One of the main challenges facing car manufacturers is improving vehicle safety, including while driving. For this, cars are equipped with various devices that help the driver cope with driving in the most difficult situations. One of them is the integrated active control system VSM.
About forces and moments
The torque generated by the motor is applied to the wheels and the car starts to move. This is a very simplified description of the process of moving it. However, when starting to move, maneuvering and braking, a wide variety of forces act on the car, and the nature of their effect depends on the speed, road condition and the driver's actions.
Sometimes these actions are erroneous and incorrect, which may result in an accident. To avoid this, the developers have invented more than one electronic device that provides assistance to the driver in difficult conditions. Without touching all of them, it is enough to mention the most famous and well-known ones:
- ESP - exchange rate stability system (from different manufacturers it is different name- ESC, DSC, DTSC, etc. In the following text, the most common abbreviation ESP will be used);
The operation of any of these active control devices is based on constant monitoring of signals from sensors. According to them, the controller determines the discrepancy between the real driving mode of the car and what should be, it also takes the necessary measures, for example, it slows down, slows down or unlocks the wheel, changes the engine operating mode.
Active control system VSM
Another, somewhat specialized but useful, integrated control system, VSM, is worth mentioning. By itself, it does not work, only complete with ESP and ABS. If ABS provides stability when braking, TCP during acceleration, ESP prevents lateral displacements and is engaged in stabilizing the position of the car during maneuvers, then the VSM system is, as it were, integrated, combining the work of all other units and the driver's actions. 
The VSM system integrates electric steering motor, ESP and ABS. As stated by the car manufacturers with VSM, the stabilization control system counteracts the erroneous actions of the driver, i.e. if in a critical situation they are performed incorrectly to drive the vehicle, the VSM will counteract them.
In a more understandable way, this means that if the driver turns the steering wheel in the wrong direction when performing a maneuver, then this will require significant efforts from him. Whereas with the correct movement of the steering wheel, nothing like this happens.
Tasks solved by VSM
If we try to generalize what tasks such an integrated system solves, then we can note the following:
- relief of effort on the steering wheel when parking and maneuvering at low speed;
- increasing the steering wheel torque at high speed;
- an increase in the reactive force of the wheels when they are returned to the middle position;
- correction of the position of the front wheels when driving on a road with a slope, side wind, differences in pressure in the wheels;
- increasing stability (exchange rate).
Thus, the VSM system is engaged in stabilizing the position of the car on the road while driving in the same way as ESP, ABS and other devices similar in purpose. The difference between the two would be that VSM, through an electromechanical amplifier, affects the wheel, not on the brakes... In other words, steering and braking are combined. 
This is especially true when acceleration or deceleration occurs on different surfaces (one wheel on ice, water or other surface, the other on asphalt). Typically, this will cause the vehicle to pull to the side. To correct the situation, control signals are sent to the steering gear that correct the position of the car. In principle, the considered situation is typical for the operation of such a control system. The possibility of skidding can be repeated during sharp maneuvering, in which case the VSM will also help keep the car from skidding.
It should be noted that such a device is not included in standard equipment car.
An active control system such as VSM primarily ensures the stability of the car on the course, when it moves on different surfaces under different wheels. In this case, signals are generated not only for braking a separate wheel, but also for steering, thanks to which the car continues to move at a given course, and it is possible to avoid skidding.
Reading 4 min.
integrated active control system vsm. The article describes the main purpose of the system, the principles of its operation and interaction with other auto security services.
Car accidents claim millions of lives every year. The shocking figure is directly related to the number of cars, which in the world has already reached some astronomical figures. That is why engineers when developing modern cars the safety of the driver and passengers is at the forefront. One of the latest inventions of modern engineers today is the vsm integrated system. In fact, this is exactly what will help the driver even in the most difficult and extreme traffic situation with active driving.
However, you can understand its principle of operation only by understanding the principles of operation of the most known systems security that is familiar to many today.
