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As automobiles become quieter, wiper operation noise becomes more noticeable. Squeal noise is one type of wiper operation noise. It is a high-frequency self-excited vibration that is easily generated before and after the wiper reverses direction. In analyzing this vibration, squeal noise was observed using a rotary disk system. Then FEM was applied to deduce an equation of motion that reflects the observation results. The equation suggests material and configuration approaches toward reducing squeal noise. Potential measures include improvement in the blade damping coefficient, reduction in the coefficient of friction by surface treatment, and an increase in neck thickness, etc. Implementation of these measures reduced squeal noise.

An approach to designing an intelligent vehicle controller for partially supporting driver operation of a vehicle is proposed. Vehicle behavior is regarded as a system performed by the interaction between the driving environment, vehicle as a machine and driver expectations for the vehicle movements. Driver intention to accelerate or decelerate is mainly generated by the perception of the driving environment. The model we propose involves information on the driving environment affecting driver intention taking driver differences in perceiving the driving environment into account. An engineering model for installing the vehicle controller is expressed by a multipurpose decision-maker allowing explicit treatment of the driving environment, vehicle action, and driver intention. A reasoning engine deals with differences in individual driver traits for generating intention to decelerate by using fuzzy integrals and fuzzy measures.

A multi-use road simulator for reproducing various road loads on motorcycles and buggies has been developed on a test bench by using computer-controlled hydraulic actuators. The device is controlled by a low-priced personal computer and an interface system with custom software. An unique feature is the capability to simulate loads related to such phenomena as the bottoming of suspension and the movement of a telescopic type front fork on the road.

The use of automatic transmissions is continually increasing because of their ease of operation. Transmission performance requirements that have become more important in recent years include smooth shift quality and a shift schedule that matches the driver's intentions. An electronically controlled automatic gearbox, which sets the shift schedule according to the vehicle speed and throttle valve opening, provides a dramatic improvement in shift quality over its hydraulically controlled counterpart. However, even with an electronically controlled automatic transmission, shift hunting occurs when driving uphill or towing an object Based on the use of fuzzy logic, a technique has been developed for estimating running resistance, represented by the road gradient. This technique has been incorporated in a new shift schedule control method that eliminates shin hunting Research is now under way on a fuzzy logic technique for inferring the driver's intention to accelerate

In order to meet the demands for reduced emissions and improved fuel consumption, a subport-type variable swirl system (Isuzu Variable Electronic Economy Swirl, or IVES) was developed by Isuzu for medium- and heavy-duty direct-injection-type diesel engines. The main characteristics of IVES are: (1) It is simple in structure and only minor changes to the cylinder head are required. (2) Modular design is possible for three different swept volume engines due to the use of a common actuator and sensor. (3) The problem of air flow coefficient drop when swirl is varied has been successfully eliminated.

This paper presents an overview of the device which semi permanently supervises low tire pressure of driving or parking car, including low spare tire pressure. Such continual supervision is attained by the application of wireless system. The sensor on the tire has no power supply. It transmits echo radio wave by the excitement of its element, which is originated by the transporting radio signal from the detector on the car body. The device employs fail-safe system and its key components are consisted of passive elements, so that the device provides high reliability.

Viewing the development of automotive technology historically, we find its beginnings in the spontaneous, original invention of engineers. However, with the progress of motorization, market demand, i.e., consumer needs and preferences, has become steadily more important. Additionally, social needs, in the form of government regulations on safety and pollution have also become vital elements. In the years since the oil crisis, the growing demand for greater energy conservation and the development of alternative energy sources for the future have become key problems for automotive engineers not only in Japan, but throughout the world. Thus, the demands the times are making upon us are becoming increasingly more diversified. Successfully meeting this challenge will require a far higher level of pooling and sharing from the world’s automotive engineers.