New concepts of “steer by wire” or “drive by wire” systems, completely eliminate the mechanical and hydraulic systems between the steering wheel and steering, replacing it with completely electronic systems, that contain sensors that tell the car what the driver is doing with the wheel, and provide the driver with feedback on what the car is doing. The sensors' outputs are used to control a motorized steering system. This frees up space in the engine compartment by eliminating the steering shaft, and reduces vibration inside the car.
By Gene Frantz, Texas Instruments Smart, programmable cameras with a high degree of analytical intelligence will be the workhorses that enable the next generation of applications for the security and automotive markets to name just a couple. The technology will be in place. Are we ready for it as human beings?