Distronic Distance-Pilot, Function - GF30.30-P-3314FG
Model 213
up to model year 2021
with code 239 (Adaptive cruise control Pro (DISTRONIC PRO))
Model 213
up to model year 2021
with code 23P (Drive package)
Illustration shows model 213
Function requirements, general
- No undervoltage or overvoltage
- The DISTRONIC Distance-Pilot must be correctly coded
- Engine running or drivetrain operational
- Parking brake not operated
- Gear range "D" engaged (vehicle not in backward movement)
- Vehicle speed v = 0 to 200 km/h and v = 200 to 0 km/h
- Vehicle speed v = 0 to 210 km/h and v = 210 to 0 km/h (with code 23P (Driving Assistance Package))
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP®) not switched to passive mode
- No active ESP® intervention recognized (vehicle not in sliding movement)
- DISTRONIC Distance-Pilot switched ob via the CC lever
- Engine hood closed (with code 23P (Driver Assistance Package Plus))
- Active Parking Assist, no parking may be activated (with code 235 (Parking Pilot with PARKTRONIC) or code P44 (Parking Package))
- Soiling and function test of the DISTRONIC Distance-Pilot controller unit (with code 239 (DISTRONIC PLUS)) completed successfully
The DISTRONIC Distance-Pilot controller unit performs a soiling and function test to ensure proper operation after each engine start. This assumes an object is in the detection range which can be used as a reference value. If a malfunction is established or there is no object in the detection range of the DISTRONIC Distance-Pilot controller unit, the DISTRONIC Distance-Pilot controller unit cannot be activated.
- Soiling and function test of the short and long range radar sensor (with code 23P (Driver Assistance Package)) completed successfully
Object recognition (e.g. vehicle moving directly ahead) via the radar sensor system is based on the radar measuring procedure. The short and long range radar sensor performs a soiling and function test to secure its perfect function after every engine start. The function test requires an object in the respective detection area which is used as a reference value.
If a malfunction is established or if there are no objects in the detection area, the DISTRONIC Distance-Pilot controller unit cannot be activated. When functioning properly, the short and long-range radar transmits the status "radar sensor system operational" to the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Drive control unit via the suspension FlexRay.
- Standstill control, enable issued (driver door/driver belt buckle and front passenger door closed)
Distronic Distance-Pilot, function
The DISTRONIC Distronic Distance-Pilot regulates the speed and the distance to the vehicle immediately ahead automatically according to the specification of the driver, in that it brakes when necessary and accelerates again, where possible. The distance and speed control is realized by the Distance Pilot DISTRONIC control unit (with code 239 (DISTRONIC PLUS)) or by the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Drive control unit (with code 23P (Driving Assistance Package)). For this purpose, the Distance Pilot DISTRONIC control unit (with code 239 (DISTRONIC PLUS)) or the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Drive control unit (with code 23P (Driving Assistance Package)) actively intervenes in the engine management or in the brake system. The handling characteristics of the DISTRONIC Distance-Pilot adapt automatically to the selected transmission mode (DYNAMIC SELECT).
In stop and go traffic the DISTRONIC Distance-Pilot brakes vehicle automatically (if necessary through to a standstill). Once the traffic situation again allows this, the DISTRONIC Distance-Pilot accelerates the vehicle automatically up to the set target speed and therefore frees up the driver from these tiring routine tasks (e.g. frequent starting off and braking in stop-and-go (Stop-and-go pilot).
If the DISTRONIC Distance-Pilot recognizes that strong braking is necessary (e.g. weaving in traffic, a stationary obstacle), the DISTRONIC warning lamp in the instrument cluster lights up and an intermittent alarm tone sounds. Both require the driver to proceed with increased caution and to possibly also brake himself. If the driver reacts to the acoustic warning and brakes, he will be assisted in this by the Brake Assist. This calculates the required brake force amplification according to the situation. A threatening accident can be prevented under certain circumstances or at least one can mitigate its consequences. If the driver fails to respond to the acoustic warning, the Brake Assist initiates (in addition to the visual and acoustic warnings) an automated partial and then maximum full-stop braking.
A reaction to stationary vehicles in the driving lane is possible up to a speed of 60 km/h.
If DISTRONIC Distance-Pilot is switched off, the situation in front of the vehicle continues to be monitored and evaluated. In dangerous situations warnings are given, as described above, or there is autonomous braking.
