Cruise control on mechanics - what it is and how it works

How does cruise control work with a manual transmission?

Cruise control on a manual may seem like something fantastic to many, but if you try, you can install such an additional function on your own car. The only thing you should think about right away is whether or not you need cruise control on your car? After all, although in general this additional function greatly simplifies the process of driving a car, it also has its drawbacks.

Is it possible to install cruise control on a manual transmission: let’s look at the technical nuances. Will cruise control work fully on a manual transmission? The process of connecting cruise control to a manual transmission when it is not provided by the manufacturer. What you will need for installation Installation process Is it worth using cruise control on a car: advantages and disadvantages of the function.

Is it possible to install cruise control on a manual transmission: let’s look at the technical nuances.

Those car enthusiasts who are wondering whether there is cruise control on a manual transmission have most likely encountered this function only on cars with an automatic transmission. Indeed, this additional function is mainly used only on cars with automatic transmission, which normally have the ability to install it.

In this case, the procedure for connecting the device will be practically no difficulty, since the car owner will only have to install it in the place provided by the manufacturer.

As for cars operating on a manual transmission and on which the possibility of installing cruise control was not provided, then a universal device can be manually installed on them.

IMPORTANT! When purchasing cruise control for a car with a manual transmission, give preference to German manufacturers whose devices are highly reliable. This will allow you to avoid unexpected breakdowns of the cruise control due to overloads, which may occur due to incomplete compatibility with the car.

Technically, a similar procedure involves the additional installation of a bracket and an additional cable to the accelerator pedal, with the help of which it will be possible to control the speed of the car. Cruise control on the mechanics also involves installing a device control button at the bottom of the deflector.

However, often this button turns off after each press on the pedal (for example, when overtaking), which is why you have to activate the cruise control again.

Will cruise control work fully on a manual transmission?

The operation of cruise control on a manual transmission is practically no different from its operation when installed on a car with an automatic transmission.

However, in this case, there may also be one drawback: when trying to go uphill with cruise control turned on, the driver will not be able to automatically switch to a lower gear.

Because of this, if the driver is driving in 5th gear of a manual transmission, then without additional pressing of the gas pedal he is unlikely to be able to completely overcome the entire climb.

In such a situation, another feature of cruise control appears - if the car’s speed decreases (which happens when it is impossible to drive onto a slope), the device automatically turns off at 40 km/h, so the driver in any case will have to resort to mechanical control of the gas pedal.

IT IS IMPORTANT! If there is a RES button on the cruise control device, you can reset the speed by pressing it twice. If it is absent, you can reduce the speed by pressing the gas pedal and fixing the new speed using the cruise control start button.

The process of connecting cruise control to a manual transmission when it is not provided by the manufacturer.

Before proceeding with the installation of cruise control, the car owner must make sure that all technical components of his “iron horse” are in working order, and also install good tires on the car.

This is due to the fact that in the presence of such malfunctions it is very dangerous to allow the car to drive under automatic control.

If everything is in order, the driver will not endanger himself by driving on cruise control.

What you will need for installation

To complete the work, it is important to prepare in advance:

curved screwdriver;

scissors or an awl (the main thing is that they are very sharp);

knife;

nut head;

wrench;

a set of self-tapping screws (screws can also be used);

a cable for connecting to the accelerator (it can also be included with the device);

universal cruise control.

IMPORTANT! If your car has an accelerator pedal position sensor, then you will need to purchase an additional bracket for it, which you will also have to install yourself.

Installation process

In general, the entire work of installing cruise control on the mechanics will take you no more than an hour, however, you should set aside time to check the operation, as well as eliminate possible malfunctions. In general, the work consists of the following sequential actions:

Choosing a location for the new device. Often, car enthusiasts attach it near the fuel filter, which also allows you to connect the cruise control to the brake hose. You can choose another place for it, the main thing is that it is dry, and the cable from the accelerator can be freely connected to it (if there are strong bends in the cable, you will not be able to control the speed).

IMPORTANT! If you cannot run the cable from the accelerator in such a way that there are no bends in it, you can use a regular fishing reel, along which it will bend freely without breaking or damaging other mechanisms of the car.

