Bremskraftunterstützung

Bremskraftunterstützung, often translated as brake assist or brake booster, is a system in vehicles designed to automatically increase the braking force when a driver applies the brakes suddenly. Its primary purpose is to shorten braking distances, particularly in emergency situations.

The system typically works by detecting the speed and force with which the brake pedal is pressed. If the system interprets the pedal application as an emergency maneuver, it engages a mechanism to amplify the driver's braking effort. This amplification can be achieved through various technologies, most commonly using hydraulic pressure or an electric motor.

In hydraulic systems, vacuum-assisted boosters are prevalent. These use engine vacuum to multiply the force applied to the brake master cylinder. Electronic brake assist systems, on the other hand, utilize sensors and actuators to detect rapid pedal application and then electronically command the braking system to apply maximum pressure.

Bremskraftunterstützung is a safety feature designed to supplement the driver's action, not replace it. It assumes that if a driver presses the brake pedal very hard and very quickly, they are likely facing a dangerous situation and require maximum braking power to avoid a collision. It is a standard component in most modern vehicles, contributing significantly to overall road safety by helping to mitigate the severity of accidents.