Sensing a change

As sensor use grows, providing input for all sorts of functions, engineers are responding to the design challenges through standardization and shared use of signal output.

The explosion of electronic functions is creating a huge opening for the sensors that link electronic controllers to the real world. The growing number of sensors is prompting engineers to re-examine the way these devices are deployed, and it is sparking a push for standardization.

Whether automakers use additional electronics for safety, tighter emissions control, or other features, it is rare that sensors are not central to the design. “Virtually all new functions use sensors,” said Alan Amici, Director of Body and Safety Electronics at Chrysler Group.