We connect the second cable to the accelerator, but do not rush to cut it. First, install the bracket on the gas pedal position control sensor, and only then measure the required length of the cable and cut it. After this, the second end of the cable can be connected to the cruise control device.

To connect cruise control to a car, you must first find the tachometer connection wires, to which you need to connect the new device. The green wire that comes from the cruise control control unit must be connected to the tachometer wire. The red wire of the device is intended for connection to brake lights.

Install the cruise control activation/deactivation button. To connect it, we connect the gray double wire. For full operation of the button and device, be sure to stretch the ground that runs along the black wire.

The cruise control control knob must be installed on the steering wheel of the car, for which it will have to be disassembled. If your car has airbags, they will also have to be removed for a while. We install the handle on the steering wheel and put it back together, not forgetting about the airbags.

We check the operation of the cruise control. To do this, we recommend that you drive along an empty road where there is no traffic. It is rational to do a test activation of the device at low speed (but above 40 km/h), while being prepared for the need to control the accelerator pedal if the device suddenly does not work.

Is it worth using cruise control on a car: advantages and disadvantages of the function.

The principle of operation of the cruise control function is that the device system automatically maintains the speed set by the driver, without requiring mechanical action of the foot on the gas pedal.

To activate cruise control, the driver just needs to press the device button, and immediately after that he can take his foot off the pedal and enjoy the car’s smooth speed, which will not change even if the road terrain changes.

But this does not mean that the driver will not be able to use the pedals when overtaking or stopping is necessary. All this is quite possible, and even more - after forced acceleration or braking, the car will still return to the same speed that was set on the cruise control.

THIS IS INTERESTING! Modern cruise control systems are equipped with more than one function on/off button. In addition to it, a SET button can be installed, pressing it in pairs will allow the driver to double the speed of the car as quickly as possible, without touching the gas pedal with his foot.

In general, the advantages of this additional function on a car with a manual transmission include the ability to relieve stress from the leg during a long trip that does not require dynamic control of the car. Thus, when driving out onto a long and unloaded highway, the driver really gets the opportunity to rest.

However, the operation of manual cruise control is rational only if the car owner constantly travels out of town onto uncrowded roads. In urban conditions, there is practically no point in installing cruise control, since the driver will constantly press the pedals with his feet.

We hope you were able to answer the question for yourself whether it is worth installing this additional function on your car, and you can clearly explain to others what cruise control is on a manual and how to install it.

Source: https://news.rambler.ru/europe/35185796-kak-rabotaet-kruiz-kontrol-s-mehanicheskoy-korobkoy-peredach/

Cruise control on mechanics - what it is and how it works - Automotoguru

Not all modern drivers know what cruise control is in a car. However, this option belongs to rather old systems installed on foreign-made vehicles.

This system is designed to provide comfort and convenience when driving on country roads.

There are many benefits to using this option, so let's look at the characteristics of cruise control.

Cruise control: what is it?

Cruise control is an additional vehicle option, thanks to which the speed is maintained at a certain level. This function is used exclusively for long trips on country roads or highways. When driving in urban areas, this function is not used.

The cruise control system functions as follows: the driver drives out of town onto the highway, after which he turns on the option to support a certain speed limit. Regardless of the road surface, the system will maintain the speed at a certain level. This allows the driver to take his foot off the gas pedal and not control the speed.

Appearance of the cruise control buttons located on the steering column switch

The system in question is not a new product at all, but it gained popularity in Russia not so long ago. In Western European countries, the use of cruise control is the norm, as the system eliminates driver fatigue during long journeys.

This option is installed from the factory on cars with different types of engines and transmissions. If the system in question is not installed on the car from the factory, then this is not yet a reason to change the vehicle.

You can install it yourself, and even a beginner can cope with this task.

The invention of the cruise control system occurs in the USA, where the device is extremely popular. Today, manufacturers from different countries are producing such a system: Germany, Japan, China and others. Translated from English, “Cruise Control” means “constant speed control.”

However, in addition to controlling speed and reducing driver fatigue, this system has another significant advantage - fuel economy. Numerous studies among motorists have revealed that fuel savings correspond to values of up to 5-7%.

This is another reason to equip your vehicle with cruise control.

