Real Life Example of New Technology: Mercedes-Benz ML350 Safety Features
Presafe Brake The Mercedez Benz presafe braking is a system which, at speeds above 30km/h, uses the driver’s inputs to steering, accelerator and brake, as well as dynamic data about the speed and rotation of the vehicle to determine whether or not emergency action is being taken, or if the car is out of control. If so, among other measures, the system takes the slack out of the seat belts using reversible tensioners and, if a side impact or roll-over is considered likely, it closes the electric windows and sunroof. This system is able to use radar sensors to help identify critical situations. At speeds between 30km/h and 200km/h, a distance around 200m ahead of the car is scanned for radar reflective obstacles. 2.5 seconds before impact, the driver is warned of a potential danger. If, at that stage, the driver applies the brakes, the car automatically delivers the brake force needed to bring the car to a safe stop (if that is physically possible), regardless of the pressure applied by the driver. However, if the critical situation continues to develop and the driver does not react, the car applies partial braking around one and half seconds before the collision and tensions the seat belts in preparation for the impact.
Distronic Plus
If Distronic Plus registers that heavy braking is required, a warning tone is sounded and a warning symbol lights up on the instrument panel. This alerts the driver to pay close attention and apply the brakes if necessary. To move off again after coming to a complete stop, the cruise control lever should be pulled or the accelerator can be tappped. In stop-and-go traffic, Distronic Plus applies the brakes automatically – if necessary, until the vehicle comes to a complete stop. Automatic braking is applied using up to 40% of available braking power. When the traffic situation improves, Distronic Plus automatically accelerates to the preset speed, relieving the driver of routine actions in traffic queues or stop-and-go traffic.
Active Lane Keeping Assist
The Active Lane Keeping Assist is activated at a speed of 60 km/h and above if driving in a straight lane without need of steering. It is useful during long drives, or during traffic jams. Warnings and/or brake applications are overridden as soon as the driver counter steers, accelerates, brakes or changes lane.
Active Blind Spot Assist
The area covered by the assistance system extends for approx. 3.5 m to the side on both the right and left, as well as 3 m behind the rear of the vehicle. A warning is also issued if a vehicle switches from two lanes away into the area covered by the system in the adjacent lane. Vehicles overtaking from behind also trigger the system immediately after they move into the monitoring zone, while those that have been overtaken are indicated approx. 1.5 seconds after they enter the zone. This eliminates continuous flashing when passing a line of slower-moving vehicles or emitting an audible alarm when returning to the cruising lane with the indicator on.
