Today’s world is the technological world and most of the electronic devices are based on embedded system. It has its access and has found a way into every field such as from home appliances like microwaves and washing machines to entertainment and security systems etc.
Concept of Embedded System:
In simple words, an embedded system is a kind of computer based system along with dedicated function within a large mechanical or electrical system and sometimes with real time computing constraints.
Key features of embedded systems are:
1. Sophisticated Functionality
2. Real Time Operation
3. Low Manufacturing Cost
4. Low Power
In present time, electronic systems have replaced a number of mechanical systems in automobiles as the automobile industry is utilizing great use of embedded systems. Embedded system has gained overall control of automobiles whether it is from wiper controls to difficult anti lock brake controls or air bags.
Automobiles which have been created through micro-controllers, digital signal processors or both processors are commonly known as electronic control units.
- Airbags: It has been considered an important safety device as it provides an extra protection against head-on crash for the passengers by giving them a soft surface to land on. This system operates by commands from the airbag control unit which has a micro-controller and it gets its power from the battery.
If an accident has been detected by the collision sensor then a signal immediately sent to the airbag control unit and processed by the airbag control unit in order to determine severity of the impact.
- Event Data Recorder: For the purpose of recording information related to vehicle crashes or accidents, an event data recorder is installed in automobiles which is also known as a black box.
The microprocessor controls the sensing and diagnostics module and also has some multiple functions such as it determines in case a severe enough impact has occurred to warrant deployment of the airbag, monitors the components of airbags as well as it permanently records information.
- Anti-Lock Braking System: Earlier, hitting the brakes was too hard which leads to many accidents. If the coefficient of slip is too low between tires and the road, hitting the break could caused to wheel lock up in which the wheel will not be able to steer and start skidding.
The danger also increases when the roads are wet and slippery and if there are several levels of grip between the tires and the road. The sensors of wheel speed detect that whether a wheel is giving a tendency to lock-up. In this case, high speed correction of the breaking pressure takes place before the lock-up threshold.
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