Including Device To Signal To Operator Existence Of Unusual Or Unintended Speed Patents (Class 180/171)
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Patent number: 6831572Abstract: A rear collision warning system (10) for a target vehicle (17) and an approaching vehicle (18) is provided. The rear collision warning system (10) includes a first transmitter (54) located on the approaching vehicle (18) and directed at the target vehicle (17). The first transmitter (54) generates a vehicle information signal. A first indicator (16) located on the target vehicle (17). A first receiver (50) electrically coupled to the first indicator (16) receives the vehicle information signal and transmits a warning signal to the approaching vehicle (18) when the vehicle information signal is above a predetermined magnitude. A method of performing the same is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2002Date of Patent: December 14, 2004Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Gary Steven Strumolo, Ronald Hugh Miller, Priyaranjan Prasad
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Patent number: 6820709Abstract: A cruise controller is provided, which regulates the driving speed of the vehicle not only beyond a certain minimum speed but also at speeds below a preselected critical speed down to standstill of the vehicle. Detecting the traffic situation using a distance sensor allows the vehicle to be automatically started once the driver has responded to a corresponding starting instruction. The starting instruction is effective until a preselected time limit, but, alternatively may also be repeated. However, in any traffic situation, the driver may override the cruise controller by operating the accelerator pedal or the brake pedal.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2002Date of Patent: November 23, 2004Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Uwe Zimmermann, Michael Scherl, Michael Weilkes, Werner Uhler
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Patent number: 6792344Abstract: An apparatus and a method for controlling an automotive vehicle are disclosed, in which a control amount for securing safety of the vehicle and the control amount for achieving a state intended for by the driver of the vehicle are switched in such a manner as to reduce the shock due to the change in the torque generated from the power train, thereby accomplishing both safety and maneuverability at the same time. A first target value is set for controlling at least selected one of the driving torque, the driving force and the acceleration/deceleration rate. A second target value is calculated in accordance with the drive mode intended for by the driver or the driving environment ahead of the vehicle. In the case where a deviation exceeding a predetermined value develops between the first target value and the second target value, the fluctuations of at least one of the driving torque, the driving force and the acceleration/deceleration rate are suppressed.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2001Date of Patent: September 14, 2004Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.Inventors: Toshimichi Minowa, Tatsuya Ochi, Satoru Kuragaki, Mitsuo Kayano, Tokuji Yoshikawa
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Patent number: 6789637Abstract: The device ascertains a setpoint distance or a setpoint time gap with respect to a vehicle driving ahead as a function of the traveling speed, the distance control taking a minimum distance or a minimum time gap, specifiable by the driver, into consideration when determining the setpoint distance or the setpoint time gap. Since the driver's impression of distance is dependent on the visibility at the moment, in response to poor visibility (bad weather, darkness), the distance control increases the setpoint distance or the setpoint time gap ascertained for normal visibility.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2002Date of Patent: September 14, 2004Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Hermann Winner, Ralph Lauxmann
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Patent number: 6721644Abstract: An electronic subsystem for automotive vehicles for overriding the manual control of the vehicles and substituting limited automatic control in response to onboard sensors detecting external and internal conditions that are in violation of the traffic laws or adverse to the normal manually controlled operation of the vehicle. Traffic laws and regulations are digitally detected from the vehicle by wireless acquisition, and the vehicle is automatically controlled to insure compliance. The system detects adverse environmental conditions, including degraded traction and visibility, proximity of other vehicles and objects, uncontrolled vehicle movements, including skidding and fishtailing, and others, and overrides the manual control of the vehicle to minimize the effects of such conditions. The system also provides for monitoring traffic flow along roadways and wirelessly regulating such flow.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2001Date of Patent: April 13, 2004Inventor: Alfred B. Levine
