SL-Class with "drive-by-wire" technology - Steering, braking and accelerating by sidestick
- Mobile research laboratory for "drive-by-wire" technology
- Innovative operating concept with ergonomic benefits
The cockpits of some passenger cars in the future will have neither a steering wheel nor pedals. Instead, what are known as sidesticks will become increasingly common - ergonomically shaped "levers" in the centre console and interior door panels which enable the driver to control all the movements of the vehicle. Steering will no longer be by means of a wheel, but by merely moving the sidestick to the left or right; acceleration and braking will no longer require pedals, but will be controlled by pushing the stick forward to accelerate as required or pulling it to the rear to brake. The driver will only indicate his intentions, after which high-performance computers interact with mechatronic actuators. Everything is done electronically via data links, hence the name of this technology: "drive-by-wire".
Because such a system must be thoroughly tested even at the research stage, DaimlerChrysler researchers have already equipped several research vehicles with this technology in recent years. These include an SL-Class sports car, which has been converted into a mobile research laboratory to test both the operation and ergonomics of "drive-by-wire" systems.
Dispensing with a steering wheel and pedal cluster also has ergonomic advantages. These include more freedom of movement for the driver and a clearer view of the cockpit instruments, as well as a more comfortable body posture than in conventional automobiles. The feet can be positioned as the driver wishes, for example, and the arms no longer need to be stretched forward to the steering wheel, but can rest comfortably on the armrests in the centre console and door panels. This relieves tension in the shoulder muscles. Electrically adjusted seats and footrests which can be adjusted at the touch of a button will help the driver and front passenger to find a comfortable seating position. Moreover, the risk of injury to the vehicle occupants is reduced in the event of a frontal collision, as neither pedals nor a steering wheel can be pushed into the interior by the impact.
More comfortable steering and manoeuvring with sidesticks
While steering, braking and accelerating by sidestick requires a certain learning process, it opens up new dimensions in terms of handling characteristics, ride comfort and driving safety. This is confirmed by the results of test drives conducted with male and female drivers
- The steering ratio and steering effort can be varied and adapted to suit the current driving situation. This means that the wheels can be moved more quickly and easily using the sidestick than with a conventional steering wheel.
- The vehicle can be precisely and intuitively controlled when negotiating bends.
- The driver’s foot does not need to switch position from the accelerator to the brake pedal when braking, which means that he can react more rapidly.
- Because there is no longer any mechanical link between the steering and the running gear, wheel vibrations are not transferred into the interior via a steering column and steering wheel.
Technology adopted from aviation
By adopting sidesticks and the handling dynamics computer, the researchers in
