Automotive

Design engineers, hardware integrators, and automotive technicians frequently need to verify whether relays are healthy or need replacement. This article provides a thorough, step-by-step approach to testing relays while explaining the underlying science and standards.

How to Test a Relay: Comprehensive Engineering Guide

This guide offers engineers an in-depth understanding of H Bridge motor control, explaining its basics, topologies, switching strategies, design, optimization, and practical considerations for next-generation engineering projects.

H Bridge Motor Control: A Complete Guide for Engineers 2025

Electronic Control Unit (ECU) of Modern Electric Car

This article provides a comprehensive technical comparison of CAN vs LIN, examining their architectures, use cases, and performance trade-offs.

CAN vs LIN: A Comprehensive Technical Analysis of Automotive and Industrial Network Protocols

Ever wondered how batteries power your gadgets or how metals are refined to their purest forms? The answers lie in the interplay of cathodes and anodes, two simple yet critical components in electrochemistry. This article will delve into their workings, applications, and challenges.


Cathode Anode: The Basics and Applications

Industrial Engineers working alongside Cobot

This article delves into what is a cobot, exploring its architecture, programming interfaces, control systems, safety protocols, intricate mechanics, and integration capabilities of modern cobots.

What is a Cobot? Advanced Guide to Collaborative Robot Architecture and Implementation

Real Time Production Monitoring System application in Smart Industrial Automotive Manufacturing

This article delves into the essentials of ICS, exploring the key types of industrial control systems, cutting-edge innovations, real-world applications and their critical analysis.

Types of Industrial Control Systems: Examples and Applications

Rotor and Stator Detail of Electric DC Motor

This article delves into the intricacies of DC motor operation, exploring the key components, core mechanisms, types, and their interactions to produce rotational motion.

How Does a DC Motor Work? Unveiling the Power Behind Electric Motion

Understanding the theoretical principles, real-life implementations, maintenance, and  preventive measures for open and closed circuits and navigating the differences between open circuit vs short circuit

Open Circuit vs Short Circuit: Core Differences between Open and Closed Circuit

Automotive robots are reshaping production processes, enhancing quality, and redefining the future of the automotive industry. Let’s discover how these mechanical marvels are driving innovation on factory floors worldwide.

Automotive Robots: Revolutionizing the Assembly Line

Developed by Bosch in the 1980s, the CAN bus has become the nervous system of modern automobiles that facilitates seamless communication between the Electronic Control Units (ECUs). This article will decode CAN bus fundamentals, its functioning, variants, and advantages over other protocols.

What is a CAN bus: The Backbone of Modern Vehicle Communication

A stator is the stationary part of an electric motor or generator, consisting of coils or windings mounted on an iron core, designed to create a magnetic field when electric current flows through it. Explore the fundamentals, advancements, and applications of stators in modern engineering.

What is a Stator? A Comprehensive Guide for Engineers

A re-development of classical CAN by Bosch in 2012, CAN FD is the protocol that operates all moving machines like cars, planes, robots, etc. This guide will unfold its foundational concepts, recent advancements, practical applications, and the challenges, for engineering professionals.

CAN FD: Revolutionizing Automotive and Industrial Communications

This article delves into the technology behind Metal core PCBs (MCPCBs), recent advancements, practical engineering applications, and the challenges faced in their implementation.

Metal Core PCB (MCPCB): Revolutionizing Thermal Management in Electronics

One of the goals of building the Mars Rover is to demonstrate SPARK. As an early step, Fabien introduced a new hardware abstraction layer (HAL) on top of the existing HALs that had been developed for the various pieces of hardware that make up the Mars Rover.

Let's Write a Safety Monitor for a Mars Rover!

