Information Technology in the Automotive Industry
In addition to the vehicles, the automobile industry includes fuel suppliers, manufacturing suppliers, parts and maintenance service, road construction and maintenance, insurance and driver and ownership registration, all of which are heavily dependent upon Information Technology (IT).
But the prominence of IT is apparent in the automobile itself. The internal combustion vehicle has evolved from the horseless carriage into today's complex of senors and microprocessors. It's now an electronic communication and transport device.
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Vehicle Operations
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Many microprocessor modules are dedicated to operating the vehicle. For example, the engine control unit (ECU) manages spark plug timing and maintains the prescribed mix of fuel to air and fuel emissions.
Other modules monitor climate, cruise and transmission control and blind-side and rear view cameras. A power distributor module oversees the power relays, and a dashboard module controls the various indicator lights and gauges.
Entertainment
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Today's automobile features several driving experience enhancement platforms, such as sound systems, hands-free phones and remote-controlled TV.
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Passenger Safety
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A microprocessor module controls the anti-locking brake system (ABS), traction, sway stability and lane drift. The latest microprocessors sense an imminent collision and trigger the braking system. A factory standard module deploys the airbags. Warnings are also initiated if a door or trunk is ajar or a braking failure is detected.
General Motors' OnStar system includes wireless communication, global satellite position systems (GPS) and a network of call/data centers. In an emergency a driver is only seconds away from contact with roadside help. OnStar also can do remote vehicle diagnostics and warn the driver of any discernible future problems.
Vehicle Protection
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In addition to alarm systems to discourage breaking into a vehicle, the modern automobile offers code key entry and ignition that allow only a predetermined person to drive off. Tracking devices are also now available to identify and locate a stolen car.
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- Photo Credit fuel information image by Gonçalo Carreira from Fotolia.com
