C h a p t e r 3 | M i g r a t i n g t o Z o n a l A r c h i t e c t u r e
computer networking protocols, whereas
the sensors, drives, and controls within
the factory itself do not.
SPE solves this problem through the
use of a much smaller and lighter
infrastructure. Traditional cabling for
Ethernet uses a multiple-pair cable
and established modular connectors.
However, multipair cables are
unnecessary for every device to become
a node on the network. Instead, a small
single-pair cable can branch out to each
device, allowing them to connect directly
to the Ethernet network.
Lighter Weight
The single-pair cable offers a huge
advantage for zonal architectures, not
only allowing devices to integrate with
established Ethernet networks but also
reducing weight and bulk by using only
one-fourth of the number of wires. The SPE
connector itself, with just two contacts, is
also considerably smaller and lighter than
traditional networking connectors.
For many years, conventional vehicle
electronics have used 12V power supplies,
but designers are now adopting higher
voltages up to 48V. Systems that use
higher voltages draw a lower electrical
current, which allows designers to
use smaller wires. The thinner wires
associated with a change from 12V to 48V
result in harness weight savings of more
than 80%.
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Another challenge to the rapid adoption
of zonal architectures is the reluctance
of manufacturers to make major
changes. Established OEMs have spent
decades optimizing the size, weight, and
performance of components they use. The
cost required to design and adopt new
components may affect their profitability.
Bala Subramani
System Architect, Bosch Global Software Technologies
Designers must ensure that the
architecture is robust and can
handle faults gracefully. Safety
is paramount in transportation
applications, so we must create
automotive systems with
redundancy and fail-safes in mind."
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Zonal Architecture: Delivering New Standards of Connectivity for Automotive and Beyond
