Publications & Awards
Over the years, I have had the privilege of publishing articles and making contributions on topics close to my heart. I invite you to explore my work and hope you enjoy the read.
Bonne lecture!
IBS-Technology
Author: Dr. Thomas Leiber
Co-Author: Dr. Anton van Zanten (Consultant IPGATE AG)
Since the introduction of ABS, ASR, and ESP, traditional braking systems have relied on vacuum brake boosters and separate hydraulic components. However, advancements in electrification and automation have driven the development of the Integrated Brake System (IBS), a cutting-edge technology designed to enhance braking efficiency and performance.
Developed by IPGATE AG and LSP Innovative Automotive Systems GmbH, IBS incorporates four key innovations:
A highly dynamic BLDC motor with space vector motor control for extremely fast brake torque build-up in less than 120 ms (TTL).
Introduction of brake-by-wire operation with fully variable, power on-demand pressure control independent of driver input force.
A fail-safe design that enables a new safety standard of 0.6g deceleration at 500N pedal force in failure mode, exceeding regulatory requirements by more than a factor of 2, thus providing the confidence to introduce brake-by-wire technology.
Piston Pressure Control (PPC) for highly dynamic and accurate pressure control equivalent to electro-mechanical actuation.
These innovations have paved the way for the introduction of a brake-by-wire system, enabled fully variable and unlimited regenerative braking, and set a new standard in safety with the introduction of Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) in less than 150 ms—all in a compact and cost-effective 1-box unit.
The braking system is designed with safety in mind, ensuring continued braking functionality and a smooth transition with no noticeable change in pedal feel in the event of failure, thereby supporting the introduction of SAE Level 2 automated driving. This technology is at the forefront of the transformation of braking systems in modern vehicles, particularly in electrified and autonomous vehicles.
We are pleased to share with you our contribution to the development of the first generation of Integrated Brake-by-Wire (IBS) technology, authored by Dr. Anton van Zanten, the inventor of ESP, and myself at the end of 2021. Although originally intended for the 6th edition of the "Brake Handbook," which was delayed, we have decided to make it publicly available. This technology is already used in a third of new cars and will become standard in the coming years.
Professors and students are welcome to use the article for lectures, and we are happy to provide teaching materials.
A brief introduction to the ipgate AG E87 Patent Family, which, among others, is part of the IBS Technology.
Fundamental know-how for highly dynamic actuators and their control
TU Graz - 2006
My dissertation titled "Systemanalyse und Entwicklung einer Heuristik zur Auslegungsoptimierung elektromechanischer Aktuatoren für die Betätigung von Gaswechselventilen von Otto-Verbrennungsmotoren" represents a significant contribution to the field of automotive engineering. This work focuses on the systematic analysis and optimization of electromechanical actuators for gas exchange valves in Otto cycle engines. By developing a heuristic approach for design optimization, I combined my expertise in aerospace and electrical engineering to enhance the efficiency and performance of internal combustion engines. This research laid the groundwork for highly dynamic brushless EC motors/actuators which were the base of the current electro-hydraulic brake systems (One-Box and Two-Box).
Pioneer work driving replacement of conventional 3-Box system by fully integrated 1-Box set for Automated Driving SAE Level 2
ATZ - 2011
I co-authored the article "Modulares Bremssystem mit integrierten Funktionen" (Modular Brake System with Integrated Functions) with Christian Köglsperger and Valentin Unterfrauner, published in ATZ - Automobiltechnische Zeitschrift in June 2011. In this publication, we introduced innovative brake system concepts, focusing on the IBS1 integrated brake system. This system combines brake force amplification and individual wheel brake pressure modulation in a single unit, utilizing a brushless EC motor-driven piston-cylinder unit for precise pressure control. We discussed the advantages of this closed system for safety and energy recuperation, and introduced a revolutionary multiplexing method with a power-on-demand pressure supply unit. Our work highlighted the potential for fully variable pedal characteristics and improved system diagnostics, setting the stage for future advancements in brake management systems, particularly for autonomous driving applications.
Defining requirements and solution for Automated Driving SAE Level 3+ with multiple redundancies
ATZ Extra - 2019
I co-authored the article "Brake Boosters for Automated Driving" published in ATZ worldwide in March 2019, collaborating with Heinz Leiber and Anton van Zanten. In this publication, we explored the ongoing evolution of brake systems for autonomous vehicles, introducing our innovative X-Boost brake booster. We highlighted its compact design and compared it to existing technologies in the field. Our article emphasized the critical role of ESC systems and electro-mechanical boosters, focusing on the importance of reliability and redundancy in braking systems to meet the demanding requirements of automated driving. Drawing from our extensive experience in automotive engineering, we provided valuable insights into the future advancements of brake systems, particularly in the context of autonomous vehicles.
CleanTech 100 Award
2010, 2011, 2012
I am honored to have been recognized with the prestigious CleanTech 100 Award for three consecutive years from 2010 to 2012. This accolade, which highlights the world's most promising private companies in sustainable innovation, served as a testament to my dedication to advancing environmentally friendly technologies in the automotive sector.
During this period, my work stood alongside other pioneering companies such as Tesla and Better Place, underscoring the significance of my contributions to clean technology. The recognition from CleanTech 100 not only validated my efforts in developing more efficient and sustainable automotive systems but also reinforced my commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation in the pursuit of greener transportation solutions. This award has been a driving force in my continued efforts to create technologies that positively impact both the automotive industry and our environment.
Part of the Patsnap Community
Dream, Discover, Disrupt
It was a true pleasure to share my insights on disruptive innovation with Patsnap. In this video, I discuss what true success in innovation looks like – for me, it’s seeing your innovation come to life in a product. Timing is key: you need to launch at just the right moment, not too early, and not too late. I also touch on the critical importance of transparency around patents, intellectual property, and the evolving landscape of innovation. Watch on to explore the big changes shaping the future of innovation.
Citations to Gauge the Importance of your Patent
I believe that knowledge is key when it comes to understanding the value of your patent. In this video, I’ll be sharing how the Patsnap citation tool plays a crucial role for innovators like me, helping to gauge the importance and impact of a patent. It’s an essential tool for assessing the influence of your innovation and navigating the world of intellectual property.
Plus X Award 2016
In 2014, while developing an e-bike drivetrain, I considered what features I, as a potential customer, would want. This led to the creation of a drivetrain that maintains a constant pedaling frequency at independent vehicle speeds, with a power booster for fast acceleration and smooth climbing on steep hills. This innovation was adopted by eVinci Mobility, and their PIKE product went on to win the German Product of the Year Award, a recognition of its impact on the market.
In 2016, my technology received further acknowledgment when it won the Plus X Award. The Plus X Award is the world’s largest innovation award for technology, sports, and lifestyle products, recognizing groundbreaking advancements in innovation, design, quality, and functionality. This prestigious recognition validated the impact of my drivetrain technology on the e-bike industry.
Today, this drivetrain technology is used by many leading e-bike manufacturers, helping to improve the efficiency, performance, and overall enjoyment of the cycling experience. It’s incredibly rewarding to see how far the technology has come and the role it continues to play in shaping the future of e-bike innovation.
