Advanced driver assistance system

Types of Advanced Driver Assistance System

Vehicles with advanced driver assistance systems have made driving easier and safer. The systems use automated technology to monitor the environment surrounding the vehicle. They assist the driver in driving and parking tasks to increase safety and convenience. There are several types of advanced driver assistance systems, including:

• Adaptive Cruise Control: This system automatically controls the speed of the vehicle. It allows the driver to set a desired speed, which the system maintains. It also monitors the traffic flow ahead and adjusts the speed accordingly. When the traffic is dense, the system slows down the car and brings it to a standstill. It can also accelerate the vehicle when the road is clear. By doing so, the system takes away the need of the driver to frequently use the brake pedal or the accelerator.
• Lane-keeping Assistance: Lane-keeping assistance is a technology that helps keep vehicles in their designated traffic lanes. It uses cameras to monitor lane markings on the road. If the vehicle starts drifting into an adjacent lane unintentionally, the system alerts the driver. It can also provide gentle steering inputs to bring the vehicle back to the correct lane position.
• Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB): AEB is designed to detect potential collisions with another vehicle or an obstacle ahead. If the system detects a possible crash and the driver does not respond in time, it automatically applies the brakes. The technology can either reduce the speed of impact or completely stop the vehicle to avoid or minimize the collision.
• Blind Spot Detection: This technology assists drivers in changing lanes or merging into traffic. It uses sensors or cameras to monitor areas alongside and behind the vehicle that are not visible in the side mirrors. If another vehicle enters the driver's blind spot, the system warns the driver. It can alert them through visual indicators on the side mirrors or an audible signal.
• Parking Assistance: Parking assistance systems help drivers in parking maneuvers. These systems use ultrasonic sensors or cameras to detect obstacles around the vehicle while parking. The system provides visual and auditory feedback, such as proximity alerts, to guide the driver. Some advanced parking assistance systems can even take over the steering and parallel park the car autonomously.
• Traffic Sign Recognition: This system uses cameras to read and interpret traffic signs. It detects signs such as speed limits, stop signs, and traffic signals. The system then displays the relevant information on the vehicle's dashboard or infotainment screen. By doing so, it ensures that the driver is aware of the current traffic rules and conditions.

Specifications and maintenance of the advanced driver assistance system

Advanced driver assistance systems are becoming more common in vehicles today. They make driving safer and more accessible. Each system has its own unique features that help drivers in various ways. These features need to be looked after to keep the system working correctly. Below are the specifications and maintenance of the advanced driver assistance system.

• Specifications

  ADAS has a lot of specifications that help with driving safety and convenience. Below are some of them;

  - Lidar- It is a key technology used in self-driving cars. Lidar measures distances by illuminating a target with laser light and analyzing the reflected light. It helps the car create a 3D model of the environment.

  - Radar- It is also a key technology for ADAS. Radar can see through rain, fog, and snow. It uses radio waves to measure the speed and distance of objects. Radar helps with adaptive cruise control and collision avoidance systems.

  - Camera- Advanced driver assistance systems use front, rear, and surround view cameras. The cameras help with lane tracking, parking assistance, and pedestrian detection by providing a visual feed of the car's surroundings.

  - Ultrasonic sensors- They enable close-range detection. They are used for parking assistance and blind-spot monitoring by measuring distances to nearby objects.

  - GPS- Global positioning systems provide location data for navigation and mapping. It enables real-time tracking of the vehicle's position on the road.

  - High-definition maps- These maps offer detailed information about the road network, including lane configurations, traffic signs, and landmarks. They assist in precise navigation and localization for autonomous vehicles.

  - Sensor fusion- It is a technology that integrates data from multiple sensors (Lidar, radar, cameras, and GPS) to create a comprehensive understanding of the vehicle's environment. Sensor fusion enhances the reliability and accuracy of advanced driver assistance systems by combining information from different sources.

• Maintenance

  ADAS needs regular care for safety and functionality. Below is some of the needed maintenance:

  - Sensor cleaning- The sensors (cameras, radar, Lidar) used by ADAS should be cleaned regularly. Dirt, dust, or debris can obscure their ability and lead to inaccurate readings or system failures. Clean the sensors at regular intervals or more frequently in dirty environments or after off-road use to ensure optimal performance.

  - Sensor calibration- The sensor's positions and performance may change over time due to normal wear and tear, accidents, or modifications. This can affect the accuracy of ADAS. The sensors should be calibrated according to the manufacturer's specifications. Calibration involves adjusting the sensors' positions and settings to ensure they work together correctly.

  - Software updates-ADAS relies on software to process data from sensors and make decisions. Manufacturers release software updates regularly to improve performance, add new features, and fix bugs. The software should be updated per the manufacturer's instructions. This can be done by visiting an authorized service center or using over-the-air updates.

  - Tire maintenance-ADAS uses data from the tires to monitor road conditions and assist with functions like adaptive cruise control. Proper tire maintenance is crucial for the system's accuracy. The tires should be maintained according to the manufacturer's specifications. This includes checking and adjusting tire pressure, rotating tires regularly for even wear, and replacing them when worn out.