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Patent number: 6691015Abstract: An electronic subsystem for automotive vehicles for overriding the manual control of the vehicles and substituting limited automatic control in response to onboard sensors detecting external and internal conditions that are in violation of the traffic laws or adverse to the normal manually controlled operation of the vehicle. Traffic laws and regulations are digitally detected from the vehicle by wireless acquisition, and the vehicle is automatically controlled to insure compliance. The system detects adverse environmental conditions, including degraded traction and visibility, proximity of other vehicles and objects, uncontrolled vehicle movements, including skidding and fishtailing, and others, and overrides the manual control of the vehicle to minimize the effects of such conditions. The system also provides for monitoring traffic flow along roadways and wirelessly regulating such flow.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2003Date of Patent: February 10, 2004Inventor: Alfred B. Levine
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Patent number: 6681877Abstract: A working vehicle is provided for improving safety and work efficiency by changing a travel speed limit appropriately depending on forms and conditions of work. The working vehicle is driven with an engine, and a working machine such as a working pump is mounted on the vehicle. Fuel supplied to the engine is regulated by an injector. Travel speeds of the working vehicle are detected with a vehicle speed sensor. A control unit is provided with a high speed travel mode which limits vehicle speed at or below a predetermined high speed limit and a low speed travel mode which limits vehicle speed at or below a low speed limit which is set below the high speed limit. In this way, either the high speed travel mode or the low speed travel mode is set according to a changeover signal from a travel mode changeover switch.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 2001Date of Patent: January 27, 2004Assignee: Fuji Jukogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Hiroyuki Ono, Yasuhiko Miyamoto
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Patent number: 6651763Abstract: A vehicle capable of an extraordinary mode of motorized motion programmed to draw the attention of an operator. When one or more sensors sense a condition requiring attention of the operator, an oscillatory motion is superposed upon the motion of the ground-contacting members.Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 2000Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: Deka Products Limited PartnershipInventors: Dean L. Kamen, Robert R. Ambrogi, J. Douglas Field, Burl Amsbury
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Patent number: 6637534Abstract: A selection device for setting the driving speed of a vehicle is provided having an operating element, a control device, which is connected with the operating element and coupled with an engine control and which is designed so that, upon activation of the control, the vehicle speed will be regulated automatically, whereby at least two vehicle speed values can be marked on a display. These values can be initiated by using the operating element. In addition to the vehicle speed values, a pointer is indicated on the display. The pointer can be moved by using the operating element. In a programming operating mode of the control unit, the set vehicle speeds or the vehicle speeds to be set can be set and erased by use of the pointer. In a driving speed control operating mode of the control unit, the set vehicle speeds can be activated by the use of the pointer.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 2001Date of Patent: October 28, 2003Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke AktiengesellschaftInventors: Kai Barbehoen, Joachim Girke
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Patent number: 6615943Abstract: A speed adjusting system for vehicles includes an accelerator, such as a throttle pedal, a speed adjusting device, such as a throttle or a fuel injection pump, which is adjustable by operating the accelerator, and a control unit which is connected to the accelerator and which is settable between a first operating position, in which the accelerator is operable without difficulty, and a second operating position, in which the accelerator is operable with difficulty. The second operating position constitutes a basic state of the control unit, the difficulty, with which the accelerator is operable when the control unit is arranged in the basic state, appearing as a resistance which is generated by the control unit and acts on the accelerator and which must be overcome for operating the accelerator and which clearly exceeds the resistance that exists for operating a conventional accelerator.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2001Date of Patent: September 9, 2003Assignee: Nomix ABInventor: Sven Gustafsson
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Patent number: 6415217Abstract: In vehicular velocity controlling apparatus and method for an automotive vehicle, an inter-vehicle distance from the vehicle to a preceding vehicle which is running ahead of the vehicle is detected, a vehicular velocity of the vehicle is detected; a relative velocity of the vehicle to the preceding vehicle is detected, a target inter-vehicle distance is calculated on the basis of detected values of the inter-vehicle distance and of the vehicular velocity, a control response characteristic of an inter-vehicle distance system to the target inter-vehicle distance is determined, an inter-vehicle distance command value based on the target inter-vehicle distance is calculated in accordance with the determined control response characteristic, a target vehicular velocity is calculated on the basis of the inter-vehicle distance command value, and the vehicular velocity is controlled to make the detected value of the vehicular velocity substantially equal to the target vehicular velocity, the control response characterType: GrantFiled: June 12, 2000Date of Patent: July 2, 2002Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Akira Higashimata, Takenori Hashizume, Kazutaka Adachi
