Brake System Component Characterization for System Response Performance: A System Level Test Method and Associated Theoretical Correlation

The dynamic response time of a hydraulic brake system often comes into consideration when making decisions on system optimization or trade-offs in performance. A study of the relative importance of response time can be found in reference [1]. For the brake system engineer, it is desirable to know the impact that each of the system components contributes under varying conditions. To better describe and predict the fluid dynamics inside an automotive brake system, a model is set up to predict the pressure differential of the brake fluid through each brake component. A proposed method of testing in vehicle was used to quantify individual flow restrictions. The test results were compared to actual data for correlation. Knowing the individual flow characteristics of a brake systems components provides valuable information to the brake system engineer for the purpose of optimizing response time performance.