Very often, the cause of a traffic accident is the maneuver of changing lanes from one lane to another. On many modern cars systems have appeared that allow these maneuvers to be performed with greater security. These are so-called lane change assistance systems. They are also called blind spot information systems, safe lane change systems, etc. They all serve one purpose - to warn of the danger of a collision with cars in the blind spot.
Which manufacturers offer lane change assistance systems?
Various automakers use own developments in the field of reconstruction assistance. Volkswagen and Audi use the Side Assist system in their cars. By car BMW brand There is a LCW (Lane Change Warning) system. IN Japanese concern Mazda has developed a Rear Vehicle Monitoring system. American automobile giant Ford uses the BLISTM (Blind Spot Information System). Volvo – BLIS (Blind Spot Information System). Mercedes-Benz Concern– Blind Spot Assist or BSA system. In the premium segment, Porshe has developed a high-quality lane change assistance system - it is called SWA.
Side Assist - Audi's system
The Side Assist system developed by Audi has been recognized several times as the most reliable. For example, the European Independent Committee for car safety in 2010, Side Assist was recognized as the best such system. Radars are used as sensors in the Side Assist system. They control the space behind and on the sides of the car. If the driver initiates a lane change maneuver, the system triggers a warning signal if there is any traffic obstruction.
Structurally, Side Assist is designed as follows. There is a system on/off button on the turn signal handle. The radars are located in the side mirrors on the left and right. There are also built-in signal LEDs that turn on if there is a risk of collision when performing a maneuver. A warning indicator is also installed on the instrument panel.
To turn on the system, you need to click on the button on the turn signal lever. In this case, Side Assist will only start working at a speed of at least 60 km/h. Special radars installed in the side exterior mirror housings emit a radio signal into blind spots. Based on the reflection of the signal, the system determines the presence of vehicles interfering with the maneuver. In addition to radars, ultrasonic sensors or video cameras can be installed.
Radars from left and from right sides cars work separately. They are able to analyze incoming information. For example, the system can distinguish between moving objects, that is, cars, and stationary ones, such as barriers, fences, poles, trees, parked cars, and so on. If the Side Assist electronics decide that the maneuver is dangerous, the lamp will turn on. The signal lamp operates in two modes. If the indicator is constantly on, then some object is in the dead zone. And if you start changing lanes when there are obstacles, the lamp will flash. The system determines the moment of changing lanes by turning on the turn signals. If you turn in left lane, then the information from the right radar will not be taken into account. This indication is very convenient, as it allows you to monitor the situation at all times in order to select in advance the moment to safely perform the maneuver.
Features of Volvo's BLIS system
Volvo's BLIS system works on a different principle. The radar function in it is performed by a miniature digital camera that can shoot up to 25 frames per second. This implementation has significant drawback– the camera will have low efficiency in bad conditions weather conditions, for example, in a rainstorm or snowstorm. The BLIS system is turned on using a button located on the instrument panel. The automation starts working at a speed of 10 km/h.
At every shift model range Leading automakers set themselves the goal of attracting buyers with something special. Some offer luxury salon And rich equipment, the latter raise sporty character and improve powerful dynamics, while others bet on more economical engines with alternative energy sources. However, in all cases, the future of the automotive industry is unthinkable without electronic systems management. The rapid development of technological “fillings” gives reason to believe that progress in automotive industry firmly identified a priority direction for himself.
REBUILDING ASSISTANCE SYSTEM
If, when changing from one lane to another, you often hear dissatisfied signals from the horns, or you are simply too lazy to look in the outside rear-view mirrors when performing such a maneuver, then this electronic assistant created just for you. The safe lane change system will help you notice a vehicle in adjacent lanes and avoid a possible collision.
The principle of its operation is based on monitoring traffic zones near the car and warning the driver about obstacles. The system is activated by a special button and is usually activated at speeds above 60 km/h. Radars installed in the outside rear view mirrors use electromagnetic waves to detect everything in the blind spot. Electronic control units monitor moving objects and also recognize stationary ones: parked cars, road fences, etc. If you intend to rebuild, but at the same time danger zone there is another car on dashboard the warning light turns on. At the same time, along with LED indication can also be served sound signal. Some systems use video cameras and ultrasonic sensors instead of radars. But it should be remembered that in foggy conditions, heavy rain and snow, a digital camera is not effective enough.
