Final answer:
A dual air brake system uses two separate systems based on Pascal's principle, where the force exerted on the brake pedal is amplified through a hydraulic system, providing redundancy and increasing vehicle safety.
Step-by-step explanation:
A dual air brake system incorporates two separate air brake systems, each of which utilizes a different aspect of hydraulic principles. Based on Pascal's principle, a force applied to a confined fluid is transmitted undiminished in all directions. In the context of hydraulic brakes, when the driver exerts a force on the brake pedal, this force is initially increased by a simple lever mechanism. It is then magnified by the hydraulic system, ensuring that each of the identical wheel cylinders receives the same pressure and therefore generates the same force output F2. The circular cross-sectional areas of the master and slave cylinders, denoted as A1 and A2, respectively, determine the pressure distribution within the system.
These dual systems are designed for safety by providing redundancy. Should one part fail, the other can still function, allowing for safer stopping. This redundancy is critical in heavy-duty vehicles, like trucks and buses, which commonly use such systems. Hydraulic systems employing Pascal's principle are widespread, with applications reaching beyond automotive brakes to hydraulic jacks and other various mechanical systems.