The world is rapidly moving towards automation, with more and more autonomous vehicles and robots being used in across industries. As these machines look to venture deeper in harsher environments, from the depths of the ocean to the rugged terrain of construction sites, they need accurate and reliable sensors that can withstand even the harshest conditions. &nbsp;This is where Xsens Sirius comes in. &nbsp; &nbsp;The Xsens Sirius is a new, high-end industrial-grade inertial sensor designed to deliver precise 3D orientation data in real-time, even in the most challenging environments, be it land air or (sub)sea This next-generation sensor builds upon the success of Movella's well-known Xsens MTi 100-Series.Sirius Series: Enabling true autonomy in harsh conditions<iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Q2UhSYiUdHw?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1&amp;wmode=opaque&amp;rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true"></iframe> The Sirius Series boasts an array of cutting-edge features, including:Robust accuracy:&nbsp;Thanks to its dual-processor design, Xsens Sirius delivers accurate orientation data, ensuring reliable navigation in any environment. &nbsp;&nbsp;Vibration and shock resistance:&nbsp;The sensor is designed to withstand extreme vibration and shock without compromising accuracy. &nbsp;This is achieved through an advanced signal pipeline with analog filtering. &nbsp; &nbsp;Rugged &amp; reliable:&nbsp;Xsens Sirius is built to last. It has a rugged IP68 housing, meaning it's completely protected from dust and can be submerged in water. &nbsp;It can also withstand extreme temperatures, humidity, salt spray, sand, and electromagnetic interference.Easy-to-integrate:&nbsp;Xsens Sirius is designed for easy integration into your existing systems. &nbsp;It comes with a comprehensive software suite, a user-friendly SDK, and is backed by a strong partner network that includes NVIDIA, HESAI, ROS, and Matlab. &nbsp; &nbsp;Magnetic Immunity:&nbsp;Advanced magnetic models provide exceptional resistance against magnetic disturbances. &nbsp;&nbsp;Xsens Sirius is geared for a wide range of applications, including:Marine: Deployed on surface vessels and sub-surface robotics, such as remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) for precise navigation or stabilization, providing them with reliable heading- and roll/pitch data or support bathymetry mapping.&nbsp;Land based Mobile Robotics: Enabling precise navigation for diverse robotic applications, including indoor mobile robots (AMRs/AGVs) operating in dynamic environments and Outdoor Mobile Robots navigating through rough terrain.&nbsp;Precision Agriculture:&nbsp;Delivering accurate 3D orientation data for navigating and controlling autonomous agriculture machinery and smaller mobile robotics.3D Digital Mapping and Surveying: Supporting high-fidelity data capture and georeferencing for aerial, terrestrial, and subsea bathymetry mapping, enabling the creation of accurate and detailed maps and 3D models with e.g. Sonar, LIDAR and camera systems.<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzM0NTQ3MzA1MjUyLWltYWdlICgxNyktMS5wbmciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjk1MCwiZml0IjoiY292ZXIifX19" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Market Growth and DemandThe increasing need for robust, industrial-grade inertial sensors like Xsens Sirius is reflected in recent market analysis. This year’s High-end Inertial Sensors report by Yole Intelligence highlights the growing demand for IMUs in applications such as remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), and autonomous mobile robots (AMRs and AGVs). These applications require high performance and vibration immunity, creating a significant market for high-end inertial sensors. In 2023 alone, this market generated $86 million, and it is projected to reach almost $100 million by 2029, with a steady annual growth rate of 3% (CAGR).&nbsp;With its combination of accuracy, reliability, and durability, Xsens Sirius is set to become the go-to choice for engineers and developers working on autonomous applications in challenging environments. It's a powerful tool that can help push the boundaries of what's possible in the world of automation. To learn more about the Xsens Sirius series, please visit the <a href="https://www.movella.com/products/sensor-modules/xsens-sirius-series" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">website</a>.&nbsp;

The all new Xsens Sirius series has been engineered to enable true autonomy in harsh conditions

Get Sirius about 3D Inertial Sensing in the Most Challenging Environments

Signals Transmission and Reception via Satellite

This article provides a detailed overview of the principles, components, types, applications, and future trends of Remote I/O technology.

