A Feedback Control Method for Antilock Brake Design

An analysis of antilock brake system dynamics, based on nonlinear control theory, was performed. Results were used to define initial performance and design requirements for a prototype fluidic motorcycle antilock system. The analysis emphasized the frequency response of system components and effects on stopping performance and stability. Results showed wheel angular acceleration provides a feasible single loop feedback for antilock control; wheel angular jerk is probably not a desirable primary feedback variable; nominal design requirements for modulator and controller exist that represent a compromise among high and low μ performance, stability, roughness, and signal-to- noise ratio; net time delay between modulator and brake caliper is a key design parameter and should be investigated more thoroughly.