire brake control system, thereby minimizing space requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

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 solution provides enhanced roll stability and brake control accuracy while being more robust against contamination, allowing for safer maintenance and reduced costs by maintaining ABS functionality even if the RSP module fails, thus improving safety and reliability.

Implementation Method 1

The relay valves (15, 16) are in fluid communication with the reservoir (14) and are adapted to supply service braking pressure to the braking devices

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPneumatic pressure: Pressure Gradient

Implementation Method 2

The module comprises a load valve (29), an exhaust valve (30) and a relay valve (37)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectValve flow control: Valve

Implementation Method 3

The load valve and exhaust valve are 2/2 solenoid valves

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic actuation: Solenoid

Data Source

PatentEP3277549B1Trailer brake system
Publication Date: 2024.09.11 KNORR BREMSE SYSTEME FUER NUTZFAHIZEUGE GMBH
  • EP3277549B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3277549B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3277549B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A low cost brake control system adapted to provide roll stability control on a trailer. The system comprises a brake control unit having a load, exhaust and backup valve. This control unit is adapted to control pneumatically and electrically first and second ABS relay valves, each of the ABS relay valves being assigned to a single brake channel adapted to control the braking pressure on the trailer. This enables accurate control of the brakes during a roll stability event.