Low cost ESC control unit for Continental Automotive
Continental Automotive Systems plans to introduce a new generation of ESC control units into series production from mid 2008. By integrating the yaw rate and acceleration sensors required for ESC (Electronic Stability Control) directly in the control unit, installation and integration work is reduced, reliability increased and system costs cut. “Sensor development is one of our core competencies. This innovation proves it once again”, commented Dr. Ralf Cramer, Head of the Business Unit Electronic Brake and Safety Systems at Continental Automotive Systems. “We are devoting a great deal of time and resources to this issue because it will help make safety systems affordable for car buyers all over the world.”
The sensor system for determining brake pressure has been an integrated part of the electrohydraulic ESC system for some time, but the yaw rate and vertical acceleration sensors can now be installed in the vehicle in one common housing (cluster), along with the longitudinal acceleration sensor if required. The sensor system is thus better protected. Continental Automotive Systems has designed new yaw rate and acceleration sensors that are considerably smaller yet even more robust. They can now be installed in the engine compartment − integrated in the main board of the new PYA (Pressure, Yaw, Acceleration) control unit. Like the other Electronic Stability Control components fitted in the engine compartment, the sensors for use in this exposed environment are designed to operate reliably at temperatures ranging from −40 to 125° Celsius.
See document ESP, Electronic Stability Control Program.
