The Evolution of Vehicle Control:

Congested traffic, severe weather, and adverse road conditions affect vehicle handling performance. But drivers don't want to think about that. They simply want the vehicle to perform - and perform well. Drivers want the vehicle to respond safely, comfortably, and immediately to every driving situation, including the normal driving condition. 

Backed by decades of expertise, Delphi engineers can predict almost every imaginable driving situation and develop ways to help the driver and vehicle stay in control. Braking, steering, suspension, and powertrain systems play critical roles in a vehicle's overall ride and handling performance. By electronically linking these systems, information and resources will be shared, making it possible for the vehicle to detect - and help the driver react to - a variety of driving conditions. 

"This enhanced vehicle control is subtle, often undetected by the driver," said Ashok Chandy, manager of vehicle dynamics, systems, and controls. "For example, with Delphi's traction control the driver may not even realize that a wheel has encountered an icy patch. A superior performing vehicle can make the vehicle operator feel like a better driver." 

"In addition to creating a better handling vehicle, this integration will benefit the vehicle manufacturer by reducing mass, improving design flexibility, and streamlining the assembly process," added Jim Petrowski, manager of customer solutions. 

The vision. 

For the most part, independent chassis subsystems simply react to a situation. Delphi's vision of vehicle control will link these subsystems so they "think" as one, enabling proactive capabilities. Delphi engineers will use their knowledge of electronics, micro-controllers, sensors, actuators, and high-speed data busses to design the future of vehicle control. 

As vehicle technology progresses from hydraulic to electric power, the ability to communicate between systems becomes a reality. Some of Delphi's available technologies are TRAXXAR™ Vehicle Stability Enhancement System, Interactive QUADRASTEER™ Four Wheel Steering System, and MagneRide™ Semi-Active Suspension System. The TRAXXAR system can integrate antilock braking, traction control, steering, suspension, and powertrain systems to help improve stability and directional control. The Interactive QUADRASTEER system combines front-wheel steering with an electrically powered rear-wheel steering system, providing control based on three speed-dependent phases. The MagneRide suspension system adjusts damping levels at each corner of the vehicle to increase wheel contact with the road, improving ride and handling. 

The next step toward integrated vehicle control is Delphi's Unified Chassis Control (UCC). Using a chassis supervisory control function, UCC will oversee transmission of sensor data, interpreting changes in the road, vehicle, and driving conditions. The control function will send instructions to various chassis systems that can help the driver return the vehicle to its normal driving state. 

One chassis integration possibility is to integrate the Interactive QUADRASTEER and TRAXXAR systems, allowing active steering and controlled braking to work together for the first time. The two systems will respond to the same data and react in harmony to help the driver control the vehicle. 

For example, when braking with one side of the vehicle or one wheel on ice, the steering system will monitor the braking imbalance and command a small corrective steer to help prevent the vehicle from being pulled to one side. The result is enhanced vehicle control through earlier intervention, which may help to prevent emergency situations. 

"Selective applications of damping in individual shocks also allow a crisper turning response," said Paul Flanagan, manager of technology planning. "As the steering wheel is turned, the suspension immediately adjusts. Meanwhile, the front and rear wheels are steered individually for the maximum in vehicle control and comfort." 

The safer choice. 

In addition to improved handling, another significant benefit of vehicle control is increased safety. The Delphi family of technologies known as Forewarn® Collision Warning Systems will integrate with chassis safety features to create a higher level of control - for the vehicle and the driver. 

For example, Delphi's Forewarn Adaptive Cruise Control detects slower, in-lane vehicles ahead and uses throttle control and limited braking to maintain a driver-selectable headway. Forewarn Back-Up Aid assists the driver when backing the vehicle. The system detects stationary and/or moving objects as far as 6 meters behind the vehicle. The system also provides the driver with an audible and visual warning. 

The future is wired for control. 

As Delphi's vision of vehicle control continues to evolve, X-by-Wire technology is considered to be a major step toward chassis system integration. This technology, with its network of wires and sensors, eliminates the need for mechanical connections. As a result, the vehicle manufacturer enjoys mass reduction, improved design flexibility, and a streamlined assembly process. 

The future of Delphi includes many safety concepts such as the monitoring of the roadway's surface condition, rollover detection and reduction, collision avoidance systems, and an emergency notification system. In addition, post-accident exit features such as automatic "windows down" or "doors unlock" commands would help facilitate an exit by the occupants or an entry by rescue personnel. 

"The primary goal of vehicle control is to provide a complete driving package - comfortable ride, enhanced safety features, and improved handling," concluded Mark Depoyster, chief engineer of advanced chassis systems. "With Delphi's commitment to our vehicle control vision, we are anticipating and then delivering the ways to help the driver and vehicle stay in control." 

TRAXXAR, QUADRASTEER, MagneRide, and Forewarn are trademarks of Delphi Automotive Systems, Inc.