UC Davis

The automotive industry is in the midst of a shift towards electrification, with an increasing prominence of by-wire technologies. This thesis is dedicated to investigating the modeling, control, and parameter optimization of brake-by-wire actuators, with applications for both future autonomous and non-autonomous vehicles. To this aim, a modular control architecture is proposed to facilitate the integration of these actuators into vehicles.

The actuators are initially modeled through bond graph methodology. Subsequently, a cascaded control approach is employed to govern the intelligent actuators, with individual controllers designed using the Youla parameterization technique. Two distinct physical parameter optimization strategies are employed to enhance actuator responsiveness and energy efficiency. One approach is based on linear system optimization using transfer function, while the other centers around nonlinear system optimization. Comparative evaluations of the actuators are conducted using step and ramp tests. Finally, a direct comparison of the actuators within the proposed control architecture is carried out through a straight-line braking test scenario.