Neuro-genetic optimization of disc brake performance at elevated temperatures

Abstract

The basic problem of automotive brakes operation is the decreasing of their performance at elevated temperatures in the contact of friction pair (brake disc and brake pad). Increasing of the brake interface temperature often causes decreasing of braking torque during a braking cycle. In order to provide the stable level of braking torque during a braking cycle, the neural network based optimization model of the disc brake performance has been developed. The dynamic neural networks have been employed for modelling of complex synergy of tribological phenomena that affects the final disc brake performance at elevated temperatures. The dynamic optimization neural network model of disc brake performance at elevated temperatures has been developed using recurrent neural networks. It predicts the braking torque versus the dynamic change of the brake actuation pressure, sliding speed and the brake interface temperature in a braking cycle. Genetic algorithms were integrated with the neural network model for optimization of the brake actuation pressure in order to obtain the desired level of braking torque. This hybrid, neuro-genetic model was successfully used in optimization of the brake hydraulic pressure level needed to achieve the maximum and stable brake performance during a braking cycle. © Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Belgrade.