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New Siemens Multiplex Module Steers Clear of Heavy Wiring Bundles

20 October 1998

New Siemens Multiplex Module Steers Clear of Heavy Wiring Bundles

    DEARBORN, Mich., Oct. 20 -- Siemens Automotive debuted today
a new steering column module (SCM) that represents a significant leap forward
in the improvement of electrical distribution technology in vehicles.
    The unique Siemens module, which will be in production early in the
millennium, is neatly packaged in the steering column and only requires four
circuits to the instrument panel wiring, compared to as many as 40 circuits in
a conventional vehicle.
    The steering column module is on display in the company's exhibit (#41) at
this week's international Congress on Transportation Electronics --
Convergence '98.
    "This multiplexed module represents revolutionary, not incremental, gains
in weight, space and cost reduction," said Joe Fadool, Marketing Manager, Body
Electronic Systems of Siemens Automotive.  "This module allows us to eliminate
up to 50 percent of the wiring in a region of the vehicle where additional
electrical/electronic functions continue to be added," he said.
    New functions are migrating to the steering column that are putting more
convenience functions at the driver's fingertips.  Some of these include:
electronic engine immobilizers; RKE receivers; HVAC and radio controls;
various sensors; driver-side air bag electronics for multistage inflation; and
advanced stalk switches that add more versatility and control.
    Key benefits of the steering wheel module include reduced assembly time,
complexity, weight and cost.
    The module works by acting as a local node on the vehicle's multiplex
communication bus.  The module receives switch and sensor inputs in the column
and uses a communication datalink to transmit the messages corresponding to
the status.  The module also can provide the necessary outputs to ignite a
two-stage, driver-side airbag.  Since the module integrates the existing
immobilizer feature, it takes advantage of the Printed Circuit Board (PCB)
technology that already has been packaged and assembled in that area.
    Siemens benefits from its position as the leading supplier of engine
immobilizer systems with 50 percent of the industry's non-captive market.
According to Fadool, the SCM is a natural extension of immobilizer technology,
which gives Siemens a competitive advantage in the market.
    "We have the expertise of this tight packaging area, where we integrate
the SCM and immobilizer functions, which keeps the cost down," Fadool said.
"However, it is equally important to have the Electrical Distribution Systems
(EDS) expertise and wiring harness experience to understand the system
impact."
    Further contributing to Siemens Automotive's competitive position in the
development of SCM technology is its joint venture with Breed Technologies,
known as Breed Siemens Restraint Systems (BSRS).  Breed is a leading supplier
of steering wheel systems, air bag and safety restraint components.  The
strategic alliance between the two companies presents numerous synergistic
opportunities toward further advancements in the development of the steering
column module.