The changing role of sensors

As more electronics are used in the automobile to help control vehicle systems, more sensors are required.

The number and types of sensors being added to vehicles are increasing. Sensors are no longer restricted to the engine compartment for engine management and powertrain control but are helping improve the interior environment for the driver and passengers and make vehicles safer. Sensors are now being used to detect fog on the inside of the vehicle and activate the appropriate ventilation systems to remove the fog before the human eye can detect it. Other optical sensors can detect the sun's intensity and activate the climate control and turn the headlamps on when it becomes dark outside. Rain sensors are being added to control the windshield wipers. Also, snow sensors are being used to inform the driver of road conditions.

Additional sensors are being used in conjunction with various safety systems to control systems during crashes. For example, a battery cutoff sensor is being developed to help isolate the battery from the electrical system after a crash to reduce the possibility of post-collision fires. The response time would be less than three milliseconds after the crash signal. A fuel cutoff sensor that is capable of direct switching of the fuel pump and/or relay is also available. These cutoff switches with a manual reset have auxiliary contacts that can be used for door lock release, hazard warning activation, and emergency communication activation. They are responsive to 360° impacts with a range of 8-30 g.