Module 1 Notes
Module 1 Notes
Introduction :
Evolution of Automotive Electronics -Basic Control System Theory applied to
Automobiles -Overview of the Operation of ECUs -Infotainment, Body, Chassis, and
Powertrain Electronics-Advanced Driver Assistance Systems-Autonomous Vehicles.
1965
• Solid-state radio: Transition from vacuum tubes to solid-state transistors in car radios,
making them more reliable and compact.
• Alternator rectifier: Improved charging system for the car's electrical system,
replacing the generator and providing more consistent power to the battery.
1970
1980
• Electronic voltage regulator: More precise control of the vehicle’s electrical system,
improving battery life and overall electrical performance.
• Electronic engine controller: Early engine management systems that electronically
controlled fuel and ignition systems for better efficiency and emissions control.
• Electronic instrument cluster: Digital dashboards that replace traditional mechanical
gauges with electronic displays.
• Electronic fuel injection: Improved fuel delivery system that enhances engine
performance and reduces emissions compared to carburetors.
1985
• Clock integrated with radio: Combining the clock display with the car radio interface,
simplifying the dashboard design.
• Audio graphic equalizer: Enhanced audio systems with adjustable sound frequencies
for better sound quality.
• Electronic air suspension: Suspension system that uses electronic controls to adjust
ride height and quality for improved comfort and handling.
1990
• Antilock brakes (ABS): Safety system that prevents wheels from locking up during
braking, maintaining traction and control.
• Integrated engine and speed control: More advanced engine management systems
integrating various controls for better performance and fuel efficiency.
• Cellular phones: Introduction of mobile phone integration in vehicles, allowing for
communication on the go.
• Power doors and windows: Electronic controls for operating car doors and windows,
adding convenience for users.
1995
• Collision avoidance: Systems that use sensors and radar to detect potential collisions
and warn the driver or take corrective actions.
• Autonomous cruise control: Adaptive cruise control that adjusts the vehicle’s speed
based on traffic conditions.
• Vehicle stability enhancement: Electronic stability control systems that help maintain
vehicle stability during extreme maneuvers.
• CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission): Transmission system that provides a
smooth and efficient transition between gears without distinct steps.
2005
2010
An open loop control system is the one in which the output signal is not fed back to the input
of the system. Therefore, an open loop control system is also referred to as a non-feedback
control system.
In case of open loop control system, the output has no control on the control action of the
system. Thus, the open loop control system follows its input signals regardless of the final
results. The block diagram of the open loop control system is shown in Figure. Here, the main
components are: controller and plant (or processing system). The input is supplied to the
controller which produces an actuating signal (or control signal). This actuating single is
supplied to the plant or processing system which is to be controlled.
The major disadvantage of an open loop control system is that it is poorly equipped to handle
the disturbances which may reduce its ability to complete the desired task. Some common
examples of open loop control system are: traffic light system, field-controlled DC motor,
automatic washing machine, immersion rod, etc.
A closed loop control system is the one in which the output signal is fed-back to the input of
the system. Therefore, in a closed loop control system, the control action is a function of desired
output signal. The main components of a closed loop control system are − controller, plant,
error detector or comparator and feedback element which are connected together as shown in
Figure. The error detector accepts input signal and feedback signal to produce an error signal
which is the difference of input and feedback signals. The feedback signal is the sample of
output of the overall system.
Now, the error signal is supplied to the controller to produce an actuating signal which controls
the plant or processing system to produce desired results. Therefore, in the closed loop control
system, the input of the system is automatically adjusted to produce a desired response from
the system. The common examples of closed loop control system are − air conditioner system,
rocket launching system, radar tracking system, human respiratory system, Anti-lock Braking
System (ABS) etc.
Proportional, integral, and derivative Controller
Speed Sensors
The speed sensors are responsible for calculating the wheel's acceleration and
deceleration. They consist of toothed wheels, electromagnetic coils, or magnets with
Hall Effect sensors that generate signals. As the wheel or differentials of the vehicle
rotate, they induce a magnetic field around the sensor, creating voltage fluctuations.
