Testing the Mechatronic Wedge Brake 2004-01-2766

The eBrake is a novel self-reinforcing electromechanical wedge brake, which operates around the point of maximum self-reinforcement in order to minimise actuation forces. Beyond this point, the system would be unstable without an electronic controller. It is therefore important to demonstrate that this controller is robust to the range of parameter variations likely to be encountered in practice. The first stage of this process can be conducted on a dynamometer under laboratory conditions, to ensure that problems are addressed before proceeding to vehicle tests.

This paper reports testing of the prototype brake on a such a dynamometer. The prototype brake itself is first briefly described, including the main instrumentation used during the tests. This followed by a short section detailing the capabilities of the dynamometer. The main body of the text is devoted to the tests themselves: the rationale behind them; a description of how they were conducted; presentation of the results; and, where relevant, a discussion of how they compare with theory. Of particular interest is the performance of the brake under the influence of thermal effects, and the high dynamics and low power consumption demonstrated. It is shown that the control system and hardware can successfully manage the range of test conditions experienced.

To conclude, a review is presented of the programme status, including the developments underway which will lead to vehicle tests.