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By-Wire Systems
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Problem Solving Technology from DuPont

“By-Wire” refers to the electric/electronic controls that ultimately will replace or assist traditional automotive mechanical or hydraulic systems such as steering, braking, suspension and throttle control. By placing electronic controls (a computer) between the driver and the system, automakers can gain design flexibility, shave weight and decrease the manufacturing complexity of both system components and vehicle assembly.

 

The Challenge of Higher Voltages

The addition of many creature comforts such as heated seats or power windows and infotainment packages including DVD players and navigation systems has pushed the electrical system in today’s vehicle to its limit. Adding new by-wire components and systems will demand even greater electrical power.  Today a typical vehicle with a 14-volt system requires 3 to 3.5 kW.  A full by-wire vehicle could require up to 20 kW in a 42-volt (or more) system.

DuPont offers a wide variety of materials that provide excellent thermal, mechanical, electrical and chemical resistance properties. DuPont expertise and the wide array of DuPont materials provide the component manufacturer or system integrator the kind of support needed to bring these new technologies to market.

Related Solutions & Technology
Components
Arc Resistance
With the potential move to 42-volt systems, eliminating arcing is more complex, because any voltage over 15 volts can cause a sustainable arc.
Components
Electrical Insulation
Ensuring the integrity of advanced electric and electronic systems requires careful isolation of wires and components from other wires and components as well as protection from an often harsh vehicle operating environment.
Components
Electromagnetic Shielding (EMI)
When it comes to robust EMI shielding, the right material, design and astute execution deliver the shielding and mechanical properties needed in a variety of demanding applications.
Components
Encapsulation
Thermoplastic encapsulation of delicate electrical components and electronic devices can cut manufacturing costs and at the same time package and protect those components from harsh automotive environments.
Components
Miniaturization
In the advanced automotive electrical and electronic system, many formerly mechanical functions will be performed electrically and precisely controlled with advanced electronics, further driving the need for miniaturization.
Components
Thermal Management
Vehicles today are exposed to a wide range of operating conditions and environments from the cold of the arctic to the intense heat of the deserts to the high humidity of the tropics. Future higher voltage systems will increase the number of heat sources in the vehicle and new systems will generate heat in locations previously considered low-temperature areas.