Toronto’s Spectra Inc. is designing new features for its Brake Inspector brake diagnostic system, including pad wear and temperature monitoring functions, using a modified in-cab diagnostic module and wheel-end sensor interface. Brake-pad wear and temperature monitoring will provide drivers and maintenance staff with real-time data on the braking ability and service needs of truck, trailer or bus air-brake systems. The proposed system will identify progressive stages of pad wear and pad temperature. Prototypes will be field-tested in conjunction with a leading supplier of friction brake material and several large, national fleets, the company says, adding that the system will be particularly useful to severe-service applications with a lot of stop-and-go driving. Among other things, it will warn drivers of impending brake fade and allow maintenance departments to maximize lining life.