Trailer Brake Test Control Unit for Automated Safety Assessment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for testing the brake systems of trailers and semi-trailers are not reliable and efficient, particularly during peak usage when old vehicles with malfunctioning brakes are used, posing a safety risk, especially when loaded.
Innovation Solution
A method and device for conducting a brake test on trailers and semi-trailers that involves detecting newly coupled trailers, initializing an on-board brake test, initiating a defined braking process, determining the braking effect, and outputting an information signal based on the evaluation, utilizing existing interface technologies and vehicle systems like compressed air and electronically controlled braking systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing general brake testing methods are used for trailers, then the testing can be performed, but the reliability and efficiency of brake system assessment is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling the towing vehicle's existing brake system to serve dual purposes: its original braking function and a testing function for evaluating trailer brake systems. The control unit initiates test braking maneuvers where the towing vehicle's brake system acts as a reference to assess the trailer's brake performance, eliminating the need for separate dedicated testing equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The towing vehicle performs self-testing of the coupled trailer's brake system using its own brake system as the reference. The control unit automatically initiates braking maneuvers, monitors the towing vehicle's deceleration, and compares it with expected values to assess trailer brake functionality, enabling the system to self-evaluate without external testing equipment.
2Reliability
If manual brake testing procedures are employed, then testing can be performed, but operator safety is compromised and testing consistency varies
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit continuously monitors the towing vehicle's deceleration during braking maneuvers and provides feedback by comparing actual deceleration values with expected reference values. This automated feedback mechanism determines whether the trailer brake system is functioning correctly, ensuring consistent and reliable assessment without manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical testing procedures with an electronically controlled system. The control unit automatically manages the braking test process, using electronic sensors to measure deceleration and electronic comparison logic to assess trailer brake performance, eliminating the need for manual operation and improving consistency.
3Measurement precision
If additional dedicated testing equipment is installed on trailers, then testing precision can be improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling the towing vehicle's existing brake system to serve dual purposes: its original braking function and a testing function for evaluating trailer brake systems. The control unit initiates test braking maneuvers where the towing vehicle's brake system acts as a reference to assess the trailer's brake performance, eliminating the need for separate dedicated testing equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The towing vehicle's brake system serves as an intermediary reference for testing the trailer's brake system. Instead of installing sensors and equipment on the trailer, the system uses the towing vehicle's known brake characteristics as a reference point to indirectly measure and assess trailer brake effectiveness through comparison of deceleration values.
4Reliability
If brake testing is performed frequently to ensure safety, then reliability improves, but loss of operational time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary automated assessment by continuously monitoring brake system parameters and initiating quick test maneuvers when needed. The control unit can perform rapid braking tests that take only seconds, allowing frequent safety checks without significant operational disruption. The system prepares reference deceleration values in advance for comparison during testing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables rapid brake testing by using the towing vehicle's existing motion and brake system. Instead of requiring slow, methodical manual testing procedures, the system initiates quick automated braking maneuvers that complete in seconds, allowing frequent safety assessments with minimal impact on operational time.
Data Source
AI summary
The method involves sensing a semitrailer or a trailer newly hitched to a towing vehicle. An on-board brake test for a brake system of the semitrailer or trailer is initialized. A defined braking process is initiated by the brake system after a defined driven distance. A braking effect of the defined braking process is sensed and determined as a braking effect actual value. The actual value is compared with a present braking effect setpoint value. An information signal is output by considering an evaluation result based on the comparison. An independent claim is also included for a device for performing a method for carrying out brake test on a trailer vehicle and a semitrailer vehicle.