Electro-Mechanical Friction Disc, Ring and Drum Brakes

Abstract

In an E-M BBW AWB conversion mechatronic control system, electronic control units (ECU) and electrical wiring replace fluidical lines and equipment and E-M actuators replace fluidic pistons. When the driver steps on the brake foot pedal, a computer sends information to a control box, which converts the electrical signals into an electrical command: the E-M actuators on the brake disc, ring or drum, replacing the fluidic pistons, press the discs against each other as in a conventional F-M BBW AWB conversion mechatronic control system. An ‘EMB’ automotive vehicle simply means one that uses electricity to replace all other forms of onboard energy, especially fluidical. This offers a host of advantages in terms of size, mass, reliability, safety (by eliminating the risk of oily-fluid or air leaks and associated fire hazards), and operating/ maintenance costs (Fig. 3.55).