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Publication number: 20020063006Abstract: A class of transportation vehicles for carrying an individual over ground having a surface that may be irregular. Various embodiments have a motorized drive, mounted to the ground-contacting module that causes operation of the vehicle in an operating position that is unstable with respect to tipping when the motorized drive arrangement is not powered. Related methods are provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 11, 2002Publication date: May 30, 2002Inventors: Dean L. Kamen, Robert R. Ambrogi, Robert J. Duggan, J. Douglas Field, Richard Kurt Heinzmann, Burl Amsbury, Christopher C. Langenfeld
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Publication number: 20020036109Abstract: A selection device for setting the driving speed of a vehicle is provided having an operating element, a control device, which is connected with the operating element and coupled with an engine control and which is designed so that, upon activation of the control, the vehicle speed will be regulated automatically, whereby at least two vehicle speed values can be marked on a display. These values can be initiated by using the operating element. In addition to the vehicle speed values, a pointer is indicated on the display. The pointer can be moved by using the operating element. In a programming operating mode of the control unit, the set vehicle speeds or the vehicle speeds to be set can be set and erased by use of the pointer. In a driving speed control operating mode of the control unit, the set vehicle speeds can be activated by the use of the pointer.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 27, 2001Publication date: March 28, 2002Inventors: Kai Barbehoen, Joachim Girke
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Publication number: 20020033289Abstract: A working vehicle is provided for improving safety and work efficiency by changing a travel speed limit appropriately depending on forms and conditions of work. The working vehicle is driven with an engine, and a working machine such as a working pump is mounted on the vehicle. Fuel supplied to the engine is regulated by an injector. Travel speeds of the working vehicle are detected with a vehicle speed sensor. A control unit is provided with a high speed travel mode which limits vehicle speed at or below a predetermined high speed limit and a low speed travel mode which limits vehicle speed at or below a low speed limit which is set below the high speed limit. In this way, either the high speed travel mode or the low speed travel mode is set according to a changeover signal from a travel mode changeover switch.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 17, 2001Publication date: March 21, 2002Inventors: Hiroyuki Ono, Yasuhiko Miyamoto
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Publication number: 20020029913Abstract: A system for controlling a speed of a vehicle having a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and a cruise controller which controls the traveling speed of the vehicle to a desired speed in response to an instruction to cruise control inputted by a vehicle operator. In the system, the speed ratio is fixed to a value, at which the instruction to cruise control is inputted, for a predetermined period of time since inputting of the instruction to cruise control. The speed ratio may be fixed to the value until the throttle opening has stabilized or the vehicle speed is equal to the desired vehicle speed even after the predetermined period of time has elapsed. Alternatively, a parameter indicative of upslope of the road where the vehicle climbs is determined and the speed ratio may be controlled-based on the parameter and the vehicle speed, or thereafter until the throttle opening has stabilized or the vehicle speed is equal to the desired vehicle speed.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 19, 2001Publication date: March 14, 2002Applicant: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Akira Ito, Hideaki Kotani, Hiroshi Sato, Naoto Sen
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Publication number: 20020003055Abstract: An electric scooter is disclosed that has a propulsion system switchable between two modes, one of which allows a higher maximum speed than the other. The mode is selected by a user operated button so constructed that the high-speed mode is selected only while the user continues to operate the switch. A steering angle sensor and a tilt switch are provided, which prevent the user from selecting the high-speed mode while steering sharply or while going down or across steep slopes.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 1, 2001Publication date: January 10, 2002Inventors: George Leitner, Scott Meuser