The controller receives these signals and interprets the wheel's acceleration and
deceleration based on the voltage readings.
Valves
Each brake line controlled by the ABS is equipped with a valve. In some systems, the
valve operates in three positions. In position one, the valve remains open, allowing
pressure from the master cylinder to pass through to the brakes. In position two, the
valve blocks the line, isolating the brake from the master cylinder, which prevents
further pressure increase to the brakes. Position two is activated when the driver applies
the brake more forcefully. In position three, the valve releases some pressure from the
brake system. Valve clogging is a common issue in ABS systems, impeding their ability
to open, close, or change positions. A malfunctioning valve can prevent the system from
modulating the valves and controlling pressure on the brakes.
Pump
The pump is utilised to restore pressure to the hydraulic brakes after the valve releases
the pressure. When the controller detects wheel slip, it sends signals to release the valve.
After the valve releases the pressure applied by the driver, the pump restores the desired
amount of pressure to the braking system. The controller modulates the pump's status
to provide the desired amount of pressure and reduce wheel slippage.
Controller (ECU Type)
The ABS system's controller functions as an Electronic Control Unit (ECU). It receives
information from individual wheel speed sensors, and if a wheel loses traction with the
ground, a signal is sent to the controller. In response, the controller limits the brake
force (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution - EBD) and activates the ABS modulator. The
activated ABS modulator actuates the braking valves on and off, varying the pressure
on the brakes accordingly.
1. Pump
• The pump is responsible for circulating hydraulic fluid through the system. It draws
fluid from the reservoir and pushes it under pressure through the circuit to assist with
steering.
2. Reservoir
• The reservoir holds the hydraulic fluid used in the system. It serves as a storage for the
fluid when it is not being circulated by the pump and collects fluid returning from the
circuit.
•
3. Power Cylinder
• The power cylinder is an actuator that uses hydraulic pressure to assist in steering.
When hydraulic fluid is directed into one side of the cylinder, it creates pressure that
helps move the steering mechanism, reducing the physical effort required from the
driver.
4. ECU Controlled Solenoid Valve
• This valve, controlled by the Electronic Control Unit (ECU), directs the flow of
hydraulic fluid to the appropriate side of the power cylinder. By controlling this valve,
the ECU can adjust the amount of assistance provided based on factors like vehicle
speed, steering wheel angle, and driver input.
5. Restrictions R and L
• These are flow restrictors placed on either side of the power cylinder. They help control
the flow of hydraulic fluid, thereby influencing the speed and efficiency of the power
assist. "R" likely stands for Right and "L" for Left, indicating the direction the wheel is
turned.
Flow Path
• Hydraulic fluid flows from the pump to the power cylinder. Depending on the direction
the steering wheel is turned, the ECU adjusts the solenoid valve to direct the fluid
through either Restriction R or Restriction L. The fluid’s movement through these
restrictors helps move the piston in the power cylinder, which in turn assists the steering
mechanism. Excess fluid flows back to the reservoir, completing the circuit.
1. Sensors
• These collect data from various aspects of the vehicle's performance and
environmental conditions, including:
• Speed
• Engine revolutions per minute (RPM)
• Brake system pressure
• Steering angle
• Chassis acceleration
• Wheel acceleration
• Throttle position
• Load (weight distribution and changes)
2. Microcomputer-Based ECU (Electronic Control Unit)
• This is the central processing unit of the system. It receives data from the sensors and
processes this information to make decisions about how to adjust the damping of the
suspension.
• The ECU can change settings based on the mode selected (e.g., sport or comfort),
which affects the response of the dampers.
3. Sport/Comfort Switch
• Allows the driver to select between different damping profiles. For example, 'Sport'
mode typically firms up the suspension for better handling and road feel, while
'Comfort' mode softens the suspension for a smoother ride over bumps and less road
noise.
4. Driver’s Display
• Provides feedback to the driver about the current setting of the damping system and
possibly other diagnostic or system status information.