Security systems of a modern car
During emergency braking or when maneuvering, the car behaves according to all the laws of physics. It is not uncommon for inexperienced drivers to fly off the road or get into serious accidents simply because they do not know what to expect from their own car. Today there are many electronic devices, which, according to the ideas of their developers, should come to the aid of the driver in emergency situation... Here are just the most famous ones:
- ABS - anti-lock braking system for wheels. Will help out with emergency braking on slippery or wet road... The system is simple to prevent the wheels from locking and skidding, which in turn will save the car from getting into an uncontrollable skid.
- EPS– serves for directional stability (depending on the car manufacturer, it can be called differently).
- TCP is a traction control system.
All these devices, during their operation, process the signals received from the sensors and, on the basis of this, react in one way or another.
For example, the security system itself can slow down sharply, change the load on the engine, or unlock the car wheel.
It would seem, what does the integrated system have to do with it? The answer is simple: vsm task combine the work of all safety systems and, if necessary, counteract the driver's misbehavior and thereby solve the issues of active driving.
Features of work
The active control system integrated into the car is a highly specialized unit. In practice, it is used relatively recently, and the device is found only on relatively new cars, naturally only on foreign cars - VAZ engineers have not yet invented anything like this. In fact, it works only as a set with the above security systems and coordinates their work. In addition, the vsm can affect the electric steering column. As the developers say, this emergency control system can even block incorrect actions by the driver. In practice, it looks like this: if the driver starts turning the steering wheel in the wrong direction. At that very moment, the maneuver will require considerable effort from him than during normal driving. The difference will be felt immediately and sharply, so that the driver's attention is guaranteed.
Main goals
The vsm control system, according to the developers, is capable of performing at least 5 critical tasks, including:
- Great ease of movement of the steering column when parking or maneuvering at very slow speeds.
- The steering torque at high speed is significantly increased by the system.
- The reactive force of the wheels increases at the moment when they return to the middle position.
- The system adjusts the position of the front wheels when driving on a slope road, if there is a crosswind or tire pressure difference.
- Exchange rate stability is significantly increased.
Thus, it turns out that most often vsm at the time of its operation refers to the electric power steering and through it has a significant impact on the behavior of the car and the operation of all safety systems. That is, in fact, vsm combines the impact of car safety services on the steering wheel and brakes.
In practice, the system proves its relevance and necessity at the moment of sharp acceleration or deceleration. Especially in those situations when one of the wheels is in unsatisfactory driving conditions in the water or, for example, stands on an uneven surface, and the other, on the contrary, on dry and even asphalt. The car in this situation can easily begin to pull to the side and an uncontrolled skid is possible. It is at this moment that vsm intervenes, which does everything to keep the car on the road and prevent it from skidding.
In practice, the operation of the system is completely invisible. Only experienced drivers will be able to see or feel it at work. Beginners, on the other hand, will most likely ignore the actions of an invisible assistant and only feel the difference when changing to another car.
The road can be challenging every day, but you always have control over difficult surfaces, inclines, winding roads and unexpected maneuvers by other drivers thanks to the progressive electronic system control.
Feel completely secure in Sorento Prime. The rigid body structure is constructed using high-strength steels, and six airbags are standard. The highest level of safety is confirmed not only by laboratory crash tests, but also by simulated real crashes.
360 ° all-round view function
The system makes it easier to park and maneuver in tight spaces. Thanks to four cameras, the display shows a view of the car from above, which helps the driver to check the vision of the situation from his own angle in any direction when parking or performing maneuvers.
※ Working conditions: ignition on, transmission lever in D / R / N positions, speed up to 20 km / h.
ESC (Vehicle Stability Control) controls the speed and direction of the vehicle.
At the same time, the system constantly compares the received parameters from the sensors (ABS sensor, yaw rate, acceleration, steering wheel turn) with the actions of the driver and works out the loss of traction of the car, due to which a skid may occur.
When the system (ESC) detects a loss of control, it instantly transmits an individual braking force for each wheel.
Anti-lock braking system (ABS) ensures that friction is not lost between the wheels of the vehicle and the road surface during braking. When a driver suddenly presses the brake pedal, there is a chance that the car will get out of control and slide along the road. The main task of the anti-lock braking system is to avoid such a situation.