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Patent number: 6302230Abstract: An automatically balancing vehicle having a headroom monitor. The headroom monitor determines the difference between the maximum velocity of the vehicle and the present velocity of the vehicle. An alarm receives a signal from the headroom monitor and produces a warning when the headroom falls below a specified limit.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 1999Date of Patent: October 16, 2001Assignee: DEKA Products Limited PartnershipInventors: Dean L. Kamen, Robert R. Ambrogi, Robert J. Duggan, J. Douglas Field, Richard Kurt Heinzmann, Burl Amesbury, Christopher C. Langenfeld
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Patent number: 6259985Abstract: In an adaptive speed control system for a vehicle, a method and system for indicating a vehicle braking event to an operator of the vehicle. The method includes determining the occurrence of a vehicle braking event commanded by the adaptive speed control system, and activating a vehicle braking indicator in response to the occurrence of the vehicle baking event, where the vehicle braking indicator is perceptible by the vehicle operator. The system includes a vehicle braking indicator perceptible by the vehicle operator, and a controller capable of determining the occurrence of a vehicle braking event commanded by the adaptive speed control system and generating a vehicle braking event signal in response to the occurrence of the vehicle braking event, where the vehicle braking event signal is operative to activate the vehicle braking indicator.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 1999Date of Patent: July 10, 2001Assignee: Visteon Global Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Gerald L. Sielagoski, Mark Peter Friedrich, Sam G. Rahaim
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Patent number: 6246948Abstract: A system (12) and method for automatically monitoring and/or controlling the actual speed of a vehicle (10) relative to the legal speed limit of the geographic area the vehicle is located in. A wireless transmission (32) containing location or legal speed limit information is received from a transmission source (24). If location information is obtained, database (40) is queried to obtain legal speed limit information for the physical location of the vehicle. The legal speed limit is stored into a memory space (36). Alternatively, the legal speed limit is used to control the actual speed of the vehicle. In a monitor mode, the system (12) compares the actual speed of the vehicle to the legal speed limit with a processor (37), and the relative information may be communicated to the driver. In an offset mode, the system (12) controls the actual speed of the vehicle to an offset amount relative to the legal speed limit, where the offset amount is set by the driver of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 1998Date of Patent: June 12, 2001Assignee: Ericsson Inc.Inventor: Kaushal Thakker
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Patent number: 6128570Abstract: A speed control system for a device includes a microprocessor based module for established a window or speed range having an upper and a lower speed limit. Operator control of the speed of the device is permitted within the window. In a first mode, a windowed comparator is engaged immediately that the device speed attains the lower limit of the established speed range. In a second mode, the device speed must be substantially constant at a speed within the established speed range for a predetermined time before the windowed comparator is engaged.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 1998Date of Patent: October 3, 2000Assignee: Lucent Technologies Inc.Inventor: Akhteruzzaman
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Patent number: 6116369Abstract: An adaptive cruise control system 1 for a vehicle 3, is capable of operating in at least two modes, a Cruise mode in which the speed of the vehicle 3 is controlled to maintain a set speed, and a Follow mode in which the speed of the vehicle 3 is controlled to maintain a set distance from the preceding target vehicle 5. The system 1 includes means 7 to switch from Cruise mode to Follow mode if a target vehicle 5 is detected within a predetermined distance 9 of the vehicle 3, and a driver display interface 11 for displaying the mode of operation of the adaptive cruise control system 1. A change anticipation system 13 detects when the system operation is about to change mode from Cruise to Follow and causes the display interface 11 to display to the driver that the mode change is about to occur, prior to the system change to allow the driver to take avoiding action.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 1998Date of Patent: September 12, 2000Assignee: Jaguar Cars, LimitedInventors: Paul John King, Michael Julian Richardson, Daniel Watts
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Patent number: 5900703Abstract: A motor control system for use in an electrical-motorized bicycle is disclosed. The motor control system includes a plurality of magnets arranged in a ring which is rotatable about the crank axle of the bicycle by the rotation of the chainwheel. A cover member is rotatably fit over the ring of the magnets and is fixed to the bicycle frame. At least two sensors are arranged on the cover member to detect the rotational speed and direction of the magnets and thus generating a signal to indicate the change of the rotational speed and direction of the chainwheel for controlling the operation of an electrical motor that is mechanically coupled to and drives the bicycle wheel so that only when the chainwheel is rotated in the direction to drive the bicycle forward, the motor is actuated to drive the bicycle wheel. Once the chainwheel stops, the motor is turned off and no torque is applied to the bicycle wheel.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 1997Date of Patent: May 4, 1999Inventor: Tsan Kuang Li
