Siemens adds electrics to intake manifold
Tier One automotive supplier Siemens VDO has developed an engine intake manifold that incorporates electronic components.
Its Electrified Integrated Air Fuel Module (E-IAFM) claims to reduce material, process and assembly costs and enhance reliability – by moulding engine wiring into the plastic of the manifold.
The system was launched at the Convergence automotive exhibition, held this week in Detroit.
"Mechanical and electrical connections for actuators and sensors are made simultaneously when the components are fitted into the manifold, eliminating many low-reliability mechanical electrical connections," said Siemens VDO Advanced Research and Development program leader Jim Vanderveen.
"In addition, the Engine Control Unit (ECU) is integrated into the manifold's electrical connection architecture, allowing the entire E-IAFM to be quality tested as a fully integrated unit."
