Recent advances in antilock braking systems and traction control systems

Antilock braking systems (ABS) are closed-loop devices designed to prevent locking and skidding during braking. Traction control systems (TCS) limit the amount of traction force generated at the wheels to prevent loss of traction. Both systems contain an electronic control unit (ECU), which compares signals from each wheel sensor. In ABS systems, the pressure to one or more of the wheels is regulated, whereas in TCS systems, the drive torque to the wheels is reduced. Recent advances include the use of wireless accelerometers, developments in the control software that take into account the dynamics of the tyres and suspension, the estimation of parameters such as lateral acceleration and wheel slip and the use of adaptive control and fuzzy logic. More recently, these systems have been integrated into other vehicle systems, such as four-wheel steering and active suspension. Future improvements might include the use of smart materials for sensor development, and the use of roadside-to-vehicle control.