Software Defined Vehicle (SDV) has now gone from a conceptual concept to reality. Based on innovative technologies such as electric steering control (steer-by-wire) and electric brake control (brake-by-wire) that enable software-based functionality, ZF sets standards in chassis innovation with new software products that offer brand-specific driving experiences while increasing safety and comfort. ZF is introducing two new software products at CES as part of its Chassis 2.0 strategy, which combines smart hardware, artificial intelligence and software to deliver new functions and personalized features: AI Smart Road
Detection and Active Noise Reduction Technology
ZF Board Member and Head of Chassis Solutions Department Dr. In his evaluation on the subject, Peter Holdmann said: “With our Chassis 2.0 strategy, we are driving the transformation of the chassis in the digital age. By combining hardware expertise and advanced software with artificial intelligence, we create solutions that take safety and comfort to a new level and at the same time pave the way for software-defined vehicles. Thus, we shape the mobility of the future with smart, connected and scalable solutions.”
AI Smart Road Detection Technology: Moving towards the future
ZF offers an innovative, artificial intelligence-based solution that improves safety and comfort in software-defined vehicles with AI Smart Road Detection. Using state-of-the-art sensors, the system adapts the chassis in real time to changes in roads and surfaces in winter, off-road conditions or during transitions between different road conditions. This raw data, processed and used by ZF’s chassis software cubiX, enables the control of smart actuators such as ZF’s semi-active suspension system Continuous Damping Control (CDC) or active suspension system sMOTION. sMOTION reacts within 1 millisecond and adjusts the shock absorbers. Smart actuator integration will also extend to steering and braking systems for even more advanced control and features in the future.
“AI Smart Road Sensing Technology helps reduce the uncertainties that drivers face in challenging road conditions. The system detects certain situations in split-seconds and reacts faster than human reflexes allow. This means that the vehicle’s behavior always meets expectations, resulting in a sense of confidence and an increased sense of security behind the wheel,” says Holdmann.
The scalable system is offered in three versions: Standard, Advanced and Premium. AI Smart Road Detection Technology determines the current status of the road using CAN bus signals, even in the standard configuration. In the advanced version, camera data is also added, allowing the road surface to be detected and analyzed in advance. In the premium package, the system is further expanded with LiDAR technology. This technology scans the road profile 25 meters in front of it with an accuracy of two centimeters, creating a detailed 3D road profile that allows precise adjustment of the chassis.
ZF’s system expertise stands out
A prominent feature of the system is the intelligent combination of sensor and chassis data. Here, ZF takes advantage of its system expertise. While the snow is detected by the camera as a uniform surface, ZF combines the camera signals with chassis signals such as tire slip and torque increase. In this way, AI Smart Road Detection Technology can distinguish deep and shallow snowy surfaces and adjust the vehicle to best suit the situation.
When the system detects slippery roads, “Snow Start” is automatically activated and the vehicle starts with low torque to prevent the wheels from spinning and the tires from slipping. In this way, a more comfortable and convenient driving experience is provided even in difficult conditions. AI Smart Road Sensing Technology alleviates the burden on the driver in off-road driving conditions and in situations requiring difficult decisions. AI automatically selects the most appropriate driving strategy by sensing the depth and hardness of the ground, such as mud, sand, rocks or snow. All-wheel drive and differentials are intelligently pre-locked for optimal distribution of power, even in deep potholes.
AI Smart Road Sensing Technology works in the background without the user needing to know or select driving modes. For example, when moving from stable road conditions to a highway, the system immediately switches to a quiet, energy-saving mode. Thus, maximum comfort and highest efficiency can be achieved without driver intervention.
Advanced Personalized Comfort
The software can also enable Driver Behavior Recognition for a personalized and premium level driving experience. This feature predicts driving style and preferences and increases comfort by analyzing gas, brake and steering movements together with interior and exterior conditions. This feature delivers a highly personalized and adaptable driving experience across chassis and powertrains, reinforcing ZF’s commitment to innovation and delivering exclusive brand experiences to OEMs.
Automobile Magazine – English