5. Solenoid Valves
• These are controlled by the ECU to regulate the hydraulic or pneumatic pressure to
the dampers. By adjusting the flow of fluid or air in the dampers, these valves change
the stiffness of the suspension.
6. Spring and Damper
• Each wheel has a spring and damper (shock absorber) unit. The damper’s stiffness is
adjusted by the solenoid valves under the command of the ECU, based on the inputs
from the sensors and the selected driving mode.
Inputs
The system receives inputs from several sensors and switches:
• Wheel Speed Sensors: Provide data on each wheel's rotation speed, crucial for both
ABS and traction control operations.
• Battery: Supplies electrical power to the system.
• TRAC OFF Switch: Allows the driver to manually disable the traction control
function.
• Stop Light Switch: Detects when the brake pedal is pressed, activating the brake
lights and signaling the ABS/ECU to potentially engage.
• Throttle Position Sensor: Sends data regarding the position of the throttle, which is
vital for the traction control system to understand how much power is being requested
by the driver.
Process Units
• TRAC ECU (Electronic Control Unit): This is the central processor for the ABS
and traction control systems. It receives data from the inputs, analyzes it, and sends
commands to the appropriate components to adjust the vehicle’s dynamics.
• ECM (Engine Control Module): Receives signals from the ABS/TRAC ECU,
particularly in traction control scenarios where engine output needs adjustment. It
manages engine functions like fuel injection and the operation of shift solenoids.
Outputs from the TRAC ECU include:
• Actuator Solenoids: Engage to control the hydraulic pressure to the brakes during
ABS intervention or adjust brake pressure for traction control.
• Actuator Pump Motor: Works to maintain the necessary hydraulic pressure in the
brake system, crucial during ABS engagement.
• Slip Indicator Light: Illuminates on the dashboard when a slip is detected or when
traction control is actively modulating power or brake pressure.
• TRAC OFF Light: Lights up to indicate that the traction control system has been
manually turned off by the driver.
• ABS Warning Light: Activates to alert the driver of any potential issues within the
ABS system.
Outputs influenced by the ECM include:
• Injectors: The ECM can adjust the fuel injectors to reduce engine power if necessary
to help regain traction.
• Shift Solenoid Valves: Used in automatic transmissions to control gear shifts, these
may be adjusted to reduce engine output during traction control operations.
Working System :
• When wheel slip is detected (like during sudden acceleration on a slippery surface),
the wheel speed sensors send this data to the TRAC ECU.
• The ECU processes this information and may decide to reduce engine torque. It sends
a signal to the ECM, which then adjusts the injectors and shift solenoids accordingly.
• Simultaneously, the ECU may activate the actuator solenoids to modulate brake
pressure to the slipping wheel(s) to regain traction.
• The driver is informed about the system's status and actions through various indicator
lights on the dashboard.
Body ECUs
Body control modules (BCMs) manage the electrical systems and subsystems within the
vehicle's body. They are responsible for:
• Lighting: Controlling interior and exterior lights (headlights, indicators, ambient
lighting).
• Climate Control: Managing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC)
systems.
• Locks and Security: Controlling door locks, anti-theft systems, and keyless entry.
• Windows and Mirrors: Operating power windows, mirrors, and sunroofs.
•
The provided image is a block diagram of a Body Control Module (BCM) in a vehicle. The
BCM is responsible for managing various body-related functions, such as lighting, door
locks, wipers, and climate control. Let's break down the components and flow of the diagram:
Components and Connections
1. Power Supply
1. Reverse Battery Protection: Prevents damage if the battery is connected
backward.
2. Voltage Regulator: Maintains a consistent voltage level.
3. Tracking LDO: Low Dropout Regulator to provide stable voltage.
4. Watchdog: Monitors the system to ensure it is operating correctly and resets
the MCU if necessary.
5. Supervisor: Provides additional monitoring and control functions for the
power supply.
