Control functions based on brake actuators in combination with other actuators in new vehicles.

Abstract: Today’s automotive industry evolves very quickly and new technology is integrated into vehicles every day. This technology creates many new actuator-controlled functions and sub-functions having different names and use in every car maker’s program. The thesis has been performed at ÅF Industry chassis department in Trollhättan, Sweden.  To get a clear overview and understanding, a benchmarking process have been made for a classic station wagon to sort out and categorize functions for five different car makers. The same process for another car model was also made parallel to this thesis by another student for wider results, while this thesis covers brake actuators and brake actuators in combination with other actuators that student covers other types of actuators. These benchmarking results were then put together and a screening was done to eliminate functions not relevant for my thesis. The remaining functions were analyzed more in depth and a datasheet was created for each function covering basics such as its functions, how it works, pros and cons, parameters and an estimated cost. This will be used for clarifying the functions for ÅF’s engineers when needed.   Evaluation of the function Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) was also done through testing at NEVS test track in Trollhättan with advanced and accurate test equipment. The ESP evaluated by a standardized test method SS-ISO 3888-2, Severe lane-change maneuver – Part 2: Obstacle avoidance where the track was completed in various speeds with ESP activated and ESP deactivated. By having ESP activated, control of the vehicle was gained and skidding was repealed. The results did not show off a great difference but there were clear signs and data that the ESP affected the vehicle in a positive way.