· Radar and video systems record complex traffic situations

· More comfort in traffic jams thanks to improved performance of stop-and-go function

· Functions for improved agility and vehicle dynamics

In developing future safety and driver assistance functions, Bosch is focusing on networking active and passive safety systems as well as on the interplay with chassis systems such as steering. In critical situations, these functions inform drivers and provide them with the best possible support. In day-to-day driving, they increase comfort and improve vehicle dynamics. In order to generate the greatest possible synergies, Bosch has pooled these activities in its own business field: Vehicle Motion and Safety. “By networking safety systems, we are further improving the performance of the vehicle's predictive safety capabilities,” says Dr. Werner Struth, president of the Bosch Chassis Systems Control division. “At the same time, by further developing technologies and reducing costs, we are supporting the growing acceptance of safety systems across vehicle classes. Thanks to innovative Bosch technologies, we are taking a further step toward making the vision of accident-free driving reality.”

Fewer rear-end collisions thanks to the predictive emergency braking system
The predictive emergency braking system is an example of how sensors that monitor vehicle surroundings can be networked with active safety systems. According to the German accident database GIDAS, one-third of drivers either do not brake prior to a rear-end collision, or they do not use their full braking power. The Bosch predictive emergency braking system can thus assist drivers on several levels. In a first step, it uses the radar sensor's signals to assess the situation in front of the vehicle. If a car approaches vehicle in front of it too quickly, the system warns the driver with an acoustic signal, and the ESP® system then briefly jerks the brakes. If the driver does not respond to initial warnings and the situation worsens, the ESP® system automatically brakes, slowing the car down by up to half of the maximum deceleration. If the driver responds, the system increases deceleration to the point that the vehicle may come to a stop before a collision occurs. If the system deems an accident inevitable, the maximum deceleration is initiated to at least limit the severity of the crash. At the highest level of automatic full braking, the system is supported by a video sensor. From 2010, such a Bosch system will be offered in a series-produced vehicle for the first time.

According to a Bosch accident analysis, three out of four rear-end collisions involving personal injury can be avoided with the predictive emergency braking system. When an inevitable rear-end collision occurs, the predictive emergency braking system can reduce the speed of impact by a quarter to more than a half and the force of impact by up to three-quarters. Since rear-end collisions involving commercial vehicles tend to be serious, in 2009 the EU introduced a regulation stipulating that all commercial vehicles must be equipped with predictive emergency braking systems from November 2015.

When a collision occurs, a number of safety systems such as seatbelts, belt tensioners, and airbags can prevent serious injury. In the future, Bosch's secondary collision mitigation (SCM) will prevent or reduce the severity and the consequences of secondary collisions. According to current German accident statistics, 29 percent of all accidents with personal injury have further collisions after the first impact. Following the initial impact, SCM activates ESP® to reduce the vehicle's speed as quickly as possible. As a result, the likelihood of further collisions is reduced considerably.

Video systems support drivers day and night
Video cameras provide all the basic data required for lane-keeping assistants. Bosch has developed systems that warn drivers when they inadvertently drift out of their lane. Combined with electrically supported steering, the system can even automatically steer the vehicle if necessary. In situations with bad lighting, modern night vision enhancement systems provide drivers with images that help them assess a situation and recognize potential dangers more easily. The new Bosch night vision assistant plus not only delivers images, it also evaluates them. This is how it recognizes people and marks them on the display screen.

Driver assistance systems for improved vehicle dynamics and comfort
In addition to increasing safety, networked assistance systems also improve vehicle dynamics and driving comfort. For instance, the Dynamic Wheel Torque Control by Brake improves the car’s vehicle dynamics In a bend, the system brakes the wheel on the inside of the bend, while increasing engine torque. As a result, the wheel on the outside of the bend receives more torque, enabling the vehicle to be driven faster through bends. Thanks to the interaction between radar and video systems, Bosch has also improved the Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC). This enables faster acceleration when overtaking. In addition, the system can react more quickly when another vehicle pulls into the lane.

The Bosch Group is a leading global supplier of technology and services. In the areas of automotive and industrial technology, consumer goods, and building technology, some 275,000 associates generated sales of 38.2 billion euros in fiscal 2009. The Bosch Group comprises Robert Bosch GmbH and its more than 300 subsidiaries and regional companies in over 60 countries. If its sales and service partners are included, then Bosch is represented in roughly 150 countries. This worldwide development, manufacturing, and sales network is the foundation for growth. Each year, Bosch spends more than 3.5 billion euros for research and development, and applies for some 3,800 patents worldwide. With all its products and services, Bosch enhances the quality of life by providing solutions which are both innovative and beneficial. The company was set up in Stuttgart in 1886 by Robert Bosch (1861-1942) as “Workshop for Precision Mechanics and Electrical Engineering.” The special ownership structure of Robert Bosch GmbH guarantees the entrepreneurial freedom of the Bosch Group, making it possible for the company to plan over the long term and to undertake significant up-front investments in the safeguarding of its future. Ninety-two percent of the share capital of Robert Bosch GmbH is held by Robert Bosch Stiftung GmbH, a charitable foundation. The majority of voting rights are held by Robert Bosch Industrietreuhand KG, an industrial trust. The entrepreneurial ownership functions are carried out by the trust. The remaining shares are held by the Bosch family and by Robert Bosch GmbH. Additional information can be accessed at www.bosch.com.

PI6754 - September 2009