Audi 2009 Annual Report Download - page 147

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LED technology: MatrixBeam
In MatrixBeam, the Audi Group is developing an adaptive LED high-beam system that allows the
driver to activate the high beams without dazzling other road users detected by the system. This
lighting technology represents a logical progression from the high-beam assistant, automating
the high beam function with the aid of a camera sensor system. MatrixBeam is in addition based
on a special LED headlight, the individual light segments of which can be energized separately.
As soon as other road users are detected, the headlight switches off specifically those light
segments that would cause dazzling. The driver still benefits from the remaining light seg-
ments, which cast their light past the preceding or oncoming vehicle so that visibility is in-
creased compared to conventional low beams. The adaptive MatrixBeam, which is currently still
in the advance development phase, therefore extends the Audi Group’s lengthy tradition of
innovative lighting technology.
Innovations for more safety
Night vision assistant
When driving in the dark with low beams, a driver can only identify pedestrians less than
60 meters away and will therefore have difficulty stopping in time even at speeds as low as
70 kilometers per hour. This is where the new driver assistance system helps: The Audi night
vision assistant increases the driver’s range of vision in the dark to as much as 300 meters, while
simultaneously providing a warning when pedestrians have been detected. The driver is now
able to respond much sooner. The system functions with the aid of an infrared camera that is
mounted in the Audi rings on the radiator grille and measures the difference between the ambi-
ent temperature and the temperature of various objects. The thermal image that is produced
displays warmer objects lighter and cooler ones darker on the display in front of the driver. Pe-
destrians, cyclists and also animals therefore appear as very light-colored objects in the image,
whereas the remainder of the road stays dark. When the processing software identifies a per-
son’s outline, they are specifically highlighted and a warning signal sounds as the driver ap-
proaches them. The specially developed thermal imaging camera is an option available for the
first time on the new-generation Audi A8.
Audi pre sense
Audi pre sense is a safety package that can identify critical driving situations or use the phase
shortly before a potential collision to prepare the vehicle and its occupants so as to minimize its
consequences. Various active and passive safety systems are networked into a single, integrated
safety system that constantly monitors the readings supplied by numerous different sensors,
such as those gauging the vehicle’s stability or the driver’s momentary response. The compre-
hensive technical package for identifying dangers well in advance and intervening appropriately
makes its first appearance in the new Audi A8. The system is available optionally in a number of
different versions that are linked to the various Audi assistance systems.
If the Audi pre sense basic system identifies a critical operating situation such as skidding or
hard braking, protective measures can be triggered preventively in addition to the ESP function.
Depending on the situation, the hazard warning flashers are activated and the side windows and
sunroof are closed; the belts of the front seats are also partially or fully tautened.
Audi pre sense front uses the sensors for Audi adaptive cruise control to monitor the traffic
ahead of the car for a collision risk and then uses Audi braking guard to warn the driver in vari-
ous levels of escalation if such a situation is identified. As soon as the driver responds, the sys-
tem steps in to boost braking force as necessary. If the driver does not respond, it can initiate a
partial brake application and in extreme cases activate the preventive protective systems.
The Audi pre sense rear system mitigates the consequences of a rear impact. In conjunction with
the radar sensors for Audi side assist, it monitors traffic behind the car, again affording preven-
tive protection whenever a collision risk is identified. The system responds by closing windows
and the sunroof, and tautening the seat belts.