What is the principle of the cruise control system?
2 Answers
The principle of the cruise control system is: the cruise control component reads the pulse signal from the vehicle speed sensor and compares it with the set speed, then issues commands to the servo mechanism to adjust the throttle opening, ensuring the vehicle maintains the set speed. The cruise control system, abbreviated as CCS, is also known as the cruise control device, speed control system, or autonomous driving system. After setting the speed as required by the driver, the system automatically maintains the vehicle speed without the need to press the accelerator pedal, allowing the vehicle to travel at a fixed speed. Using this device during long-distance driving on highways eliminates the need to control the accelerator pedal, reduces unnecessary speed changes, and can save fuel.
When I ponder how the cruise control system works, it feels like describing a clever partner assisting the driver. Simply put, it operates through the brain of the Electronic Control Unit (ECU): once you set the speed on the highway, sensors like the speed sensor keep a close eye on the current speed, comparing it in real-time with the set value. If the speed drops, such as encountering a small slope or increased wind resistance, the controller immediately sends a signal to adjust the throttle opening—in simple terms, increasing fuel intake to make the engine work harder and restore speed. Conversely, if the speed exceeds the set value, it reduces the throttle to slow down. Behind this lies the principle of closed-loop feedback: the system continuously cycles through sampling, judging, and adjusting, similar to automatic temperature control in air conditioning but focused on speed. Modern models also incorporate inputs from brake or steering sensors, ensuring the system disengages when you hit the brakes to prevent accidents. In practice, it’s incredibly labor-saving, especially on long trips, freeing up my right foot to focus on road conditions. But remember, it only manages the throttle, not the brakes—on steep descents, manual intervention might still be needed to prevent excessive acceleration. Understanding this mechanism not only reduces fatigue but also reminds me to regularly check and clean the sensors to avoid system malfunctions.
