Course Details

1. Explanation of the historical trends regarding the power consumption in vehicle and analysis of predictions for the future. Be able to read and draw wiring diagrams, clearly defining each symbol.
2. Analysis of production line techniques regarding wiring harnesses and necessary components. Description of newer wiring systems available to the market and analysis of the future trends.
3. Illustrate of the function of the alternator and starter, the generation of current and how DC motors work. Also analysis of power storage devices will be carried out.
4. Explanation of various electric systems such us wipers, indicators, lights, instrumentation systems and displays.
5. Description of other electronic systems such electronically controlled transmission units, electronically controlled throttle unit, and other drive-by-wire systems. Analysis of future trends in vehicle electronics.

Introduction to the Vehicle Electrics and Electronics

History of vehicle electrical systems 

Increase in power consumption

Vehicle Wiring

Production issues

DIN regulations on wiring diagrams

Electrical symbols, codes and numbers according to DIN regulations

Test Equipment

Multiplex Wiring systems

Instrumentation and Display systems

Operation, sensors, categories, digital and analogue systems

Charging and Starting systems and batteries

Layout and function of AC generator, current rectification and regulating

Layout and function of starting system with solenoid and sliding rotor and, starting motors with permanent magnetic, with magnetic coils

Manufacture and capacity of batteries

Signals, Wipers and Lighting

Operation, wiring and legislation

Automatic lighting systems

Safety Systems, Body Electrics and Control

ABS systems, SRS systems, Traction control systems, electric Windows/mirrors, air conditioning, sound system, Alarm system and Information systems (Operation and design)

Future Trends in electronics

Higher power demands, increase in loads and probable advances

Laboratory Work:

Experiment 1: Alarm and Antitheft system

Experiment 2: Windscreen Wipers/Washers

Experiment 3: Electric Sunroof and Radio

Experiment 4: Electric Windows

Experiment 5: Electric Seat

Experiment 6: Cruise Control and

Experiment 7: Digital instruments

Experiment 8: Power Supply and start,

Experiment 9: Signalling Systems

Experiment 10: Lighting System

Experiment 11: ABS solenoid Valves

Experiment 12: SRS Inertia Switches

• Tom Denton, “Automobile Electrical and Electronic Systems”, 3rd Edition, Society of Automotive Engineers, 2007.

• William B. Ribbens ,”Understanding Automotive Electronics”, 6th Edition, Newnes, 2003
• Bauer Horst, “Automotive Electrics and Electronics”, Robert Bosch, 1999
• “Automotive Electrical and Electronic Systems Manual”, Haynes, 1995

The course is taught in class with the aid of computer presentations. Details lecture notes and presentations as well as any other relevant supporting material (graphs, figures, etc.) are available through the lecturer’s website for the students to use in conjunction with the textbooks.