Automatic brake functions

Abstract

The possibilities of today’s electronic brake systems go far beyond the tasks for which they were originally designed. Originally the antilock braking system (ABS) was only used to prevent the wheels of a vehicle from locking up and therefore to ensure the steerability of the vehicle even during emergency braking. Today, the brake system also controls the distribution of the brakingforce. The electronic stability program (ESP), with its ability to build up brake pressure independently of the position of the brake pedal, offers a whole series of possibilities for active brake intervention. The ESP is intended to assist the driver by applying the brakes automatically and to therefore provide the driver with a higher level of comfort and convenience. Some functions, however, enhance the vehicle safety since automatic brake application during an emergency results in shorter braking distances.