Vehicle Motion Domain (VMD) Controller | ZF
Written by Qin Shaojie Typography Tong Wei
The VMD controller is a central computer that combines an open, modular platform with superior computing performance to enable integrated vehicle motion control functions. It is suitable for all types of chassis platforms, vehicle movements and body functions, next-generation software-defined vehicles, future domains, and regional vehicle electrical and electronic architectures. The vehicle's driving and handling characteristics depend heavily on its chassis. Wheel guidance, vibration damping, suspension, steering and braking also have an impact on vehicle performance, and the trend toward electrification and software control of these systems is accelerating. Up to 100 different electronic control units can be found in modern vehicles. Their integration with the vehicle architecture is complex, while the software is tied to the respective electronic control units. ZF's VMD controllers integrate all chassis functions into one control unit.
The Vehicle Motion Domain (VMD) controller is designed to integrate the vehicle's cross-domain functions, including body and powertrain management, and support stand-alone functions, while reducing complexity by enabling intelligent vehicle motion control with a single controller. The vmd controller provides software-defined vehicle dynamic real-time capabilities and applications with a high-performance threshold of 55,000 DMIPS.
ZF also attaches great importance to the openness of the system, which enables mobile users to adapt components to their needs. To achieve a higher level of automation, the VMD high-performance controller can be connected to ZF ZRISS, a high-performance computing platform for advanced driver assistance/autonomous driving applications, in an integrated system manner.
Valeo
48 volt motorcycle
Weighing only 16.9 kg, this compact ultra-light and small pure electric motorcycle integrates a 48-volt air-cooled motor, a transmission and associated smart devices (computer and software to control the current). A prototype driven in this way is equivalent to a motorcycle with a displacement of 125 cc, but more efficient! In fact, more than 90% of the power generated by Valeo motors reaches the rear wheels, while the internal combustion engine can only deliver one-third of its power to the wheels. With its powerful and proven technology and cost-effectiveness, the powertrain system is perfectly suited to the needs of the Southeast Asian market. Two-wheelers with small cylinders are popular locally. Valeo's systems achieve zero CO2 emissions and provide relevant environmental solutions for heavily trafficked cities and suburbs.
Third-generation scanning lidar
Valeo's third-generation scanning lidar will be available in 2024, with the main aim of improving road safety. With the laser system it uses, the lidar can detect objects that are invisible to the naked eye, cameras and radar from a distance of 200 meters. It can identify all objects on the road and even calculate the correct braking distance by measuring the density of raindrops. It can also use algorithms to predict the trajectory of surrounding vehicles and trigger necessary actions accordingly. With its unique perception and analysis capabilities, the vehicle can take control of its own driving, including driving at speeds of up to 130 km/h on the highway. In addition to the vehicles to be carried, Valeo's third-generation lidar can alert other vehicles to hazards on the road, allowing every road user to benefit from its superior perception.
Bosch
Bosch's new gas sensor is the first gas sensor on the market to be equipped with artificial intelligence technology that protects both humans and nature. As part of the Dryad Silvanet Forest Fire Detector, Bosch's gas sensor acts as a "digital nose" capable of detecting forest fires as early as possible. Dryad's detectors, installed on trees, detect fire hazards by continuously monitoring the surrounding microclimate and notify local authorities wirelessly, reacting much faster than cameras or satellite systems. Gas sensors not only prevent fires, but also reduce carbon dioxide emissions from forest fires. These sensors can protect people's lives and property, and also prevent large amounts of carbon dioxide from entering the atmosphere.