Features of operation on manual transmission and automatic transmission

On vehicles with manual transmission and automatic transmission, the operating principle of cruise control is the same, with the exception of some points. These points lie in the number of functions performed by the devices. However, let’s look at the initial components of the device and its operating principle.

The design of the simplest cruise control consists of a servo drive, which is connected to the throttle control mechanism. It is the servo drive that is responsible for supplying a certain amount of the fuel mixture. A servo drive is a negative feedback product used when driving a vehicle with a manual transmission.

Cruise control servo drive responsible for fuel supply

The operating principle of the device is as follows:

When the car is moving at a constant speed limit, the gas pedal is in one position.
When cruise control is activated, the throttle position is memorized by the microprocessor module.
If the car moves up, the speed will decrease if the position of the throttle remains unchanged.
To balance the speed of the car to the set value, the microprocessor sends the appropriate command to the servo drive, after which the latter adjusts the position of the damper. At the same time, not only the speed will increase, but also the fuel consumption will increase.
If the car is moving downhill, the speed will increase, so to level it out, the microprocessor will send a signal to the servo drive to reduce the fuel supply. To balance the vehicle speed, the system uses engine braking, and consumption is significantly reduced.
To cancel the set speed, simply press the brake pedal.
To emergency disable the cruise control function, simply press the brake pedal.

The cruise control module analyzes the information received and also compares it with those specified by the driver. Based on information processing, a specific car control algorithm is created. Now let’s figure out what are the differences in the functioning of the cruise control system for cars with manual transmission and automatic transmission.

How does the mechanical system work?

When using the cruise control system on a car with a manual transmission, the sector stops at the limiter. To do this, the driver should change from high to low gear. In addition, with a manual transmission, the driver needs to independently press the brake pedal if the need arises.

On a car with a manual transmission, when driving uphill and with the cruise control option activated, the driver will need to switch to a lower speed.

If you don’t switch to it when going up a steep climb, you simply won’t be able to overcome the obstacle. The same applies to the situation when a car goes down a hill.

If you do not shift to a lower gear for engine braking, the engine will develop a high speed.

Video: cruise control on a Suzuki Grand Vitara with manual transmission

How does the automatic system work?

On “automatic”, with the cruise control option turned on, there is no need to switch, since the device is responsible for all actions. As soon as the car reaches the desired speed, the servo will fix the position of the damper. If an adaptive type system is installed on a vehicle with an automatic transmission, then the car braking occurs automatically.

Types of device

There are two types of devices under consideration, which are called passive and adaptive. The first option is a classic system that is used on cars with different types of gearboxes for a long period of time. The main function of passive devices lies in maintaining a certain speed of movement.

The adaptive type is the most interesting and in demand, so we will deal with each type separately.

Passive cruise control and its features

The passive type of cruise control has the simplest design, and such a product is used primarily to maintain a certain speed while driving on highways and highways. The design of the passive device includes the following structural elements:

Control block. The main device that performs calculations while the car is moving when the option is activated.
Sensors
Throttle valve actuator or servo.
Passive cruise control package

The device operates quite simply. To do this, you need to go out of town to a highway with good road surface.

It is not rational to use this option, both in city traffic and outside the city on roads with poor-quality road surfaces (if there are potholes and other defects on the roads, as well as on primers).

As soon as the car reaches a certain speed, which is optimal for a given area, the cruise control is turned on (manually).

After enabling this option, the microprocessor located in the control unit is responsible for the speed of movement. Sensors determine the speed of the vehicle, as well as the throttle position, and transmit information to the control module. When driving conditions change, which can be ascents and descents, the sensors send appropriate signals.

As soon as the type of track changes when driving uphill or downhill, the sensors send signals to the control unit. The unit analyzes the signals, after which it sends a command to the servo drive, and the throttle valve closes or opens.

Adaptive cruise control and its features

The adaptive type of cruise control is a new generation of the device. This type of device is used on modern cars, and is intended not only to maintain a certain speed limit, but also to take into account the traffic situation. The traffic situation is taken into account using auxiliary devices: sensors, radars and cameras.

The use of adaptive cruise control makes it possible to link your vehicle to the car moving ahead. The speed of the vehicle ahead is taken into account, and a safe distance is maintained, on the basis of which the control unit controls the vehicle.

