Article by Adjaou Mohamed Adesola
What Do We Need to Know
As the automation of automotive technology advances rapidly and driver assistance systems quickly become the new standard in day-to-day driving, it is important to understand the basics of these systems. We will soon be relying on these systems to ensure our safety on the road. In 2018, driver assistance systems cover all models of cars. We will soon accept and trust these systems.
On the technological horizon, there are also more advanced systems that allow cars to communicate with each other and warn of bad driving situations. As the number of road accidents decreases and lives are saved, we will be more comfortable with cars driving themselves also called autonomous cars.
It is important to understand how this new technology works in your car, as driver assistance systems differ from manufacturer to manufacturer.
Making Sense of Sensors
Each driver assistance system is based on a series of sensors and cameras distributed throughout the car. They can only function properly if they remain clean and unrestricted. A sensor can be easily neutralized by a misplaced window sticker, EZ Pass or even bad weather. In addition, knowing these systems could save you money on complex diagnostic work. Just consider these two common scenarios:
Driver Assisted Blocking of Sensors: In this first scenario, the driver has placed two different elements inside the windshield, thus preventing the correct operation of two driver assistance systems. This usually occurs when you perform predictive and preventive maintenance on a vehicle.
Bad Weather Blocks Sensors: In this second scenario, a car was driven on the highway for half an hour in winter with freezing rain. Once in the city, the pedestrian alert system started to turn on at each stop. It happened in a multi-storey car park! After entering a parking space, the system was finally corrected. This is because the sensors were covered with freezing rain.
The Different Types of Driving Assistance Systems
As we move toward autonomous vehicles, also known as autonomous vehicles, a growing list of “driver assistance systems” will keep us safe and help us in our driving. It is important to know the names of these systems and the protection they provide, because all these systems can be neutralized by the weather, dirt or placement of items near the sensors. You will find below a list of driver assistant systems and what they do:
Parking and Backing Assistant: This system uses a series of cameras to show you your location, showing you views of the front, rear and top of the car. This system is sometimes called “Surround Vision”.
Rear cross traffic alert (RCTA): When reversing, this system warns you when traffic is coming from the left or right. It displays an arrow indicating the direction of the traffic and sounds an audible warning.
Forward Collision Alert (FAC): This system warns the driver if there is a risk of a frontal collision by placing a warning on the screen and emitting a loud beep in the entertainment system. If ignored, some systems (IBA) will apply the brakes.
Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA): The brakes will be automatically reinforced and applied if necessary. (FAB)
Collision Mitigating Braking System (CMBS): If the system thinks you should brake, it will alert you and stop you.
Tailgating Alert: If you follow too close to the vehicle in front of you, it will warn you.
For further information or read more visit: http://www.driverlinkmagazine.com/
