Abstract: A brake control method and apparatus capable of locating fluid carrying lines away from a vehicle dash and providing threshold pressure detection is provided. The apparatus includes an electric switch assembly which can have portions that are mounted in the vehicle cab. A pressure switch subassembly and a control subsystem electrically communicate with the electric switch assembly. The electric switch assembly provides electrical current to a solenoid in the control subsystem, opening a pneumatic valve and providing air pressure to other components of the control subsystem and a brake release actuator. If electrical current is removed from the solenoid in the control subsystem, the pneumatic valve is closed, removing air pressure from other components of the control subsystem and the brake release actuator. If less than a threshold pressure is detected at the pressure switch subassembly, the electric switch assembly does not provide electrical current to the control subsystem.

Abstract: A brake control method and apparatus capable of locating fluid carrying lines away from a vehicle dash and providing threshold pressure detection is provided. The apparatus includes an electric switch assembly which can have portions that are mounted in the vehicle cab. A pressure switch subassembly and a control subsystem electrically communicate with the electric switch assembly. The electric switch assembly provides electrical current to a solenoid in the control subsystem, opening a pneumatic valve and providing air pressure to other components of the control subsystem and a brake release actuator. If electrical current is removed from the solenoid in the control subsystem, the pneumatic valve is closed, removing air pressure from other components of the control subsystem and the brake release actuator. If less than a threshold pressure is detected at the pressure switch subassembly, the electric switch assembly does not provide electrical current to the control subsystem.