Object Detection Description and Operation (UFT)

Object Detection Description and Operation (UFT)

The side blind zone alert (SBZA) system is designed to detect vehicles or other objects that may be located in the vehicles blind spots. This detection is performed by two side object sensors, located behind the rear fascia on each side of the vehicle. When an object is detected in a blind spot, an indicator in the outside rearview mirror will illuminate, notifying the driver that it is unsafe to change lanes.

The SBZA system is made up of the following components:

* Left side object sensor
* Right side object sensor
* Driver door module
* Front passenger door module
* Driver outside rearview mirror
* Passenger outside rearview mirror

Side Object Sensors

The side object sensors are each located behind the rear fascia, positioned so that the sensor is pointing out toward the opposite lane. Each sensor is supplied B+ and ground. The right sensor receives an additional ground. Both sensors communicate independently on the serial data line. The serial data enters the right sensor in a pass-thru configuration, that connects to the left sensor. The scan tool is able to individually communicate with each sensor.

When a vehicle or object is detected by a side object sensor, a serial data message is sent to the appropriate door module to illuminate the indicator located in the outside rearview mirror.

Door Modules

The driver and passenger door modules receive serial data messages from the side object sensors. When a message is received indicating that a vehicle or object is in the blind spot, the appropriate door module will apply voltage to the indicator located in the outside rearview mirror, illuminating the indicator. The door module provides a continuous low reference circuit for the indicator.

Outside Rearview Mirror

The outside rearview mirrors each contain an indicator that is controlled by the appropriate door module. This indicator is illuminated when a vehicle or object is positioned in the vehicle's blind spot.

Side Blind Zone Alert Operation

When the vehicle is started, the indicators located in the outside rearview mirror will briefly illuminate to indicate that the system is operating. The side object sensors cover a zone of approximately one lane over from both sides of the vehicle, 11 ft. or 3.5 m. This zone starts at each side mirror and goes back approximately 16 ft. (5.0 m). The height of the zone is approximately between 1.5 ft. (0.5 m) and 6 ft. (2.0 m) off the ground. When a vehicle or object is detected in this area, the appropriate indicator will be illuminated, indicating to the driver that it is unsafe to change lanes. If a turn signal is activated while the indicator is illuminated, the indicator will flash as a more urgent warning that a lane change may be unsafe.

Foul weather may affect the operation of the SBZA system. Occasional missed alerts can occur under normal circumstances and will increase in wet conditions. The number of missed alerts will increase with increased rainfall or road spray. Heavy rainfall, as well as mud, dirt, snow, ice, or slush build-up on the rear fascia, will completely disable the system.

If the vehicle is towing a trailer or has an object, such as a bicycle rack, attached to the rear of the vehicle, the SBZA system may not function properly and the indicators will remain illuminated at all time.

Side Blind Zone Alert DIC Messages

SIDE BLIND ZONE ALERT SYSTEM OFF

This message indicates that the system has been disabled through the DIC.

SIDE BLIND ZONE SYSTEM UNAVAILABLE

This message indicates that the system has been disabled because the sensor is blocked or can otherwise not accurately detect vehicles or objects. Such instances may be mud, dirt, snow, ice, or slush build-up on the rear fascia, heavy rainfall, or excessive road spray.

SERVICE SIDE BLIND ZONE ALERT SYSTEM

This message indicates that the system requires service. When the message is displayed, the indicators will remain illuminated at all times, notifying the driver that the SBZA system should not be relied upon when changing lanes.