Method for detecting a leak in a brake system and corresponding brake system

DE102025106989A1Undetermined Publication Date: 2026-08-27DR ING H C F PORSCHE AG
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Patent Information

Application Number
DE102025106989
Authority / Receiving Office
DE · DE
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-02-25
Publication Date
2026-08-27

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Abstract

The invention relates to a method for detecting a leak in a brake system (10) of a vehicle (100) with at least two hydraulic brake circuits (20, 30), wherein a brake fluid is present in the brake system (10), the pressure of which can be used to actuate a brake (21, 31) of the brake system (10), comprising the steps of: - pressurizing the brake fluid, - detecting the pressure in each of the at least two brake circuits (20, 30) by means of a pressure sensor (22, 32), - creating a pressure profile for each brake circuit (20, 30) by recording the pressure profile over time during a defined test cycle, - calculating a pressure gradient for each brake circuit (20, 30) as a measure of the pressure change over time, - comparing the pressure gradients of the two brake circuits with each other to identify deviations in the pressure profiles, and - detecting a leak.when a threshold value for a predetermined difference between the pressure gradients of the brake circuits (20, 30) is exceeded.
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Description

The invention relates to a method for detecting a leak in a braking system and a corresponding braking system. Leaks in brake systems pose a significant safety risk, as they can reduce brake pressure in the brake circuits and thus impair the vehicle's braking performance. A properly functioning brake system relies on the reliable transmission of brake pressure via the brake fluid, which flows through a hydraulic system comprising brake lines, brake booster, master cylinder, and brakes. Even the smallest leaks can lead to a gradual loss of pressure, jeopardizing the efficiency and reliability of the braking system. Especially in modern vehicles with driver assistance systems such as electronic stability control (ESC), flawless brake pressure regulation is essential, as these systems depend on precise brake force distribution to ensure vehicle stability and safety. Detecting such leaks is therefore crucial for maintaining vehicle and occupant safety. The aim is to continuously check the brake system for leaks in order to identify even minor irregularities in the pressure curve and minimize the risk of a complete pressure loss. Early detection and reporting of leaks is thus an essential component of a safe brake system. The prior art, as disclosed in EP 2 412 594 A1, features a brake control system with two hydraulic circuits separated by a shut-off valve. This system is designed to maintain the braking function in the other circuit in the event of a failure in one circuit (e.g., due to a leak). The shut-off valve is a differential pressure valve that opens when the pressure difference between the two circuits exceeds a certain value. However, this design makes leak detection unreliable; in particular, small pressure losses cannot be detected. It is therefore an object of the present invention to overcome at least one of the disadvantages described above, at least partially. In particular, it is an object of the invention to detect leakage with improved accuracy, especially at an early stage. The aforementioned problem is solved by a method according to a first aspect of the present invention and by a braking system according to a second aspect of the present invention. Further features and details of the invention will become apparent from the dependent claims, the description, and the drawings. Features and details described in connection with the method according to the invention naturally also apply in connection with the braking system according to the invention, and vice versa, so that the disclosure relating to the individual aspects of the invention always includes, or allows for, reciprocal reference. According to a first aspect, the present invention relates to a method for detecting a leak in a vehicle's braking system with at least two hydraulic brake circuits, wherein a brake fluid is present in the braking system, the pressure of which can be used to actuate a brake of the braking system, comprising the steps of: - pressurizing the brake fluid, - detecting the pressure in each of the at least two brake circuits by means of a pressure sensor, - creating a pressure profile for each brake circuit by recording the pressure's temporal evolution during a defined test cycle, - calculating a pressure gradient for each brake circuit as a measure of the pressure's change over time, - comparing the pressure gradients of the two brake circuits with each other to identify deviations in the pressure profiles, and - detecting a leak when a threshold for a predetermined difference between the pressure gradients of the brake circuits is exceeded. The method for detecting a leak in a vehicle's braking system is based on monitoring and analyzing the pressure in at least two hydraulic brake circuits. Hydraulic braking systems use a brake fluid, the pressure increase of which within a closed system controls the function of the brakes. By building up pressure in the brake fluid, also known as pressurization, the movement of the brake pistons is generated, which ultimately presses the brake pads against the brake discs or drums, thus triggering the braking action. The method described here utilizes the properties of this pressure to detect potential leaks within the system that could impair the functionality and safety of the braking system. To detect a leak, the pressure in the brake fluid is first deliberately increased and measured