2. Communication Interfaces
1. CAN Bus: Controller Area Network for communication between different
ECUs in the vehicle.
1. CAN ESD: Electrostatic Discharge protection for the CAN bus.
2. CAN: Interface for the CAN communication.
2. LIN Bus: Local Interconnect Network for communication with lower-speed
components.
1. LIN ESD: Electrostatic Discharge protection for the LIN bus.
2. LIN: Interface for the LIN communication.
3. Microcontroller Unit (MCU)
The MCU is the central processing unit that manages all inputs and outputs, processes
data, and controls various body functions.
4. Discrete Inputs: Digital signals from various switches and sensors (e.g., AC/Heater,
Ignition key, Parking brake, Lighting, Wiper/Washer, Door sensors, Radio anti-theft).
1. MSDI/MUX: Multi-Switch Detection Interface/Multiplexer for handling
multiple digital inputs.
5. Analog Inputs: Analog signals from sensors (e.g., Temperature sensor, Light sensor,
Current feedback).
1. MSDI/MUX: Multi-Switch Detection Interface/Multiplexer for handling
multiple analog inputs.
2. Op Amp: Operational Amplifier to process analog signals.
6. Diagnostic Inputs: Includes Reference, Comparator, Current Sense, Temperature
Sense, and Logic for diagnostics and monitoring.
7. Output Drivers
High-Side (HS) Switches: Control power to various high-side loads.
Low-Side (LS) Switches: Control power to various low-side loads.
8. Relay Drivers: Control relays for high-current applications.
9. Motor Drivers: Drive motors for windows, mirrors, etc.
10. Current Sense: Monitor current flow to detect overcurrent conditions.
11. Load Drivers: Drive various loads like lights, pumps, etc.
12. LED Drivers: Control LEDs for tell-tale indicators on the dashboard.
Output Functions
• Various output functions controlled by the BCM, including:
• Ignition Relay
• Heater/Defroster
• Exterior Lighting
• Wiper/Washer
• Interior Lighting
• Fuel Pump
• Door Lock
• BTSI (Brake Transmission Shift Interlock)
• Window/Sunroof
Working of Body Control Module (BCM)
1. Power Management: The power supply section ensures that all components receive a
stable voltage and are protected from faults like reverse polarity.
2. Input Handling: Discrete and analog inputs from various sensors and switches are
processed by the MCU. This includes signals for temperature, lighting, ignition, and
more.
3. Processing and Control: The MCU processes the input signals using its onboard logic
and diagnostics capabilities. It makes decisions based on the input data and pre-
programmed algorithms.
4. Communication: The MCU communicates with other ECUs in the vehicle via the
CAN and LIN buses, exchanging information and coordinating actions.
5. Output Control: Based on the processed input data and communication with other
ECUs, the MCU controls various output drivers to activate relays, motors, lights, and
other actuators.
6. Diagnostics and Monitoring: The system continuously monitors its operation through
diagnostic inputs and watchdog functions to ensure everything is functioning correctly
and to take corrective actions if needed.
Powertrain ECUs
Powertrain ECUs oversee the vehicle's engine and transmission, optimizing
performance and efficiency. Their main responsibilities include:
• Engine Control: Managing fuel injection, ignition timing, and emission controls.
• Transmission Control: Overseeing gear shifts in automatic and semi-automatic
transmissions.
• Hybrid/Electric Power Management: Controlling the interaction between internal
combustion engines and electric motors in hybrid and electric vehicles.
Fuel Efficiency: Implementing strategies for improving fuel economy and reducing
emissions.
The provided image is a block diagram illustrating the functions and control of an engine in a
vehicle. Let's break down the components and their interactions:
Key Components and Their Functions
1. Engine Status Sensors
1. Role: Monitor various parameters of the engine, such as temperature, pressure,
and rotational speed.
2. Output: Send data to the Engine Control Unit (ECU) for processing.
2. Engine Control Unit (ECU)
1. Role: Acts as the brain of the engine management system, processing data
from the sensors and controlling various actuators.