Lifting assistance system needed in cases where the car starts to move on a rough road. The system ensures that the machine does not roll backwards on steep inclines and has a number of significant advantages. Firstly, with its help, the car is more likely to move on the rise, which eliminates the need for the driver to use parking brake... Secondly, the safety of both the driver and pedestrians is increased.
How the system works such is - when the driver stops pressing the brake pedal, the pressure drop in the brake system begins to gradually slow down. The lift assist system is activated when several factors coincide: the road lift exceeds 5%, the car starts up, and the driver presses the brake pedal.
KIA Sorento Prime is equipped with front and side airbags that protect the driver and front passenger, as well as two curtain airbags that serve to protect everyone in the cabin.
Emergency braking system I need it so that in a dangerous situation on the road, the car's braking mechanism works with maximum efficiency. According to statistics, when the emergency braking system is operating, the braking distance is reduced by 15-20% percent. This is sometimes enough to avoid a serious collision, accident or accident.
System BAS - determines by the speed with which the driver presses the brake pedal, whether there is an emergency braking situation on the road. The data on the speed of pressing the pedal is transmitted to the electronic control unit from the speed sensor of the movement of the rod of the vacuum amplifier. In the event that the signal value goes beyond the set level of the norm, the rod drive electromagnet is activated. The brake pedal starts to be affected vacuum amplifier brakes - this is how the emergency braking process starts. He starts to act earlier than ABS system.
Emergency pre-tensioning system (EFD)
The seat belts on the front seats of the KIA Sorento Prime are equipped with special EFD pretensioners. In an emergency, the belts are pre-tensioned to keep the driver and front passenger firmly in the seats, providing additional protection in the event of a collision.
Emergency communication system ERA-GLONASS
In unforeseen cases, the system will connect you with the operator to clarify if everything is in order, or call emergency services.
LED headlights with dynamic low beam function
The headlamps are capable of additionally illuminating bends, providing better visibility in dark time days. In addition, the swivel optics adapt to the steering angle, weight and vehicle speed.
Active head restraints a special movable lever is built in, which is located in the back of the chair. When the car hits an obstacle, inertia pushes the driver into the seat and their weight pushes against this lever. In this case, the reaction mechanism immediately begins to work - even before the driver's head is tilted back, the active head restraints move towards it and soften the force of the impact. After that, they take their starting position. It is worth noting that the head restraints must be pre-adjusted for the most efficient operation.
Active head restraints are activated when the car collides with an obstacle at low or medium speeds, and in some cases, a collision with the car from behind. It is in these situations that the likelihood of injury due to the whip effect increases.
Integrated Active Management System (VSM) helps the car to maintain a stable position while braking and cornering, especially on wet, slippery or uneven surfaces, by working together the stabilization system and the electric power steering.Based on the information collected by the sensors, the stabilization system and the electric power steering are activated as soon as the car starts slip and return it to a safe trajectory.
High strength steel (AHSS)
The KIA Sorento Prime uses over 52.7% high-strength steel. This unique grade of steel is used to reinforce the front, rear and sides of the vehicle, as well as in those areas of the body that are subject to maximum stress.
Rear subframe
The rigid rear subframe provides excellent roadholding.
Vertical rear shock absorbers
The vertical arrangement of the rear shock absorbers helps mitigate the negative effect of riding on uneven roads and provides even more more comfort in the cabin.
Intelligent Automatic Parking System SPAS
This system is designed to help you with both parallel and perpendicular parking. It automatically recognizes a suitable parking space, turns the steering wheel and estimates the distance to other vehicles. All you have to do is step on the gas and brake and shift gears of your Sorento Prime.
Blind Spot Monitoring System (BSD)
The blind spot monitoring system uses sensors that scan the area on the sides and behind the car for dangerous proximity of others Vehicle in the zone of zero visibility. If an object is detected, the driver is alerted by a visual signal on the side mirrors and center display. If the driver turns on the turn signal and another vehicle is detected in the blind spot on the other side, the warning horn will sound.
Over the past couple of decades, leading industrial leaders in the design and manufacture of automobiles have faced the serious problem of low driver readiness to drive a car in high-risk environments. A lot of facts and police statistics show that the skills to manage complex, heavy and powerful by car so as not to kill yourself and others, the average driver is no longer enough.
