More recently, for ordinary motorists it was a curiosity to have electronic systems supported by automation in the car. Today, many such assistants are used, some of which are actively involved in the direct control of driving. One of the most significant can be called a system of directional stability, which is responsible for correcting the moment of force of the wheels. This technology is labeled as ESC (Electronic Stability Control) and is most often available as an option for models no lower than the middle class. However, some automakers are starting to offer similar devices for low-cost vehicles.
Technical implementation of the system
The mechanism for providing directional or dynamic stability is a set of functional components, including a control unit, sensors and hydraulic actuators.
Sensitive elements (sensors) in the process of recording the parameters of the car’s movement and evaluate the driver’s actions by sending the corresponding data to the control unit. For example, the steering angle, brake light condition, wheel speed and brake pressure are taken into account. Next, the control unit of the stability control system based on the received signals sends commands to the executive equipment. At this stage, valves, brake system pressure switches, optical elements, etc. are involved.
Hydraulic devices, depending on the settings, can control the behavior of the car on the road, affecting, among other things, the gearbox.
Operating principle
A potentially dangerous or emergency situation, the risk of which the stabilizer determines by comparing the vehicle’s motion parameters and the owner’s actions, can be considered the moment the system enters the control process. So, if the system of exchange rate stability reveals the difference between the actual indicators of the state of the car and previously established ones, the situation will be recognized as uncontrolled and partly the control will go to ESC modules.
It is important to note the significance of the parameters that are taken as critical. The user configures them himself first, and if during the driving process for one reason or another they are violated, the system enters the work automatically.
Now another question - how is direct control achieved? Much depends on the specific version, but standard ESC stability control systems implement control through the following actions:
- Changing the torque of the power unit.
- Braking of wheels (all or some separately).
- Correction of the degree of depreciation damping (if the car is equipped with adaptive suspension).
- Changing the angle of rotation of the wheels (if active steering is provided).
Additional functionality
ESC modules can have different configurations - from basic to advanced with a specific set of subsystems. In particular, brake boilers, moisture removing devices, temperature correctors, units that prevent the machine from tipping over, etc. can optionally be added. It is also possible to expand functions at the program level. This refers to the electronic change of torque parameters or the inclusion of sound and light signals.
In machines equipped with a hooking device, the stability control system can be supplemented with stabilization of the road train. This mechanism is designed to prevent vibrations when driving with a trailer.
Active means of improving the reliability of the brakes are usually focused on the regulation of their power function, but ESC also allows you to adjust the lack of adhesion between the brake discs and pads.
Differences from ESP Technology
Fundamentally, these systems differ slightly, and the key tasks coincide completely. This is to prevent skidding, maintain trajectory and generally eliminate any collision risks. The only difference is how to achieve these goals. So, the ESP system of directional stability is more focused on the programmed regulation of the motion parameters and in conjunction with the traction control module.
In terms of technical structure, technologies also mostly coincide. The ESP kit contains the same electronic control unit and sensors, which are called G-sensors. That is, the emphasis is on the quality of registration of operating parameters, and not on the means of their practical change. The ESP exchange rate stability system intervenes in the control process not at the expense of its own infrastructure, but by changing the current functional indicators of the engine, brake system and devices responsible for active safety - the same anti-slip module.
What do you need to install the ESC complex?
It is precisely because of the interaction of stabilizers with related safety systems that such equipment will require an appropriate kit. Depending on the type of ESC and the assigned functional tasks, it may be necessary to pre-install the anti-lock braking system and the engine control unit.
There are also nuances of using an electronic stability control system for cars with manual transmissions. Full control control by regulating the transmission unit in this case will not be ensured. Also, the ability to connect electrical devices, including sensors, to the on-board network is calculated in advance.
The disadvantages of the system of exchange rate stability
ESC modules have many benefits related to driver safety. In addition, this assistant is also an ergonomic addition, in some cases simplifying driving.
But there are situations in which the same module will speak from the negative sides. For example, if an experienced driver wants to get out of a drift due to a gas amplification. In this case, the vehicle stability control system will not allow this, limiting the fuel supply and cutting torque. The way out is the stabilizer shutdown button, which is worth remembering in such conflicting situations.
Finally
Electronic driver assistance systems for driving show an example of the effective interaction of the car's software filling and mechanics. Moreover, annually advanced auto giants offer new and more advanced modifications of such assistants. For example, in the latest versions of the ESC stability control system provide a response in just 20 ms. And this is regardless of the current speed and driving mode. But, as already noted, this technology is not available to all motorists. Owners of inexpensive domestic models, for example, can only be purchased as an option and for a considerable amount of money compared to other additional equipment.