Conti Showcases New Safety Technologies

Continental AG has showcased several new technologies that can improve a vehicle's braking, blind-spot detection, anti-rollover dynamics and collision avoidance when backing up.

Conti's new electric hydraulic pump replaces the traditional brake vacuum boost. The system uses a 12-volt brushless motor that modulates hydraulic brake pressure with a screw jack similar to the systems used in electric power steering units. Conti says its light-weight pump provides similar pedal feel but faster-acting brake actuation that eliminates traditional drag between the disc and brake pad.

The company's latest anti-rollover technology improves cornering behavior by measuring a vehicle's load and quickly recalibrating the car's air suspension. The system uses height sensors at each corner of the suspension to determine the impact on the vehicle's center of gravity due to variations in cargo and passenger count. It then rebalances the suspension and adjusts the electronic skid control system within a few seconds after startup.

Another new concept uses radar imagery to enhance the capabilities of Conti's blind-spot detection system. The current system uses a pair of radar sensors at the rear of the vehicle to detect vehicles in adjacent lanes. The expanded system can be used by a vehicle towing a trailer to lengthen its own blind-spot detection capabilities.

Conti has combined new software with a variation of the technology to create a more sophisticated backup warning with automatic braking. The system applies the brakes proportionally to the timing of a likely collision. Still another variation of the system discerns moving pedestrians from stationary objects to minimize unneeded actuation.