The first, focused on a comprehensive solution to the problem, was the integrated active management system VSM. In fact, a new computer unit was combined with a system of sensors and control modules for anti-lock brakes and a system for ensuring exchange rate stability.
What functions are assigned to the integrated active management system VSM:
- obtaining from all available car sensors the most reliable information about the current state of the car;
- comparing the objectivity of the ABS and ESP control commands with the tendencies of the driver's actions and comparing them with the optimal one possible options stored in memory;
- indirect intervention of VSM in the operation of the steering wheel, engine, brake system and gearboxes.
Important! VSM differs from the many intelligent assistance options in that it helps the driver to take action without being limited to providing information or advice.
How the VSM Integrated Active Management System works
The idea of introducing an analogue of an autopilot that helps the driver to act, and not just inform, hovered in the minds of developers for a long time, but the full implementation in an integrated form of VSM, as an active control system, received only after increasing the power of the control controllers and the introduction of electric power steering.
Of course, the VSM system will not turn the steering wheel, steer and maneuver instead of the driver, it does not yet have such an opportunity. And if an obstacle appears on the way or the rules of DD are grossly violated, the active control system will not be able to help. Although more recent developments with an integrated circular radar and GPS system may well be able to make the right decision by participating in active driving.
The main task, as an integrated or unified structure, the existing system VSM is an active intervention assistance for the electric power steering. VSM as a control system deals with the stabilization of the vehicle position while driving. While the stable position of the car is considered the main criterion for its safety.
What the driver can expect from active VSM control:
- an increase in resistance or the required steering effort required when driving at high speed. The steering wheel loses its sharpness, and thanks to this, the course control becomes more balanced and smooth. Even if you want to try to jerk the steering wheel abruptly, the VSM system simply will not allow you to do this, instantly increasing the "weight" of the steering wheel;
- steering with the front wheels in the event of a risk of the car stalling into a skid, skidding or a sharp decrease in the adhesion of one or two wheels to the road surface, problems with the tire or suspension;
- integrated influence on ensuring stability along the trajectory of movement.
In addition to the steering wheel, the system actively uses the capabilities of the brakes, both independently and through the anti-lock module. For the successful operation of the VSM unit, partners also need an ESP module, which is responsible for directional stability, and an anti-slip circuit.
A classic example of successful VSM operation is passing - snaking around a number of obstacles or driving at high speed with a controlled skid in a sufficiently deep corner. Such tests were not chosen by chance, because they make up about 80% of all shunting changes by a car on the road.
In theory, in a skid, the VSM should redistribute torque to the outer pair of wheels and brake the inner pair to turn a couple of degrees in the opposite direction to the skid direction. This will ensure that the car will be relieved of the threat of collision with the curb and will smoothly complete the corner.
If braking is found to be ineffective or even harmful, the VSM system will deactivate the ABS, or one or two wheels will individually brake. By controlling the steering wheel, the driver will feel that turning in the "forbidden" direction will be prohibitively difficult, and in the optimal direction, it will be as easy as possible to accelerate the turn.
This is the so-called system of intuitive response to a situation. In a critical situation, the driver simply has no time to think and analyze, he has to instinctively make decisions, and often the VSM block prompt comes in handy.
With a long move, after 4-5 hours of driving, fatigue will inevitably begin to accumulate. In this case, the VSM system will significantly relieve the driver and insure more, avoiding risky situations.
What's good and bad about VSM
The main postulate of the use of various electronic assistants in driving a car is based on an unshakable rule - the most advanced, active and integrated system should not create discomfort in driving. VSM is no exception.
Its invisibility in the car has been brought to such a state that many buyers of new cars equipped with an integrated active control system VSM do not notice it even after running the car and simply begin to doubt its availability.
People are the most difficult link in the chain of events for the deployment of a new production system and the modernization of the old one. It is easier to overcome workers' resistance than middle managers and top managers.
