Final answer:
A mechanical parking brake is activated by the driver pulling a lever or pressing a button, and it uses cables or rods to engage the brake mechanism. This creates friction between the brake pads or shoes and the rotor or drum to prevent the vehicle from rolling. The parking brake is separate from the hydraulic braking system used for normal driving.
Step-by-step explanation:
A mechanical parking brake is typically activated by the driver pulling a lever or pressing a button. When the lever or button is engaged, it activates a system of cables or rods that connect the brake mechanism to the parking brake shoes or pads. These shoes or pads then press against the brake rotor or drum to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
For example, in a drum brake system, pulling the parking brake lever tightens the cables, which pull the brake shoes against the inside of the brake drum. This creates friction and prevents the drum from rotating, effectively keeping the vehicle stationary.
It's important to note that a mechanical parking brake is independent of the hydraulic braking system used for normal braking while driving. This allows the parking brake to function even if there is a problem with the hydraulic system.