A braking efficiency test technique

A braking efficiency test technique provides a method whereby vehicle stopping performance can be specified, measured, and compared independently of the test surface. The method provides for an independent measure of the prevailing friction potential of the test surface. This measure is used to normalize the measured stopping performance of the test vehicle. The concept presented is tailored toward a safety argument and toward rulemaking as a potential adaptation to braking effectiveness requirements which currently exist. A new mobile tire dynamometer, developed for this program, is discussed, as are the results of a demonstration test program carried out at the Bendix Automotive Development Center.