What is Brake-by-Wire (BBW) and why Sensify is the new frontier
In recent years, the automotive world has been undergoing a radical transformation, driven by electrification and autonomous driving. In this context, Sensify was born, the technology developed by Brembo that takes the concept of braking to a completely new level thanks to the Brake-by-Wire system.
The Brake-by-Wire (BBW) technology represents the generational leap in automotive braking systems. Unlike traditional brakes, which rely on a purely hydraulic or mechanical connection between the pedal and the caliper, BBW uses sensors and electronic actuators.
When the driver presses the brake pedal, the system does not send direct hydraulic pressure. Instead, a "pedal feel simulator", consisting of various sensors, records the driver's intention. This information is sent to an electronic control unit (ECU – Electronic Control Unit) that instantly calculates the optimal braking force for each wheel, then managing the electric or electro-hydraulic actuators that apply the actual braking.
The heart of Sensify is precisely this control unit, which interprets the driver's intention in real time and calculates the ideal braking force for each wheel. It is not just about "braking," but doing so in a predictive way, leveraging algorithms and data from the vehicle and the surrounding environment. Each wheel is controlled independently, ensuring superior stability even in the most critical situations, such as emergency braking in a curve.
Brembo Sensify is the most advanced example of this evolution, transforming the simple BBW into an intelligent and predictive braking system.
Detailed operation of Sensify: from intention to action
Detailed operation of Sensify: from intention to action
The operation of Sensify is based on three key technological pillars: Software Intelligence, Independent Control, and Redundancy Management.
The Role of Software Intelligence
At the heart of Sensify is a powerful control software that collects and integrates data from:
- Pedal Sensor: Detects the driver's intent (how much and how quickly they are pressing).
- Environmental Sensors: Receives input from ADAS systems (such as Radar and Cameras) regarding the distance from obstacles (crucial for AEB and ACC).
- Vehicle Sensors: Analyzes speed, steering angle, load, and grip of each wheel.
The ECU processes this data and calculates in real-time the optimal distribution of braking force on each individual wheel. This ensures that the stopping distance is always as short as possible, while maintaining maximum stability and comfort.
Electronic Actuation and Independent Control
Sensify leverages EMB (Electro-Mechanical Brake) actuation systems.
• Key Difference: Unlike traditional ABS/ESP systems that modulate hydraulic pressure discretely, Sensify can adjust the pressure on each caliper individually. This means the braking force on the front right wheel can be completely different from that on the rear left, offering stability and traction control previously unimaginable.
• Blended Braking: For electric vehicles (EVs), Sensify ensures a seamless transition between regenerative braking (which recharges the battery) and dissipative braking. The ECU maximizes energy recovery by using mechanical brakes only to achieve the desired deceleration, thereby optimizing efficiency.
One of the most innovative aspects is the ability to customize the pedal's feel.
One of the most innovative aspects is the ability to customize the pedal's feel.
Thanks to electronic feedback, the driver can choose a sportier or more comfortable response, adapting the braking to their driving style. Additionally, the absence of fluid reduces maintenance and, by eliminating the "drag" phenomenon between pads and discs, helps decrease particulate emissions.
Sensify is designed to integrate seamlessly with electric vehicles and driver assistance systems. Regenerative braking, for instance, works in synergy with Brake-by-Wire to optimize energy recovery. And that's not all: the software is updatable over-the-air, meaning the system can evolve over time, adding new features without physical interventions on the car.
In summary, Sensify is not just a braking system but a digital platform that redefines the concept of safety and performance. With this technology, Brembo paves the way for smarter, more sustainable, and personalized mobility, where braking becomes part of a connected and predictive ecosystem.