TRW Automotive Holdings Corp. said it’s pursuing new electronic stability control (ESC) integration opportunities that it hopes will result in smaller, lighter systems offering greater performance and fuel efficiency.
TRW's slip control boost (SCB) system, which offers full stability control for regenerative braking systems that are used in hybrid vehicle architectures, is expected to enter production for a major North American automaker in 2007. The system is said to offer ease of installation, with fewer components; improved packaging beneath the front dash area; a decoupled brake pedal; and best-in-class noise, vibration and harshness characteristics.
TRW’s steering torque control (STC) system combines ESC with electrically powered steering (EPS) systems for enhanced vehicle control in various driving conditions, including better braking performance on split friction surfaces -- such as two wheels braking on pavement and two wheels braking on ice.
Other ESC enhancements include trailer brake stabilization to help improve vehicle dynamics when towing significant loads, and dynamic rear proportioning, which helps to balance braking force without the need for separate proportioning valves.
"TRW Automotive continues to develop and add functionality to its electrically controlled brake systems, as these technologies play a critical role in the evolution of active safety systems," said Josef Pickenhahn, vice president, Brake Engineering for TRW Automotive. "These systems assist drivers to keep their vehicles under control and on the road during panic situations and challenging road conditions and are considered key enablers in helping drivers avoid a potential accident."