U different manufacturers The blind spot information system has its own trade names:
- Side Assist - Audi, Volkswagen;
- Lane Change Warning - BMW;
- Rear Vehicle Monitoring, RVM - Mazda;
- Blind Spot Assist - Mercedes-Benz;
- Spurwechselassistent, SWA - Porsche;
- Blind Spot Information System, BLISTM - Ford;
- Blind Spot Information System, BLIS - Volvo.
AROUND VIEW SYSTEM
This technology, which is further development optical parking system, is designed to assist the driver when performing parallel or perpendicular parking, moving between rows, entering a “blind” intersection, as well as when maneuvering in other cramped conditions. The operation of the option is based on filming the situation around the car and transmitting information to the multimedia display.
Structurally, the all-round viewing system mainly combines four video cameras installed around the perimeter of the body. The front camera is located in the radiator grille, the rear camera is located in the license plate lighting module, and the two side cameras are built into the housings of the exterior rear-view mirrors. All video cameras have a wide viewing angle and high resolution. This allows you to get a panoramic view of the vehicle's surroundings (the so-called aerial view bird's eye view) and detailed images from one or more cameras. In this case, the degree of magnification can be changed. Dynamic guides are displayed on the “picture” from the rear view camera, indicating possible and recommended trajectories of movement. The system operates at low speeds - up to 10-18 km/h, has automatic and manual modes activation.
The all-round visibility system was first used in 2007 by Nissan and until recently was the prerogative of cars only in the premium segment. Today it is in the arsenal of many leading automakers - Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Volkswagen, Land Rover, Nissan, Toyota. Some of them have their own names:
- Around View Monitor, AVM - Nissan;
- Surround Camera System - Land Rover;
- Area View - Volkswagen.
ROAD SIGN RECOGNITION SYSTEM
The system is designed to warn the driver about the need to comply speed limit. The main structural element here is a video camera located on the windshield behind the rear view mirror. It takes pictures of the space on the right and above in the direction of travel - in the area where road signs are located. This camera is also used by pedestrian detection and lane assist systems. The resulting image is analyzed the electronic unit control system that recognizes the shape, color of road signs, and information inscriptions on them. If the actual speed of the vehicle is higher than the maximum permissible, an image in the form of a restriction sign is displayed on the instrument panel screen. Along with a visual warning, an audio warning can also be transmitted.
The system is able to recognize speed limits in force for a particular type of transport, as well as signs for lifting the limit. And development Opel Eye- also signs prohibiting overtaking. Traffic sign recognition system ( Traffic Sign Recognition, TSR) have many well-known car companies - Audi, BMW, Ford, Mercedes-Benz, Opel, Volkswagen. Mercedes-Benz named its system Speed Limit Assist(assistance in complying with speed limits).
PEDESTRIAN DETECTION SYSTEM
The main purpose of this technology is to prevent collisions with pedestrians. Statistics show that the likelihood fatal outcome from a collision between a pedestrian and a car at a speed of 65 km/h is 85%, 50 km/h - 45%, 30 km/h - 5%. The use of this system can reduce pedestrian mortality in road accidents by almost a quarter and reduce the risk of severe injuries by a third.
A video camera and radar are used to recognize people near the car. Their work is most effective at a distance of up to 40 m. If a pedestrian is detected, the system monitors his further movement and assesses the likelihood of a collision. In addition, it is capable of “leading” several pedestrians at the same time, walking or running in different courses, and also reacts to vehicles that stand still or move in the same direction. All tracking results are displayed on the multimedia screen.
If the electronics determine that a collision with a pedestrian is imminent given the current traffic pattern, an audible warning is sent. Next, the system evaluates the driver’s reaction (braking, changing direction). And if there is no response, it automatically brings the car to a stop.