in each brake circuit using a sensor, specifically a pressure sensor. Pressure sensors are sensitive measuring devices that continuously monitor the pressure in the respective brake circuits and transmit it to a control unit as digital data. The recorded pressure values ​​serve, for example, as the basis for creating a pressure profile that depicts the pressure changes in the brake circuits over time during a defined test cycle. The test cycle can comprise several phases that simulate the entire braking process and typical load scenarios. By measuring and recording the pressure changes, a detailed pressure profile over time is created for each brake circuit. Based on the pressure profiles, the pressure gradient is then calculated for each brake circuit. The pressure gradient describes the change in pressure over time, i.e., the rate at which the pressure value changes. This value is determined by calculating the difference in pressure values ​​between successive points in time and dividing it by the time difference. This results in a characteristic curve of the pressure rise or fall, which provides information about the dynamics of the pressure in the respective brake circuit. The pressure gradient is a reliable indicator because it reveals even the smallest changes in the pressure profile that could be caused by a leak. After determining the pressure gradients, these are compared for the two brake circuits. In a functioning brake system, the pressure gradients of both circuits should be largely similar, as both circuits operate synchronously and under similar conditions. A significant deviation between the pressure gradients of the two circuits, however, can indicate a leak. A threshold value is defined that specifies the maximum permissible difference between the pressure gradients. This threshold value serves as a limit. The level of the threshold can be adjusted to control the sensitivity of the system—a lower threshold allows for the detection of even the smallest leaks, while a higher threshold permits greater tolerances. An internal leak occurs when an unexpected pressure increase or decrease is detected in one of the brake circuits during a phase.For example, increasing pressure in a brake circuit, such as a rear axle brake circuit, indicates that a switching valve is not sealing completely and that brake fluid from another brake circuit is unintentionally flowing into this circuit via the valve. This can point to an internal leak in the valve, which can lead to malfunctions or uneven brake force distribution during normal vehicle operation. One advantage of this method lies in its ability to detect even small and slowly progressing leaks that manifest not as an immediate pressure drop, but as a gradual pressure loss. This is particularly beneficial for leaks in valves or seals, where the pressure loss only becomes significant over a longer period. The method allows for flexible design of the test cycle and threshold values, enabling the identification of even small leaks through continuous pressure monitoring and analysis of pressure gradients. A pressure increase in one brake circuit during this phase can indicate a valve leak, for example, at a switching valve. This targeted and detailed analysis of the pressure gradients in both brake circuits allows for early and precise leak detection. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the test cycle includes the phases of pressure build-up, a holding phase, and pressure release, recording a pressure profile for each brake circuit that reflects the pressure's progression over time during the test cycle. Such a further development of the leak detection method in a brake system involves implementing a test cycle consisting of the phases of pressure build-up, a holding phase, and pressure release. This structured process allows the individual phases of the braking process to be examined and analyzed in isolation in order to specifically identify deviations in the pressure curve that could indicate a leak. During the pressure build-up phase, the brake fluid is pressurized to a predetermined pressure, thereby generating a pressure increase in the brake circuits. In this phase, the pressure over time in each brake circuit is recorded and stored as part of the respective pressure profile. During the holding phase, the brake pressure is kept constant at a specific level to monitor the pressure behavior under stable conditions. In a hydraulically sound system, the pressure remains almost constant during this holding phase. By monitoring the pressure profiles in each brake circuit, a leak can be reliably detected. The invention specifically includes the detection of internal valve leakage within the brake system. An internal leak occurs when an unexpected pressure increase or decrease is detected in one of the brake circuits during the holding phase. For example, rising pressure in a brake circuit, particularly in a rear axle brake circuit, indicates that a switching valve is not sealing completely and brake fluid from another brake circuit is unintentionally flowing into this circuit via the valve. This can indicate an internal leak in the valve, which can lead to malfunctions or uneven brake force distribution during normal vehicle operation. During the pressure reduction phase, the brake pressure is reduced in a controlled manner to analyze the behavior of the brake circuits during the pressure drop. Here too, the pressure profiles over time for each brake circuit are recorded to identify deviations between the circuits. The pressure profile generated by the test cycle depicts the characteristic pressure curve over time for each of the at least two brake circuits. An internal evaluation is performed in a control unit based on these pressure profiles. The pressure curves of the brake circuits are compared to identify deviations. A leak is detected if the