Understanding Remote I-O: An In-depth Exploration

The evolution of building automation is demanding increasingly robust sensors to detect the presence of vehicles at various locations. Radars from Banner Engineering enable the reliable detection of vehicles, offering significant advantages for asset management, resource allocation, site safety, traffic control, and loading-dock monitoring. Application needs and deployment requirements can be diverse, ranging from indoor to outdoor and partially protected environments. Here are several examples of typical challenges and associated solutions.<h2>Accurate Vehicle Detection at Loading Docks</h2>The common practice of installing individual sensors for each dock door requires significant material costs, complex installation, and additional maintenance points. For facilities managing multiple adjacent doors, this approach creates inefficiencies that can complicate inventory and maintenance.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1762210279623-Banner+Q90R2-Dual-Truck-Bay-b.psd+-+1280+x+1280+%281%29.jpeg" style="width:100%px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt="Q90R2 Dual Truck Bay" />Q90R2 Dual Truck BayA single Q90R2 Radar Sensor uses two independent detection zones to monitor both dock doors, eliminating the need for separate sensors and reducing inventory. Built for demanding environments, radar technology provides dependable performance regardless of weather or other environmental factors. Banner Measurement Sensor Software enables quick setup and allows for real-time adjustments, tailoring detection zones to specific dock configurations and adapting to changing hanging needs.<h2 id="isPasted">Below Dock Mounting with Distance Indication</h2>Mounting sensors below dock doors allows convenient access for maintenance, but introduces challenges. Environmental factors, such as noise and temperature fluctuations, can disrupt detection. Additionally, low-visibility conditions generally make it difficult for drivers to gauge distances, while dock staff rely on clear notifications to coordinate loading and unloading efficiently.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1762210347829-Banner+Truck-Bay-Exterior-T30-wls27-on-white.psd+-+1280+x+1280+%281%29.jpeg" style="width:100%px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt="Truck Bay Exterior T30 WLS27" />Truck Bay Exterior T30 WLS27The T30R Radar Sensor provides reliable detection and accurate distance measurement in all weather conditions, unaffected by noise or temperature changes. Banner Measurement Sensor Software allows fast, customized detection zone setup for precise long-range performance tailored to dock layouts. The WLS27 Strip Light with Pulse Pro I/O, mounted outside the building, gives drivers a clear distance indication, improving efficiency and adding a layer of protection in low-visibility conditions.<h2 id="isPasted">Detecting Parking Spot Availability in Parking Garages</h2>Installing a system that will provide both vehicle detection and easy-to-see indication to help drivers see available spots requires a complex system of sensors and separate indication devices, requiring hardware to connect detection and indication devices, leading to costly and complex installation and multiple maintenance points.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1762210724390-Banner+K50RPF-4030-LDQ-garage-spaces.psd+-+1280+x+1280+%283%29.jpeg" style="width:100%px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt="K50RPF 4030 LDQ Garage Spaces" />K50RPF 4030 LDQ Garage SpacesThe K50R Pro Sensor integrates vehicle detection and bright LED indication into a single unit, simplifying installation and reducing hardware costs. Customizable LEDs provide clear, immediate visibility of available spaces, minimizing driver frustration and congestion (green for open, red for occupied, and blue for ADA). Banner Measurement Sensor Software offers a free, easy-to-use solution for batch configuration, enabling rapid setup for large-scale systems and reducing deployment time and complexity.<h2 id="isPasted">Electric Vehicle Charging Station</h2>Shared electric vehicle services require a method to keep unauthorized non-electric vehicles from parking at charging stations. <img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1762211179886-Detecting+the+presence+of+electric+cars+at+a+charging+station.jpeg" style="width:100%px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt="Detecting the Presence of Electric Cars at a Charging Station" />Detecting the Presence of Electric Cars at a Charging StationA K50R radar sensor installed inside a charging station or a plastic box to prevent potential vandalism can detect the presence of a vehicle parked at that station. <h2 id="isPasted">Drive Thru Vehicle Detection and Monitoring</h2>Drive-thru applications require reliable vehicle detection to alert employees to a customer’s presence at a window, count the number of cars passing through, monitor time spent in the drive-thru, and more. Commonly used in-ground loop detection systems require costly, invasive installation and maintenance methods, such as pavement cutting. Other detection sensors fail to perform reliably when mounted inside fixtures or exposed to inclement weather.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1762210881773-Banner+k50r-drive-thru.psd+-+1280+x+1280.jpeg" style="width:100%px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt="K50R Drive Thru" />K50R Drive ThruThe K50R Radar Sensor offers above-ground installation, eliminating the need for disruptive pavement cutting, while its ability to penetrate materials allows mounting inside enclosures or existing structures for a discrete installation. Easily customizable 40° x 30° sensing zone with programmable background suppression and weather immunity provides complete detection where it's needed. Discrete output allows easy integration with existing queue management systems.<h2 id="isPasted">Tolls and Gates</h2>Traditional in-ground loop detection systems require cutting into concrete and necessitate lane closures during installation and maintenance, disrupting traffic flow at tolls and gates. Additionally, the reliability of other detection sensors can be affected by weather conditions.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1762210938204-Banner+K50R+radar+opening+gate+for+delivery+van+-+1280+x+1280+%281%29.jpeg" style="width:100%px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt="K50R Radar Opening Gate for Delivery Van" />K50R Radar Opening Gate for Delivery Van The K50R Radar Sensor easily installs above-ground, preventing disruptive installation and maintenance. Rugged IP67-rated housing and a wide -40 to 65 °C operating range provide dependable performance in outdoor environments. 40° x 30° coverage detects all vehicle sizes, while programmable background suppression eliminates false triggers.