The pedestrian detection system was first used in 2010 on Volvo cars. It has a number of modifications:
- Pedestrian Detection System - Volvo;
- Advanced Pedestrian Detection System - TRW Corporation;
- EyeSight - Subaru.
NIGHT VISION SYSTEM
The operating principle of the system, usually installed on premium cars, is based on recording the infrared radiation of objects and projecting it onto the LCD display of the instrument panel in the form of a gray scale image. For this purpose, special cameras are used: thermal imagers - passive systems, infrared cameras - for active ones. The first are characterized high level contrast, but low image resolution, they work at a distance of up to 300 m. The latter have a higher resolution and a fixation range of about 150-250 m.
Another option that would be very useful on our roads. It could help take the load off the driver when driving in dark time days.
A technically and functionally advanced night vision system is considered one of the latest developments Mercedes-Benz - Night View Assist Plus. It uses infrared active cameras in the headlights as its main structural elements. In addition, there is a video camera behind the windshield that detects the time of day and the presence of other vehicles. In addition to the standard driver information functions, the system warns pedestrians of potential dangers by flashing short flashes or illuminating them with a headlight for five seconds. If there are cars ahead or on oncoming lane, the system does not work so as not to dazzle other road users. The program algorithm is implemented at a speed of more than 45 km/h and pedestrians are located at a distance of no more than 80 m.
Bavarian engineers moved even further in this direction, introducing intelligent system night vision - Dynamic Light Spot. The presence of living creatures at a distance of up to 100 m from the car is determined here heart rate sensors. Objects located outside the roadway are automatically illuminated by rotating LED headlights. On BMW cars Dynamic Light Spot system is installed in addition to the night vision system Night Vision.
Passive night vision systems are:
-
Night Vision Assistant - Audi;
- Night Vision - BMW;
- Night Vision - General Motors;
- Intelligent Night Vision System - Honda.
Famous active systems:
-
Night View Assist - Mercedes-Benz;
- Night View - Toyota.
Lane Change Warning (SWW) is a new system driver assistance. Lane change warning assists the driver when changing lanes. To achieve this, the lane change alarm monitors traffic from behind and to the side using 2 radar sensors.
The lane change warning system offers the following benefits:
- The lane change warning system can recognize traffic situations that may pose a hazard when changing lanes. In this case, the driver receives information and warning on 2 levels (warning light in the outside mirror, vibration in the steering wheel).
- Similar traffic situations appear, for example, when approaching quickly remote cars. The driver cannot independently assess such situations, especially in the dark. Radar sensors operate completely independently of lighting conditions.
- Cars located in a blind corner pose an additional danger. The driver can only recognize the danger if he acts with extreme caution. The lane change warning system's radar sensors recognize other vehicles in the adjacent lane until approximately the middle of their vehicle.
Traffic situation with warning signal given by lane change warning system
| Designation | Explanation | Designation | Explanation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Left turn signal on | 2 | The warning light in the driver's side outside mirror flashes rapidly |
| 3 | Warning light in the outside mirror from the side front passenger burns with less intensity | 4 | The steering wheel vibrates |
| 5 | Car with lane change warning system | 6 | A car moving at the same speed right lane driving in a lane change zone |
| 7 | Car moving with higher speed in the left lane in the lane change zone | 8 | Lane change zone |
| 9 | Blind angle area for outside mirror |
Brief description of the node
The following SWW nodes are described below:Driver Assistance Control Panel
By pressing a button in the driver assistance system control unit, the lane change warning system is switched on and off.
For exampleF01
For example F01:
The control panel is connected to the FRM via a LIN bus. The signal sent via the bus from the FRM to the ICM control unit indicates that the key has been activated. The ICM control unit only allows the track indicator to turn on when the system is operating properly. Only in this case does it provide a positive confirmation via a bus signal to the footwell module (FRM) to activate the function key illumination. If there is a fault in the system, the function lighting remains off despite pressing the button. Based on this, the driver understands that the lane change warning system is not available.
The following illustration shows an improved version of the driver assistance system control unit.
