Electromechanical Brake System – What Is it And How Does it Work?
Traditional brake systems haven’t changed a whole lot in the last century, so the concept of brake-by-wire technology represents a sea change that automakers and the public at large have both been reluctant to embrace.
While traditional hydraulic systems have their issues, there is something reassuring in having a direct, physical connection between your foot and the brake pads or shoes located at the four corners of your vehicle.
Brake-by-wire breaks that connection, which is why the technology is seen as inherently more dangerous than electronic throttle control or even steer-by-wire. The current f brake-by-wire systems available makes use of an electro-hydraulic model that isn’t fully electronic. These systems still have hydraulic systems, but the driver doesn’t directly activate the master cylinder by pressing on the brake pedal. Instead, the master cylinder is activated by an electric motor or pump that is regulated by a control unit.
When the brake pedal is pressed in an electro-hydraulic system, the control unit uses information from a number of sensors to determine how much braking force each wheel needs. The system can then apply the necessary amount of hydraulic pressure to each calliper.
Advantages of Electromechanical Brake System
As excerpted from BrakeByWire.com
“Its main benefit is that it is able to react more quickly, resulting in shorter stopping distances and increased safety. At the moment there is an intermediary system available, brake assist, that offers this increased speed on conventional, hydraulic brakes.
Since there are no mechanical parts, brake by wire systems are also totally silent, and do not have the vibration felt through the brake pedal and normally associated with antilock brakes.
Yet another reason for its increased appeal among automotive manufacturers is that it takes up much less physical space, which is an important factor considering how tight engine compartments have become.
Also, since there is no corrosive brake fluid involved, brake by wire systems are considered less damaging to the environment.
Finally, brake by wire, as all x-by-wire systems, through there lower weight and need for electrical power instead of mechanical power, facilitate the introduction of hybrid and fuel cell powered vehicles.”
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