This article discusses some actual and potential developments of `intelligent' braking systems for road vehicles. Almost every brake manufacturer is working on going beyond the limitations of anti-lock systems by having automatically controlled independent braking on each wheel. The first such system in production is the Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) of Bosch and Mercedes-Benz. The Lucas Electronic Actuation System (EAS) detects the rate of brake pressure increase and signals an electronic control unit. It can thus recognise an emergency when a driver brakes sharply, but also restores full braking automatically if the driver then eases braking pressure enough to stop anti-lock cycling; accident studies show that drivers often behave in this way. The next large step in car brake development is `brake-by-wire', which basically replaces the throttle cable or governor control cable by an accelerator pedal movement sensor, an electric cable, a transducer on the intake manifold, and an engine management system. Many cars now use such a system. The second generation proposal, genuine brake-by-wire using no hydraulics, is much more interesting, and will require sophisticated electronics and software. It will lead to better control and fuel economy, and less friction and noise.
Samenvatting