Abstract:

         This paper considers the scope and the methodologies for enhancing active safety of road vehicles by sensing and control technologies. First of all, statistical data of traffic accidents in Japan is introduced, and the development of the drive recorder for accident / incident survey and analysis is described. Based on vehicle dynamics data, the algorithm of the drive recorder for capturing near-miss incident data is introduced. The second part of this paper reviews the control problem of vehicle dynamics on micro-scale electric vehicle for enhancing vehicle dynamics and driving assistance function. In particular, the direct yaw moment control using in-wheel-motors and the active front steering control algorithm are described. The third part of the paper introduces the advanced driver assistance system adapted to driver characteristics and traffic situations. This part mainly describes the adaptive system which adjusts the assist maneuver depending on individual driver behavior and situation, and some experimental investigations using the active interface vehicle and driving simulator. Finally, some perspectives and new challenges for future research on vehicle control technology are mentioned.

Key words: active safety, vehicle dynamics and control, driver assistance system