A kind of wheel brake of a heavy vehicle is studied by using virtual prototype technology.At first,the main parameters of the wheel brake,such as actuation force,brake torque are calculated.The virtual prototype model of wheel brake is simulated and analyzed with the ADAMS software,the obtained total braking torque are consistent with the results from the theory calculation.Through simulation analysis,it can be found each friction plate has its own corresponding braking torque.The surface stress of each friction plate is analyzed by using the finite element software ANSYS,the simulation results is proved by using ADAMS software on the braking torque of the friction plate.Through the simulation analysis,it is also found the influence relationship among friction coefficient,vibration amplitude,vibration spectrum.A new idea to the research method based on virtual prototype for wheel brake optimization is provided.