Dietsche K.-H., Klingebiel M., Muller R. (Eds.) Driving Stability Systems

Robert Bosch GmbH., Plochingen, 2005, 101 p.Today's passenger cars are equipped with powerful and reliable braking systems that provide excellent braking power even at high speeds. But even the best braking system cannot prevent a driver from reacting incorrectly and applying too little or too great a force to the brake pedal when driving on poor road conditions or when taken by surprise.The Bosch antilock braking system (ABS), the first to be developed for series production, ensures that vehicles remain steerable and maintain directional stability even during emergency braking. The ABS system is also the foundation for systems such as the traction control system (TCS), electronic stability program, (ESP) and other support systems.The traction control system (TCS) prevents the driven wheels from spinning when setting off and accelerating. The ESP (electronic stability program) vehicle dynamics control system ensures stability and keeps the vehicle on course in every conceivable driving situation by means of rapid intervention in the engine and braking systems. ESP therefore supplements ABS and TCS by detecting even the slightest rotational movements of the vehicle and correcting driving faults. The ESP intervention often goes unnoticed by the driver.This booklet provides detailed information on the current state-of-the-art in the field of driving stability systems. It details the design and functioning principles of these systems and their components. Additional functions, such as the Brake Assist and Hill Hold Control that are increasingly integrated in these systems to ensure additional safety and convenience, are also described. The booklet offers a structured overview of the topics.A series of detailed illustrations accompanying the written texts help to clarify the sometimes complex descriptions and interrelationships making them easy to understand.