ICM: Integrated chassis management

The networking of the suspension control systems by the ICM control unit provides a hierarchical function structure of all software-based driving dynamics functions.

The ICM control unit provides the systems in the entire vehicle with the dynamic driving state in the form of signals (e.g. data such as lateral and longitudinal acceleration, yaw velocity). The ICM control unit transmits these signals to other stations on the bus in the form of bus signals.

In addition to the sensors governing the vehicle dynamics control, the ICM control unit also contains longitudinal and lateral acceleration sensors to detect impacts.

Two wires provide a direct connection between the ICM control unit and the Crash Safety Module (ACSM) for transmission of the sensor signals.

Depending on vehicle equipment and the national-market version, the ICM control unit may also include a vertical acceleration sensor and a yaw rate sensor. Sensor signals are employed for vehicle dynamics systems as well as for impact detection. For impact detection the ICM control unit relays the sensor signals directly to the Crash Safety Module via two wires.

Fig 1: Identifying Integrated Chassis Management And 54-Pin Plug Connection

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.