Electronic Stability Control (ESC) works by continuously comparing the vehicle's actual direction with the driver's intended direction. In the event of an extreme manoeuvre on the part of the driver (for example in a sudden obstacle avoidance situation) the ESC system is able to detect impending loss of control, and interfaces with the ABS to apply automatic braking to individual wheels – bringing the vehicle back on its intended path. By maintaining control in such circumstances, further accident situations such as vehicle rollover may be avoided.
Several studies have now shown that cars fitted with ESC are less likely to be involved in accidents than those which are not. Estimates vary, but ESC could prevent around one in five deaths of car occupants, saving the lives of thousands of people every year.
At the heart of every ESC system is a yaw rate sensor, sensitive enough to detect even the smallest changes of vehicle yaw (i.e. rotation about the centre of gravity parallel with the road surface). With class-leading performance, reliability and integrity, Silicon Sensing's rate sensors are ideally suited to this demanding automotive application. We have been supplying rate sensors into both car and truck ESC applications since 2001.
For further information about vehicle stability control systems, independent reports and legislative activity relating to ESC, please visit the following websites:
Thatcham.org
Euroncap.com
Safercar.gov
Nhtsa.dot.gov
