Automotive Sensors and Actuators: Principles, Systems, and Electronics

Modern vehicles rely on a wide range of sensors and actuators to monitor operating conditions and control vehicle functions. In Automotive Sensors and Actuators: Principles, Systems, and Electronics, Davide Scullino presents a detailed overview of the electronic components used in contemporary automotive systems, with a strong focus on practical understanding.

The book begins with the electrical and electronic fundamentals needed to work with automotive systems. Basic concepts, terminology, and component behavior are introduced to establish a solid technical basis before moving on to complete vehicle applications.

From fundamentals to vehicle systems

Early chapters cover electrical engineering principles, electromagnetic phenomena, motors, and automotive-grade electronic components. Passive and active components, integrated circuits, protection devices, and interface electronics are explained in relation to their real use in vehicles.

Building on this foundation, the book examines sensors and actuators within their respective systems. Sensor characteristics, signal conditioning, ADCs, PWM and frequency-based outputs, and interface adaptation are discussed to show how physical signals are converted into usable electronic data.

Sensors and actuators throughout the vehicle

A large part of the book is dedicated to sensors and actuators as they appear across the vehicle. Engine-related sensors such as air mass, pressure, temperature, speed, position, and emissions sensors are described alongside actuators including throttle bodies, injectors, turbo actuators, EGR systems, ignition components, and pumps.

Additional chapters address transmission sensors for manual and automatic systems, steering and suspension sensors for conventional and active systems, and body electronics sensors used for comfort, climate control, access, and monitoring. Actuators for transmission, braking, steering, suspension, and body systems are also covered.

Safety and ADAS system sensors are also covered, including sensor technologies used for assisted and autonomous driving, such as radar, cameras, LIDAR, accelerometers, and gyroscopes, as part of coordinated vehicle electronic systems.

Communication and practical identification

Automotive communication links such as LIN and SENT are introduced to explain how sensors and actuators exchange data within vehicle networks. The book also includes guidance on identifying and coding electronic components and packages commonly used in automotive applications.

Each component is described in terms of its structure, operating principle, and associated electronic circuitry. This system-oriented approach makes the book a useful reference for understanding, testing, and troubleshooting automotive electronic systems.

Automotive Sensors and Actuators: Principles, Systems, and Electronics is intended for engineers, technicians, and advanced students who want a clear and structured view of automotive electronics as they are used in real vehicles.