On-Demand Powered Vehicle Control Systems

The increased demand for advanced transportation systems, such as electric and hybrid vehicles, coupled with the demand for more efficient traditionally powered vehicles has promoted the development of on-demand power systems. These on-demand power systems also hold numerous advantages over traditional system in the off road equipment markets. The varied advantages of the power braking and steering systems referred to in this paper include complete self-sufficiency; the stand alone braking and steering units provide the necessary pressure and more importantly the necessary volume for the application, the system's ability to adapt to any vehicle with a minimal number of adjustments. Additional advantages include increased vehicle efficiency, reduced cost, and ease of use.

This paper will recognize and highlight the need for on-demand systems in the off-highway equipment of today. It will outline and follow the development process from the initial design goals, reasoning and data analysis, testing and final configurations. In addition to the research and development stages of the designs, this paper will also touch on the current applications for zero and low emission towing and towed vehicles, off-road industrial vehicles and other applications, as well as cover possible future applications for the next generation of these systems.