At the first all-Russian forum "Lean Manufacturing for Russia" / 1 / it was evidenced that almost two and a half hundred enterprises have embarked on the path of production optimization and are solving similar problems.
Research by ICSI (Institute of Comprehensive strategic research) "The spread of the Lean Manufacturing practice in Russia", it is the enterprises of ferrous and non-ferrous metallurgy, as well as the entire spectrum of mechanical engineering, led by the automotive industry, that are most inclined to introduce "lean manufacturing".
Studying production system Toyota (Toyota Production System, TPS), American analysts, based on Japanese developments, have created their own methods, combining them into a Lean Manufacturing or Lean production system. In Russia, she became known as LIN, she is also - "Lean Manufacturing".
The most popular tools of "lean manufacturing" in Russia are quality management (69% of those who reported their experience of using LIN), elements of workplace visualization (30%) and inventory management (25%). This set, firstly, is due to the existing bottlenecks in the work of enterprises. Secondly, these LIN tools are relatively easy to learn and implement: they do not require preliminary changes in production and can be implemented in a short time at individual pilot sites.
Figure 1 - Statistics on the use of LIN technologies
A Value Stream Map (VSM) is a diagram that displays each movement of the flow of information materials needed to fulfill a customer's order / 1 /.
VSM allows you to immediately see bottlenecks in the process flow and, based on its analysis, identify all overhead costs and processes. Such maps are created at all pilot sites, and if desired, it is easy to understand where and with what losses must be tolerated.
VSM is created in order to see the entire flow as a whole and to give managers, technologists and workers the opportunity to speak the same language about the problems of different stages of the flow. When building a VSM, you can see all the losses that are in the stream.
Since VSM reflects the state of the flow at a certain point in time, at least two types of maps of different states are distinguished: the current state and the state of the long-term perspective (future state).
Various software tools make it possible to build a VSM graphically, however, the entire analysis of losses, bottlenecks, etc. is not an automated process.
The concept of VSM is currently considered only in a narrow range of specialties, mainly in CAD specialties and various areas of production automation. However, the use of this tool is possible in all places where there is a final product. For example, when creating a software product, configurations of accounting programs, assembling server operating systems, etc. A large number of distance and face-to-face training courses for VSM and related technologies are offered on the Internet. But many universities do not pay attention to this.
Conceptualizing and describing a value stream begins with a pencil sketch of the flow of materials and information in the process of manufacturing a product. After that, a map of the current state is obtained. This state is not ideal; it is necessary to look for and mark bottlenecks on the map for further modernization. After that, the process of VSM - analysis begins, which consists in transforming current map VSM to future state map.
VSM analysis tools are rarely used when learning the very concept of VSM. For some reason, it is believed that this tool is quite effective even with manual analysis, there are enough tools for drawing VSM diagrams.
But there are several software tools that can help with the analysis. The most flexible and powerful of these is an add-on for Microsoft Visio called eVSM. It allows you not only to graphically compose VSM maps, but also to calculate a large number of time parameters, resource utilization rate, takt time, draw process graphs, numerically and graphically compare the results of certain changes in the scheme (to simulate the results of changes). This program is supplied both as a paid (about $ 600) and as a 30-day version and a version for students.
In addition, the program provides an opportunity to solve a transport problem (movement of products between stages) using "spaghetti" diagrams.
Combining the very concept of VSM with tools like eVSM helps to study in more detail the problems of managing the creation of various products in many areas of industry, small and medium-sized businesses. And the teaching of these technologies to specialties that are associated with the management of any production processes or product creation will significantly increase the understanding of the optimization of such processes.
We think that when using such tools as eVSM, it is possible, when training a wide range of future specialists, to immediately instill in them the basics of "lean manufacturing" and the skills of analyzing real processes of creating products.
Bibliography
1 Russian Lin-Forum. Lean manufacturing, lean, kaizen, TPS: training, implementation, learning experience. [Electronic resource] - Access mode: http://www.leanforum.ru/ - 12. 01 . 2012
2 Rother M., Learn to see business processes. The practice of building maps of value streams / Rother M., Shuk D., .- M .: Alpina Business Books, 2005. - 144s - isbn 5-9614-0168-5
