The 2024 Australian Trucking Association’s Technology and Maintenance Conference in Melbourne showcased cutting-edge advancements in brake safety technology for heavy vehicles and trailers. Day one of the event featured a detailed presentation on the latest brake systems, highlighting innovations designed to enhance the stability and safety of Australia’s largest road users. The focus was primarily on electronic stability programs (ESP), advanced braking systems, and diagnostic tools that improve safety, efficiency, and compliance in heavy vehicle operations.
Electronic Stability Programs (ESP) – Now Mandated
The event covered the evolution and effectiveness of electronic stability programs (ESP), which have been mandated in Australia for heavy vehicles since January 2022. These systems are essential for reducing the risks of rollover and maintaining directional control. ESP integrates sensors that monitor acceleration and steering to detect when a vehicle is approaching instability. It adjusts braking across wheel ends to either correct understeering or oversteering, ensuring the vehicle remains on its intended path.
Understeering occurs when the front wheels lose traction, preventing the vehicle from turning as intended, while oversteering happens when the rear wheels lose traction, causing the vehicle to swing out. The ESP intervenes by applying brakes selectively—front wheels during understeering and rear wheels during oversteering—creating a counter-yaw effect that stabilises the vehicle. The effectiveness of ESP in preventing critical incidents, such as jack-knifing, was illustrated using video demonstrations from testing at the DECA test site in Shepparton, which is also used for ESP calibration.
Advancements in Trailer Braking: Roll Stability and EBS
Another significant focus was the integration of roll stability protection (RSP) into trailers, a mandate that came into effect in 2019. This mandate necessitated the adoption of trailer electronic braking systems (EBS), referred to as Trailer EBS. The system ensures more precise braking control, especially in situations where trailers are prone to instability.
Trailer EBS also brings additional benefits like improved brake timing and compatibility with various trailer features, such as automatic suspension adjustments, load scales, and tip angle sensors. These systems ensure consistent and optimal brake pressure across multiple trailers in combination, which is crucial for the long road trains commonly used in Australia.
Electronic Brake Signals (EBS) and Trailer Road Train Modules (TRM)
A highlight of the session was the discussion on electronic brake signals (EBS), which offer a more responsive and consistent braking performance compared to traditional pneumatic systems. This technology has been adopted widely in Europe and is now making its way into the Australian heavy vehicle sector. EBS delivers faster brake response, smoother deceleration, and increased safety by minimising brake lag, a crucial factor when dealing with long combinations of trailers.
The trailer road train module (TRM) is another innovation aimed at improving braking performance in multi-trailer setups. TRM ensures that electronic signals are correctly distributed between trailers, making braking more efficient and uniform across the entire combination. It is effective for up to seven trailers in road train operations, helping to eliminate common issues like compounded brake pressure, which can cause uneven braking and increase the risk of accidents.
Next-Generation Camera and Pedestrian Detection Systems
North American trucks are pioneering advanced camera and sensor fusion systems that enhance object detection, including vulnerable road users like cyclists and pedestrians. These camera systems offer clearer imaging and a wider field of view, significantly improving the performance of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).
Incorporating global scalable brake control (GSBC), these systems replace conventional pneumatic brake signals with electronic signals, further boosting braking efficiency. As these technologies become more widespread, we can expect smoother, safer, and more precise braking capabilities in heavy vehicles.
Automated Driving Features and Diagnostic Tools
Automated driving features, including lane-keeping systems, adaptive cruise control, and platooning capabilities, are becoming more common in heavy vehicles. These features enhance vehicle control and safety, especially during long-haul journeys.
On the diagnostic front, the conference introduced the latest tools for maintaining heavy vehicle brake systems. The new diagnostics software, known as EconX, is designed to make brake system troubleshooting more straightforward. It offers a user-friendly interface that categorises system components and provides step-by-step guidance for identifying and addressing faults. The software can perform both manual and automated diagnostic checks, displaying live data such as brake chamber pressures, airbag pressures, and suspension levels.
For trailer diagnostics, the updated trailer diagnostics tool offers a clear view of EBS configurations, fault codes, and live data. It is an accessible tool for workshops aiming to maintain trailer EBS systems effectively, ensuring they are well-calibrated and compliant.
Training and Support for Industry Professionals
The presentation also emphasised the importance of ongoing training for workshop staff and fleet managers. Knorr-Bremse reminded attendee of the online training sessions that cover the fundamentals of braking systems, diagnostics, and advanced safety features. The sessions, which run for two and a half hours, are designed to equip participants with the knowledge to troubleshoot and maintain braking systems effectively.
As braking systems become more complex with the integration of electronic components, the importance of staying updated on diagnostic techniques and system operation cannot be overstated. The online workshops will be offered bi-monthly, covering both truck and trailer systems.
The 2024 Australian Trucking Association’s Technology and Maintenance Conference (TMC) provided valuable insights into the latest brake safety technologies for heavy vehicles and trailers. The advancements discussed, from mandated ESP and trailer EBS to innovative diagnostic tools, represent a significant leap forward in road safety. These technologies are essential for preventing accidents, improving vehicle stability, and ensuring the safety of all road users. As the industry continues to adopt electronic braking systems and automated driving features, training and support will play a vital role in their successful implementation.
