Electronics has radically transformed the average modern automobile compared to even the most advanced auto designed two decades ago. However, increasing complexity and costs have challenged carmakers and their tier one suppliers, especially in the average and low-end categories.
Systems that address vehicle controls in powertrain, safety & security, chassis & suspension, and body electronics as well as rapidly changing infotainment and telematics systems need to mesh seamlessly to achieve system synergy. Without this design strategy, time-to-market and costs will increase unnecessarily and consumers’ perception of value will not be optimized.
SYNERGY IN THE MARKET
The philosophy of system synergy, while similar to previous approaches used to design and define complex systems, is rather recent. In fact, it isn’t a current buzzword in the industry, but perhaps it will become one. Toyota calls its combined internal combustion and electric powertrains the Hybrid Synergy Drive, which demonstrates the concept.
The telltale signs of system synergy are easily observed, and there are many reasons to embrace the methodology. Terminology used to identify system synergy includes sharing, seamless integration, compatibility, adaptation, leveraging, concurrent, ecosystem, and reconfigurable. System synergy includes all of these concepts and more. Synergistic design is important, and many of the reasons for increasing system synergy have overlapping benefits (see the table).
One of the most recent examples of system synergy is the relationship of emerging electric and plug-in hybrid powertrain systems with infotainment and telematics systems. Electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) must interface with the power grid. To obtain the maximum electric driving range, companies that have introduced these vehicles also have introduced applications for monitoring the charge status of the vehicle, so drivers can remotely monitor and even communicate with the vehicle over a smart phone.
Beyond checking the vehicle’s charge status, remote communications can initiate charging, preheat or pre-cool the interior while connected to the power grid, and more. These actions can reduce range anxiety (the fear of running out of electrical energy) in the EV or extend the PHEV’s range in the pure electric mode.
Vehicles with electric propulsion have necessitated changes in other systems as well. The energy-saving engine start/stop feature in micro hybrids as well as hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) can cause supply voltage issues for on-board electrical equipment. STMicroelectronics’ TDA7850LV power amplifier addresses power quality issues in the audio system.
Telematics and navigation play a major role in synergizing traffic data and eco-conscious navigation and driving. For EVs, telematics are critical to identifying and staying within range of the next charging station, including modifying the driver’s style from aggressive to conservative.
Continue on next page