Driving is more fun when you have the convenience of electronic and computer technologies to give drivers a greater sense of security and control. Jet-fighter technology is behind one of the latest automotive innovations that helps improve safety by reducing the stress associated with highway driving.An enhanced radar-based cruise control system helps eliminate some of the problems associated with using cruise control systems-such as turning the system on and off in heavy traffic.
Eaton Vorad's SmartCruise® System works by directing a radar beam forward to keep track of vehicles ahead of you. Using this information the system establishes and maintains a pre-set following distance selected by the driver-even around freeway curves and in crowded traffic.
When closing in on another vehicle too quickly, if the driver doesn't respond, the system automatically releases the accelerator and, if necessary, downshifts the transmission from fourth to third gear to slow the vehicle down. Audible and visual warnings that alert the driver can also be incorporated. Once the lead vehicle moves out of the way, the system accelerates back up to the set cruising speed.
Eventually, SmartCruise could be part of a total automated highway system (AHS) -- when combined with steering and lane guidance technologies -- making highway driving more convenient, more fun and a lot less stressful. In fact, SmartCruise and many other technological advances were demonstrated at "Demo 97," sponsored by the National Automated Highway System Consortium (NAHSC). These included platooning in which AHS-equipped vehicles operated automatically, traveling in a virtual train with short following distances to increase the efficiency of highway travel. While many technologies demonstrated are years from implementation, SmartCruise is ready for passenger car use now and will be available in heavy trucks in 1998.
For more information on Eaton Vorad SmartCruise visit the Web site at eaton.com. (NAPSI)
