Bosch Readies New Driver-Assist Technologies

Robert Bosch GmbH is developing several new automated-driving technologies that it plans to launch in coming years.

The supplier demonstrated the systems this week during a media event at its proving grounds in Flat Rock, Mich. The new technologies include an automated emergency braking (AEB) system with pedestrian protection, surround-view imaging, driverless parking, construction zone steering and overhead clearance warnings.

Using next-generation ultrasonic sensors, the new AEB technology can detect pedestrians and bicyclists from more than 18 ft away—nearly twice as far as the current system that Bosch launched last year—and bring a vehicle traveling as fast as 25 mph to a complete stop to avoid a collision. Bosch plans to launch the system in 2019-model vehicles.

The new 3D Surround View system uses four short-range cameras, 12 ultrasonic sensors and a dedicated electronic control unit, all of which are already in production for other driver-assist systems. Specialized software and lens technology integrates the various images from the cameras into a single display feed that can be viewed at low vehicle speeds (about 10-15 mph or less).

A 190˚ field of vision is shown when moving forward or in reverse, which Bosch says essentially allows drivers to see around corners as they’re turning. Drivers also can pan around the vehicle or select a close-up, top-down view of a specific area, which the supplier notes can help drivers maneuver into tight parking spaces.

The Home Zone Park Assist feature allows users to remotely park a vehicle in select spots using a smartphone app from as far as 330 ft away. Drivers “train” the system for specific spots by parking the vehicle themselves once and storing the information in the app. The vehicle can then be automatically parked—or hailed for  pick up—from the starting training position when the user activates the smartphone app.

The construction and overhead alert functions use software changes to adapt existing forward stereo cameras. Construction zone assist helps guide drivers through narrow roads by using steering wheel torque to keep the vehicle centered. Users can choose the level of sensitivity and intervention, Bosch says.

The overhead clearance assist alerts drivers when an upcoming passageway isn’t tall enough for a vehicle to safely drive under. For it to work, drivers must enter the height of the vehicle and that of any objects being carried on the roof prior to starting a trip.