• "DWT-B" function improves vehicle dynamics when cornering
• Dynamic control of torque at the rear axle by braking individual wheel
• Future developments will enable comprehensive control of vehicle motion

The automotive industry is working intensively to network existing electronics systems in vehicles, as a basis for the development of new functions. One of these systems – Dynamic Wheel Torque Control by Brake (DWT-B) – is set to go into series production in the BMW X5. It was developed jointly by engineers at BMW and Bosch. DWT-B improves a vehicle's agility by increasing engine torque and lightly braking the wheel on the inside of the bend at the back axle when the vehicle moves into a bend at speed. This increases the engine's motive force on the wheel on the outside of the bend. As a result, the vehicle is more agile and can corner more quickly with less steering effort – while maintaining the same high level of safety. The function is achieved by combining the engine management system with the high-performance Bosch brake control system ESP®premium, which is also featured in the X5. All 5-series BMWs with fourwheel drive have been equipped with DWT-B since spring 2007.

"ESP® is the most significant addition to road safety since the introduction of the seatbelt," says Dr. Werner Struth, executive vice president of the Chassis Systems Control division. “More and more frequently, however, the system is also serving as the starting point for new functions that further improve the driving dynamics and agility of the vehicle. This gives the driver even better control over the vehicle.” DWT-B is the latest example of the kind of function that can be developed by combining ESP® with other vehicle systems that influence driving behavior. Bosch uses the term Vehicle Dynamics Management (VDM) to describe all these functions. ESP®premium, the most advanced version of the Bosch ESP® product family, offers ideal conditions for these functions. It works nearly noiselessly, and thus very comfortably, and is also extremely fast.

Staying more safely on course – interplay between braking and steering
Two other VDM functions – created by networking braking and steering features – contribute to improved driving safety. For example, in conjunction with the active steering made by the Bosch subsidiary ZF Lenksysteme, "Dynamic Steering Angle Control" (DSA) can stabilize the vehicle at a very early stage by correcting the steering angle independently as soon as the ESP® detects the onset of a skidding movement. "Dynamic Steering Torque Control" (DST) makes use of electrical power steering to vary the steering support provided by the system. In critical driving situations, this function guides the driver to intuitively choose the optimum steering movement by reinforcing or diminishing the steering support.

Complete networking is the key
The next goal of Bosch developers is to create a network including all systems and components relevant to vehicle motion. In the future, "Vehicle Motion Management (VMM)" will allow common central access to all available sensors and actuators. The resulting functions will be able to inform, alert, and support the driver as the situation requires, or even to intervene independently in emergencies. This will further optimize driving safety, comfort, and agility.

About the Bosch Group

The Bosch Group is a leading global supplier of technology and services. In the areas of automotive and industrial technology, consumer goods, and building technology, some 280,000 associates generated sales of 45.1 billion euros in fiscal 2008. The Bosch Group comprises Robert Bosch GmbH and its more than 300 subsidiaries and regional companies in over 60 countries. If its sales and service partners are included, then Bosch is represented in roughly 150 countries. This worldwide development, manufacturing, and sales network is the foundation for further growth. Each year, Bosch spends more than 3.5 billion euros, or eight percent of its sales revenue, for research and development, and applies for over 3,000 patents worldwide. With all its products and services, Bosch enhances the quality of life by providing solutions which are both innovative and beneficial.

The company was set up in Stuttgart in 1886 by Robert Bosch (1861-1942) as “Workshop for Precision Mechanics and Electrical Engineering.” The special ownership structure of Robert Bosch GmbH guarantees the entrepreneurial freedom of the Bosch Group, making it possible for the company to plan over the long term and to undertake significant up-front investments in the safeguarding of its future. Ninety-two percent of the share capital of Robert Bosch GmbH is held by Robert Bosch Stiftung GmbH, a charitable foundation. The majority of voting rights are held by Robert Bosch Industrietreuhand KG, an industrial trust. The entrepreneurial ownership functions are carried out by the trust. The remaining shares are held by the Bosch family and by Robert Bosch GmbH.

About Bosch in China

Bosch founded its first trading office in China as early as 1909. In 1926, the first car service workshop opened in Shanghai. Today, all Bosch business sectors are present in China: Automotive Technology, Industrial Technology and Consumer Goods and Building Technology. The company operates 44 legal entities in China and has a holding company in Shanghai. Consolidated sales in China reached 2.2 billion euros in 2008. Some 20,200 Bosch associates in all legal entities and facilities are committed to bringing to Chinese customers the latest technology as well as the most reliable services to help improve their quality of life.

About Bosch Chassis Systems Control China

As one of the key divisions of Bosch's automotive technology business, Bosch Chassis Systems Control China started its engineering and sales in China in 2002. This development was followed by the establishment of its new ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) production line in Suzhou and the localized production of ABS in 2003 as well as the localized production of ABS8.0 and ESP®8.0 in Suzhou in 2005. In April 2005 Bosch established its Suzhou Engineering Center to enhance its development and production capabilities in China, speed up its response to market requirements and thus better serve Chinese customers. The Engineering Center has a total area of 200,000 square meters and a total investment of US$ 60 million. In 2006, Bosch established its vehicle verification road (VVR). The VVR is mainly used for road testing and verification of vehicle braking systems. It covers a total area of 36,480 square meters and represents a total investment of Euro 1.8 million. The road is designed and built according to international professional standards. The establishment of VVR distinguishes Bosch as the only automotive supplier to own a professional braking systems verification road in China.

Additional information can be accessed at
http://www.bosch-esperience.com.cn.

For more information on Bosch China, please visit http://www.bosch.com.cn

News sourc: Bosch China
Publish date: Oct. 2007