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Patent number: 5757161Abstract: A motor control apparatus for detecting motor overspeed in an electric car to prevent destruction of the motor and assure the safety of the vehicle. Torque control is applied when the motor speed is less than a specified rotational velocity. When the motor is detected to be operating at greater than the specified rotational velocity, i.e., when motor overspeed is detected, the motor is controlled to coast or regenerate to lower the motor speed to less than the specified rotational velocity, after which normal control is resumed, thereby preventing collision due to sudden braking and preventing damage to the motor.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 1997Date of Patent: May 26, 1998Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yasufumi Ikkai, Satoshi Tamaki
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Patent number: 5749063Abstract: An automatic vehicle speed controlling apparatus for a vehicle includes a vehicle speed sensor for sensing the actual speed of the vehicle and providing actual speed data proportional to the actual speed of the vehicle, a command switch operable for generating a cruise command signal and an actuator for driving a throttle valve with the vehicle. The control unit is responsive to the actual speed data and the cruise command signal and includes storage memory for storing a desired speed datum in response to the cruise command signal. The control unit selectively generates a speed increasing signal and a speed decreasing signal in response to a difference between the actual speed data and the desired speed datum stored in the memory and supplying the speed increasing signal and the speed decreasing signal to the actuator.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 1993Date of Patent: May 5, 1998Assignee: Jidosha Denki Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Kazutaka Sakonjyu, Eisaku Hori
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Patent number: 5705746Abstract: In a method of determining the traction of motor vehicle wheels on wet pavements, a surge force generated by a water film on the pavement in front of at least one of the vehicle wheels is measured and from the measured surge force value and the instantaneous vehicle speed a critical speed at which the vehicle wheel will aqua-plane is determined and this critical speed is displayed to the driver or it is used to control a vehicle drive unit to keep the vehicle speed below the critical speed.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 1997Date of Patent: January 6, 1998Assignee: Daimler-Benz AGInventors: Diane Trost, Jurgen Trost, Markus Raab
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Patent number: 5676217Abstract: A constant speed travel control system uses a time period Q which is set such that, if a motor of the actuator is not locked but normally rotated, actuator opening becomes almost certainly fully closed within that time period with the result that a first limit switch is made open. If the motor is normal, the processing operation proceeds to a normal constant speed travel control by which an electric current to the motor ceases and "motor open" condition is detected. When no "motor open" state is detected, even after the elapse of the time period Q, under the condition that the vehicle speed is higher than a reference speed, a determination that the motor is in the locked condition is made and the operation proceeds to a speed control cancellation process.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 1995Date of Patent: October 14, 1997Assignee: Nippondenso Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yoshinari Torii, Yasuhiko Sato
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Patent number: 5652486Abstract: A speed limiting system for a vehicle such as a forklift truck enables the travel speed of the vehicle to be limited without limiting maximum throttle position or adjusting a governor to limit maximum engine or motor power. The system can be used with combustion engine vehicles or electric vehicles. The system has a rate of travel sensor, preferably a rotation sensor sensing a rotation rate of the vehicle axle or wheel. A rate of travel signal is provided to either an analog or digital speed limiting control system which outputs a logic high speed control signal when the rate of travel signal exceeds a pre-set overspeed limit value for a selected time period. The speed control signal can be used to display or record occurrences of overspeed vehicle travel, or limit engine or motor power in that presence of the speed control signal. A warning system can also be incorporated to warn of high speed travel which is potentially approaching an overspeed condition.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 1995Date of Patent: July 29, 1997Assignee: S.L.O.W. CorporationInventors: Steven J. Mueller, Richard O. Haupt, Donald G. Haupt, Lowell A. Kempfert
