Abstract: This invention relates to an electromechanical brake system, in particular for automotive vehicles, which includes a pedal module and at least two brake modules. Further, a central module may be provided. Connection between the aforementioned modules can be made by a data bus. The data bus is provided redundantly. In one embodiment, the central module can evaluate signals of a sensor system and examine them for their errors. Further, the central module can emit a corresponding nominal braking value which then is emitted to the brake modules. Thereupon, the brake modules determine appropriate actuating signals for the actuators which interact with the wheels in order to realize the driver's braking intention.

Abstract: Electronic brake systems are functionally split-up safety-critical real-time systems which are subject to high standards with regard to error detection and error handling. This invention describes a method and corresponding device for error handling in such systems which permits only a few defined system conditions, inclusive of a pre-check, with the transition from one system condition to the next condition only being possible if certain defined events take place.

Abstract: An electromechanical brake system, particularly for motor vehicles, with a pedal simulator and brake modules is disclosed. A central module is also provided. The connection between the aforesaid modules can be provided by a data bus. The central module evaluates the braking request signals from a sensor device and checks them for errors. Also, a central module supplies and appropriate desired braking value based on the braking request and possibly higher functions such as ABS or ASR. The desired braking value is then conveyed on to the brake module, which then determines the corresponding control signals for the actuators, which interact with the wheels in order to brake the vehicle as the driver requires.

Abstract: There is the problem of adjusting a clearance in electromechanically or electromotively operated brakes because automatic resetting means, which are provided for hydraulic brakes, cannot be used in brakes of the above type. Initially, it is necessary to determine a neutral position of the motor which is defined by the friction elements just abutting the brake disc in this position. This situation is determined by a detection device which exhibits the following operation in one preferred embodiment. The motor is driven from an unknown position by a constant motor torque so that the friction linings are moved towards the brake disc. The motor will speed up because the resistances remain constant in the starting stroke. An abrupt deceleration of the motor will be caused when the friction linings are applied to the brake disc. The zero passage of the angular acceleration can be sensed and interpreted as an application of the friction linings on the brake disc.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for actuating a parking brake which is electromechanically operable by an actuator by way of a force-transmitting element, the actuator being composed of an electric motor and a self-locking gear which is interposed between the electric motor and the force-transmitting element, and it also relates to a system for actuating an electromechanically operable parking brake. To permit an adjustment of necessary actuating force nominal values, according to the present invention, the current to be supplied to the actuator and the actuator position are evaluated to determine a voltage that is to be applied to the actuator corresponding to the desired actuating force and the actuating force gradient.

Abstract: A personal storage device for receipt, storage, and transfer of digital information to other electronic devices has a pocket sized crush resistant casing with a volume of less than about ten cubic centimeters. A processor is positioned within the casing cavity and attached to the crush resistant casing, while a memory module also positioned within the casing cavity is configured to store received executable applications and data. An infrared transceiver is mounted on the crush resistant casing and in electronic communication with the processor and memory module to provide for receipt and storage of executable applications, and receipt, storage, and transfer of digital information to other electronic devices. The digital information stored by the personal storage device can be intermittently synchronized with other electronic devices.