Location and overview of adaptive cruise control sensors

If the car moving ahead changes speed, the sensors will send corresponding signals to the ECU. The unit will analyze the signals and make a decision to reduce or increase the speed. If there is no vehicle ahead, the device gives a signal to increase the speed to the required value, after which it maintains it.

Adaptive cruise control is designated ACC. This type of system is installed on cars from the factory. The cost of such a system is quite high, due to the use of expensive sensors, cameras and radar.

The device also uses a modern control unit, capable of calculating not 2 functions, but several dozen.

Depending on the device model, the driver can be notified of an emergency situation ahead by both visual and audio signals.

It is also important to note the fact that the adaptive cruise control system operates in tandem with the ABS anti-lock braking system and ESP. If one of these systems does not function, it will be impossible to activate cruise control. It is recommended to turn on adaptive cruise control when cars are moving at a uniform speed outside the city.

Displaying the adaptive cruise control system on the vehicle's on-board computer

If the vehicle design does not have an adaptive type of cruise control, then its installation does not make justifiable sense. Although this system is more advanced and modern, a passive device is quite sufficient for trips outside the city.

How to use cruise control

What cruise control is in a car and why it is needed was discussed in detail. It is important to understand the question of how to use this device correctly. After all, many motorists, when switching to foreign cars, do not understand what this option is and how to use it correctly.

If a car has cruise control installed from the factory, the control buttons for this option are often located on the steering wheel, and only occasionally on the steering column switches. If you install the cruise control yourself, then a special control panel with several buttons is installed on the steering wheel.

Cruise control buttons located on the Hyundai multifunction steering wheel

The location of the control panel on the steering wheel is the most convenient, since at any second you can not only enable the option, but also disable it or make settings. However, some car models are equipped with control panels located on the steering column switches.

Control buttons for standard cruise control on Lada Granta

Depending on the vehicle model, as well as on the design of the device, there are some differences in control. The cruise control control algorithm consists of performing the following manipulations:

First, you need to accelerate the vehicle to the speed at which you plan to continue moving. The minimum speed at which the device can be turned on is 40 km/h.
Enable option. This is done by pressing the button in the form of a tachometer with an arrow or moving the regulator to the “ON” position. The cruise control system is turned on by pressing the button with the corresponding icon
In this case, the corresponding white or yellow indicator will light up on the instrument panel, which usually looks like a tachometer with an arrow. If the device was installed on the car yourself, then no indicators on the instrument panel will light up. The indicator glowing white or yellow indicates that the device is turned on, but this function is not yet working. The yellow icon on the dashboard indicates that the cruise control device is turned on, however, for its full operation, you must press “SET-“
The system is put into operation by pressing the “SET” button with a minus sign. On some car models, the name of this button may differ, however, the activation principle is similar. Motorists who often drive along the highway do not skimp on installing the function, even if it does not come as standard on the car
In this case, the indicator will change from white or yellow to green, which indicates the operation of the device. The green icon displays the operation of the cruise control function
If you need to increase or decrease the speed of movement, you can use the plus and minus buttons. When you press these buttons, the speed of the car will increase or decrease by a value from 1 to 2 km.

To turn off the device, press the “Off” button. This is a complete disabling of the option, and is performed when you enter the city. An emergency way to turn off is by pressing the brake pedal. In this case, the system goes into readiness mode (lit with a white or yellow indicator).

You can turn on the option at any time and continue moving along the highway. It is often used when you need to overcome an obstacle, make a stop, etc. Another way to turn off the device is to press the gas pedal.

This shutdown option is used on vehicles with adaptive systems installed.

More details on how to operate cruise control on your car can be found in the manual for your vehicle.

Let's look at some designations of cruise control options:

On – switch on.
Off—disable.
Set Accel – setting the mode.
Resume – remembering speed.
Coast – speed reduction.

Video: how to use cruise control

It is important to mention that the cruise control has a self-off function. The following factors serve for this:

If a sudden acceleration occurs at 5.4 km/h.
If you move the lever to the neutral position on a car with automatic transmission.

On vehicles with a manual transmission, the cruise control will not turn off when the gear shift lever is moved. The car will slow down, but the sound of the engine roar will be heard.