  - Regular inspections-ADAS components should be inspected regularly for signs of wear, damage, or malfunction. This includes checking the condition of sensors, wiring, connectors, and other related parts. Any issues should be addressed promptly to prevent potential ADAS problems.

How to Choose of Advanced Driver Assistance System

When sourcing ADAS products for resale, consider the following:

• Market Demand

  What is the target market for the ADAS product? Is there enough demand to generate sales? Research trends in the automotive aftermarket to identify popular ADAS features among consumers. For instance, urban areas with high traffic density may have more demand for collision avoidance systems.

• Aftermarket Potential

  Assess the potential of each ADAS feature in the aftermarket. Easy-to-install gadgets like blind-spot monitors may attract DIY customers looking to save on installation costs. More complex systems requiring professional calibration, such as lidar-based mapping, may appeal to luxury car owners who prioritize precision.

• Compatibility

  ADAS features vary in their compatibility across vehicle makes and models. Some devices are designed for universal application, while others have specifications tailored to particular brands or even model years. Focus on sourcing products with broader applicability to avoid customer disappointment due to incompatibility.

• Quality and Reliability

  Due to the critical nature of some ADAS functions, premium quality should be a top priority. Holes or blind spots in sensor coverage could cause more accidents than they prevent! Research suppliers' reputations thoroughly and source from brands known for durability. Warranty offers can help mitigate purchasers' risks and enhance product attractiveness.

• Ease of Installation

  Many consumers prefer aftermarket solutions because they are more affordable than integrated OEM systems. Therefore, sourcing stand-alone products that are easy to install can yield significant savings in the long run. Manufacturers should provide clear installation instructions, along with necessary components such as mounting hardware and calibration tools.

• Training and Support

  Some ADAS products require specialized knowledge for installation and maintenance. If planning to source such systems, evaluate suppliers' training programs. Do they offer technician training courses, either in-person or online? What kind of technical support is available?

• Regulatory Compliance

  ADAS products must comply with local laws and standards, including certifications for safety and performance. Research relevant regulations to ensure sourced products meet requirements. For instance, some regions have stringent rules on windshield replacement quality when installing new ADAS sensors.

• Future-Proofing

  Investing in technology that will soon become obsolete is a recipe for business failure. Therefore, consider the longevity of the features being sourced. ADAS is a rapidly evolving field, so focus on scalable solutions that can be upgraded through software or hardware enhancements over time.

How to DIY and replace Advanced Driver Assistance System

The complexity of most advanced driver assistance systems makes it difficult to install or replace them without professional help. However, some simple ones like parking sensors can be installed as a DIY project. Below are some of the steps that need to be followed when installing the parking sensor as a DIY project.

• Find a suitable location to install the sensors. They should be installed in the center and on the two corners of the rear bumper.
• Prepare the parking sensor. Drill holes on the bumper and insert the sensors. Connect the wiring through the holes.
• Mount the control unit. Find a suitable location like the trunk to mount the control unit and connect all the wiring to it.
• Connect the power supply. Connect the control unit to the car’s power system.
• Test the system to ensure it works as required.

It is important to note that different parking sensors have different installation methods. Always follow the manufacturer's instruction manual.

For other systems like lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control, it is advisable to seek professional help. Attempting to install them without the right knowledge and tools can be dangerous.

Once the system has been installed, it is important to maintain and regularly check it to ensure it is working properly. This can be done by inspecting the sensors, cameras, and other components for damages and clean them to remove any dirt that may affect their functionality.

Also, ensure all the connections are secure and there are no loose wires that can cause the system to malfunction. Test the system to make sure it is working as expected. If any issues are detected, consult a professional.

Q&A

Q1: What is the difference between L1 and L2 ADAS?

A1: L1 is where the car can assist the driver with one thing at a time, like steering or braking, but not both together. L2 is when the car can do more, like steering, braking, and accelerating all at the same time, but it still needs the driver to be fully engaged and ready to take over at any moment.

Q2: What are the four levels of ADAS?

A2: The four levels are Level 0 (no assistance), Level A (some assistance), Level B (enhanced assistance), and Level C (full automation). With Level A, the user can perform most tasks but needs help with some, like guiding the camera to shoot.

Q3: How long does it take to calibrate ADAS?

A3: The time it takes to calibrate ADAS can vary depending on the system being used and the car it's being done on. It can take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours or more in some cases. Factors that affect calibration time include the complexity of the ADAS, the condition of the vehicle, and the accuracy of the calibration equipment.

Q4: What does an ADAS technician do?

A4: An ADAS technician is a highly skilled person who sets up and fixes advanced driver assistance systems in cars. These systems help drivers stay safe and can even help drive the car. The ADAS technician makes sure everything is installed correctly, tested, and working well so drivers are protected and the car features are reliable.

Q5: Can ADAS be installed in older cars?

A5: Yes, it's possible to install ADAS in older cars. Aftermarket systems can be added, but their compatibility and performance may vary. Consult with a professional to explore options that suit the specific vehicle.