The Evolution of Cruise Control Systems
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Introduction
Cruise control is a feature that combines safety and convenience, invented in 1948 by mechanical engineer Ralf Teetor. Known by various names worldwide, such as speed control, autocruise, and trip monitor, cruise control was conceived when Ralf Teetor sat in a car with a lawyer, where he would slow down while talking and speed up while listening.
The Evolution of Cruise Control Systems
Originally developed with the sole purpose of maintaining a constant speed for vehicles, cruise control systems have evolved to perform much more. The simplest cruise control systems offer the following functionalities:
- Speed up and slow down with the touch of a button.
- Automatically disengage when the brake pedal is pressed.
- Prevent activation at speeds below 40 km/h.
Modern System Functions
However, the core function remains unchanged, with a throttle control system managing the throttle position and the amount of air that enters the engine.
Adaptive Cruise Control
As the number of vehicles on the roads worldwide has increased, the popularity of cruise control systems has surged. In fact, with the introduction of adaptive cruise control, safety and comfort levels have reached new heights.
Advantages of Adaptive Systems
Adaptive cruise control uses a front radar sensor, a digital signal processor, and longitudinal control technology to manage both acceleration and braking in the vehicle.
Conclusion
As Alfred North Whitehead once said, "Ideas do not stay in some minds; they must be given out." Today, over 65 years after the adoption of cruise control, one thing remains to be said... Thank you, Ralf Teetor!
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