Automatic Braking System in Car– Explained in Detail

Picture this: You're cruising in one of the latest cars equipped with an Automatic Braking System. Suddenly, an obstacle appears, and without warning, your vehicle springs into action, applying the brakes automatically to avoid a collision. 

Enter Automatic Braking Systems, or as it's commonly known, AEB — an integral part of the broader Emergency Braking System family. But that's not all. In this blog, we'll look deeper into how these systems operate, whether it's for city driving or tackling the speed demons on the highway with the Higher-Speed Automatic Emergency Braking System. 

By the end, you'll have a clear understanding of how these systems work, their advantages, and you'll know about some of the cars in India that come equipped with this lifesaving technology. So fasten your seatbelts and let's get moving!

Types of AEB Systems

Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) systems are revolutionising road safety. These systems come in various forms, each tailored to specific driving conditions and speeds, ensuring a safer experience for Indian drivers. 

Let's explore the different types of AEB systems and their unique functions:

1. City AEB

• Designed for urban driving, navigating congested streets
• Works at lower speeds, typically up to 50 km/h
• Detects vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists to prevent collisions in city traffic

2. Higher-Speed AEB

• Ideal for highway driving and higher-speed scenarios
• Reacts to obstacles even at speeds of up to 100 km/h
• Adds a layer of safety during fast-paced travel, reducing the risk of collisions

3. Pedestrian AEB

• Specialised in protecting pedestrians and cyclists
• Crucial in crowded city environments where pedestrian safety is paramount
• Swiftly responds to potential pedestrian-related accidents

4. Reactive AEB

• Acts as a safety net across various driving conditions
• Automatically applies brakes in response to impending collisions
• Ensures safety even when the driver doesn't react promptly, minimising accident severity

5. Motorcycle AEB

• Tailored to detect motorcycles, a common sight on Indian roads
• Enhances motorcycle safety by preventing rear-end collisions
• Reduces the risk of accidents involving motorcyclists

6. Intersection AEB

• Designed for navigating complex intersections safely
• Detects cross-traffic and potential collisions within intersections
• Helps avoid accidents in challenging traffic situations

Also Read: Types Of Roads and Lane System In India

How Do AEB Systems Work?

AEB systems are vital for modern vehicle safety, particularly on Indian roads with their unpredictable traffic scenarios. These systems utilise sensors, cameras, and radar to monitor the road ahead and respond as needed. 

Let's simplify this process with a step-by-step breakdown:

1. Sensor Detection

• AEB systems rely on an array of sensors, such as radar, lidar, and cameras
• These sensors continuously scan the road ahead, monitoring for potential obstacles in real-time
• They detect a wide range of objects, including vehicles, pedestrians, and even stationary obstacles

2. Data Analysis

• The data collected by sensors is sent to a central computer system for analysis
• The computer processes this data, evaluating factors like the distance to objects, their speed, and their trajectory
• It determines whether there's a risk of collision based on this analysis

3. Warning

• If the computer system identifies an imminent collision and senses that the driver hasn't taken action, it initiates a warning
• These warnings can take the form of audible alerts, visual signals on the dashboard, or a heads-up display projection
• The goal is to alert the driver and prompt them to react to the impending danger

4. Brake Application

• If the driver fails to respond to the warning, the AEB system intervenes
• It autonomously applies the vehicle's brakes, either fully or partially, to mitigate the impact or, ideally, prevent the collision altogether
• This rapid action significantly reduces the severity of accidents and enhances road safety

Also Read: Know the Brake System In Automobile Industry

Benefits of Automatic Emergency Braking

When it comes to road safety, AEB systems offer an array of benefits that extend beyond collision prevention, offering a wide range of advantages that contribute to safer roads and enhanced driving experiences. 

Let's take a look at some of the advantages that AEB systems bring to the table: 

1. Collision Prevention

• AEB helps in avoiding or reducing the severity of collisions, potentially saving lives

2. Reduced Injuries

• By slowing down or stopping the vehicle in emergencies, AEB reduces the risk of injury to both occupants and pedestrians

3. Insurance Discounts

• Some insurance providers offer discounts to drivers with AEB-equipped vehicles, recognising the reduced risk of accidents

4. Resale Value

• Cars with AEB systems tend to have higher resale values, as safety features are a significant selling point

4. Peace of Mind

• AEB provides peace of mind while driving, knowing that there's an extra layer of protection in critical situations

Drawbacks of Automatic Emergency Braking

While AEB systems are undeniably valuable, they are not without their limitations. Considering these drawbacks is crucial for consumers to make informed decisions when contemplating AEB-equipped vehicles.

Here's a breakdown of the key drawbacks to consider:

1. False Alarms

• Occasional false alarms, especially in scenarios like passing parked cars
• These sensors may misinterpret objects, leading to unnecessary braking

2. Cost

• Equipping a vehicle with AEB technology can significantly raise its price
• This may render AEB-equipped vehicles less accessible to budget-conscious buyers

3. Maintenance Expenses

• AEB sensors and cameras can be expensive to repair or replace if damaged
• It adds to the overall ownership costs of the vehicle

4. Limited Coverage

• AEB systems primarily focus on frontal collisions
• It may not protect from collisions involving the rear or sides of the vehicle

5. Environmental Impact

• Manufacturing and maintaining AEB components contribute to an environmental footprint
• It involves the use of electronics and sensors, potentially increasing e-waste and energy consumption

Also Read: Anti-Lock Braking Systems (ABS)

Tips For Using Automatic Emergency Braking 

AEB systems are powerful tools for enhancing road safety, but knowing how to use them effectively is crucial. With the proper know-how, you can maximise the safety benefits of your AEB system and help create a safer driving environment for yourself and others on the road.

