Test method and set up development for electric parking brake performance and durability validation in vehicle level as per RWUP

The Objective is to develop a testing load case which can assess vehicle electric parking brake (EPB) performance and durability at vehicle level in different project development phases. In current scenario the EPB become one of a primary feature available in many passenger vehicles helps customers to apply this secondary braking system to hold the vehicle when parked. So, it is particularly important to evaluate this feature close to RWUP for the vehicle service life and studying the result before vehicle launch. The test method should be capable of capturing failures related to physical concerns, electrical characteristics, actuation time, gradient vehicle hold, effectiveness during vehicle running and durability. The most important challenge in this test method development is it should simulate the actual sequence followed by user in field on vehicle. A completely automated test set up integrating PLC and COBOT with closed loop feedback developed and discussed in this paper. During the test, measurement of electric parking brake operating voltage and current, brake motor & caliper mounting fasteners torque, switch efforts, brake motor mounting deflection and electrical harness temperature are recorded which are the key parameters affects the system. Any deviation in these parameters will have a significant impact on the braking action in the vehicle. During the test execution., instrumentation and data logging used measure the operational parameters of electric parking brake system in performance and durability. The electric parking brake operational method derived from RWUP (Real world usage pattern), and this pattern used to set the operational sequence and derive the durability cycles. The paper discusses on results and measured parameters. By this test method, premature failure modes shall get capture in the initial phase of development itself thereby improving product competency in the market.