To summarize the device under consideration, the following advantages should be noted:

Opportunity for the driver to rest. In this case, the driver can only relax his legs, but not his arms or head.
The ability to install the device on any car, even if it is not equipped with the option from the factory.
Reduced fuel consumption by 5-7%.
Using the adaptive view of the device allows you to automatically maintain not only speed, but also distance.

Cruise control, like almost any function, has its downsides:

If any sensor of the device malfunctions, the system will not function. This is especially true for the adaptive control system.
If such a device is abused, drivers' vigilance decreases, which contributes to the occurrence of emergency situations on the road.

Video: cruise control from Hyundai

In the modern world, even budget-class cars are equipped with an American device that maintains a constant speed. Despite all its advantages, the rationality of using such a system is due to frequent long trips along the highway. If the car is used in urban conditions, then there is no need for cruise control.

Source: https://avtomotoguru.ru/kruiz-kontrol-na-mehanike-chto-eto-i-kak-rabotaet/

The concept and features of using a miracle device built into the steering wheel of a car - cruise control

Home » Assistive systems » Concept and features of using a miracle device built into the steering wheel of a car - cruise control

So, what is climate control (CC) in a manual or automatic car, how does this system work and how to use it? CC is a system in a car or motorcycle, the main purpose of which is to ensure driving at a certain speed without the participation of the driver. That is, when driving a car or motorcycle, the CC and the speed limiter limit the speed of the vehicle, which allows the driver to relax a little.

Principle of operation

The principle of operation of the CC is to limit the speed of movement using the throttle valve used.

It should be noted that the speed limit is directly limited not due to the lack of action on the gas pedal, but due to the pneumatic drive.

The speed control is carried out precisely thanks to the valve - it also limits the power of the power unit.

The operation scheme of the CC itself is generally not complicated. Two cables are connected to the hinge, which is used to move the throttle - one of them is connected to the gas pedal, and the second to the drive.

When the control unit sends a signal to activate the CC, the drive moves a cable that is connected to the rod and regulates the throttle itself.

When this system is working, the assembly pulls on a cable connected to the gas pedal, causing it to move either up or down.

A block or computer is used as a control module, which is usually mounted behind the dashboard or in the engine compartment. The control device is also connected to the throttle control; several controllers and regulators are used for connection.

It should be noted that the main parameter ensuring the normal operation of the system is the speed of the transmitted signal, since the system must have time to receive the pulse and process it. When you press any pedal, the cruise is deactivated and it does not restore itself.

Types of cruise control

What types of QC systems are there:

Passive CC.
The passive type of CC systems is the best option for those drivers who often have to drive long distances. A long trip tires the driver, and by turning on the CC using a knob or button, it is possible to ensure movement in compliance with a certain set speed. It should be noted that the activated speed will not be able to change automatically until the motorist presses the brake or gas. When you press the pedal, the CC system is automatically deactivated. It is also necessary to take into account that after the pedal that the driver presses is released, the CC will be activated again and will function in accordance with the previously set mode. To change the operating settings, use a button or a special regulator on the instrument panel or on the steering wheel. In practice, you can change the operation settings while driving.
Active CC, such a system is also called adaptive.
This type of CC is considered more modernized and advanced. In this case, the driver will be able to configure the CC in such a way that it will automatically keep the car at a set distance from the vehicle in front. If the car in front of you slows down, the brake control system is activated, causing the brake pedal to operate. The latter, as you understand, also works by receiving signals from the control unit. It should also be taken into account that the performance of this mechanism as a whole depends on the operation of the ABS and ESP braking components. So if one of the units refuses to work for some reason, the CC will not be able to function optimally. The driver is made aware of this by a message or signal on the display.

Photo gallery “Basic elements of QC”

1. Control module with drive2. QC switch

How to use the system?

Now let's move on to the issue of operating the CC. As practice shows, in general there is nothing complicated in the operation of universal cruise control. Each system is equipped with on and off buttons. When the driver turns on the CC, no visible changes occur in the operation of the car, however, after turning on the device completely controls the speed of movement.

