This paper presents two kinds of high-accuracy analog output accelerometers (G-sensors) that have been developed and commercialized for use in production vehicles. Remarkable advances have been seen in the performance of automotive electronic control systems in recentyears, especially in the area of chassis control. This has increased the need for automotive G-sensors capable of providing accuracy equal to that of instrumentation equipment, as high-level control can be achieved through accurate detection of acceleration, a basic motion parameter of vehicles. Conventional G-sensors have generally beenexpensive, have required careful handling because of their susceptibility to impact damage and have presented many problems in production vehicle application. The new G-sensors overcome these drawbacks and are being used in a hydraulic active suspension and an electronically controlled torque split 4WD system. (A)
Abstract