Automatic Braking Systems

by Thomas R. Buff

I am sure we can all think back to a time when we had a close call while driving, especially in today’s world of distracted driving. In many cases we believe that by hitting the brakes earlier we could have avoided that fender bender or the deer that jumped out in front of our car. But our reaction time may not be fast enough in certain circumstances. Whether it be by a lack of focus or unavoidable reasons, unfortunate accidents do occur. Things happen that are sometimes beyond our control. But the difference in avoiding a collision comes down to one fact – a split second or a few feet can be the difference.

Automatic emergency braking is defined as an active braking safety system that can detect a potential collision and passively activate the braking system automatically. It is designed to slow or stop a vehicle before it collides with the object in its path. This system takes away the human error factor through the use of radar and visual light in order to detect an object in its path. It can also increase the braking forced needed if the driver is applying the brakes without enough force to prevent a collision. Most AEB systems detect not only vehicles but can sense anything in its path including pedestrians, animals and cyclists.

Although the technology varies from one manufacture to the next, most AEB systems utilize radar technology, sensors and cameras to detect an object and thus an imminent collision. The system takes over and warns the driver through the use of an audible beeping noise and/or flashing lights on the dash. This is to get the driver to focus on the danger. If the driver does not react, then technology takes over and brings the vehicle to a stop in a controlled manner. This is all done in a minute fraction of time, seconds or less.

Many manufactures have been utilizing Automatic Emergency Braking systems since about 2017. Twenty automakers in the United States that actually represent 99 percent of the market in our country will make AEB systems standard on almost all models manufactured for 2022. This commitment of manufactures is expected to prevent at least 42,000 crashes and 20,000 injuries by the year 2025.

This is encouraging news in an effort to promote safe driving through technology. But these systems are not designed to take away all driver reaction, they are designed to assist the driver to regain focus when needed. It is important for the motorist to understand how the vehicle will react to obstacles when the Automatic Emergency Braking system takes over. But most importantly, do not rely on tech to do your job. That is, stay focused and watch the road. Happy Motoring & Happy New Year to All!