pressure gradients of the brake circuits differ in one of the test phases and, for example, exceed a predefined threshold. This advanced procedure provides a systematic and comprehensive analysis of the braking system, examining all phases of the pressure curve under controlled conditions. The structured execution of the test cycle, with its pressure build-up, holding, and pressure release phases, enables precise system diagnostics and allows for the early detection of even the smallest leaks. By creating and comparing the pressure profiles in the two brake circuits, a high degree of accuracy in fault detection can be achieved, significantly increasing the reliability and safety of the braking system. Within the scope of the invention, it is conceivable that the pressure build-up phase includes increasing the pressure in the brake circuits to a predetermined value within a defined period. In this further development of the method for detecting a leak in the brake system, the pressure build-up phase is designed such that the pressure in the brake circuits is increased to a predetermined value within a defined period. This precise specification enables a controlled and reproducible pressure increase in the system, which provides a reliable basis for the subsequent analysis of the pressure profile. The predetermined pressure value, also referred to as the target pressure, is a defined pressure level that is to be reached within the test cycle. This target pressure is chosen to simulate the pressure in the brake circuit under typical operating conditions in order to ensure the most realistic possible test of the system's leak tightness.Setting the target pressure ensures that the braking system is brought to a sufficiently high pressure to identify leaks that only manifest themselves under increased pressure. The defined period within which the pressure must build up is called the pressure build-up time and represents the timeframe within which the pressure increase should occur. The pressure build-up time can be precisely tailored to the characteristics of the braking system, ensuring, for example, a continuous pressure build-up without abrupt changes. This allows the braking system to be observed under controlled conditions, making it possible to detect even minor pressure deviations or delays in pressure build-up, which could indicate small leaks or gradual loss of tightness. A uniform pressure build-up time also allows for the comparability of results across multiple test runs, as the consistent conditions ensure high repeatability. By increasing the pressure to the specified value within the defined timeframe, the pressure curve can be precisely controlled and monitored, which, for example, can provide the basis for a detailed analysis of the pressure rise rate. The pressure rise rate describes the speed at which the pressure in the brake circuits increases. A stable and expected pressure rise rate ensures that the brake system is leak-proof and responds correctly to the applied pressure. Deviations in the pressure rise rate, such as an unexpectedly slow increase in pressure, could indicate a leak or a blockage within the system, since in a sealed system the pressure rise should occur smoothly and without delay. Within the scope of the invention, it can be provided that the holding phase comprises maintaining the pressure in the brake circuits at a predetermined value for a defined period of time. In this further development of the method for leak detection in the brake system, the holding phase comprises maintaining the pressure in the brake circuits at a predetermined value for a defined period of time. This approach makes it possible to maintain the pressure, which was increased to the defined target pressure during the pressure build-up phase, at a constant level, thereby allowing the system to be checked for potential leaks. The target pressure, which is kept constant throughout the entire holding phase, represents typical pressure conditions as they occur during operation and therefore provides a reliable basis for testing system integrity.Maintaining the pressure ensures that any leaks, which may manifest themselves through gradual pressure losses, can be reliably detected over the duration of the holding phase. The defined duration of the holding phase, which can be referred to as the holding time, is preferably chosen to detect even the smallest leaks. A longer holding time makes it possible to identify even very slow pressure losses that could occur in the case of a minor leak. During the holding phase, the pressure loss is reliably and continuously monitored. The pressure loss describes the difference between the target pressure built up at the beginning of the holding phase and the pressure at the end of the holding phase. An ideal, leak-free brake system exhibits no or only minimal pressure loss during the holding phase, as the target pressure remains stable without external intervention or changes. However, if a continuous pressure drop is measured, this indicates a leak in the system, which can be precisely detected by this method. The advantages of this advanced training lie in the ability to clearly detect and quantify even the smallest pressure losses. Thanks to the stable and reproducible pressure maintenance during the holding time, the system can be monitored for even the slightest increase in pressure loss. This results in exceptionally high sensitivity and accuracy in leak detection, enabling the early detection of even the smallest leaks. It is also conceivable that the pressure reduction phase includes a decrease in pressure in the brake circuits to a lower value within a defined period. This configuration of the leak detection method in a brake system stipulates that the pressure reduction phase deliberately reduces the pressure in the brake circuits to a lower value within a defined