T&M Automotive Car Sensors: A Comprehensive Guide
This article explores the world of automotive sensors, commonly known as car sensors. We’ll delve into their functions, list various types, and even touch upon the manufacturers behind these crucial components.
What are Car Sensors?
At their core, a sensor is a device that converts one form of a parameter into another, making it measurable or usable for action. Think of it as a translator of the physical world. They’re designed to detect physical, chemical, or biological conditions. A temperature sensor, for instance, converts temperature into a voltage or current signal that can be displayed as a readable value.
In the automotive industry, sensors are subjected to harsh environments, including extreme temperatures, vibrations, and exposure to contaminants. These “automotive sensors” or “car sensors” are connected to the vehicle’s Electronic Control Unit (ECU).
The ECU is the brain of the car, comprised of both hardware (a printed circuit board with various components) and software (firmware running on a Micro-Controller Unit or MCU). The MCU processes the real-time inputs received from these sensors.
Car sensors play a vital role in monitoring the engine, fuel consumption, and emissions, as well as enhancing the safety and comfort of drivers and passengers. They are instrumental in making cars safer, more fuel-efficient, and equipped with all the modern features we expect. Moreover, these sensors are the backbone of autonomous or driverless vehicles. Their use significantly simplifies car design by eliminating long wires and making repair and maintenance easier. Thanks to these benefits, sensors are increasingly common in modern vehicles. Data transmission in modern cars relies on interfaces like CAN, LIN, FlexRay, and BroadR-Reach.
Automotive Car Sensors List and Their Functions
Here’s a list of common car sensors and their functions:
| Car Sensor | Function |
|---|---|
| Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor | Measures the engine’s temperature. |
| Fuel Temperature Sensor | Ensures the correct amount of fuel is injected for smooth operation. |
| Engine Speed Sensor | Monitors the crankshaft’s spinning speed. |
| Voltage Sensor | Manages the car’s speed and ensures controllable acceleration. |
| Spark Knock Sensor | Ensures that fuel is burned correctly. |
| MAP Sensor | Measures manifold pressure both inside and outside of the car. |
| MAF Sensor | Calculates the density and volume of air entering the engine. |
| Oxygen Sensor | Measures unburned oxygen in the exhaust pipe. |
| Crank Position Sensor | Monitors the piston’s top dead center position in the engine. |
| Air Fuel Ratio Sensor | Monitors the engine’s air-to-fuel ratio. |
| Cam Position Sensor | Monitors the position of valves within the engine. |
| Knock Sensor | Detects engine knocking due to timing advance. |
| Throttle Position Sensor | Monitors the position of the throttle in the engine. |
| LIDAR | Primary sensor in driverless cars, using emitted light for high-resolution images. Not affected by ambient light levels for accurate results. |
Manufacturers of Car Sensors
Here’s a table of some prominent car sensor manufacturers:
| Manufacturer | Description |
|---|---|
| Bosch | www.bosch.com |
| Continental | continental-automotive.com |
| Delphi Automotive | delphi.com |
| Denso | denso.com/global/en/ |
| First Sensor AG | first-sensor.com |
| Honeywell | honeywell.com |
| Luminar Technologies Inc. | luminartech.com |
| Micro-Epsilon | micro-epsilon.com |
| Sensata Technologies | sensata.com |
| Wells Vehicle Electronics | wellsve.com |