Detecting the Presence of Electric Cars at a Charging Station using Radar

Discover how radar sensors enhance building safety, traffic control, and asset management with reliable vehicle detection solutions for docks, parking, drive-thrus, and toll applications.

Maintaining Building Safety and Control Using Radars

Modular high-voltage PDU architectures enable scalable power
distribution using standardized components. This approach
reduces tooling requirements, supports platform reuse, improves
serviceability, and accelerates integration in EV systems.

Modular Power Distribution Units for EVs: A Fast and Scalable Approach by Littelfuse

<h2 id="isPasted">Introduction</h2>Electric vehicles are the fastest-growing sector of the automotive market. However, there is a risk that they may remain a niche product until they can overcome one significant challenge. To achieve widespread adoption, drivers need to overcome their range anxiety. In common with many new technologies, electric vehicles have won support from early adopters who have acted as pioneers. These drivers are willing to accept the challenges of electric vehicle ownership, especially as the supporting infrastructure is still developing. It is this lag between the development of electric vehicles and the infrastructure that supports them that will prove to be the largest barrier for adoption by the public at large.<h3>Making the Journey Easier</h3>The use of gasoline as a fuel for vehicles is well established, and the infrastructure that supports it is highly developed. In most parts of the world, it is difficult to travel far before passing a filling station that allows the car to be refuelled. The process takes just a few minutes, and the range of modern vehicles means that drivers do not need to concern themselves when travelling.In contrast, the lack of suitable charging stations in many regions complicates planning of any journey. The long distance between each station, combined with the modest range of most EVs and the time required to charge, means that any trip can become stressful. The fear of being stranded by the roadside is compounded by the difficulty of recharging an electric vehicle. A conventional vehicle can be refuelled from a small container by the roadside, but the same is not true of an EV.Until the charging infrastructure for electric vehicles rivals that of conventional fuel sources, there will always be a reluctance amongst many drivers to adopt this new technology. To address this hesitation, vehicle manufacturers have heavily invested in fast charging technology. In addition, many governments have taken a proactive approach to developing the infrastructure needed to support widespread adoption of EVs. <h3>A Vision of the Future</h3>Norway provides a clear vision of what the future for EVs might look like. Government incentives have created a comprehensive network of charging stations, and a large renewable energy market means that electricity is readily available. As a result, EVs represent the most popular choice for new vehicles1. Similar initiatives around the world are improving the adoption rate of electric vehicles.The ready availability of charging infrastructure therefore plays a significant role in the public perception of electric vehicles as a realistic alternative to fossil fuels. To ensure this, the number of charging stations available for use must expand significantly, and not just at conventional service stations. From the home to the office, in parking lots and shopping malls, these stations need to become familiar landmarks in our daily lives.However, public acceptance depends not just on the availability of charging stations, but on their reliability and safety. Unserviceable charging stations will quickly become the source of frustration, and confidence in electric power will suffer. The charging stations therefore need to be designed with reliability in mind.<h2>Designing for Confidence</h2>These devices will be exposed to the elements. They must cope with harsh environmental conditions, whatever the weather. They must work flawlessly in extreme temperatures, as well as wind, rain and direct sunlight. Charging stations will also be handled by consumers. They must deliver safe and user-friendly operation, even when providing the high energy required by modern vehicle batteries. This requires high levels of electrical safety and in-built monitoring.Every electrical circuit exhibits resistance, and charging cables are no exception. While the value may be small, resistance causes some of the energy passing through to be converted into heat.  