An anti-lock braking system (ABS) is a automobile safety system that lets the motor vehicle wheels continue interacting with the road surface as directed by steering inputs given by driver, and while braking, preventing the wheels from locking up. In other words, it is a technology designed to help the driver to maintain some steering ability and avoid skidding or slipping while braking.
The anti-lock braking system was introduced in the mid 1980’s and has become standard equipment on the majority of the four wheeler vehicles such as cars, trucks and multipurpose vehicles. This helps maintain directional stability and helps you steer while maximizing braking.
The primary function of the ABS is to prevent the wheels getting locked up. This is possible by modulating automatically brake pressure in the event of an emergency. Preventing the wheels from locking helps you maintain control over steering and to stop the vehicle in the shortest possible distances under most conditions.
In emergency situations, you can sense the pulsation in the brake pedal during ABS operation and is indicated by a fall and rise height of brake pedal and a clicking sound. ABS system consists of some following components:
- Speed sensors.
- Brake calipers.
- A hydraulic motor.
- Anti-lock brake control module.
- Hydraulic control module.
Sensors calculates the speed of the vehicle and the difference of the rotational speeds of the braked wheels and this information is converted into electrical signals. If a wheel gets locked up, the hydraulic valves reduce the effect of brake on that wheel. This prevents skidding and allows you to maintain steering control.