Preventing Accidents Before They Happen: The Cutting-Edge ASB Technology Saving Lives on the Road

Preventing Accidents Before They Happen: The Cutting-Edge ASB Technology Saving Lives on the Road

June 27, 2024

 


Cars today are equipped with more safety features than ever, ranging from Adaptive Cruise Control to Blind Spot Detection, all aimed at enhancing driver safety and preventing accidents. One such crucial system is active sensor bearing technology (ASB), integrated within your vehicle's wheel hub assembly. These bearings are vital components ensuring efficient acceleration and braking while effectively handling radial and axial loads. ASB technology is instrumental in optimizing various systems within modern vehicles.



History of ASB Technology:

ASB technology emerged in late 1997 when SNR, a French bearing manufacturer, introduced a revolutionary concept integrating a magnetic seal into automotive wheel bearings. Initially implemented in Renault's Laguna models, ASB technology soon gained traction, with SNR licensing it to other manufacturers like Honda, BMW, and VW Audi Group. This technology has significantly improved speed measurement accuracy, even down to zero.


Understanding Active Sensor Bearing Technology:
Active sensor bearings are equipped with a magnetic encoder sealed within them. This encoder, comprising north and south poles, transmits wheel rotation data digitally to the vehicle's onboard computers. This data is crucial for the proper functioning of systems such as ABS, hill start assist, electronic stability control, and GPS.
Difference Between Passive and Active Sensors:
Two types of wheel speed sensors are commonly used in vehicles today: passive and active sensors. Passive sensors, dating back to the 1950s, rely on a magnetic pole pin and copper wire to generate alternating voltage when the wheel rotates. In contrast, active sensors utilize a multi-pole ring seal containing a magnetic encoder and integrated circuitry, providing more accurate digital signals.


Advantages of Active Sensors:
Active sensors offer several advantages over passive ones. They can detect near-zero speeds and the direction of rotation, unlike passive sensors. Additionally, they are smaller, lighter, and simpler in design, leading to more precise data acquisition and improved vehicle dynamics control.


Key Advantages of Choosing ASB Technology:
More than its precise and accurate data acquisition capabilities, ASB technology offers numerous safety benefits affecting overall user safety:
1.ABS: Allows maintaining control of the steering response and prevents wheels from locking up during emergency braking.
2.Navigation: Enables the calculation of a position even without a satellite signal.
3.Speed: Provides the computer with the exact speed of the vehicle.
4.ESC (Electronic Stability Control): Improves vehicle stability by detecting the loss of road traction.
5.ASR (Anti-Slip Regulation): Regulates the acceleration of the wheel and prevents wheel slippage.
ASB technology is used as original equipment on over 80% of vehicles worldwide and 90% of vehicles in Europe. Today, 100% of the available third generation of wheel hub bearings equipped with this technology are manufactured to a global standard by leading ASB bearings manufacturers. Additionally, an ASB Detector card can help you manually and quickly check the magnetized seal and the location of the sensor in the bearing.


The Safety Significance of ASB Technology:
ASB technology enhances safety by reducing false cycling incidents common in passive sensors due to electromagnetic interference and temperature fluctuations. False cycling can lead to instability, reduced braking power, and compromised vehicle control, posing serious safety risks. 


Active Sensor Bearing technology plays a crucial role in reducing brake distance by enhancing the effectiveness of ABS and other safety systems. Through precise wheel speed detection, improved traction control, enhanced stability, and optimized brake system integration, ASB helps vehicles achieve shorter stopping distances and improve overall safety on the road. As vehicles continue to evolve with advanced safety technologies, ASB remains at the forefront of innovations aimed at preventing accidents and saving lives.


Whether you're looking to upgrade your current vehicle or seeking safer driving experiences, ASB wheel bearings offer a reliable solution. Consult technical service provider today to explore ASB technology installation options for your vehicle.
 

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