Virtual Braking and Clutch in Electric Two-Wheeled Vehicles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mechanical, frictional brakes and clutches in two-wheeled vehicles add cost, weight, and dissipate kinetic energy, limiting the range and operation of electric vehicles, as they do not effectively utilize regenerative braking capabilities.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a regenerative braking system that uses the electric motor to simulate a mechanical brake or clutch, allowing for virtual braking and clutch functionality by controlling the electric motor's torque based on rider inputs through sensors and electronic controls, eliminating the need for traditional mechanical brakes and clutches.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mechanical frictional brakes are used, then reliable braking force is achieved, but vehicle weight and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical frictional brake system with an electric motor-based regenerative braking system. The electric motor acts as a generator during braking, converting kinetic energy into electrical energy to charge the power store, thereby eliminating the need for mechanical brake components and reducing vehicle weight while maintaining braking capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The electric motor serves dual functions: propulsion during acceleration and regenerative braking during deceleration. This self-service capability allows the same component to provide both driving and braking forces, eliminating the need for separate mechanical brake systems and reducing overall vehicle weight.
2Reliability
If mechanical frictional brakes are used, then braking function is achieved, but kinetic energy is dissipated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the previously harmful energy dissipation during braking into a beneficial process by using the electric motor as a generator. The kinetic energy that would normally be lost as heat through friction is instead converted into electrical energy to charge the power store, transforming energy waste into useful energy storage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the electric motor, allowing it to function in reverse as a generator. By controlling the motor's operating mode based on vehicle speed and power store charge state, the system optimizes energy recovery while maintaining reliable braking function.
3Ease of operation
If mechanical clutches are used, then torque management is achieved, but vehicle weight and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical clutch system with electronic torque management control. The electric motor controller electronically modulates torque delivery to the wheel based on ride phase detection and rider input, eliminating the need for mechanical clutch components while achieving equivalent or superior torque management.
Solution Approach 2:
The electric motor controller performs multiple functions including torque management, regenerative braking control, and ride phase detection, replacing what would traditionally require separate mechanical components. This multi-functionality reduces vehicle weight while maintaining ease of operation.
4Weight of moving object
If mechanical brakes and clutches are eliminated, then vehicle weight and cost are reduced, but braking and torque control functionality must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a control system that continuously monitors vehicle operating conditions including speed, acceleration, and power store charge state. This feedback enables the controller to dynamically adjust electric motor torque to maintain reliable braking and torque control functions while eliminating mechanical components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses dynamic control strategies that adapt to changing ride phases and operating conditions. The controller dynamically modulates electric motor torque based on real-time sensor inputs, ensuring reliable braking and torque management functionality replaces the static mechanical brake and clutch systems.
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
This solution reduces the cost and weight of the vehicle while enhancing performance by capturing braking energy back into the power store, providing equivalent or superior braking force without the need for mechanical systems, and enabling advanced features like anti-lock braking and traction control.
Implementation Method 1
the electric motor generates regenerative torque based on a mapping of the control input to regenerative torque
Implementation Method 2
the electric motor generates frictional torque based on a mapping of the control input to frictional torque
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems and methods for operating an electric motor of a two-wheeled vehicle. One method includes detecting a position of a drive torque control included in the vehicle, detecting a position of a regenerative brake control included in the vehicle, mapping the detected position of the drive torque control to a requested driving torque, mapping the position of the regenerative brake control to a requested braking torque, determining, with an electronic control unit, a torque command based on the requested driving torque and the requested torque, and transmitting the torque command to an electric motor included in the vehicle.