Introduction to Brake Control Systems: ABS, TCS, and ESC C0315

Once reserved for high-end luxury vehicles, electronic brake control systems are now required standard equipment on even the most inexpensive cars and trucks. Today, every new vehicle benefits from the optimized braking, enhanced acceleration, and improved stability that these systems provide. This comprehensive seminar introduces participants to the system-level design considerations, vehicle interface requirements, and inevitable performance compromises that must be addressed when implementing these technologies.

The seminar begins by defining the tire-road interface and analyzing fundamental vehicle dynamics. Following an in-depth study of system electronics, hydraulic hardware, and sensor requirements, the participants learn about the control strategies employed by anti-lock brakes (ABS), dynamic rear proportioning (DRP), traction control (TCS), and electronic stability control (ESC) with a heavy emphasis placed on the resulting vehicle dynamics. The seminar concludes with a study of unique applications, a look forward to advanced brake control system integration, and an overview of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 126. Over 500 pages of detailed course notes and illustrations are provided for on-the-job reference.

This course has been approved by the Accreditation Commission for Traffic Accident Reconstruction (ACTAR) for 13 Continuing Education Units (CEUs). Upon completion of this seminar, accredited reconstructionists should mail a copy of their course certificate and the $5 student CEU fee to ACTAR, PO Box 1493, North Platte, NE 69103.

Learning Objectives

By attending this seminar, you will be able to:

• Analyze brake system design parameters and their vehicle performance effects
• Evaluate the compromises between stability, steerability, and stopping distance
• Identify the discrete mechanical components required for ABS
• Specify fundamental ABS performance attributes
• Calculate dynamic brake balance and explain the benefits of DRP
• Reconcile TCS performance expectations vs. method of implementation
• Define ESC perfornance metrics and physical limitations
• Assess features such as adaptive cruise control and brake assist
• Interpret federal requirements for the performance of ESC

Who Should Attend

This course has been developed for engineers involved in all fields related to the design or development of vehicle dynamics, vehicle braking systems, powertrain systems, chassis systems, or suspension systems. In addition, this course can be valuable to those with component design responsibilities in brake, chassis, suspension, or tire disciplines.

Individuals new to the field of brake control systems will benefit most from the material; this introductory course is not intended for individuals with significant experience with brake control systems. In addition, please note that because of proprietary considerations this class does not provide details of algorithm design, algorithm performance, or algorithm application. Instead, the course places strong emphasis on vehicle dynamic responses.

Prerequisites

An undergraduate engineering degree or a strong technical background is highly recommended. A basic knowledge of college algebra, college physics, and a familiarity with vehicle brake and suspension systems is required.

Also available as an SAE On Demand Course!
Introduction to Brake Control Systems: ABS, TCS, and ESC (PD730501)

Testimonials

“My colleagues and I are extremely satisfied with this seminar. It has opened our eyes to an entirely new aspect of braking systems! I truly feel more interested in braking systems, and the instructor lectures provided such a good perspective on the technical aspects of design. Life after the course produced motivation and encouragement to research more heavily in critical areas of study per our future dilemmas. Thank you!!”
William J. Burns
Product Engineer
Cardone Industries, Brakes Division Product Engineering

 

"Forget any general idea you may have about brakes; this class introduces the complexity of the brake control systems and the engineering design that goes into it."
Tim Lowe
Quality Engineering Powertrain
Toyota Motor Manufacturing of Kentucky

 

"Very good introduction to brake control systems. Our class had many different levels of knowledge coming into the class. I believe everyone was able to come away with new knowledge and understanding."
Kevin Adams
Staff Engineer
Honda of America Mfg., Inc.

 

"This class was extremely enjoyable and really opened my eyes to the complexity and importance of brake control systems. I had no idea how influenced they were to so many systems, and I feel it will definitely make me a better engineer"
Eddie Mehl
Engineering Staff
Honda of America Mfg, Inc.

 

You must complete all course contact hours and successfully pass the learning assessment to obtain CEUs.