By-wire control: the future of steering and braking

Electric mobility and autonomous driving are two trends powering the uptake of by-wire solutions that can replace mechanical systems. FORVIA is supporting the design of safe, automated and customizable driving experiences with innovative by-wire braking and steering technologies.

By-wire systems replace mechanical components and connections with advanced electrically managed controls, supporting automated driving features as well as customized steering and braking feel. Through HELLA’s 20+ years expertise in electronics and mechatronics, FORVIA contributes the central components: sensors and control electronics.

Steer-by-wire

Automated driving requires the highest security levels to ensure the safe steering of a car, especially when control passes from human to vehicle. Two key elements for steer-by-wire control are the road wheel and hand wheel actuators. Together these provide steering angle range, steering assistance and active power feedback, adapted to the driving context and giving a smooth and customizable steering experience. This kind of demand-driven operation increases energy efficiency and electric vehicle autonomy. Fully by-wire steering systems can also bring new design options for the interior by removing the linkage for a bulky steering column. FORVIA can integrate the steering wheel hub into the instrument panel structure, simplifying design, assembly and airbag performance for improved safety. Our by-wire steering technologies provide fail-operational electronics and support up to level 4 autonomous driving.

Brake-by-wire

Brake-by-wire pedal sensors simulate the feel and behavior of a conventional brake pedal but transmit braking signals electronically instead of through mechanical and hydraulic components. HELLA has designed its all-electric brake pedal system to be lighter, sleeker and customizable to different driving scenarios to enhance safety and comfort for the driver. A compact design also makes it more sustainable; it’s 20% lighter than traditional braking pedals, helping to increase the range of electric cars as well as reduce assembly and installation costs. For automated driving, it is critical that the car can still operate safely even in case of technology failure. Our braking and steering by-wire systems are designed with a redundant fail-operational architecture based on different technology that takes over in the unlikely event of a failure. By-wire systems also bring significant design and engineering flexibility. Adding electronics expertise to our extensive range of solutions for the entire cockpit interior, FORVIA is uniquely placed to support automakers shape the next generation of safe and automated driving experiences.