The actual management of the CC occurs as follows:

To set a new configuration or change settings, use a key, usually called Set or Accel. When this key is pressed, the control device records the vehicle's driving speed, after which the unit simply maintains it. If you press Set or Accel again, the car will move 1 km/h faster. Accordingly, if you want it to go 20 km/h faster, the control button will need to be pressed 20 times.
If you suddenly press the brake while driving, the device will be automatically deactivated. Depending on the design features of the car, the Resume key should be located on the shift lever. By pressing it, you can restore the speed limit before pressing the brake again.
If you want to slow down while driving, you can use the Coast key to do this. One press of it reduces the speed by 1 km/h (the author of the video is the Corolla channel).

Conclusion

In general, there is nothing difficult in managing a CC, but keep in mind that this is a universal management instruction. Today, automobile manufacturers are improving the units and devices used in cars every year. Accordingly, the CC can be supplemented with other buttons and levers, as well as functions.

In any case, before you get behind the wheel, accelerate and press the control buttons, you must carefully read the service book for the car.

The fact is that the same button can perform different functions depending on the number of times it is pressed and the various combinations that the manufacturer himself sets.

Also remember that if there is a malfunction in the ABS, it is better to limit yourself to using the CC. If this unit operates intermittently, it could seriously affect the safety of the driver and passengers.

And one more thing - activating the CC does not give you the right not to watch the road and go about your business. Some drivers expect that CC will be able to protect them from an accident, but this is not true.

The main purpose of the device is to give the driver a rest during long driving, nothing more.

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Video “Instructions for installing cruise control in a car”

How to install cruise control - detailed instructions using the example of a Volkswagen Golf 4 and Bora are given in the video below (the author of the video is the Secret GARAGE channel).

Do you have any questions? Specialists and readers of the AVTOKLEMA website will help you ask a question

Source: https://avtoklema.com/utilities/kruiz-kontrol-2786/

What is cruise control in a car and why is it needed?

The main options of cruise control include fuel saving. Usually it is installed only on premium cars. While driving, the driver either increases the speed or slows it down, focusing on the speedometer readings. As a result, this leads to uneven fuel consumption.

According to statistics, when driving on the highway with the cruise control system turned on, fuel consumption is reduced on average by 4-12%.

Driving on the road at a constant speed limit has a positive effect on the wear of parts and components, as well as the use of consumable fluids.

According to expert calculations, financial maintenance costs can be reduced by 2%. Modern speed control systems perform many additional functions.

They allow you to scan the free space in front of the car and inform the driver about obstacles on the way.

The lower speed limit for cruise control to function is about 30-50 km/h. The upper speed limit depends on the car manufacturer, but usually it is 200-220 km/h.

If the speed of movement is low, for example, in traffic jams, then the driver will simply control the steering wheel.

The system automatically increases or decreases driving speed by adjusting the position of the brake and gas pedals.

The device of the cruise control system

Schematic arrangement of system elements on a car

Structural components of the speed control system:

Control unit or control module. This part is made in the form of a microprocessor computer located in the engine compartment.
Throttle drive. Depending on the type of system, the device can be electric or pneumatic. The drive is connected to the throttle assembly.
Switching device. This element is displayed on the steering wheel, center console or in the area where the control panel is located. Designed to activate and deactivate the system.
Controllers. The number of sensors will vary depending on the manufacturer and brand of car. These could be controllers for wheel speed, car speed, throttle, distance, etc.

If the vehicle is equipped with cruise control, then the unit is integrated into the vehicle control system.

If we look at the cruise control device in more detail, the controller allows you to determine the distance to the car in front. Some devices measure movement speed.

Radars or lidars can be used as such controllers. The basis of lidar is an infrared beam or laser.

This type of controller is cheaper than radar devices, but it does not have such wide functionality.

Action of the controller when determining the distance to the car in front

In bad weather conditions, such as rain, snow or fog, the lidar readings will be inaccurate. That’s why radars are installed on premium car models.

Such a controller does not use a laser, and the determination of speed and distance is carried out by emitting electromagnetic waves. The waves are sent to the car and reflected from it, the impulse goes back to the sensor.

The speed of the vehicle is determined according to the frequency at which the waves are reflected.

The distance is estimated according to the time period during which the pulse returns to the controller. The received information is converted into an electronic pulse supplied to the microprocessor module.