The following partial functions of the DISTRONIC Distance-Pilot are described in separate partial functions:
- Cruise control, function
- Automatic speed control
- Variable speed limiter (except code 494 (USA version))
- Permanent limiter
- Steering pilot function (with code 23P (Driving Assistance Package))
Representation of the Assist Graphic in the IC (CLASSIC display)
Operation:
DISTRONIC Distance-Pilot is operated over the CC lever. The steering column tube module control unit directly reads in the operation signals of the cruise control lever and transmits these via the suspension FlexRay to the MercedesBenz Intelligent Drive control unit.
Design of the cruise control lever
If the LED variable speed limiter lights up, the DISTRONIC Distance-Pilot deactivates and the function of the variable speed limiter is programmed. The steering column tube module control unit actuates the variable speed limiter LED directly (except for code 494 (USA version)).
Upon operation of the CC lever the distance to the vehicle driving immediately ahead is displayed in the multifunction display for t = 5 s. Through selection of the operating level "DISTRONIC PLUS" in the menu "Assistance" the distance graphic is shown permanently. Display of the distance graphic can be switched on or off independently of the activity of the automatic distance control. The distance to the vehicle in front can be set via the DISTRONIC control in seven stages between approx. t = 1.0 and 2.0 s.
Display from the DISTRONIC Distance-Pilot in IC, shown on Tacho display Sport
If a vehicle driving immediately ahead is recognized on the lane or on the fast lane, the segments also light up the segments in the speedometer.
The description of the DISTRONIC Distance-Pilot controller unit takes place, as an example, in the following chronological sequence:
- Activate DISTRONIC Distance-Pilot and drive off automatically
- Automatic distance control
- Lane change (overtaking) (with code 23P (Driver Assistance Package))
- Convoy driving (with code 23P (Driver Assistance Package))
- Speed control
- Going back into a lane/person in the front regulation
- Driving around rotaries, through T-intersections and freeway exits (with code 23P (Driver Assistance Package))
- Automated Stop Vehicle
- Automatic restarting in traffic jam (with code 23P (Driving Assistance Package) and with code 235 (Parking Pilot with PARKTRONIC) or with code 23P (Driving Assistance Package) and with code P44 (Parking Package))
- Speed Limit-Pilot (with code 23P (Driver Assist Package) and code 513 (Traffic Sign Assist) and code 531 (COMAND APS))
Activate DISTRONIC Distance-Pilot and drive off automatically
The following options are available for activating DISTRONIC Distance-Pilot:
- Using the "Resume from memory" switch on the CC lever, call up the last selected set speed (set speed v > 20 km/h)
The brake pedal must be actuated to activate in standstill.
- To drive off from a standstill, actuate the accelerator pedal shortly or the CC lever shortly (Resume from memory switch)
The vehicle moves off and adapts its speed to the maximum speed of the vehicle immediately ahead up to the selected target speed. If there is no vehicle immediately ahead, the DISTRONIC Distance-Pilot functions like the CC.
For vehicles at a standstill a specified distance limit exists beyond which a stationary vehicle is no longer displayed.
Automatic distance control
If the vehicle driving immediately ahead brakes or accelerates, the DISTRONIC Distance-Pilot can initiate the following measures for deceleration or acceleration of the vehicle:
- Increase/reduce engine torque
- Increase/reduce the braking torque
The brake application takes place by means of hydraulic pressure controlling in the wheel brake cylinder by the traction system hydraulic unit according to the current vehicle status. To do this the Electronic Stability Program control unit assesses various variables such as the required braking torque.
Model 213.016/050/053/153/216
up to model year 2021
with code 239 (Adaptive cruise control Pro (DISTRONIC PRO))
Model 213.016/050/053/153/216
up to model year 2021
with code 23P (Drive package)
The kinetic energy is converted within defined limits into electrical energy (regenerative braking). If the requested braking torque exceeds the deceleration through recuperation (for example in a case of a emergency braking), the Electronic Stability Program control unit additionally actuates the traction system hydraulic unit and therefore the service brake.
The driver must press on the brake pedal if he sees that the instigated measures are not adequate to avoid a possible collision.
If the driver does not intervene, an additional intervention by the brake system is made by the Brake Assist.
If the vehicle driving immediately ahead accelerates again, the engine torque is increased and the vehicle also accelerates. The increase in engine torque is dependent on the ascent or the descent involved, among other things.
The maximum (positive) acceleration is dependent on the selected transmission mode. The driver can influence the vehicle's acceleration behavior by selecting the transmission mode using the transmission mode button.
