Drive-by-wire technology

System level architecture

At a system level, a Drive-by-Wire (DbW) technology replaces the physical connection between the driver's input and the vehicle's mechanical systems with an electronic control system. The driver's inputs are transmitted through sensors, which convert them into electrical signals that are then processed by an Electronic Control Unit (ECU). The ECU sends control signals to actuators, which control the vehicle's mechanical systems, such as the throttle, brake, and steering.

One of the key advantages of DbW technology is the flexibility it provides in the design and layout of the vehicle. DbW systems allow for the decoupling of the driver's inputs from the vehicle's mechanical systems, which means that there is no need for a physical connection between the two. This opens up new possibilities for vehicle design, allowing for more space in the cabin and more freedom in the placement of the mechanical systems.

Another advantage of DbW technology is the ability to provide additional safety features. DbW systems can be designed to incorporate redundancy and fail-safe features, ensuring that the vehicle remains under control even in the event of a system failure. In addition, DbW systems can provide advanced driver assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and collision avoidance systems, all of which contribute to a safer driving experience.

Our research group is focused on developing advanced DbW systems that are both reliable and cost-effective. We are exploring new sensor technologies and control algorithms that can improve the precision and responsiveness of the system while minimizing the cost of implementation. Our goal is to bring the benefits of DbW technology to a wider range of vehicles, making driving safer, more comfortable, and more efficient for everyone.

Brake-by-Wire

Brake-by-Wire (BbW) technology, a type of Drive-by-Wire (DbW) system, replaces the traditional hydraulic braking system with an electronic control system. At a system level, BbW uses sensors to detect the driver's brake pedal inputs, and control algorithms in an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) translate those inputs into electronic signals that activate the actuators that apply the brakes.

Control algorithms and software development are critical components of BbW systems. The algorithms must accurately translate the driver's inputs into the appropriate brake pressure to provide the desired braking performance. Furthermore, the software must incorporate redundancy and fail-safe features to ensure that the brakes can be applied in the event of a system failure, providing an additional layer of safety.

System-level considerations are also important in the development of BbW technology. BbW systems must be designed to meet stringent safety standards and undergo extensive testing to ensure their reliability and safety. The system must also be designed to provide the appropriate levels of feedback to the driver, to ensure a smooth and intuitive braking experience.

Our research group is focused on the development of advanced BbW systems that leverage cutting-edge control algorithms, software development, and system-level design to provide the highest levels of performance, reliability, and safety. We are exploring new materials, sensors, and actuators that can improve the precision and responsiveness of the system, while also minimizing the cost of implementation. Our goal is to develop BbW systems that can be integrated into a wide range of vehicles, providing improved braking performance, safety, and efficiency for drivers around the world.

Steer-by-wire

Steer-by-Wire (SbW) technology is a type of Drive-by-Wire (DbW) system that replaces the traditional mechanical connection between the steering wheel and the wheels of the vehicle with an electronic control system. In an SbW system, the steering wheel inputs are detected by sensors and sent to an Electronic Control Unit (ECU), which then sends control signals to actuators that adjust the steering angle of the wheels.

One of the advantages of SbW technology is the ability to provide more precise and responsive steering performance. SbW systems can modulate the steering angle more precisely than traditional mechanical systems, resulting in improved steering performance and more precise handling. In addition, SbW systems can incorporate advanced driver assistance features, such as lane keeping assist and automated parking, which can help prevent accidents and reduce driver workload.

Another advantage of SbW technology is the potential for weight savings and improved fuel efficiency. SbW systems do not require the heavy mechanical components used in traditional steering systems, such as steering columns and linkages. This can result in significant weight savings, which can improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.

However, SbW technology also presents some challenges. One of the main challenges is ensuring the reliability and safety of the system. SbW systems require redundant components and fail-safe features to ensure that the steering can be maintained in the event of a system failure. Additionally, SbW systems must be designed to meet stringent safety standards and undergo rigorous testing to ensure that they are reliable and safe for use in vehicles.

Our research group is focused on the development of advanced SbW systems that leverage cutting-edge control algorithms, software development, and system-level design to provide the highest levels of performance, reliability, and safety. We are exploring new materials, sensors, and actuators that can improve the precision and responsiveness of the system, while also minimizing the cost of implementation. Our goal is to develop SbW systems that can be integrated into a wide range of vehicles, providing improved steering performance, safety, and efficiency for drivers around the world.