The driver assistance system control unit is located in the center console near the hazard warning light switch. The driver assistance system control unit is connected via a 6-pin plug connection.
For exampleF15
By pressing a button in the driver assistance system control unit, the lane change warning system is switched on and off. At the start of the journey, all driver assistance systems are active.
For example F15:
The control unit is connected to the Body Domain Controller (BDC) via a LIN bus. Bus signal from the BDC to the control unit of the integrated control system chassis(ICM), reports key activation. The ICM control unit only allows the track indicator to turn on when the system is operating properly. Only in this case does it provide a positive confirmation in the form of a signal transmitted via the bus to the Body Domain Controller (BDC) to activate the functional key illumination. If there is a fault in the system, the function lighting remains off despite pressing the button. Based on this, the driver understands that the lane change warning system is not available.
SWW: Lane Change Warning Master ECU
The Lane Change Warning (SWW) control unit SWW is both a radar sensor (24 GHz) and an electronic control unit. The ECU is located at the rear right above the bumper support beam. The radar sensor is not visible from the outside; it is covered by the bumper.
Radar sensors operate regardless of weather conditions. Reliable detection occurs over a distance of approx. 60 meters.
For exampleF01
Only the master control unit has an ECU address and a diagnostic address and is therefore an ECU.
Mounting elements for radar sensors do not allow mechanical adjustment. Instead of mechanically adjusting radar sensors (such as the long-range radar of active cruise control), it is necessary to record the correction angle via the diagnostic system.
Actuator of the lane change warning system
Actuator SWW is only a radar sensor and is not a control unit. However, this radar sensor has a programmable memory and its own processor. The radar sensor is installed at the rear left above the bumper support beam. The radar sensor is not visible from the outside; it is covered by the bumper.
For exampleF01
The radar sensor is used to generate and transmit radar waves. It has a built-in receiver circuit. Transmission and reception are carried out through a planar antenna.
The mounting elements for radar sensors do not allow mechanical adjustment. Instead of mechanical adjustment of radar sensors (eg long-range radar of active cruise control), it is necessary to record the correction angle via the diagnostic system.
Radar sensors have different mounting points. Therefore, they cannot be confused.
Warning light in the outside mirror
There is one triangular warning lamp in the left and right exterior mirrors. The warning light can be activated with different intensities. The ICM control unit transmits the command with the required intensity to the FRM. The command is transmitted via the LIN bus to the electronic unit of the corresponding exterior mirror. When activated by a width modulated signal, the LEDs of the warning lamps light up.
For exampleF01
If the turn signal is installed and the oncoming vehicle is in the critical zone at that time, the warning light in the mirror housing flashes (with varying intensity).
With F15: At night, the brightness of the warning lamp is adjusted by the signal from the rain/light/fog/sun sensor. The rain/light/fog/sun sensor is connected to the Body Domain Controller (BDC).
The lane change warning system can emit a warning signal starting at a speed of approx. 30 km/h.
Vibration generator in the steering wheel
The vibration drive is located in the steering wheel spoke. The purpose of the vibration drive is to force steering wheel vibrate. Driver assistance systems - lane departure warning and lane change warning - use this vibration to warn the driver of dangerous situations.
An electronic unit located inside the steering wheel also controls the vibration generator. The command to activate the vibration drive is sent by the Integrated Chassis Management (ICM) via the FlexRay bus to the steering column switch center. The steering column switch center transmits this requirement via the LIN bus to the steering wheel electronics.
If the turn signal is installed and the oncoming vehicle is in the critical zone at that time, the steering wheel vibrates.
In addition to the lane change warning system, the lane change warning system (KAFAS control unit) also uses a vibration generator to generate a warning signal to the driver. The systems use different vibration amplitudes. The vibration generator activation coordination system is built into the ICM control unit.
System functions
The following functions are described below:- functional network connection;
- Limits functionality systems
Functional network connection
Implementing SWW requires complex complex system with control of individual functions via other ECUs. The following two figures show the functional integrated diagram.