The high power demanded by modern fast-charging stations causes an increase in the temperature of the charging cable. The temperature of the charging station therefore needs to be monitored to ensure safety, especially of the connector and cable. These are the components that drivers and operators will physically touch regularly.The designers of the latest electric vehicle charging infrastructure therefore require connectivity that will deliver enhanced performance under these extreme conditions. Delivering power efficiently is vital, but so too are the systems that control current flow and monitor the status of the charging infrastructure. The connectors that support these systems are hidden from view, but their role requires them to possess the same reliability as the charging elements. To meet the sophisticated demands of next-generation EV charging stations, reliable and rugged connectivity solutions are essential. Harwin’s Kontrol and Flecto series connectors are designed to thrive in these challenging environments. While not intended to handle the currents and voltages required to charge vehicle batteries, both series are ideal for the equipment needed to support charging and control systems.Kontrol board-to-board and cable-to-board connectors feature a 1.27mm pitch and offer a range of stacking heights between 8mm and 20mm. This flexibility supports compact designs where space is limited. Their current rating of 1.2 Amps per contact allows for efficient power transfer while reducing heat buildup during rapid charging cycles. Their durability ensures reliable operation even in high-traffic applications.For systems that require high-speed data, the Flecto series offers high-density interconnects that maintain signal integrity even under conditions of constant movement or vibration. With a choice of pitch options and up to 160 contacts, the Flecto series is ideal for use in embedded monitoring, diagnostics, and control electronics.Together, these Harwin solutions help designers create safe, efficient, and user-friendly charging stations. Their reliability under harsh conditions reinforces public confidence in electric vehicles as practical options for everyday use.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1748337760609-EV+charging+Archer+Kontrol.jpg" style="width:100%px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" /><h2>Conclusion</h2>The transition to electric vehicles depends on a reliable and widespread charging infrastructure to counter range anxiety. From domestic charging units to high-speed public stations, each system must offer safety, efficiency, and reliability. Harwin is the ideal partner, delivering low-resistance connectors that withstand the demanding conditions found in real-world applications. Their high-reliability interconnects support both power delivery and internal control systems, ensuring uninterrupted performance. As the EV market grows, components like Harwin connectors will play a pivotal role in building the confidence drivers need to adopt this transformative technology and drive the future of sustainable transportation.<h2>References:</h2><ol><li><a href="https://www.gridserve.com/why-norway-leads-the-world-in-ev-adoption/">https://www.gridserve.com/why-norway-leads-the-world-in-ev-adoption/</a> </li></ol>

Electric vehicles face significant barriers to their adoption. Harwin delivers connectors to help designers create the next phase of charging infrastructure.

Soothing Range Anxiety -  The Role of Connectors in EV Charging Stations

Automotive

Engineers Wiki. Most Asked Questions.

How to Test a Relay: Comprehensive Engineering Guide

H Bridge Motor Control: A Complete Guide for Engineers 2025

CAN vs LIN: A Comprehensive Technical Analysis of Automotive and Industrial Network Protocols...

Cathode Anode: The Basics and Applications

What is a Cobot? Advanced Guide to Collaborative Robot Architecture and Implementation...

Types of Industrial Control Systems: Examples and Applications

How Does a DC Motor Work? Unveiling the Power Behind Electric Motion

ORGANIZATIONS. SHAPING THE INDUSTRY.

Mouser Electronics

DLR

Airspeeder

Ansys

Capacitech Energy

TAGGED WITH remote control vehicles (rcvs)

Let's Write a Safety Monitor for a Mars Rover!

Get Sirius about 3D Inertial Sensing in the Most Challenging Environments

Understanding Remote I-O: An In-depth Exploration

TAGGED WITH hybrid electric vehicles

Maintaining Building Safety and Control Using Radars

Modular Power Distribution Units for EVs: A Fast and Scalable Approach by Littelfuse

H Bridge Motor Control: A Complete Guide for Engineers 2025

Soothing Range Anxiety - The Role of Connectors in EV Charging Stations