Description

DESCRIPTION

A definition of Adaptive Cruise Control is an enhancement to a conventional cruise control system which allows the vehicle to follow a forward vehicle at an appropriate distance.

The driver interface for the ACC system is very similar to a conventional cruise control system. The driver operates the system via a stalk on the steering wheel. In addition there are a series of text messages that can be displayed on the instrument cluster to inform the driver of the state of the ACC system and to provide any necessary warnings. The driver engages the ACC system by first pressing the ON switch which places the system into the 'ACC Ready' state. The driver then presses the Set switch to enter the 'ACC Set' state at which point the ACC system attempts to control the vehicle to the driver's set speed dependent upon the traffic environment.

Components of Adaptive Cruise Control:

- Adaptive Cruise Control Module/Sensor
- Engine Control Module
- Brake Control Module
- Instrument Cluster
- Controller Area Network (CAN)
- Cruise Control Stalk

The ACC system consists of a series of interconnecting components and systems. The method of communication between the different modules is via a serial communication network known as the Controller Area Network (CAN).