Delphi Develops X-by-Wire Technology for Europe

    FRANKFURT, Germany, Sept. 12 Delphi Automotive Systems'
advanced systems engineers have been working closely with European
automakers to determine how X-by-Wire technologies can be brought to reality
on passenger vehicle applications.  Specifically, Delphi and BMW have been
working jointly for the past two years developing steer- and brake-by-wire
systems.
    
    Recent advances in dependable, embedded systems technology, as well as
continuing demand for improved handling and active safety improvements, have
led vehicle manufacturers and suppliers to pursue development of computer-
controlled by-wire subsystems.  As a result, Delphi has combined development
efforts on steer-by-wire and brake-by-wire to more effectively serve the
emerging needs of the Industry.

    "This is a very logical integration of our development activities," stated
Dr. Nady Boules, director of the Customer Solution Centre for Delphi
Automotive's Steering Division.  "Combining efforts in the areas of systems
architecture, control algorithms, system safety and vehicle dynamics
development, allows us to concentrate our considerable expertise to
expeditiously bring integrated steering and braking systems to our customers."

    X-by-Wire Defined

    X-by-Wire systems, part of Delphi's portfolio of chassis technologies,
replace the traditional mechanical or hydraulic linkages between the driver
controls and the steering and braking mechanisms with various electro-
mechanical actuators, pedal and steering feel emulators, and a distributed
network of electronic control modules.  Traditional steering and brake system
components, such as the steering column, intermediate shaft, pump, hoses,
fluids, belts and brake power booster/master cylinder, are completely
eliminated.

    Delphi's steer- and brake-by-wire systems provide improved fuel economy.
The elimination of the hydraulic fluids is more environmentally friendly.
Fewer components simplify assembly and allow for significant flexibility in
the design of the cockpit.  With no mechanical connection constraints,
enhancements to the driver controls become a possibility.  Further, its
adaptive design allows the controls to be easily changed from left-hand drive
to right-hand drive.  The system also supports the vehicle manufacturers'
efforts to improve crashworthiness.

    As fully programmable electronic systems, Delphi's X-by-Wire offers the
vehicle manufacturer rapid tuning capability, significantly reducing
development time and effort.  Programming flexibility and rapid tuning
strategies permit X-by-Wire to quickly and precisely meet a wide variety of
vehicle handling and steering feel specifications, allowing the vehicle
manufacturer to program in the brand character they desire.

    While by-wire technologies promise many benefits, they must be carefully
analyzed and verified for safe operation.  A system-safety program for by-wire
systems must be closely coordinated between the vehicle manufacturer and their
supplier.

    "System safety is an overriding priority for Delphi," stated Dr. Jean
Botti, director of the Customer Solution Centre and engineering director-
Europe, Delphi Energy & Chassis Systems.  "Our technical expertise in vehicle
chassis, including electric power steering, braking and embedded controllers,
gives us the ability to develop appropriate architectures required for these
two safety-critical by-wire technologies."

    X-by-Wire permits true coordinated control of steering and braking
dynamics and offers additional integration capability with other chassis and
vehicle functions.  These systems are fully programmable and provide the
maximum opportunity for optimizing ride and handling and active safety
performance, including vehicle stability control, rollover prevention
assistance and collision avoidance.

    As part of Delphi's Integrated Safety System(C) (ISS), X-by-Wire
technologies together with Delphi's FOREWARN(TM) collision warning sensor
systems represent the critical elements of dynamic vehicle safety management.
When a potential for collision is detected and deemed avoidable, X-by-Wire
systems can be automatically activated to supplement the driver's actions if
necessary.  This integrated approach can enable safety-enhancing features such
as lane keeping, enhanced lateral control and ultimately true collision
avoidance.  Together, X-by-Wire and FOREWARN(TM) technologies will enable
Delphi's vision of helping to better-protect the driver and the vehicle
occupants with an electronic cocoon.