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Patent number: 5594414Abstract: An accident alarm system continuously assesses the potential for a collision between a host vehicle and an object, based solely on input signals representative of the host vehicle velocity and the distance to the object measured at intervals at time t, by first assessing the status of the host vehicle to determine whether it is moving with constant velocity, stationary, accelerating, or decelerating, and then carrying out different signal processing routines to determine, as necessary, whether the object is moving with constant velocity, stationary, accelerating, or decelerating, the magnitude of the host vehicle and object accelerations, and the direction of movement of the object. Warning signals are generated based on these determinations, which assume that the vehicle and object will continue to possess the same acceleration or deceleration until a collision occurs.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 1994Date of Patent: January 14, 1997Inventor: Abdulatif Namngani
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Patent number: 5490071Abstract: An ABS/TRC ECU 22, when an adjustment indicating signal is input thereto, reciprocates a governor actuator 21 to recognize a mechanical actuation range of the governor actuator 21. Also, the ABS/TRC ECU 22 sets a stroke lower limit position A of the governor actuator 21 in view of the amount of offset of the governor actuator depending on a vehicle, to thereby determine a servo position of a governor link 20 during maximum deceleration at the time of TRC corresponding to the position A. Then, the ABS/TRC ECU 22 adds the amount of effective stroke of the governor actuator 21 to the position A to set a stroke upper limit position B of the governor actuator 21 and determines a servo position of the governor link 20 during minimum deceleration at the time of TRC corresponding to the upper limit position. Data on positional control of the governor actuator 21 determined are stored in a memory of the ABS/TRC ECU 22.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 1994Date of Patent: February 6, 1996Assignee: Jidosha Kiki Co., Ltd.Inventor: Tetsuo Akabane
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Patent number: 5430432Abstract: An automotive unsafe condition recorder is provided having one or more automotive condition sensors coupled to the input of a timer equipped processor. An indicator for alerting the operator is coupled to an output of the processor, which the processor energizes in response to a signal level from the sensor indicating the existence of a predetermined unsafe operating condition. If the unsafe operating condition is not corrected within a predetermined time, the processor transmits information pertaining to the unsafe condition to a storage unit, which accumulates the information for later review.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 1994Date of Patent: July 4, 1995Inventors: Elie Camhi, Lawrence S. Kamhi
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Patent number: 5238080Abstract: A device for the efficient automatic controlling of the speed of a vehicle through a brake-pedal interface via an electronic switch to a vehicle's cruise control system, and the method for operating that device. The switch connects to the vehicle's brake pedal whereby successive taps of the pedal signal and control the cruise control through the switch.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 1992Date of Patent: August 24, 1993Inventor: William G. Fastie
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Patent number: 5215159Abstract: A system for controlling running of a vehicle comprises a switch for setting a slow-run mode, a sensor for detecting that the brake is being applied, a driving force control device mechanically separated from the accelerator for controlling a driving force of the vehicle, a sensor for detecting the running speed of the vehicle, a switch for setting a slow-run speed command signal. A target speed is generated on the basis of information concerning the brake activation and, the running speed of the vehicle and the slow-run speed command signal value. In the slow-run mode, when the brake is not applied, the driving force control device is driven to cause the vehicle to run at the target slow-run speed, and when the brake is applied, the driving force control device is driven so that no driving force is produced at least in the direction of travel of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 1991Date of Patent: June 1, 1993Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki K.K.Inventor: Minoru Nishida
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Patent number: 4966247Abstract: An automatic speed control mechanism for a motorcycle that embodies a separately driven vacuum pump for controlling the throttle valve of the motorcycle independently of its induction system vacuum. In addition, an indicator system is provided that indicates when the automatic speed control is operative and further which indicates the preset speed and the actual speed of travel. A manual arrangement is provided for manually overriding the automatic speed control so as to reduce vehicle speed without disabling the automatic speed control device.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 1988Date of Patent: October 30, 1990Assignee: Yamana Hatsudoki Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Yutaka Masuda
