Lear Introduces Intertronics
10 May 2000
Lear Corporation Introduces Intertronics(TM), Innovative Products Integrating Electronics, Interior Systems
DEARBORN, Mich., May 9 Lear Corporation today,
on the occasion of its grand opening of the Lear Electronics and Electrical
Division (LEED) Product Development Center, introduced a number of innovative
electronic products based on Intertronics(TM) -- Lear's unique capability to
integrate electronic products with vehicle interior systems.
(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20000509/DETU023-a
http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20000509/DETU023-b )
(Video: http://www.videonewswire.com/LEAR/050900 )
"We are advancing relentlessly in showcasing Intertronics to our customers
-- the world's automakers -- so we can demonstrate the many benefits of Lear's
proprietary technology that completely integrates electronic products and
electrical distribution systems into vehicle interiors," said LEED President
D. William Pumphrey. "Intertronics taps into the wealth of innovation at
LEED, and throughout Lear's worldwide technical community. It has inspired
these innovators who have embraced the challenge to think 'outside the box' in
creating new Intertronics products and moving interior integration to the next
level."
LEED unveiled an impressive range of Intertronics products for the global
automotive market, incorporating LEED products and technologies such as smart
junction boxes, advanced electronic products and mechatronic switches, as well
as remote keyless entry systems and full electronic and electrical
distribution systems.
LEED's Intertronics products and technologies are grouped into three
categories: Interior Control Systems, Wireless Systems, and Electronic and
Electrical Distribution Systems.
Interior Control Systems
Instrument Panel Center Console Control - This feature provides a thin-
profile control panel for the entertainment system, accessory switch
functions, and heating, ventilation and air conditioning. By locating the
bulk of the electronic modules elsewhere, a large, tip-out storage bin is
created behind the control panel. Benefits: additional secured storage is
provided that is easily accessible to the driver or passenger.
Multifunction Turn Signal Control - This integrated, mechatronic control
mounted on the steering column was created through a collaboration between
LEED and Panasonic, specifically the Electromechanical Components Division of
Matsushita Electronic Components Co., Ltd. of Osaka, Japan. This
multifunction column control consolidates various combinations of hazard
lights, headlamps, parking lamp, fog lamps, wiper and washer for front and
rear windows, cruise control, high/low headlamp beams and turn signal
functions of the control, as well as the clockspring or rotary connector and
the electronic control modules into one package. Benefits: reduces system
cost by reducing number of wires, reduces assembly time and cost, increases
logic inputs and interface with other systems, allows added functions without
major system or cost impact and illuminated control improves nighttime
visibility of the control.
Integrated Seat Adjuster Module (ISAM) - This mechatronic product combines
the consumer interface control and the multiplexed electronic control for seat
adjustment, power lumbar support, memory function and heated seat into one
package. Benefits: combines several functions into one product to save space
and cost, design flexibility to include additional features and styles, and
reduces time and complexity of assembly into the seat.
Integrated Door Controls - This family of mechatronic products
consolidates the controls for window lift, door lock, power mirror, heated
seat and electronic control modules into a single, integrated package that
operates either direct or via multiplexing to interface with vehicle systems
outside the doors. Benefits: lower system cost by reducing wires and
assembly of different controls and modular design allows adaptability to
vehicle requirements with minimal changes.
Integrated Door and Seat Control Flip Panel System - This mechatronic door
and seat control unit performs all power door and power seat functions from
two stacked panels; the hinged upper panel operates frequently used window and
door controls, while less frequently used seat controls are mounted on the
hidden lower panel. Benefits: lower system cost by reducing wires and
assembly of different components, multiple functions packaged into a small
space in the vehicle and placement of all controls are ergonomically
accessible locations.
Wireless Systems
Dual Range/Dual Function Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System - This feature
allows a single RKE transmitter button to perform multiple functions depending
upon the operator's distance from the vehicle. For example, if the operator
is farther away from the vehicle than a specified distance, the unlock button
would perform a car locator function (flash lights or sound horn) rather than
unlock the door; the door unlock and trunk release functions would operate
only if the operator is near to the vehicle. Benefits: provides additional
features/functions with minimal increase in system cost, prevents inadvertent
function activation, and Super-heterodyne RKE Receiver provides excellent
range and resistance to jamming, as well as greater package flexibility.
Remote Keyless Entry and Immobilizer Module - This patented device
combines the features of a remote keyless entry receiver and the immobilizer
key reader into a single module. It reads and determines the validity of the
ignition key as well as performing traditional RKE features of unlock, lock,
trunk and panic. Benefits: using a single microprocessor reduces system cost
and provides excellent range and resistance to jamming.
Custom Key Fobs - This new generation of remote keyless entry key fob
designs uses decorative molding technology to offer a wide variety of options
in fob design patterns or colors including textures, logos, text, and
translucent and glow-in-the-dark colors. Benefits: unique styling available
without changing mold or injection material, brings proven styling success
found in cell phones and pagers to key fobs, and technology is adaptable to
existing molds with little change.
Passive Entry System - This system allows the vehicle operator to unlock
the door without using a key or physically activating the RKE fob. The
passive entry technology is imbedded in the fob so that a separate device is
not required. Benefits: super-heterodyne RKE Receiver provides for excellent
range and resistance to jamming, high security is achieved through
challenge/response communication, operator is not required to use a key or
activate the RKE fob to unlock doors or trunk, and backup system is provided
in case of a discharged fob battery.
Electronic and Electrical Distribution Systems
Dual Voltage Advanced Smart Junction Box - This centralized unit
integrates solid state circuit protection, power switching elements, power and
signal distribution management, vehicle body electronics functions (flasher,
wiper, central lock, alarm) for both 42-volt DC and 14-volt DC networks, and
DC/DC conversion -- the new dual voltage network feature. Benefits: reduces
assembly time, offers design flexibility for system changes/upgrades, and
optimizes size, weight and cost.