period. The pressure reduction occurs after the holding phase and serves to analyze and verify the behavior of the brake system under pressure relief. Pressure reduction refers to the controlled drop in pressure from a high initial value, achieved in the previous pressure build-up and holding phase, to a lower pressure level. This phase simulates, for example, the unloading of the brake system, as occurs after releasing the brake pedal or in certain vehicle operating conditions. The defined duration over which the pressure reduction takes place is called the pressure reduction time and allows for a uniform reduction of pressure in the system. The pressure reduction time is preferably defined such that the pressure drop occurs smoothly and without abrupt fluctuations, enabling precise monitoring of the valves and seals in the brake system. This uniform pressure reduction is particularly advantageous because it demonstrates the behavior of the valves and other components under defined pressure relief conditions and allows for systematic testing of the brake circuit. During the pressure release phase, the pressure drop rate can be monitored, which describes the rate of pressure loss per unit of time. The pressure drop rate can be an indicator of the tightness and functionality of the brake components, as a sudden or irregular pressure drop could indicate leaks or mechanical damage. A properly functioning brake system should be able to release pressure constantly and evenly over the specified pressure release time. Continuous monitoring of the pressure drop rate ensures that even minor anomalies in the system's pressure release behavior can be detected. The defined pressure reduction phase ensures that the braking system is tested under realistic conditions, with the uniform reduction of pressure checking the function and stability of all components. The advantage of this pressure reduction phase lies in the possibility of detecting even creeping defects or incipient leaks that might not be immediately noticeable under pressure or during the holding phase. It is also conceivable that the pressure gradient is determined by calculating the pressure change over defined time intervals within the test cycle. Such a further development of the leak detection method in the brake system thus involves determining the pressure gradient by calculating the pressure change over defined time intervals within the test cycle. The pressure gradient describes the rate at which the pressure in the system changes per unit of time and is therefore a measure of the dynamics of the pressure curve. This quantity is of particular interest because it not only measures the absolute pressure but also shows how quickly or slowly the pressure rises or falls. By calculating the pressure gradient over defined time intervals, the pressure development in the system can be precisely monitored and analyzed, since each time interval represents a snapshot of the pressure change. Continuous measurement of the pressure gradient within the sampling intervals thus forms the basis for the early and reliable detection of even the smallest leaks, as gradual pressure losses that only become noticeable over time can also be detected. In addition, calculating the pressure gradient within the test cycle allows for a precise differentiation between normal pressure fluctuations and abnormal pressure losses. Within the scope of the invention, it is optionally possible to trigger a warning signal upon detection of a leak in a further step. A further embodiment of the method for leak detection in the brake system therefore provides that a warning signal is automatically triggered upon detection of a leak. This warning signal is a safety-relevant feedback that alerts the vehicle and, if applicable, the driver to a detected leak in the brake system. The warning signal can appear in various forms, such as a visual display on the dashboard or an acoustic signal. This immediate feedback to the driver ensures that the driver is alerted to potential safety risks at an early stage and has the opportunity to take appropriate action. The warning signal is triggered by a control unit, such as the driver assistance system, particularly an ESP system. This control unit continuously monitors the results of the leak test and determines whether a leak is present based on defined criteria. The control unit is a central component of the braking system, processing all relevant sensor data in real time and reacting to deviations in the pressure profile, especially unusual pressure gradients or pressure losses. This automatic monitoring relieves the driver and increases operational safety, as the braking system independently checks for leaks and triggers a warning signal immediately if necessary. Furthermore, the invention may provide that the sensors are part of a driver assistance system, in particular an ESP system. A corresponding embodiment of the method for leak detection in the brake system thus consists in measuring the drop in brake pressure by sensors of a driver assistance system, in particular an ESP system (Electronic Stability Program). The ESP system is a driver assistance system that actively supports the stability and safety of the vehicle by detecting critical driving conditions such as skidding or understeer and oversteer and counteracting them through targeted braking interventions. Pressure sensors are integrated within the ESP system, which continuously monitor the brake pressure and detect changes in the pressure curve. By using this existing sensor technology to monitor brake pressure, the need for additional pressure sensors is eliminated, which simplifies system integration and reduces costs and maintenance. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the brake fluid is pressurized using an electric brake booster. The electric brake booster enables precise and rapid generation and control of the brake pressure, thus allowing for more efficient and reliable control of the braking system. By using an electric brake booster, the brake pressure can be precisely set and maintained at the desired level, significantly improving the quality of the pressure measurement and, consequently, the accuracy of the leak detection process. An advantage of the electric brake booster lies in its high response speed and control accuracy, which allows the desired pressure to be built up and maintained without delay.Furthermore, the electric drive of the brake booster enables flexible and demand-based pressure generation, which is particularly advantageous for electronic brake controls and driver assistance systems such as the ESP system. According to a second aspect, the present invention further relates to a braking system for a motor vehicle, comprising a control unit, an electric brake booster, a master brake cylinder, a driver assistance system, brake lines, brake piping and a brake, wherein the braking system is configured to carry out a method according to the invention. The control unit monitors and regulates the various components and manages the leak detection process. It collects data from the pressure sensors, analyzes the pressure curve, and calculates the pressure gradient. Through the intelligent integration of data from different sensors and the implementation of the process, the control unit can detect anomalies in the pressure curve at an early stage and, if necessary, trigger a warning signal. The electric brake booster ensures the precise generation and control of brake pressure by activating the master brake cylinder and thus pressurizing the brake fluid in the brake circuits. The master brake cylinder is connected to the brake booster and converts the force exerted by the brake booster into hydraulic pressure in the brake fluid. This pressure is transmitted via the brake fluid to the brake lines and acts in the brake circuits. The driver assistance system, particularly in the form of an ESP system, is also integrated into the braking system and allows sensors to monitor brake pressure. These sensors continuously provide the control unit with data on the current pressure status. Furthermore, the ESP system regulates the pressure in the brake circuits as needed, thus supporting the vehicle's stability and safety. The brake lines and piping are designed to carry the brake fluid from the master cylinder to the brakes and to distribute the built-up pressure evenly to all brake components. They are made of high-strength material that withstands the high stresses and pressure in the brake system and ensures that the pressure is transmitted to the brakes without loss. The brakes themselves are the final component in the braking system and convert hydraulic pressure into braking force by pressing the brake pads against the brake discs or drums. As part of the procedure, the brakes are checked for leaks and functionality, since any leaks in the system are detectable by pressure losses or unusual pressure fluctuations in the brake circuits. Overall, this braking system is designed to efficiently and precisely perform the described leak detection procedure. The combination of electronic pressure regulation, intelligent control, and continuous monitoring by the driver assistance system offers a high level of safety and reliability. Precise monitoring of the pressure curve and the automated triggering of warning signals upon detection of a leak ensure comprehensive control over the tightness and function of the braking system, thus meeting the stringent safety requirements of modern vehicles. This results in the same advantages with regard to a braking system according to the invention as have already been described with regard to a method according to the invention. Further advantages, features, and details of the invention will become apparent from the following description, in which a single embodiment of the invention is described in detail with reference to the drawing. The features mentioned in the claims and in the description can each be essential to the invention individually or in any combination. Figure 1 shows a motor vehicle with one possible embodiment of a braking system according to the invention. Figure 1 shows a motor vehicle 100 equipped with a braking system 10 designed to carry out the leak detection method according to the invention. The braking system 10 comprises various components which together enable precise control and monitoring of the brake pressure and thus contribute to the early detection of potential leaks. At the heart of the brake system 10 is the control unit 11, which, as an intelligent controller, coordinates all steps of the leak detection process. The control unit 11 is specifically part of the driver assistance system and receives real-time data from several pressure sensors, including pressure sensors 22 and 32, which are integrated into the two brake circuits 20 and 30, respectively. These pressure sensors 22 and 32 measure the current pressure in their respective brake circuits and continuously provide data on pressure changes. This information is fundamental, as it enables the control unit 11 to analyze the pressure profile over time and thereby calculate the rate of pressure change, also known as the pressure gradient. The pressure gradient is a key parameter for detecting even small leaks, as it allows for the rapid and reliable identification of abnormal pressure profiles. The vehicle 100 is also equipped with a driver assistance system 40, specifically an electronic stability program (ESP) responsible for driving stability and simultaneously monitoring brake pressure. Working in conjunction with the driver assistance system 40, sensors 22 and 32 continuously measure the brake pressure in the brake circuits, paying particular