Methods for improving braking performance in electronically-controlled hydraulic brake systems
US6416141B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 24, 2000 |
| Grant date | Jul 9, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 24, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S303/10
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An electronically controlled vehicular hydraulic brake system provides anti-lock braking, traction control, and vehicle stability control. The system includes a hydraulic control unit (HCU) containing control valves and other components in fluid communication with wheel brakes. Low temperatures cause the viscosity of hydraulic fluid to increase. Performance of the braking system can be improved at low temperatures according to methods of this invention. A first preferred method of improving braking performance is to increase the brake fluid temperature inside the HCU. Several examples of methods to increase fluid temperature inside the HCU are presented. A second preferred method of improving braking performance is to preload the wheel brakes with a pressure that does not adversely affect normal driving. Several examples of methods to preload the wheel brakes are presented.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.