AUTO 440 - Analyzing Vehicle Safety, Comfort, and Security Systems

Prerequisite:Enrollment requires an AS degree in Automotive Technology or similar field, and special approval from the Program Advisor.
Advisory:PHY 120, ENGL 201 or ENGL 201H, MATH 130 or MATH 130H

This course provides automotive technology students with a detailed, practical application of vehicle occupant protection, comfort, and security systems of the modern automobile. The course is a practical study of the systems that provide integrated vehicle and driving protection against hazardous and inadvertent situations, as well as occupant amenities, including diagnostic strategies as they pertain to the function, operation, and everyday use of active/passive safety, comfort, and convenience systems. Topics include emerging technologies such as modern airbag systems, accident avoidance and pre-crash/post-crash mitigation of injuries, vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) infrastructure technology, and innovative driver assistance, infotainment, and occupant contentment and security systems used by late-model automotive manufacturers. Emphasis is placed on the design of system parts, components, and subsystems, and their operational characteristics, including techniques in reducing vehicle crashes and improving occupant/pedestrian protection. Current industry-approved diagnostic and troubleshooting techniques and relevant case studies are discussed and demonstrated throughout the course. The overall goal of this course is to have students apply and demonstrate knowledge and skills that will enable them to advance their employment in the vehicle after-sales field operations management spectrum.