Definitions for "ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM"
Keywords:  skid, brake, steering, wheel, traction
A computer-controlled high pressure system that assists the vehicle's normal braking system. ABS allows all wheels to slow at the same rate, thereby preventing loss of control.
An important safety advance in braking, this system uses a computer to monitor the speed of the wheels. If one or a pair slow down more than the others (which indicates skidding) it releases hydraulic pressure to the brake at that wheel or wheels, then reapplies it, typically 15 times per second.
A device which senses that one or more of the wheels are locking up during braking. It is controlled by both mechanical and electronic components. When you apply the brakes, the ABS will regulate the flow of brake fluid being delivered to the brake calipers. It must be remembered that a wheel cannot be steered unless it is rolling; so if the wheel is locked up, there is no steering control. By the use of electronic computers, the brakes rapidly alternate (at a rate of 30 times per second) from full pressure to full release. This process will also alternate from the left-front wheel and the right-rear wheel and switch to the right-front wheel and left-rear wheel. In this way both maximum braking and maximum steering control is allowed during braking.