Abstract
In this paper, a mechatronic modular system comprising major assemblies is presented, i.e. engines, transmissions, axles and steering systems. On the basis of electronic actuation, the overall concept of an integrated powertrain is realized for performing holistic movement assignments, including the driving, braking, steering and carrying functions. Specifying a movement wish (direction and acceleration) at an electronic coordination level causes the powertrain to be activated as a drive-by-wire module. The paper outlines both the possibilities of system architecture design and the degrees of function integration, with the goal of using the smallest possible number of control units. The paper also discusses fields of operation: autonomous driving, sidestick or electronic tow bar, as well as applications like reversing assistance for truck-and-trailer combinations. Questions relating to the causes of accidents are discussed with a view to improving active traffic safety. The goal of future developments is to use data from predictive and reactive systems in order to avoid dangerous traffic situations before an operational command is executed. The number of accidents can be reduced by a targeted evaluation of a truck's surrounding variables using data which is ascertained before a coordinated target movement command is passed on. Major contributions in this respect are rendered by innovative systems, for instance evaluation of tire sensor data and further developed, electronically activated chassis. This data can be used to optimize active safety by the advance control of ABS, ASR, ESP, etc. The evaluation of surrounding variables, compiled on board the vehicle, can be made available to all road users via telemetry, thereby improving active safety. To ensure the large-scale use of these systems, technical feasibility as well as legislative and social acceptance have to be considered. The PEIT (Powertrain Equipped with Intelligent Technologies) project proposed to the EU by an association of partners is to render a major, positive contribution in this respect within the next three years.
Translated title of the contribution | Using drive-by-wire technology to design integrated powertrain modules - Integration of the evaluation of surrounding variables |
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Original language | German |
Pages (from-to) | 425-446+466 |
Journal | VDI Berichte |
Issue number | 1632 |
State | Published - 2001 |
Externally published | Yes |