INTRODUCTION
STUDY GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
Today’s automobiles have become highly complex. Sophisticated electronic control systems and the majority of innovations have been achieved through electronics and the use of advanced sensors. A range of technologies has been used over the past 20 years, including silicon micro-engineering, thick film, capacitive, variable reluctance, optical and radar. As the electronic content in vehicles increases, demand for automotive sensor applications will continue to grow unabated. While certain types of sensor have long been featured inside vehicles, such as oil pressure, coolant temperature, vehicle speed and fuel level sensors, new applications are emerging, particularly in the emissions and safety-related areas. The environment for these sensors continues to be challenging with respect to robustness, reliability, quality and cost. This report will focus on the various types of sensors used in automobiles, the market for each type of sensor, the market for application of each type of sensor and regional markets for these sensors.
REASONS FOR DOING THE STUDY
The automotive sensor market is driven by demand for convenience, comfort, safety, efficiency, and environmental protection. Sensors integrated with electronics, communications, and computer intelligence are poised for a growth surge. Integrated sensors with intelligence are often referred to as “smart sensors” or “intelligent sensors.” They will be used in conjunction with all types of devices. The implication for the automobile industry is the advent of the “smart car.” This report will study the route being taken by various automobile manufacturers in achieving the ultimate goal of the “smart car”.
SCOPE OF REPORT
Sensor controlled systems have become an integral part of today’s automobile. A multitude of electro-mechanical devices have become better refined and more efficient with their application. The past few decades have witnessed the development and deployment of a range of sensing technologies that have both supported and enabled the introduction of advanced electronic systems. The environment for these sensors continues to be increasingly challenging with respect to robustness, reliability, quality and cost. Sensor suppliers face the continuing mandate to deliver more capability at less cost. Existing sensors will continue to find new applications, building upon their historical performance track record, and new sensors will emerge to improve system functionality and enable future advanced systems. This report will study the areas in the production of an automobile, which have advanced with the use of sensors and the markets for these sensors in various applications and regions.
This report also concentrates on the global and regional markets for technologies involved in the manufacture of different types of automobile sensors and the markets for applications in which these automobile sensors will be utilized, as well as the basic technologies involved in the manufacture of such equipment. The report also provides profiles of various manufacturers of automobile sensors, their market-share, and their research and development (R&D) efforts to create new sensor technologies. The report also provides information concerning different patents on various sensor technologies and types of patents, along with a patent analysis.
INTENDED AUDIENCE
The report should attract the attention of engineering technologists and make them more aware of how sensors can contribute to system control and monitoring in an automobile. This report is intended to serve as a valuable resource for all personnel involved in the design and production of automobile sensors, associated systems and automobiles, for researchers working in the development of new sensor technologies for use in various automobiles and for manufacturers of different types of automobile sensors.
INFORMATION SOURCES
Both primary and secondary research methods were used in preparing this report. Primary information sources for this market research include individuals within companies, various research organizations, governmental agencies, and trade associations.
Secondary research includes extensive literature review, such as trade journals, seminar proceedings, patent literature, company literature, published reports, and government publications. Additional secondary research sources include databases, trade literature, specialized journals, and government statistics.
ANALYST CREDENTIALS
Srinivasa Rajaram is a mechanical engineer with more than 40 years of experience in designing factory layouts and setting up factories. He was senior vice president of M/S Schenck Avery Ltd., an Indo-German joint venture, and has authored several technology market research reports for BCC Research.
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DISCLAIMER
The information developed in this report is intended to be as reliable as possible at the time of publication and of a professional nature. This information does not constitute managerial, legal, or accounting advice; nor should it serve as a corporate policy guide, laboratory manual, or an endorsement of any product, as much of the information is speculative in nature. The author assumes no responsibility for any loss or damage that might result from reliance on the reported information or its use.
Report Code: IAS018C, Published: March 2010, Analyst: Srinivasa Rajaram
