Design of ultrasonic brake pad wear detection system for cars

Abstract

Road accidents in Ghana are re-occurring phenomenon. According to the National Road Safety Authority, most accidents can be attributed to brake pad failure or worn-out brake pad. Vehicle safety can be sought through the use of proximity sensors to alert the drivers/owners before the occurrence of any failure due to worn-out brake pad. Hence brake pad wear detection sensor serves as an effective way to enhance vehicle safety in order to reduce rear end-collision accidents. In this study, ultrasonic brake pad wear detection sensor with alert signals was designed to give precautionary measure as a means to reduce road accidents. This study involved the development of software in C language and incorporated into Arduino pro mini (ATmega328p) and microcontroller for sensing and comparing wear status to preloaded value of 1.6mm for hydraulic brake for prediction. The control aspect of the system (sensor) was developed by using proteus virtual system modeling (VSM). The designed circuitry was fabricated and tested in simulated environment. The test results indicated that, during normal operating condition, the led emits green colour signifying that, the brake pad is in good condition. Result also shows that, yellow led emitted signifying approaching danger zone and needed replacement. Furthermore, result predicts that red led indicate interruption of fuel supply line leading to jerking and shutting down of the engine for worn-out brake pad to be replaced. Therefore, it is recommended that every vehicle must be installed with ultrasonic brake pad wear detection system with alert to reduce road accidents caused by worn-out brake pad.