Optimizing braking force distribution in two-wheelers using an adaptive dual-caliper system for improved stopping distance

Abstract

Braking systems in a two-wheelers are crucial in emergency situations as its minimal protection of the riders and also heavy reliance on human decision-making compared to four wheelers. Traditional braking systems in two-wheelers struggle to accommodate dynamically varied load transfers in real-time that can frequently influence actual braking performance and safety under hard braking. To address this, an Adaptive Dual-Caliper System (ADCS) proposed utilizes a fixed caliper to manage the load of the rider and a movable caliper that is actuated by a linear actuator and managed by a microcontroller which ensure the adaptive force distribution in braking based on its real time pillion load variations even in static condition. The ADCS improves current system by sensing the pillion load in real-time and preventing wheel skid before it begins which is not possible by current technologies. The ADCS was first assessed with contemporary simulation and subsequently implemented and tested within the proposed two-wheeler in different speed ranges. Outcomes indicated enhanced braking performance with the reduction in stopping distance by up to 4.40% under full pillion load and speed conditions. A minimal error of around 3.63% between experimental and simulated data confirms the effectiveness of the system.