Analysis of results obtained on vehicle technical inspection using fBRAKE in Spain and development of a new model for semi-trailers based on Regulation No. 13

Determination of braking efficiency in heavy vehicles is not a trivial issue. Following the entry into force of Directive 2010/48/EU, and with this ISO-21069, Spanish Periodic Technical Inspection sector has had to tackle difficulties. Developing procedures to inspect vehicles in fully laden condition, with methods of pressure measurement or with equivalent methods have been the main difficulties. This paper explains briefly methods proposed by ISO-21069 and methods used in Spain. Then, Spanish inspection results on heavy vehicles are statistically analysed, including the autonomous community in which fBRAKE is in use, in order to compare results against each other. This analysis takes into account percentage of braking deficiencies detected in periodic technical inspection on each autonomous community. Finally, a new model for fBRAKE alternative method is presented in this paper in order to obtain more accurate results during inspection using this method.