Independent Evaluation of Electronically Controlled Braking Systems

摘要

Under the Intelligent Vehicle Initiative (IVI), this study was funded to increase the understanding of the performance benefits of leading-edge foundation brake technologies and advanced brake control systems for tractor-trailers. It has been documented in previous U.S. Department of Transportation studies that brake failures are the leading cause of failed roadside inspections. For a variety of reasons, brake systems in the North American commercial truck market have not adopted new technology as rapidly as the European market. The reliability, durability, and maintenance impacts of the new brake technologies have not been clearly documented. This study analyzes the impacts of brake technologies, as well as presents other technology that is enabled though the introduction of this new technology. North American commercial trucks rely predominantly on pneumatically controlled drum brakes. This study establishes four configurations to test the available brake technologies. The templates are anti-lock braking system (ABS) tractors with pneumatic drum brakes, ABS tractors with pneumatic disc brakes, advanced ABS tractors with pneumatic disc brakes, and electronically controlled brake system tractors with disc brakes. Three tractor configurations employed some form of stability control. In addition, tractors were equipped with adaptive cruise control (ACC). The study focuses on documenting the operating characteristics over a period of one year. The study profiles brake technologies and gathers performance measures. The study also analyzes driver behavioral changes. Maintenance data for all brake technologies was gathered over a period of 16 months. The study discusses cost, reliability, and durability of each system, as well as compatibility of each technology with each other. In addition, driver and mechanic responses to survey questions are shown. ACC and stability control, both of which are enabled through the use of advanced control technologies, are evaluated. Driver reaction as well as safety benefits of ACC are also calculated. This study will be helpful to fleet owners considering adoption of advanced brake technologies and interested in learning the possible cost, safety, maintenance, and training implications.