The distance controller is mounted on the front of the car, usually on the radiator grille or bumper.

In practice, the maximum operating radius of the radar is around 200 meters, subject to direct visibility.

More advanced versions of ACC systems include two controllers. The first is used to determine speed and distance over a long distance, and the second - over a short distance.

The long range operates at speeds up to 30 km/h, and the short range allows the car to drive until it stops.

The presence of controllers allows you to expand the functionality of the system and ensures its use when driving at different speeds.

The microprocessor module is designed to receive and process information coming from controllers and other additional components, allowing to determine:

steering wheel rotation angle;
curve radius;
car driving speed;
vehicle acceleration when cornering;
distance, as well as the speed of the vehicle in front.

How cruise control works

The principle of operation of the system on a manual and automatic is identical, but there are certain nuances. In the simplest design, the design includes a servo drive connected to the throttle adjustment mechanism.

This element is responsible for the flow of gas into the injection or carburetor unit. The servo drive itself is a negative feedback device used to control a mechanical assembly.

If the car is moving at a constant speed, the gas pedal is located at a certain fixed angle. When the cruise control system is activated, the microprocessor module remembers the position of the pedal, which allows you to fix a specific speed.

While driving, the vehicle's speed may decrease, particularly when driving on an incline. Then the microprocessor module transmits a command to the servo drive device, as a result of which the latter changes the pedal angle and increases the fuel supply.

Operating principle diagram

When driving downhill, the vehicle's speed will increase. Then the microprocessor device sends an impulse to the servo drive unit about the need to change the position of the gas pedal angle, and the fuel supply drops. Such actions occur until the mechanical stop appears at idle speed. This helps the car's engine brake.

The program installed in the module allows you to compare the information received with that specified by the driver. In accordance with the processed data, a driving algorithm is determined. The pulses will be sent to the on-board computer, which will allow you to change the speed limit or stop the car.

Features of cruise control on cars with a manual transmission

If the system is installed on a machine with “mechanics”, then the sector may rest against the limiting element. Then the user of the car should independently move the gearshift control lever to a lower speed. In cars with manual transmission, drivers must apply the brakes themselves if necessary.

Features of cruise control on cars with automatic transmission

In the case of an automatic transmission, the driver does not need to change gears, everything will happen automatically.

When the speed limit reaches a certain level set by the driver, the servo drive device stops moving. The gas pedal angle position sector remains fixed.

If the vehicle is equipped with an adaptive cruise control system, the vehicle braking procedure is performed automatically.

Peter Miller provided a consumer review about operating cruise control on a manual transmission vehicle.

Types of cruise controls

The speed control system works differently depending on the type. The car can use one of the types of cruise control - adaptive or passive.

Adaptive cruise control system options Passive cruise control system options

Adaptive cruise control

ACC is a more advanced version of the cruise control system. Its presence allows you not only to maintain a certain driving speed at a specified level, but also to control the situation on the road.

To perform this function, the system is equipped with additional controllers, cameras and radar devices. By activating ACC, the consumer can accurately “link” the car to the vehicle ahead.

The system will monitor the driving speed of the car in front and change its speed if necessary, maintaining the appropriate distance.

To implement this function, the cruise control device is supplemented with cameras and sensors. Separate systems on different vehicles can evaluate road markings. Such devices control traffic and prevent the car from moving from one lane to another.

Some types of adaptive cruise controls provide the ability to change driving speed. The procedure for adjusting the speed limit is carried out step by step at intervals of 1 to 2 kilometers per hour.

When implementing this function, the system does not care how heavily the machine is loaded and whether it is moving on a slope or uphill. If an emergency situation occurs while driving, adaptive cruise control will warn the driver. For notification, audio or visual signals (LED indicators) are used. Notification can be carried out simultaneously through sound and visual effects.

The adaptive type of system always operates in conjunction with an anti-lock braking device and the ESP system. If one of them does not function, the cruise control will not be activated.

The use of adaptive systems is relevant outside the city, where there is no heavy traffic.

For greater safety, it is recommended to turn on cruise control in driving conditions when all cars are moving at approximately the same speed.

