An ADAS target frame and accessories from Delphi, now Aptiv
Getting to grips with static calibrations LEARN ABOUT THE EQUIPMENT OPTIONS AND VEHICLE CONSIDERATIONS YOU NEED TO KEEP IN MIND WHEN PERFORMING STATIC CALIBRATIONS IN YOUR WORKSHOP
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f you’re delaying getting into servicing ADAS (Advanced Driver Assist Systems), don’t delay too long. Governments around the world agree with vehicle manufacturers that ADAS saves lives and reduces collision damage. This means they’re here to stay and will continue to become more commonplace than ever in your bays. Many advanced (and profitable) repair workshops are manoeuvring their way through the complicated maze of ADAS sensor diagnostics and calibrations, but doing it properly — and that is the only way to do it — will not be a simple or cheap endeavour. ADAS service joins a long list of other complicated technology challenges we’ve faced and adapted to.
The ‘human’ side of ADAS If every ADAS-equipped vehicle could calibrate itself as well as it performs its advanced driver-assist duties, we could breathe a big sigh of relief. Instead we are faced with an ever-growing number of complicated calibration procedures and tools to juggle (Figures 1, 2). And there are not one, but two main types of ADAS sensor calibration procedures — ‘static’, when the vehicle is parked; and ‘dynamic’, when the vehicle is being driven. In both cases, the vehicle’s system can be ‘learning’. In most cases, both types of calibrations will require an enhanced OEM-level aftermarket scan tool, or true factory (dealer) scan tool. Some manufacturers require either static or dynamic calibrations, while others require both. Static calibrations (typically in your bay) require the most equipment, workshop floor space, and time. If you are just beginning to do your research on what type and brand of static calibration equipment fits your needs (and budget), there are two big factors to consider: First, the equipment is costly. Whether you opt for a collection of pure OEM tools (as used by the dealers), or a choice from a growing list of aftermarket providers, plan on spending tens of thousands of dollars if you want to calibrate multiple vehicle brands. But keep in mind that diagnosing pre-OBD vehicle drivability problems was best accomplished via a big box engine analyser which cost many thousands of dollars 35 years ago, and still made a decent return on investment. In today’s dollars, ADAS equipment is almost certainly less. Choices are abundant in
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Auto Channel Issue #48 July 2022
ADAS camera/radar static calibration equipment, and they can be broken down into several categories and subcategories, starting with OEM and aftermarket.
OEM/Dealer equipment OEMs mostly use a geometry-based target placement process using common carpentry tools such as a plumb bob to find the exact centre of the front (and back) of the vehicle (Figure 3). Note you will need to check the manufacturers’ specifications. This allows a technician to locate and mark the vehicle’s geometric centre. Lines are then drawn on the workshop floor (i.e. chalk lines/ tape/markers) along with various angles to set the camera static calibration target(s) and radar sensor reflector (mounted on stands) at precise position/ distances in relation to the vehicle (Figure 4). Note that you will need to use an area of floor that is known to be flat and ensure you have clear space in which
Traditional carpentry tools like a plumb bob can be used in set-up procedures, and static calibration for an Aptiv radar can be achieved with a carpenter’s level
