According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, drivers today face multiple distractions unforeseen even a few years ago. Although modern technology has made vehicles more reliable and simpler to drive, increased traffic levels and information entering the vehicle environment have outpaced automation of vehicle operation.  One answer to this problem is to automate systems that previously required the driver’s attention, thus reducing distractions and increasing the driver’s ability to focus on driving. TRW first released rain sensor products in 1996. Since that time, this product line has grown significantly, with rain sensor products on 16 million vehicles worldwide.   Rain Sensor Rainy conditions always reduce visibility and vehicle control for the driver. At these times, it would be better for the driver to pay attention to his surroundings than to the switch for the windshield wipers. In fixed-interval intermittent wipe systems, rain variation and the effects of road spray are not accounted for. In contrast, the rain sensor automatically activates the wipers at appropriate intervals to maintain good visibility. In essence, the driver can “set and forget” the wiper system because it will adjust from a very light mist to a heavy downpour. The rain sensor also automatically activates the wipers after a splash from a passing vehicle.   TRW’s use of IR and patented servo control design allows the rain sensor to be mounted in the shade band. While today’s drivers face myriad driving conditions, the rain sensor continually adapts to these conditions via the servo control.