attention to pressure drops that could indicate a leak. This measurement data is transmitted in real time to the control unit 11, where it is processed to determine a possible leakage condition in the brake system. The advantage of this real-time monitoring by the driver assistance system lies in its ability to quickly detect even sudden and / or minor pressure losses and react immediately. For the precise generation and control of brake pressure, the brake system 10 uses an electric brake booster 50. It is directly connected to the two brake circuits 20 and 30 and, through targeted pressure generation, enables both pressure build-up and pressure reduction as part of the leak detection procedure. Because the brake pressure in the system can be controlled and kept stable in this way, the brake booster 50 creates the conditions for leak detection by ensuring that all pressure changes are attributable to the actual state of the system. The two brake circuits 20 and 30 of the brake system 10 each comprise a brake 21 and 31, respectively, as well as pressure sensors 22 and 32, which ensure continuous monitoring of the brake pressure. The brake lines 12 transmit the pressure generated by the brake booster 50 to the individual brake circuits, thus ensuring an even pressure distribution throughout the entire system. This is crucial, as an uneven pressure distribution could indicate a possible leak, which the control unit 11 could immediately detect by comparing the pressure values ​​in the two brake circuits. The vehicle's braking system 10 is designed to perform the described leak detection procedure and continuously monitor the brake pressure. Control via the control unit 11, rapid and precise pressure generation by the electric brake booster 50, and comprehensive sensor monitoring by the driver assistance system 40 and its sensors 22 and 32 enable highly sensitive leak detection. In the event of a leak, the control unit 11 will be able to trigger a warning signal by evaluating the pressure gradients and analyzing the pressure profiles, alerting the driver to the problem. The combination of these components ensures a high level of operational safety, as the braking system 10 continuously monitors its tightness and functionality and reacts immediately to a potential leak, thus contributing to the safety of the vehicle and its occupants. An internal leak occurs, for example, if an unexpected pressure increase or decrease is detected in one of the brake circuits 20, 30 during the holding phase. For instance, a rising pressure in one brake circuit 20, 30 indicates that a switching valve is not sealing completely and brake fluid from another brake circuit 20, 30 is unintentionally flowing into this circuit via the valve. This can indicate an internal leak in the valve, which can lead to malfunctions or uneven brake force distribution during normal vehicle operation 100. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature EP 2 412 594 A1

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Claims

A method for detecting a leak in a brake system (10) of a vehicle (100) with at least two hydraulic brake circuits (20, 30), wherein a brake fluid is present in the brake system (10), the pressure of which can actuate a brake (21, 31) of the brake system (10), comprising the steps of: - pressurizing the brake fluid, - measuring the pressure in each of the at least two brake circuits (20, 30) by means of a sensor (22, 32), - creating a pressure profile for each brake circuit (20, 30) by recording the pressure profile over time during a defined test cycle, - calculating a pressure gradient for each brake circuit (20, 30) as a measure of the pressure change over time, - comparing the pressure gradients of the two brake circuits to identify deviations in the pressure profiles, and - detecting a leak when a threshold for a predetermined difference between the Pressure gradients of the brake circuits (20,30) is exceeded. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the test cycle comprises the phases of pressure build-up, a holding phase and pressure reduction, and records a pressure profile for each brake circuit (20, 30) that reflects the temporal course of the pressure during the test cycle. Method according to claim 2, characterized in that the pressure build-up phase comprises increasing the pressure in the brake circuits (20, 30) to a predetermined value within a defined period of time. Method according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the holding phase comprises holding the pressure in the brake circuits (20, 30) at the predetermined value for a specified period of time. Method according to one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that the pressure reduction phase comprises reducing the pressure in the brake circuits (20, 30) to a lower value within a defined period of time. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the pressure gradient is determined by calculating the pressure change over defined time intervals within the test cycle. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the further step: - triggering a warning signal upon detection of a leak. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sensors (22, 32) are part of a driver assistance system (40), in particular an ESP system. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the brake fluid is subjected to brake pressure using an electric brake booster (50). Braking system (10) for a motor vehicle (100), comprising a control unit (11), an electric brake booster (50), a master brake cylinder, a driver assistance system (40), brake lines (12), in particular a brake piping, and a brake (21, 31) as well as sensors (22, 32), wherein the braking system (10) is configured to perform a method according to one of the preceding claims.

Citation Information

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