About Adaptive Front Lighting System: Meaning, Purpose, Types and Reset

Jul 21,2023
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What is adaptive front lighting system?


Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS) is an advanced automotive lighting technology designed to improve visibility and safety while driving at night or in low-light conditions. It uses sensors and a control system to automatically adjust the direction and intensity of a vehicle's headlights based on various factors such as speed, steering angle, weather conditions and road curvature.


Purpose of adaptive front lighting system


AFS can improve the driver's safe driving on the road. Its purpose is to aid the driver's ability to see the road ahead, especially around bends and corners, by dynamically repositioning the headlights. Traditional static headlights can only illuminate a fixed area in front of the vehicle, which limits their effectiveness in certain driving scenarios. When using AFS, the headlights can be rotated in the opposite direction of the vehicle's steering, providing better illumination around bends and corners.


Key components of an adaptive front lighting system typically include:


① Sensors: Gyroscopes, accelerometers, and steering angle sensors are used to collect real-time data about the vehicle's motion and orientation.


② Control system: The control system processes the data from the sensors and calculates the optimal lighting pattern according to the driving conditions.


③ Headlight adjustment mechanism: This mechanism allows the headlights to pivot or rotate as commanded by the control system.


Types of AFS technologies available in the market


① Static AFS: This is the most basic form, where the headlight is equipped with multiple reflectors or lenses. These reflectors, or lenses, distribute light in different patterns to provide better lighting around corners. But the system lacks dynamic adjustments based on real-time driving conditions.


② Dynamic cornering lights: These AFS systems use actuators to physically move the headlights as the vehicle turns, providing better lighting in the direction of the turn. They pivot or rotate based on steering wheel input and vehicle speed, improving visibility around bends and corners.


③ Adaptive high beam systems: These systems automatically adjust the high beam intensity of the headlights based on oncoming traffic and vehicles ahead. Cameras and sensors detect the presence of other vehicles and dim or turn off high beams accordingly to avoid dazzling other drivers while maintaining optimal road lighting.


④ Matrix LED headlights: Matrix LED headlights use an array of individually controllable LEDs to create dynamic and adaptive lighting patterns. The control system can selectively activate or deactivate specific LEDs, enabling precise lighting of specific areas on the road while avoiding glare to other road users.


⑤ Cornering lights: Cornering lights are additional lights or LED modules installed in the front corners of the vehicle. They are activated in conjunction with turn signals or steering inputs to provide additional illumination in the direction the vehicle is turning, enhancing visibility during cornering maneuvers.


⑥ Predictive AFS: Some advanced AFS technologies use predictive algorithms to analyze various data, such as GPS information, road maps, and camera inputs, to predict upcoming curves, intersections, and road conditions. Before the driver makes a turn or encounters a specific road scene, the headlights actively adjust, improving safety and convenience.


⑦ Adaptive laser headlights: This cutting-edge technology uses laser light instead of traditional LEDs or light bulbs to generate light. Laser headlights provide brighter, more focused illumination that dramatically increases visibility.


The availability of these AFS technologies may vary by vehicle make and model. Additionally, certain features may be available as part of a larger technology package or optional upgrade. As automotive technology continues to evolve, we expect more complex and advanced AFS systems to be introduced in the future.


AFS (Adaptive Front-lighting System) Reset


Our car must perform an AFS (Adaptive Front-lighting System) reset in many situations. For example, after a failure, replacing some components, or performing maintenance work on the system. So, what is AFS (Adaptive Front-lighting System) reset?


AFS (adaptive front-lighting system) reset is a procedure performed on vehicles equipped with an adaptive front-lighting system to recalibrate or reinitialize its components and sensors.


Performing an AFS reset is critical to keep the system functioning properly and maintaining its accuracy.  Calibration and initialization of AFS components such as sensors, actuators and control modules helps ensure that the headlights are properly adjusted to the vehicle's motion and driving conditions. This in turn enhances the effectiveness of the adaptive lighting system and promotes safer driving, especially at night or in low-light conditions.


If we suspect a problem with the vehicle's AFS or a problem with adaptive headlights, it is best to consult a vehicle manufacturer-approved service center or a qualified automotive technician. They have the expertise and proper equipment to diagnose and perform any necessary AFS resets. Here, we recommend a diagnostic tool with AFS reset function for you.


iSmartTool 601Max is a handheld five-in-one vehicle testing tool, including battery, TPMS, diagnosis, printing, and videoscope.  It has AFS (Adaptive Front-lighting System) Reset function, which can initialize the adaptive front-lighting system.



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