Delphi Leads Forums at Convergence 2000
5 October 2000
Delphi Leads Forums at Convergence 2000 With Presentation of Seven Technical Papers
TROY, Mich., Oct. 5 Delphi Automotive Systems
technical experts will address important industry topics through presentation
of seven technical papers at Convergence 2000, October 16-18, at Cobo Center,
in Detroit.
Delphi presenters will discuss trends, challenges and issues facing the
automotive industry as it continues to shift from mechanical systems to
increasing electronic features and content. Technical papers will examine
technology advancement and societal implications in occupant detection, mobile
communication, environment, smart sensing, electrical/electronic architecture
and power generation and management.
The theme for Convergence 2000 is "Automotive Electronics: Delivering
Technology's Promise". "In my opinion, the industry has not delivered on that
promise," said J.T. Battenberg III, Delphi Automotive Systems chairman, chief
executive officer and president, and Convergence 2000 chairman. "We need to
question how we carry out this formidable challenge. We must look at our
social responsibilities and the implications of the infotronics revolution."
Convergence 2000 provides the forum to explore opportunities for electronics
and infotronics to enhance the driving experience. Several Delphi innovators
will lead technical sessions and participate in executive panels to discuss
compelling industry issues.
"Convergence 2000 is unsurpassed in bringing industry leaders together to
exchange ideas and propose solutions to the rapid growth in electronics and
related automotive technologies", said Don Runkle, Delphi Automotive Systems
executive vice president and president, Dynamics and Propulsion sector.
Runkle serves as Convergence 2000 technical chairman. "Delphi is prepared to
discuss the challenges surrounding the electronics explosion and is committed
to delivering future advances that provide customer value and satisfaction."
HIGHLIGHTS OF SEVEN DELPHI PAPERS TO BE PRESENTED AT CONVERGENCE 2000
INCLUDE:
"Mobile Information Systems Overview: The End-to-End Solution"
(Monday, Oct. 16, 9:30 a.m., room D2-15, 2nd floor, Detroit Section, Cobo
Hall)
The explosion of mobile communications and information has consumers
demanding "in-vehicle C3": communication, computing and content -- anyway,
anytime, anywhere. Through its Communiport(R) portfolio of mobile
communication products, Delphi delivers technologies that respond to consumer
need for comfort, communication and connectivity. This paper explores the
exciting opportunities and challenges as mobile information or "C3" is brought
into the vehicle environment. Topics such as human-machine design interface,
deployment of open and common software and hardware standards, future wideband
wireless connectivity and information service provider options will be
highlighted.
"Solid Oxide Fuel Cell as an Auxiliary Power Unit"
(Monday, Oct. 16, 2:30 p.m., room D3-19, 3rd floor, Detroit Section, Cobo
Hall)
International acceptance of a 42-volt standard to meet the demand for
increased vehicle energy has prompted sophisticated energy and power
management systems. Delphi and BMW have jointly developed a Solid Oxide Fuel
Cell (SOFC) technology that acts as an on-board Auxiliary Power Unit (APU).
In its first application, the APU will be used to power an electric air
conditioning system without the need for operating the vehicle engine. SOFC
based APU technology has the potential to provide a paradigm shift in the
supply of electric power for passenger cars. This paper describes the trend
toward high power and high efficiency electrical systems and the role fuel
cells may have in vehicle electrification. The SOFC-APU mechanization, key
subsystems and target applications will be discussed.
"Suppression Technologies for Advanced Air Bags"
(Tuesday, Oct. 17, 9:30 a.m., room D2-08, 2nd floor, Detroit Section, Cobo
Hall)
In May 2000, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
issued advanced airbag regulations effective model year 2004 for all vehicles
sold in the United States. The advanced air bag rulings require manufacturers
to make air bags more effective for a broader weight range of occupants.
Delphi's commitment to the safety of vehicle occupants is demonstrated in this
paper's discussion of air bag suppression technologies under consideration to
meet these new regulations. Introduction to child seat detection schemes,
various weight-based technology comparisons and key elements of proximity
sensing will be featured.
"Integrated Occupant Safety System Concept: Next Frontier in the
Automotive Occupant Protection and its Application to Rollovers"
(Tuesday, Oct. 17, 9:30 a.m., room D2-08, 2nd floor, Detroit Section, Cobo
Hall)
Automotive occupant safety has seen tremendous evolution over the past 20
years. New research and engineering breakthroughs have provided greater
opportunity for technological advancements in accident avoidance and maximum
occupant and pedestrian protection. Delphi's Integrated Safety System (ISS)
utilizes 50 current and advanced technologies to provide vehicle occupants
with enhanced protection throughout the driving experience. This technical
presentation introduces Delphi's "safety state diagram" concept. It also
discusses the importance of data networks and vehicle systems communication
that connects all safety components to provide seamless functionality at all
safety stages.
"Consumers, Electronics, and the Link to Hybrid Vehicles and Energy
Independence"
(Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2:30 p.m., room D2-15, 2nd floor, Detroit Section, Cobo
Hall)
Consumer demand for comfort, safety and reduced fuel consumption and
emissions requires more electric power to be installed in the vehicle. The
presence of increased electric power will enable hybrid vehicle functions that
will improve fuel economy and emissions performance. Delphi demonstrates
capability in delivering solutions to consumer needs through environmentally
responsible technologies. This paper highlights the interdependence of
consumer features, new electrical/electronic architectures, hybrid propulsion
systems and the importance of implementing a smart energy management system.
"Smart Sensors for Future Robust Systems"
(Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2:30 p.m., room D3-28, 3rd floor, Detroit Section, Cobo
Hall)
Advanced electronics has the industry moving beyond sensors to smart
sensors. Intelligent sensors provide several advantages such as self-
calibration, two-way communication, self-diagnostics, and programmability for
plug and play. Delphi sensor technology has radically expanded computing
power, memory and bandwidth. This presentation highlights Delphi's approach
to future sensor requirements and assesses four different sensor technologies
and their potential applications.
"Dependable Electrical/Electronic System Drivers and Applications Issues"
(Wednesday, Oct. 18, 9:30 a.m., room D2-08, 2nd floor, Detroit Section,
Cobo Hall)
Today, electrical and electronic systems are designed to enhance
mechanical functions. If an electrical or electronic fault occurs, the system
reverts to the base mechanical capability. Future electrical and electronic
systems will replace the mechanical linkages and therefore fault tolerances
must be designed in these systems. Delphi recognizes the importance of system
integrity and examines the physical and functional issues to achieve
tolerances and illustrates applications that will drive fault tolerant
systems.