What Do These Terms Mean in Autonomous Driving: AEB, NOA, ACC, and More?
Autonomous driving technology uses a lot of terms that can seem confusing at first. Acronyms like AEB, NOA, ACC, LKA, and BLIS describe different systems or features built into vehicles that help improve safety and make driving easier. This article will explain some of the most common terms in simple language.
What Is AEB?
AEB stands for Automatic Emergency Braking. It is a system that helps prevent or reduce the impact of a collision. When AEB detects an obstacle or a vehicle ahead, it automatically applies the brakes if the driver doesn't react quickly enough. Think of it as an extra set of eyes that can stop the car faster than a person in certain situations. AEB is especially useful in sudden stops or when the driver is distracted.
What Is NOA?
NOA means Navigate on Autopilot. This is a more advanced driver assistance feature found in some vehicles. NOA helps drive the car on highways by taking care of steering, navigating interchanges, and even executing lane changes. It allows the driver to be more relaxed during long trips, as the car can handle many driving tasks on its own. Still, the driver needs to monitor the system and stay ready to take control at any time.
What Is ACC?
ACC refers to Adaptive Cruise Control. Unlike traditional cruise control that maintains a set speed, ACC can automatically adjust the car's speed to keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front. If traffic slows down, ACC reduces speed; if the road clears, it accelerates back to the preset speed. This makes highway driving more comfortable and is the foundation for more advanced systems.
What Is LKA?
LKA stands for Lane Keeping Assist. This feature is like having a gentle guide keeping your car centered. Using cameras to watch the lane markings on the road, LKA can provide small steering corrections to help prevent you from unintentionally drifting out of your lane. It's designed to assist, not to take over steering completely.
What Is BLIS or BSM?
BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) or BSM (Blind Spot Monitoring) acts as a lookout for areas you can't easily see. Using radar or cameras, these systems detect vehicles in your blind spots. If you try to change lanes while a car is there, the system will warn you with a light in your side mirror or an audible alert, helping to prevent a potential collision.
What Is RCTA?
RCTA means Rear Cross Traffic Alert. This system is your best friend in busy car parks. When you are reversing out of a parking space, RCTA watches for vehicles approaching from the left or right. If it detects an oncoming car, it will give you a warning, allowing you to stop before pulling into the path of traffic.
What Is TJA?
TJA, or Traffic Jam Assist, is designed to take the stress out of heavy congestion. It combines Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keeping Assist to manage your vehicle in slow-moving, stop-and-go traffic. The system handles the braking, accelerating, and steering to keep you in your lane and at a safe distance from the car ahead, making traffic jams much more bearable.
SAE Levels
SAE Levels categorize the automation capability of vehicles from 0 to 5. Level 0 has no automation, and Level 5 is full automation where no driver input is needed at all. Most current vehicles are at Level 2 or 3, offering some automation features like ACC or lane keeping.
Many terms related to autonomous driving describe different safety and convenience features. Knowing what these features do can also help drivers make informed choices when buying or using autonomous vehicles. As these technologies develop, the list of terms may grow, but their purpose remains to improve safety and make driving more relaxed.