Here are ten valuable tips to make the most of your AEB system:

• Familiarise yourself with your vehicle's AEB settings and capabilities through the owner's manual or a demonstration from your dealer.
• Keep the AEB sensors and cameras clean and free from dirt or debris to ensure optimal performance.
• AEB is not a substitute for attentive driving. Always remain vigilant and ready to take control when necessary.
• AEB systems may have speed limitations for activation, so adhere to posted speed limits.
• Be attentive and leave adequate space between your vehicle and the one in front to provide the AEB system room to react.
• Continue using your normal braking technique; the AEB system will enhance your efforts when necessary.
• Be prepared for occasional false alarms, especially in situations like passing closely by parked cars.
• Recognise that AEB systems might perform differently in adverse weather conditions like heavy rain or snow.
• Be aware that you can override the AEB system if you need to take control of the vehicle.
• If you share your vehicle with family members or friends, ensure they understand how the AEB system works and how to use it effectively.

Autonomous Braking Vs Anti-lock Brakes

It's essential to distinguish between Autonomous Braking and Anti-lock Brakes. AEB systems are designed to prevent or reduce collisions by automatically applying the brakes when a potential threat is detected.

On the other hand, ABS prevents the wheels from locking up during hard braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control. While beneficial, ABS does not proactively avoid collisions like AEB.

Here's a table comparing Autonomous Braking and Anti-lock Brakes (ABS):

Aspect	Autonomous Braking (AEB)	Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)
Purpose	Collision prevention	Maintain steering control
Primary Function	Prevents or reduces collisions by applying brakes automatically when a potential threat is detected	Prevents wheel lock-up during hard braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control
Focus	Collision avoidance	Maintaining control during braking
Types of Systems	Various, including City AEB, Higher-Speed AEB, Pedestrian AEB, etc.	Standard ABS in most modern vehicles
Activation	Activates autonomously based on sensor data and driver inaction	Engages when the driver applies hard or emergency braking
Object of Detection	Vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, and obstacles	Wheels and road conditions
Scenario	Reactive to potential collisions	Proactive in preventing wheel lock-up during hard braking
Control	Takes control of braking when necessary	Enhances driver's control over braking
Effect on Steering	Minimal impact on steering, as it primarily focuses on braking	Designed to maintain steering control during hard braking
Versatility	Adaptable to various driving scenarios and speeds	Standard feature in most vehicles for general braking situations
Overall Safety Enhancement	Provides an extra layer of collision avoidance and safety	Prevents skidding and maintains steering control during hard braking

Also Read: Adaptive Cruise Control System

Cars with Automatic Emergency Braking System in India

The government of India is considering making AEB systems mandatory for all cars in the country. This is a welcome move as AEB is a proven technology that can help to prevent accidents and save lives.

Several car manufacturers offer AEB systems in their models available in India. Here is a table with some of the popular brands and models equipped with AEB:

Model	Fuel Type	Body Type	Mileage/Driving Range	Ex-showroom Price
MG Astor	Petrol	SUV	15.07 km/l	₹10.81 lakh onwards
Mahindra XUV700	Petrol/Diesel	SUV	10.7 km/l (Petrol) / 15.1 km/l (Diesel)	₹12.49 lakh onwards
MG ZS EV	Electric	SUV	461 km	₹21.99 lakh onwards
Hyundai Tucson	Petrol, Diesel	SUV	14 km/l (Petrol), 18 km/l (Diesel)	₹18.50 lakh onwards
Hyundai Venue	Petrol, Diesel	SUV	17.52 - 23.7 km/l	₹7.68 lakh onwards
BYD Atto 3	Electric	Crossover	430 km	₹ 33.99 lakh onwards

The Bottom Line 

In wrapping up our exploration of Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) systems, it's evident that these innovations stand as a beacon of hope for enhanced road safety. With their diverse forms and impressive capabilities, AEB systems aim to stand guard against accidents and minimise their impact.

However, the responsibility for safer roads doesn't rest solely on technology's shoulders. Drivers need to stay engaged and attentive, treating AEB as a co-pilot rather than a replacement for caution. Regular vehicle maintenance, including keeping AEB sensors in top condition, is essential.

As AEB technology continues to evolve and find its way into more vehicles on Indian roads, there's a promising future ahead. Fewer accidents, reduced injuries, and increased peace of mind are the rewards we can reap collectively. So, let's embrace these advancements, drive responsibly, and work towards safer journeys for all.

FAQs

Q. What is emergency braking?

Emergency braking refers to the act of suddenly and forcefully applying the brakes in a vehicle to prevent a collision or reduce its severity in a critical situation.

Q. How does emergency brake assist work?

Emergency brake assist, often part of AEB systems, works by using sensors and data analysis to detect an impending collision. If the driver doesn't respond promptly, the system automatically applies the brakes to mitigate the impact.

Q. What speed does automatic emergency braking work?

The speed at which automatic emergency braking (AEB) works can vary depending on the specific system and vehicle. City AEB systems typically operate at speeds up to 50 km/h, while higher-speed AEB systems can work at speeds up to 100 km/h or more.

Q. Does AEB work at high speeds?

Yes, some AEB systems, known as higher-speed AEB, are designed to operate at high speeds, such as those encountered on highways. These systems can help prevent or mitigate collisions even when driving at high velocities.