Sensotronic Brake Control

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Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC) is an electro-hydraulic brake system developed by Daimler and Bosch. In this system, the wheel brake cylinders of a vehicle are operated through a servomechanism, offering precise and responsive braking.

Contents

The SBC system was first introduced on the R230 SL-class, which was released in Europe in October 2001. [1]

Mechanics

The Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC) system operates using a hydraulic high-pressure reservoir to supply brake fluid. A piston pump, driven by an electric motor, generates controlled brake fluid pressure ranging between 140 bars (2,000 psi) and 160 bars (2,300 psi) in the gas diaphragm reservoir. [2]

When the brakes are engaged, the SBC control unit calculates the necessary brake pressure for each wheel individually. This is achieved using four independent pressure modulators, each consisting of an inlet and an outlet valve controlled electronically.

The system includes a travel sensor and a pressure sensor at the brake pedal to measure the speed and force of the pedal application. The control unit processes these inputs and sends appropriate control signals to the wheel pressure modulators. Typically, the master brake cylinder is disconnected from the brake circuit, with a pedal travel simulator providing normal pedal feedback. In situations where the Electronic Stability Program (ESP) is activated, the high-pressure reservoir quickly delivers the required brake pressure to specific wheels with precision.

Advantages and disadvantages

The Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC) system allows for precise control of brake pressure at each wheel, enabling the use of stability control methods such as Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Stability Program (ESP). On some vehicles, the system incorporates features designed to enhance driver convenience, including:

In the event of a computer malfunction, SBC defaults to a conventional hydraulic master cylinder, which may require increased driver effort and result in longer stopping distances. [3] Additionally, if the pump fails, the high-pressure reservoir retains sufficient pressure to allow for electronic braking.

Industry recognition

In 2001, the μ-Club, an international association of brake technology experts, recognized Robert Bosch and Daimler Chrysler for their development of the electrohydraulic brake system, SBC.

Problems

In May 2004, Mercedes-Benz issued a recall for 680,000 vehicles equipped with the Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC) system, followed by a further recall of 1.3 million vehicles in March 2005. By 2006, high-volume models like the E-Class were transitioned back to conventional hydraulic braking systems, while low-volume luxury models such as the SL, Maybach, and SLR continued to use SBC due to the high cost of redesigning the brake system. [3]

In August 2018, Mercedes-Benz extended the warranty on SBC components out to 25 years from the warranty's original start date with no mileage limit. The warranty covers the following parts:

Sensotronic Brake Control applications

Other production electro-hydraulic brake systems

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References

  1. "Mercedes' luxury transformer". NZ Herald. 2001-08-11. Retrieved 2009-07-31.
  2. "Sensotronic Brake Control: System Information". Bayhas.com. Retrieved 2017-03-25.
  3. 1 2 "Mercedes cancels by-wire brake system; decision a blow to technology's future: AutoWeek Magazine". Autoweek.com. 2005-12-15. Retrieved 2018-07-01.