TRW Automotive Launches Next Generation Electric Parking Brake on Audi A6

LIVONIA, Mich., April 15 -- TRW Automotive has launched its next generation Electric Parking Brake (EPB) system on the new Audi A6. The system, an important step in the evolution towards fully electrical braking systems, handles emergency stop and conventional parking brake applications.

TRW Automotive has contracts for its EPB systems with a number of major vehicle manufacturers; previous launches include those on the Audi A8 and Lancia Thesis.

The A6 EPB system represents a further evolution for this technology. For the first time an actuator without a hall sensor -- the sensor that monitors motor revolutions -- is in serial production.

The A6 system also offers enhanced features such as drive away assist for hill starts without roll back and emergency braking via the vehicle stability control system.

Josef Pickenhahn, vice president braking engineering, TRW Automotive said: "The EPB system is part of TRW Automotive's ongoing commitment to enhance overall brake system performance and driver comfort and convenience. The system functions as a conventional hydraulic brake for standard service brake applications and as an electric brake for parking.

"Its electronic cable and control switches simplify routing and allow for greater freedom of design for vehicle interiors. Its smaller package becomes even more attractive as vehicle manufacturers continue to requisition vehicle space for new standard features and options."

The System

The EPB system is composed of two electro-mechanical actuators integrated into the rear disc brake calipers and a controller with redundant connections to the power supply. The system interfaces with the vehicle's Controller Area Network (CAN) for continuous monitoring and feedback.

The EPB system's communication interface with vehicle computer systems means that a number of design features can be added or deleted as specified for the application. As well as drive-away assist and emergency braking, the A6 system offers the following features:

  *  Manual release - only when the brake pedal is pressed
  *  Interface between the EPB switch and accelerator pedal
  *  Rear disc temperature model (for re-clamp in case of hot brakes)
  *  Automatic parking for vehicles with continuously variable transmissions

Although the idea of electrically actuating the parking brake cable is not new, TRW Automotive takes the technology a step further -- integrating the motors and actuators into brake calipers and bringing closer than ever the ability to replace the mechanical systems of today.

About TRW

With 2003 sales of $11.3 billion, TRW Automotive ranks among the world's top 10 automotive suppliers. Headquartered in Livonia, Michigan, USA, the Company, through its subsidiaries, employs approximately 61,000 people in 22 countries. Its products include integrated vehicle control and driver assist systems, braking systems, steering systems, suspension systems, occupant safety systems (seat belts and airbags), electronics, engine components, fastening systems and aftermarket replacement parts and services. TRW Automotive news is available on the Internet at www.trwauto.com .