2. Inputs: Receives data from the engine status sensors.
3. Outputs: Sends control signals to the ignition system, fuel metering system,
and other components.
3. MAF Sensor (Mass Air Flow Sensor)
1. Role: Measures the amount of air entering the engine through the throttle
plate.
2. Output: Provides data to the ECU for air-fuel ratio calculations.
4. Throttle Plate
1. Role: Controls the amount of air entering the engine based on the driver's
input (accelerator pedal position).
2. Connection: Works in conjunction with the MAF sensor to regulate airflow.
5. Fuel Metering
1. Role: Controls the amount of fuel injected into the engine cylinders.
2. Control: Managed by the ECU based on data from the MAF sensor and other
inputs to maintain the optimal air-fuel ratio.
6.Ignition System
• Role: Controls the timing and delivery of spark to the spark plugs.
• Components: Includes spark plugs, ignition coils, and associated wiring.
• Control: Managed by the ECU to ensure proper combustion timing.
7. EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) Valve
• Role: Recirculates a portion of the exhaust gases back into the engine intake to reduce
nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions.
• Control: Managed by the ECU based on engine load and speed conditions.
8. Engine
• Role: Converts fuel into mechanical energy to power the vehicle.
• Components: Includes the combustion chambers, pistons, crankshaft, and valves.
9. Driveshaft
• Role: Transfers mechanical power from the engine to the vehicle's wheels.
• Connection: Connected to the engine and powertrain.
10 Catalytic Converter
• Role: Reduces harmful emissions from the engine by converting exhaust gases into
less harmful substances.
• Connection: Placed in the exhaust system after the engine.
11. EGO (Exhaust Gas Oxygen) Sensor
• Role: Monitors the oxygen content in the exhaust gases.
• Output: Provides feedback to the ECU for adjusting the air-fuel ratio.
12. Exhaust Emissions
• Role: Final output of the engine's combustion process, including gases like CO2,
NOx, and unburned hydrocarbons.
• Control: Managed by the catalytic converter and other emission control devices.
Working of Electronic engine control system
1. Data Collection: Engine status sensors continuously monitor various parameters of
the engine and send this data to the ECU.
2. Air Intake Regulation: The throttle plate controls the amount of air entering the
engine. The MAF sensor measures this airflow and sends the data to the ECU.
3. Fuel Injection: Based on the air intake data from the MAF sensor and other inputs,
the ECU calculates the optimal amount of fuel to inject into the engine. The fuel
metering system then delivers this precise amount of fuel.
4. Ignition Control: The ECU controls the ignition system to ensure the spark plugs fire
at the correct time, ensuring efficient combustion.
5. Combustion Process: The air-fuel mixture is ignited by the spark plugs, causing
combustion in the engine cylinders. This combustion generates power, which is
transferred to the driveshaft.
6. Emission Control: The EGR valve recirculates some exhaust gases back into the
engine to reduce NOx emissions. The catalytic converter further processes the exhaust
gases to reduce harmful emissions before they are released into the atmosphere.
7. Feedback Loop: The EGO sensor monitors the oxygen content in the exhaust gases
and provides feedback to the ECU. The ECU uses this information to adjust the air-
fuel ratio for optimal combustion and emission control.
Electronic Transmission control unit:
The primary function of this fuel control system is to accurately determine the mass air flow
rate into the engine. Then the control system precisely regulates fuel delivery such that the ratio
of the mass of air to the mass of fuel in each cylinder is as close as possible to stoichiometry.
The components of this block diagram are as follows:
1. Throttle position sensor (TPS)
2. Mass air flow sensor (MAF)
3. Fuel injectors (FI)
4. Ignition systems (IGN)
5. Exhaust gas oxygen sensor (EGO)
6. Engine coolant sensor (ECS)
7. Engine position sensor (EPS)
The EPS has the capability of measuring crankshaft angular speed (RPM) a well as
crankshaft angular position when it is used in conjunction with a stable and precise electronic
clock (in the controller).