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Computers and Sensors:
A thumbnail Guide to Auto Computer Modules
Computer modules have specific areas that they monitor and manage. They receive information from sensors that report on various parts and system performance. Based on the data inputs, modules can make adjustments to tweak performance or notify the driver of potential problems. There are a variety of modules found in most cars.
Newer vehicles tend to have a greater quantity of sensors and modules and they tend to also be more sophisticated. While each manufacturer has their own unique computer system, these are the more common types of computer modules found in automobiles.
Air Bag Module
A Computer that monitors conditions in which the air bag should be deployed. In case of an accident, the module will respond to sensor inputs and deploy the bag.
Anti-lock brake module
A computer that measures wheel speed through the use of sensors.
Climate Control Module
As the name suggests, this computer monitors and controls the heating, cooling and ventilation of the passenger compartment. Some automobile’s have fairly sophisticated climate control systems that allow for dual comfort settings for the driver and passenger. The climate control module adjusts heating and cooling based on individual comfort preferences.
Dashboard Instrumentation Module
Your dashboard is the primary way in which the automobile communicates with the driver. The Dashboard Instrumentation Module receives information from a variety of sensors, like the fuel sensor and then displays sensory information such as how much fuel is left in the tank, in the form of a digital gauge.
Engine Control Module
The engine control module is one of the primary computer modules. It helps coordinate the operation of the engine and can tweak performance based on sensor readings. The engine idle, fuel injection, emissions and ignition timing can all be controlled with the engine control module.
Ignition Module
Using sensors, the ignition module is able to monitor ignition timing, the ignition coil operation and spark plug firing and make on-the-fly adjustments to improve performance during engine operation.
Powertrain Control Module
The powertrain module monitors the transmission, drive train and engine and reports information provided by sensors back to the module where it can make adjustments and report problems to the driver.
Suspension Module
Modern suspension systems are electronically integrated with both the steering and vehicle speed sensors. The suspension module can dynamically adjust steering and suspension stiffness based on driving conditions
Vehicle Control Module
This is the most powerful computer module and processes information sent from individual system modules. Because it receives information from all the smaller modules, it is able to assemble the bigger picture of how the automobile is performing. |
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1. Onboard Computers and Sensors
2. Computer Chips And The Driveway Mechanic
3. Active and Passive Sensors
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6. Computer and Sensors Wrap Up
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