Lecture Notes: Automatic Emergency Braking Systems

Introduction

• Modern car technology enhances safety while driving.
• Key features: Pre-collision warnings and automatic emergency braking systems.

How Automatic Emergency Braking Systems Work

• Key Components:
  • Electronic Brakes:
    • Must be controllable electronically.
  • Radar Distance Sensor:
    • Detects other vehicles on the road.
  • Electronic Control Unit (ECU):
    • Smart system controlling the technology.

Functionality of the System

1. Detection Process:

   • Radar sensor sends out radio waves towards cars ahead.
   • Measures time for waves to bounce back to determine distance and speed of approaching vehicles.

2. Alert Mechanism:

   • If the system determines that the distance is too close for safe braking:
     • Issues an alert (beep, chime, flashing light).

3. Automatic Engagement:

   • If the alert is ignored, or a collision is imminent:
     • The system may engage brakes automatically to reduce impact.
   • At lower speeds (typically below 30-35 mph):
     • Some systems can completely stop the car to prevent collision.

Advanced Features

• Some vehicles incorporate a camera along with radar sensors.
  • Advantage: Ability to detect pedestrians and cyclists.

Conclusion

• Automatic emergency braking systems significantly enhance road safety by monitoring distance and intervening when necessary.