Electronics & Connectivity - March 1, 2012 - 9

Mico’s on-, off-highway brake system features ABS and traction control
Mico says its Full-Power Brake System with ABS and traction control provides added control for multi-wheeled vehicles operated both on- and offhighway. The system enhances vehicle stability while decreasing stopping distances and improving acceleration under low traction conditions. As many as eight wheels can be controlled independently of the others, which makes the system easily adaptable to four-, six-, and eight-wheeled vehicles. The electronic control unit (ECU) monitors wheel speed and brake line pressures with sensors added to the machine. When wheel lock-up or wheel slip conditions exist, the electronic control unit’s embedded software algorithms determine the current needed at the electrohydraulic control valves to improve the operator’s control of the vehicle. System status outputs are provided to light ABS and low traction lamps for operator warning and to meet on-highway regulations. In addition to controlling outputs, the embedded program in the ECU allows it to communicate via CAN (controller area network) with a laptop computer running Microsoft Windows 2000 or XP. Communication between the ECU and the laptop requires a USB-to-CAN dongle and Diagnostic Interface Software on the laptop. The Diagnostic Interface has various user levels that are password protected to allow access to viewing diagnostic information and modifying system parameters. Mico works with manufacturers to custom design products to meet their specific needs. In addition to providing a Full-Power Brake System with ABS and traction control tailored to particular vehicle requirements, the company also can customize system options. A skid-steer option can be incorporated to shorten the turning distance on long, multi-wheeled vehicles by electronically applying brake pressure to the inside wheels. Downhill
SAE electronics+connectivity

Mico says its Full-Power Brake System with ABS and traction control enhances vehicle stability while decreasing stopping distances and improving acceleration under low-traction conditions.

speed control can be incorporated, which, when activated, would prevent the vehicle from overspeeding on a decline by applying the brakes to maintain desired speed. The system is available in whole or in part, based on a customer’s needs. ABS and traction control can be added to a vehicle that already has a fullpower brake system installed. Furthermore, the brake system can be implemented with either ABS or traction control—or both—based on the operator’s needs.

Jean L. Broge

March 1, 2012

Electronics & Connectivity - March 1, 2012

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