Knorr-Bremse at the IAA Autonomous driving and new disc brake

„The IAA will be characterized by the possibilities around autonomous driving and telematics“, says Dr. Peter Laier, Executive Board Member of Knorr-Bremse AG, responsible for the Commercial Vehicle Systems division. “After many years in which markets have been dominated by a focus on safety and fuel efficiency, new innovation drivers enter the sector. This is where our system’s competence puts us at an advantage – as can be seen from our turn-off assistant and, above all, a system that enables a truck to drive autonomously off-highway.” The message is clear: Knorr-Bremse will play an active part in preparing the ground for fully autonomous driving.

The truck drives independently to the ramp

Knorr-Bremse thus presents a fully automated driving truck, which independently approaches the ramp. According to Knorr-Bremse, the vehicle uses sensors for environment recognition. Thanks to an intelligent networking of brake, powertrain and steering control, the truck automatically stops in case of danger and approaches the ramp accurately. This avoids minor damages and saves time. Moreover, the system helps keep an eye on the driver’s driving times. While the truck is maneuvering, the driver is able to take his rest period or deal with other tasks. According to Knorr-Bremse, the driver can monitor “Autonomous Yard Maneuvering” via an app and does not have to return to the steering wheel before the truck leaves the premises.

A turn-off assistant for trucks by Knorr-Bremse also focuses on environment recognition. It is supposed to minimize accidents at inner-city crossings by monitoring the truck’s side through a combination of cameras and radar. In case of an emergency, the assistant warns the driver of a potential collision.

New hardware: brake control and new disc brake

In addition to functions concerning autonomous driving, Knorr-Bremse will also showcase new hardware in Hannover. The new brake control GSBC (Global Scalable Brake Control) is individually scalable depending on the customer’s specification. It provides an ideal basis for upcoming stages of driving assistance and autonomous driving. Furthermore, acceleration sensors and angular rate sensors are integrated. Thanks to the system’s architecture, GSBC requires much less components, which reduces space, weight and installation work. Depending on market and customer, the control software is scalable from a simple ABS function to complex EBS applications.

Another novelty at the tradeshow booth (hall 17, A30): Knorr-Bremse presents their new disc brake generation for heavy trucks. In the new generation, called Synact, the power to weight ratio has been optimized thanks to the design, the inner mechanics and a better mixture of materials. Compared to the current standard brake SN7, the available brake torque has been increased by 11 percent, and the weight simultaneously has been reduced by about 10 percent. If the customer uses the Synact brake in a 4x2 semi-trailer truck, the advantage of weight adds up to 16 kilograms. In addition to the advantage of weight, you also have improved operating costs. A new adjustment mechanism ensures that the clearance throughout the entire life remains in a narrow tolerance band to reduce the wear and the remaining grind factor. Furthermore, the Synact brake is prepared for the integration of new sensors and actuators which are necessary for the autonomous driving or condition-based maintenance.