Passive cruise control

The passive version of the system is a simpler device, in particular, we are talking about design features. Passive cruise control provides only the ability to maintain a certain driving speed. Such systems do not include sensors to determine the distance to the vehicle in front.

The principle of operation of the passive version is quite simple. When selecting the required speed mode, the driver activates the system, after which the microprocessor module records this information.

At the moment of fixation, the throttle valve is set to a specific position and does not move anymore. If driving conditions change when the car goes up or down, the controllers warn about this.

The microprocessor module opens or closes the throttle so that the speed of movement does not change.

How to use cruise control?

Cruise control systems are not designed for use in traffic jams or other difficult conditions; it is unsafe to do so.

The algorithm for using the system as a whole is as follows:

The driver accelerates the car up to a certain point. You need to decide on your driving speed. Many systems allow activation at a minimum of 40 km/h.
The device is activated. To do this, use a special button located on the steering wheel or center console. Usually the key has an indicator in the form of a tachometer or an arrow. After activation, the corresponding icon will appear on the control panel.
To put the speed control system into effect, click the Set key. A special lever can be used for activation.
The system is being activated. The symbol on the control panel should change color from white to green.
If the system allows you to adjust the speed mode, special keys are used for this. They are usually marked with the symbols “+” and “-”.

System controls on the steering wheel

Advantages and disadvantages of having cruise control in your car

The operation of the system allows for more convenient control of the car, but cruise control has not only advantages, but also disadvantages.

Advantages

Pros of using cruise control:

The driver has the opportunity to rest while driving. Useful for those who often travel long distances by car.
Installation of cruise control is possible on any type of car; the transmission does not matter. Ready-made systems can be designed to operate with any type of power unit.
If desired, the consumer can set cruise control independently.
If the driving speed is stable, fuel consumption will be less.
The system itself is an effective option for ensuring passive safety. Adaptive cruise control options allow you to maintain the required distance between cars to prevent a possible collision.

Flaws

Main disadvantages of the system:

If there is a malfunction, the system may not function correctly. If one of the controllers fails or the distance sensor is clogged, the ECU will regard this as driving at an unsafe distance. Traffic speeds may drop sharply, and in some cases cars stop right on the road. Stopping suddenly can lead to an accident.
With constant use of cruise control, the driver becomes less alert. This may affect the safety of the car owner and passengers.

The Carster channel talked about the operating principle and disadvantages of cruise control.

Diagnosing cruise control faults

To check the operation of the system, do the following:

The safety device is being diagnosed. If an element fails, it must be replaced. The fuse is located in the common mounting block or in the engine compartment. If it is under the hood, then the component should be labeled Fuse Box.
The vacuum device is being checked. When the engine is running, it should receive vacuum. Vacuum is supplied through a special thin pipe.
A diagnosis is made of the tightness of the pipe that goes from the vacuum device to the brake pedal. This tube is necessary to deactivate the system when the brake is depressed. Diagnostics is performed by disconnecting the hose and pumping air out of the system. If the diaphragm element does not hold, this indicates a loss of vacuum.
To check, you should perform a wiring integrity diagnostic. We are talking about power lines that go to the control keys or lever. To check, the chain is tested. You can visually assess whether the wires are intact.
The contact elements of the control system are diagnosed. Oxidation of the contacts will result in loss of signals. It is recommended to clean and lubricate the elements.
The limit switch device on the electrical circuit connected to the brake is checked.
A diagnosis is made of the correct operation and serviceability of the vacuum pumping device.

In practice, the causes of system failure are usually due to damage to the insulating layer on the cables or vacuum leakage from the system. Some car models allow you to perform self-diagnosis of the functioning of the device.

Self-diagnosis procedure using the example of a Honda SUV:

The ignition system is turned on.
The cruise control is activated by clicking the On button.
If the indicator light on the control panel lights up after pressing, the diagnosis continues.
The Resume Accel button on the steering wheel of the car is clicked. It must be pressed for three seconds.
If there is no fault, the indicator light will turn on for three seconds and then go off for two seconds. If there are any breakdowns, the light will display fault codes by flashing.
To deactivate the self-diagnostic mode, you need to start driving and accelerate to 16 km/h. You can turn off the system by clicking the Off button.