Ford Motor Company Adaptive Cruise Control

FORD - FUTURE TECHNOLOGY WATCH

Many of the advanced technologies and significant issues remain to be resolved before implementation. Inhibitors which could delay or preclude implementation might include unproven reliability, vehicle packaging issues and cost .vs. value as perceived by the customer.

ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL

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What it is :

Adaptive Cruise Control or Intelligent Cruise Control (ACC) improves on traditional cruise control by allowing a vehicle to automatically follow another vehicle at a set distance. With ACC, the driver sets the system when his or her vehicle is at the desired interval from the lead vehicle. ACC maintains that spacing up to a maximum vehicle speed, also set by the driver. The driver must remain alter to override the system if necessary. When the distance to the lead vehicle and/or relative speed indicates a need for braking, some ACC concepts merely disengage the throttle (and enable a downshift) and give a warning to apply the brakes. Other concepts actually tap the brakes to warn the driver. When the lead vehicle changes lanes or exits and the road is clear, the ACC will accelerate to the set speed.

How it works :

When actuated by the driver, a microwave rader unit or laser transceiver on the front of the vehicle determines the distance to the vehicle ahead and relative speed. The computer continually adjusts the throttle (and brake-tap system if so equipped). Braking can override the system at any time.

Customer benefit :

Increased driver convenience and improved traffic flow on busy highways.

Ford Status :

Under development.