The driver furthermore has the option of operating the accelerator pedal to accelerate the vehicle (e.g. when overtaking). As soon as the driver actuates the accelerator pedal, no distance control occurs. The IC shows the "DISTRONIC passive" message. If the automatic distance control requires a higher acceleration than the driver prescribes, the driver request is overlaid by the request for automatic distance control and the "DISTRONIC passive" message goes off.
Lane change (overtaking) (with code 23P (Driver Assistance Package))
For overtaking at a speed of more than v = 70 km/h) the vehicle is also accelerated automatically. To do this the driver must initiate the overtaking maneuver by setting the turn signal. If the automatic distance control is activated, the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Drive control unit recognizes the intention of the driver to overtake and accelerates the vehicle while taking account of the distance to the vehicle driving ahead.
When approaching a slowly moving vehicle and therefore an active automatic intervention by the brake system, this is then canceled insofar as the driver initiates the overtaking procedure by operating the turn signal. If required, the vehicle is additionally accelerated.
If there is no vehicle in the detection range of the radar sensor system after the overtaking procedure, the automatic distance control changes over to automatic speed control. If a vehicle driving immediately ahead is subsequently detected as a target object after the overtaking procedure the automatic speed control function changes over again into the automatic distance control function.
The overtaking maneuver is broken off in the following situations:
- Risk of collision with the current target object
- Risk of collision with a vehicle moving directly at the side and ahead
Convoy driving (with code 23P (Driver Assistance Package))
The convoy driving function is only available in selected Western European countries with the appropriate legislation (overtaking on the right prohibited at speeds in excess of v = 80 km/h, as well as an overtaking speed limit relative to the convoy of a max. v = 20 km/h).
If a convoy forms in the left-hand lane due to the current traffic situation that could theoretically be overtaken in the right-hand lane, this is detected by DISTRONIC Distance-Pilot controller unit. A convoy overtaking maneuver in the right-hand lane (relative overtaking speed to convoy < 20 km/h, maximum overtaking speed v = 85 km/h) is only initiated if the following requirements have been met:
- Speed of convoy ≤ 80 km/h
- Well built, multiple-lane road with a legally permissible maximum speed of v ≥ 80 km/h
The DISTRONIC Distance-Pilot in combination with the NAVs prevents a possibly illegal overtaking on the right in right-hand traffic or overtaking on the left in left-hand traffic on a freeway or federal highways like a freeway (Freeway-Pilot). To do this the distance to the vehicle to the left lane (right-hand traffic) or to the right lane (left-hand traffic) is moderately regulated in that the system measures the distance to vehicles on the left lane or to the right for left-hand traffic.
If the system prevents overtaking the convoy, this can be ended by short actuation of the accelerator pedal by the driver.
Speed control
If the vehicle is in active distance control and the vehicle driving immediately ahead accelerates above v = 210 km/h or removes itself from the detection area of the radar sensor system, the automatic distance control switches over into the automatic speed control.
Going back into a lane/person in the front regulation
If the vehicle driving immediately ahead turns off and there is another vehicle in front, the system only switches over to the new target vehicle if it is moving. The system does not operate for stationary objects unless a preceding vehicle is tracked to a standstill. If while driving a vehicle turns in front within the safe distance to the vehicle driving immediately ahead, the distance to this new vehicle is regulated. If the vehicle is in speed control and a vehicle turns onto the lane driven in this vehicle is registered as the vehicle driving immediately ahead. If the distance to the swinging-in vehicle lies below the value that was preselected, Distance Pilot DISTRONIC decelerates the vehicle. If the requested braking power is not sufficient, a visual warning and warning tones are output and the driver must press the brake pedal. If the driver fails to respond, the Brake Assist initiates (in addition to the visual and acoustic warnings) an automated partial and then maximum full-stop braking.
The negative acceleration (deceleration) is limited to 50 % (approx. a = 5.0 m/s2
) of the max. possible braking power.
The DISTRONIC Distance-Pilot will be deactivated in the process. The driver is notified of this by the sounding of an intermittent tone over the instrument cluster speaker and a warning indicator in the instrument cluster's multifunction display. The driver can activate the DISTRONIC Distance-Pilot controller unit again.
Driving around rotaries, through T-intersections and freeway exits (with code 23P (Driver Assistance Package))
If the vehicle driving immediately ahead leaves the detection area of the radar sensor system in one of the above-mentioned traffic situations, then the current speed is maintained:
- About. t = 10 s before a roundabout or a T intersection
- About t = 12 s before a freeway exit lane and about t = 4 s after a freeway exit lane
If, after this, no new vehicle is detected driving immediately ahead, the vehicle accelerates or decelerates to the established set speed.
Since traffic situations are subject to alteration, the digital map data has to be regularly updated.