For exampleF01
| Designation | Explanation | Designation | Explanation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Driver's outside mirror | 2 | Central Gateway Module (ZGM) |
| 3 | Car Access System (CAS) | 4 | steering column switch center (SZL); |
| 5 | Junction Box (JBE) | 6 | |
| 7 | Rear power distributor | 8 | Lane change warning control unit SWW (master) |
| 9 | 10 | ||
| 11 | 12 | Footwell module (FRM); | |
| 13 |
For exampleF15
| Designation | Explanation | Designation | Explanation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Driver's outside mirror | 2 | Rain/light/sun sensor |
| 3 | Front power distributor | 4 | Body Domain Controller (BDC) |
| 5 | Front passenger outside mirror | 6 | Fuse in the Body Domain Controller |
| 7 | Trailer Connection Module (AHM) | 8 | Rear power distributor |
| 9 | Actuator of the lane change warning system | 10 | Lane change warning master control unit |
| 11 | switch block in the driver's door; | 12 | Driver Assistance Control Panel |
| 13 | steering column switch center | 14 | Instrument cluster (KOMBI) |
| 15 | Central information display | 16 | Head unit (HU-H, HU-B) |
| 17 | Integrated Chassis Management (ICM) | 18 | Hub |
Road user registration
Both radar sensors (master and slave) perform this function largely independently of each other in their specific coverage area. First, the position of the participants taken into account is determined traffic in the longitudinal and transverse direction.
Based on this, road users are assigned a lane. In this case, a distinction is made between one's own lane, left or right adjacent lanes and lanes located further away. If road users are in a lane change zone, approaching speeds are also taken into account in relation to own car. If one road user is in the blind corner area, it is enough to recognize its presence. The exact position or speed is not a decisive factor for the warning signal.
Determining whether a warning signal is required
The need for a warning signal is determined by the SWW master ECU. The master control unit uses both data about road users, determined by it independently, and data from the actuator.
Based on the distance (in the longitudinal direction) and the approach speed, the time remaining before the lane change is cancelled. If this time is reduced for at least one road user counted threshold value, a decision is made about the need to issue a warning signal. The presence of one road user in a blind corner immediately leads to the need to issue a warning signal.
The warning signal is suppressed if the master control unit receives trailer connection information from the trailer connection module (system message automatic diagnostics). The trailer body significantly limits the range of radar sensors.
Lane change warning system is faulty, deactivated or limited
Instructions for service
General instructions
No calibration of radar sensors is required. When replacing a radar sensor or working on its mounting, a service function must be performed. As a result, the correction angle will be recorded in the radar sensors.Diagnostic guidelines
The following service function is available for SWW via the diagnostic system:
- Commissioning SWW sensors (= lane change alarm)
Path: Service functions> Driver assistance > Lane change warning system
We reserve the right to make typographical errors, semantic errors and technical changes.
Automotive lane change assistance systems
Very often, the cause of a traffic accident is the maneuver of changing lanes from one lane to another. Many modern cars have systems that allow these maneuvers to be performed more safely. These are so-called lane change assistance systems. They are also called blind spot information systems, safe lane change systems, etc. They all serve one purpose - to warn of the danger of a collision with cars in the blind spot.
Which manufacturers offer lane change assistance systems?
Various automakers use their own developments in the field of assistance during rebuilding. Volkswagen and Audi use the Side Assist system in their cars. BMW cars have the LCW (Lane Change Warning) system. The Japanese concern Mazda has developed a Rear Vehicle Monitoring system. The American automobile giant Ford uses the BLISTM (Blind Spot Information System) system. Volvo – BLIS (Blind Spot Information System). Mercedes-Benz concern - Blind Spot Assist or BSA system. In the premium segment, Porshe has developed a high-quality lane change assistance system - it is called SWA.
Side Assist - Audi's system
The Side Assist system developed by Audi has been recognized several times as the most reliable. For example, the European Independent Committee for Automotive Safety recognized Side Assist as the best in 2010. similar system. Radars are used as sensors in the Side Assist system. They control the space behind and on the sides of the car. If the driver initiates a lane change maneuver, the system triggers a warning signal if there is any traffic obstruction.
