Integrated Chassis Management: Overview

With the E71, the notion of a higher-level driving dynamics control system was implemented for the first time in a standard model. This central function is also referred to as "Integrated Chassis Management" ("ICM" for short) and is integrated in the control unit of the same name in the E71.

The previous strategy was to use one control unit to perform the control tasks for each main movement direction. This approach was not employed in the E71 or the F01/F02.

Fig 1: Identifying Control Units And Main Movement Directions Of Vehicle

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

As is the case in the E71, the new ICM control unit in the F01/F02 essentially performs the calculations for the control functions that influence the longitudinal and lateral dynamics. The actuators are activated by separate control units (e. g. AS control unit). The functional range of the ICM control unit in the F01/F02 has grown considerably when compared to the E71.

The Vertical Dynamics Management (VDM) is still responsible for controlling the vertical dynamics. The vertical dynamic control and dynamic drive functions are therefore accommodated in the VDM control unit. Signals that provide information on the current driving situation are obviously exchanged between the ICM and VDM.

The main focus of this section is to describe the functions of the ICM control unit.

An introductory overview of these functions is provided in the following illustration and explanation. The functions are dealt with in more depth in the following chapters.

Fig 2: Identifying ICM Control Unit Functions

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.