1. Control System: This is how the driver initiates braking.
* Brake Pedal (or Lever): The primary control input for the driver.
* Master Cylinder: A hydraulic device that converts the force applied to the pedal into hydraulic pressure. This is the heart of the hydraulic braking system.
* Brake Booster (or Vacuum Servo): Assists the driver by multiplying the force applied to the brake pedal, making braking easier. Commonly used in cars.
2. Hydraulic System (for most vehicles): This transmits the pressure from the master cylinder to the brakes.
* Brake Lines (or Hoses): Carry the hydraulic fluid under pressure from the master cylinder to the calipers or wheel cylinders.
* Hydraulic Fluid: The incompressible liquid that transmits pressure throughout the system.
3. Mechanical Actuation System: This is what actually slows the wheels.
* Calipers (Disc Brakes): Clamp brake pads onto a rotating disc to create friction and slow the wheel.
* Wheel Cylinders (Drum Brakes): Push brake shoes outward against a rotating drum to create friction.
* Brake Pads (or Shoes): The friction material that contacts the disc or drum, slowing the wheel.
* Brake Rotors (Discs): The spinning metal disc that the brake pads clamp onto.
* Brake Drums: The cylindrical metal housing within which the brake shoes operate.
4. Supporting Components: These components ensure safety and functionality.
* Parking Brake (or Emergency Brake): A separate braking system, often mechanically operated, used to hold the vehicle stationary. Its design varies significantly.
* Brake Calipers (Disc Brakes) or Wheel Cylinders (Drum Brakes): These house the brake pads or shoes and apply the braking force.
* Sensors (ABS, ESP, etc.): Modern vehicles often have electronic sensors monitoring wheel speed and other parameters to help maintain control during braking. This leads to systems like Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Stability Program (ESP).
* Master Cylinder Reservoir: Contains the hydraulic fluid.
This is a general overview. Specific components and their arrangement will vary depending on the vehicle and its braking system design.
