The Variable Ratio Master Cylinder-A Description of Its Function and Operation

The concept of an improvement in work utilization by modification of the hydraulic brake master cylinder currently employed in production automotive vehicles is presented. The improvement, which is in the form of a variable ratio master cylinder having the advantage, among others, of reducing intermediate and final brake pedal efforts without the need for an external assist, is explained.

The function, description, operation, vehicle need, history, methods of evaluation, and advantages and disadvantages of the variable ratio master cylinder are discussed.