Structurally, Side Assist is designed as follows. There is a system on/off button on the turn signal handle. The radars are located in the side mirrors on the left and right. There are also built-in signal LEDs that turn on if there is a risk of collision when performing a maneuver. A warning indicator is also installed on the instrument panel.
To turn on the system, you need to click on the button on the turn signal lever. In this case, Side Assist will only start working at a speed of at least 60 km/h. Special radars installed in the side exterior mirror housings emit a radio signal into blind spots. Based on the reflection of the signal, the system determines the presence of vehicles interfering with the maneuver. In addition to radars, ultrasonic sensors or video cameras can be installed.
Radars on the left and right sides of the car operate separately. They are able to analyze incoming information. For example, the system can distinguish between moving objects, that is, cars, and stationary ones, such as barriers, fences, poles, trees, parked cars, and so on. If the Side Assist electronics decide that the maneuver is dangerous, the lamp will turn on. The signal lamp operates in two modes. If the indicator is constantly on, then some object is in the dead zone. And if you start changing lanes when there are obstacles, the lamp will flash. The system determines the moment of changing lanes by turning on the turn signals. If you are turning into the left lane, the information from the right radar will not be taken into account. This indication is very convenient, as it allows you to monitor the situation at all times in order to select in advance the moment to safely perform the maneuver.
Features of Volvo's BLIS system
Volvo's BLIS system works on a different principle. The radar function in it is performed by a miniature digital camera that can shoot up to 25 frames per second. This implementation has a significant drawback - the camera will have low efficiency in bad weather conditions, for example, in a rainstorm or snowstorm. The BLIS system is turned on using a button located on the instrument panel. The automation starts working at a speed of 10 km/h.
A maneuver such as changing lanes into an adjacent lane can cause a collision. No matter how good the visibility from the car is, no matter how comfortable and large the rear view is on the car, there are always sections of the road that are not visible in the mirrors.
These are the so-called “blind spots”. In another vehicle, a truck moving in the next row may be hiding in such a “blind spot.” When changing lanes, the driver simply does not see him, and therefore a lane change assistance system was invented and implemented.
There are blind spots
The purpose of this system is to warn the driver about invisible obstacles when changing lanes. The system is otherwise called a blind spot information system, a blind spot monitoring system, or a safe lane change system.
Trade names are also different:
- Lane Change Warning from BMW;
- Blind Spot Assist from Mercedes-Benz;
- Blind Spot Information System, BLISTM from Ford;
- Spurwechselassistent from Porshe;
- Blind Spot Information System, BLIS from Volvo;
- Rear Vehicle Monitoring from Mazda;
- Side Assist from Audi and Volkswagen.
How does the lane change assistance system work?
Algorithms for operating production systems different companies very similar, but devices that differ in operating principles are used as mechanisms for monitoring the situation and alerting the driver.
This is how the system works. The area behind the vehicle is under surveillance. If there is an obstacle in the blind spot when turning on the turn signal, the driver is notified.
How the system works
Main components of the system:
- radars (video cameras or ultrasonic sensors) located in the exterior mirrors to scan the situation behind the vehicle;
- electronic control units (there are two of them, one on each side of the car) - process the received information to control moving cars and stationary objects (poles, parked cars, etc.) and, in case of danger, send a command to alarm devices;
- light and sound indicators to notify the driver of danger.
The system is turned on manually, but only comes into operation when the car accelerates to 60 km/h.
The light alarm operates in two modes. If there is an object in the blind spot, the indicator lights up continuously and begins to flash if the driven vehicle begins to change lanes.
An intermittent sound signal is given only if an obstacle is detected in the blind spot when changing lanes.
On the first cars equipped with the system, additional warning lights turning in the side mirrors. Now this has become a generally accepted norm and the presence of lights in the mirrors does not mean that the car is equipped with a lane change assistance system.
Video:
Comparative tests have shown that the use of radars in the system is preferable. Ultrasonic sensors work well over relatively short distances, and the reliability of the video camera is highly dependent on weather conditions.