Automated Stop Vehicle
In an active DISTRONIC Distance-Pilot, the vehicle will follow the vehicle driving in front to a standstill. In this connection, deceleration is realized via recuperation (model 213.016/050/053/153/216) and/or via the service brake. The service brake also secures a stationary vehicle against rolling away.
After a defined time period the electric parking brake is also activated (standstill control safety strategy).
Securing the vehicle using the DISTRONIC Distance-Pilot (standstill control) does not replace securing the vehicle for parking.
Automatic restarting in traffic jam (with code 23P (Driving Assistance Package) and with code 235 (Parking Pilot with PARKTRONIC) or with code 23P (Driving Assistance Package) and with code P44 (Parking Package))
This function is available on freeways or Federal highways similar to a freeway for starting off again. If the vehicle with an active DISTRONIC Distance-Pilot comes to a standstill, the vehicle will follow the target vehicle for up to 30 s without driver interaction. The driving off area is also monitored by ultrasonic sensors and the driver is also informed about the readiness to drive off condition of the vehicle by a display. If during the start off process violation of the gap in front of the vehicle is recognized, a take over warning occurs and reduction of the acceleration and the driver is warned optically and acoustically. If a warning is issued, the driver must take action himself (accelerator pedal/brake pedal). If a warning occurs, continuation of driving must be acknowledged by the driver.
Model 213
up to model year 2021
with code 23P (Drive package)
with code 513 (Road sign recognition system)
Automatic driving off again is deactivated at intersections with Stop signs.
Additional function requirement for Speed Limit Pilot (with code 23P (Driving Assistance Package) and code 513 (Traffic Sign Assist) and code 531 (COMAND APS))
- Speed-Pilot switched on over the head unit
Speed Limit-Pilot (with code 23P (Driver Assist Package) and code 513 (Traffic Sign Assist) and code 531 (COMAND APS))
If the displayed speed limit changes for an active DISTRONIC Distance-Pilot, the set speed changes automatically. This occurs unless the set speed was already changed in a foresighted manner by the driver. If the DISTRONIC Distance-Pilot was passivated through actuation of the accelerator pedal, the speed limit is adopted which is greater than the set speed.
The change in the displayed speed limit always takes place at the height of the traffic sign. For an entrance lane to a built-up area (towns/cities), adaptation of the set speed occurs in a foresighted manner so that the adaptation of the set speed still occurs before the beginning of the built-up area. In doing so the displayed speed limit only changes due to the traffic sign recognition for multiple trips in built-up area.
Regardless of the control status of the Distance Pilot DISTRONIC, the shown speed limitation is set as the set speed when the cruise control lever is pulled, provided that the Speed Limit Pilot has been configured in the head unit. If no speed limit is displayed for actuation of the lever, resumption of the previously set speed occurs.
The following traffic situations show the limits of the DISTRONIC Distance-Pilot:
Obstacles and stationary vehicles
The DISTRONIC Distance-Pilot does not brake for obstacles or stationary vehicles which were not previously registered as the target object. If, for example, the detected vehicle turns off and there is an obstacle or stationary vehicles behind it, no automatic intervention by the brake system occurs.
Curves, curved entrances and exits
The DISTRONIC Distance-Pilot can only provides limited detection of vehicles in curves. One's own vehicle can then brake unexpectedly or late.
Vehicles moving across in front of one's own vehicle
The DISTRONIC Distance-Pilot may detect vehicles in cross traffic by mistake. For an activated distance control the vehicle can start off unintended, (e.g. at a traffic light with cross-traffic).
Offset driving style
The DISTRONIC Distance-Pilot may not be able to detect vehicles driving offset to one side. The distance to the vehicle in front becomes too small.
Lane change by other vehicles
The DISTRONIC Distance-Pilot does not yet detect the vehicle moving into the lane. The distance to the vehicle moving into the lane becomes too small.
Narrow vehicles
The DISTRONIC Distance-Pilot does not detect the vehicle in front at the edge of the carriageway because of its narrow width. The distance to the vehicle in front becomes too small.
| Electrical function schematic for DISTRONIC Distance-Pilot | Model 213 up to model year 2021 with code 239 (Adaptive cruise control Pro (DISTRONIC PRO)) except code 23P (Drive package) | PE30.30-P-2068-97DBA | |
| Electrical function schematic for DISTRONIC Distance-Pilot | Model 213 up to model year 2021 with code 23P (Drive package) | PE30.30-P-2068-97DBB | |
| Overview of system components for driver assistance systems | GF54.00-P-9998FG |