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Patent number: 4964679Abstract: A method of and an apparatus for controlling a brake system in a heavy-duty vehicle provide for continuously measuring parameters which are characteristics of the state of the vehicle, such as the velocity of the vehicle, the inclination of the roadway, the axle load, and the transverse acceleration. Furthermore, the braking capability is being monitored continuously. To that end the temperature of the brakes, their condition of wear, the state of a compressed air reservoir, and the tire pressure are measured. For any given state of the vehicle and brakes it is determined whether or not the stopping distance to be expected will be longer than a predetermined rated stopping distance. If that is so, the driver is warned and/or a reduction of the travelling speed is initiated automatically.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 1989Date of Patent: October 23, 1990Assignee: Lucas Industries Public Limited Co.Inventor: Heinrich-Bernhard Rath
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Patent number: 4796716Abstract: An automatic speed control mechanism for a motorcycle that embodies a separately driven vacuum pump for controlling the throttle valve of the motorcycle independently of its induction system vacuum. In addition, an indicator system is provided that indicates when the automatic speed control is operative and further which indicates the preset speed and the actual speed of travel. A manual arrangement is provided for manually overriding the automatic speed control so as to reduce vehicle speed without disabling the automatic speed control device.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 1986Date of Patent: January 10, 1989Assignee: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Yutaka Masuda
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Patent number: 4797826Abstract: In a speed control system for a vehicle, when a desired running speed of the vehicle is to be preset, the desired running speed of the vehicle is compared with the actual running speed so that when the resulting difference between the desired running speed and the actual running speed exceeds a predetermined range, the operation of presetting the desired running speed is limited.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 1985Date of Patent: January 10, 1989Assignee: Nippondenso Co., Ltd.Inventors: Nobuyoshi Onogi, Mamoru Shimamoto, Yoshio Shinoda
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Patent number: 4755790Abstract: A float switch and a control apparatus of an internal combustion engine are disclosed. This float switch comprises a float attached to a main body so as to be vertically swung around one end thereof, a magnetic material fixed to the float, and a contact adapted to be closed or opened in response to the approach or removal of the magnetic material. The float switch is provided in the pathway of a coolant passage and a lubricating oil passage of the engine. The control apparatus has a warning apparatus which is operative in response to an absence signal from the float switch which is indicative of the absence of the fluid that is being sensed, and has a rotating speed control apparatus to reduce the engine speed. The absence of the fluid is informed to the operator by the warning and the speed reduction. A warning apparatus for an outboard engine to control the engine speed when an abnormality occurs is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 1985Date of Patent: July 5, 1988Assignee: Suzuki Jidosha Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Kazuhiro Umehara
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Patent number: 4608551Abstract: In a speed alarm system for an automotive vehicle, a speed signal and a first command speed signal indicative of a first command speed are produced, and a speed width signal indicative of a predetermined speed width is produced. A value of the speed width signal is added to a value of the first command speed signal to produce a second command speed signal indicative of a second command speed. A first output signal is produced when a value of the speed signal exceeds the first command speed, and a second output signal is produced when a value of the speed signal exceeds the second command speed. First and second alarm sounds are generated in response to the first and second output signals for first and second predetermined alarm times respectively.Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 1984Date of Patent: August 26, 1986Assignee: Nippondenso Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yuji Takeo, Tomohisa Yoshimi
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Patent number: 4488527Abstract: A device for controlling the speed of travel of an automotive vehicle, having a desired-value transmitter 2 which is adjustable by a gas pedal 1 and the output signal of which can act on a setting member 5 of an element which controls the fuel/air mixture. The device has a setting-member transmitter 29, which produces a signal corresponding to the position of the setting member 5, as well as an alarm circuit 6, 7 via which an alarm signal can be fed to an alarm device when, the desired-value transmitter 2 not being actuated, the setting member 5 is in a gas position. The alarm circuit 6, 7 is developed in such a manner that an error in the alarm circuit 6, 7 can also be indicated.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 1983Date of Patent: December 18, 1984Assignee: VDO Adolf Schindling AGInventors: Manfred Pfalzgraf, Kurt Probst
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Patent number: 4462479Abstract: Apparatus for controlling the speed of an engine of a vehicle includes a processor (26) for comparing actual speed of the engine with a reference speed and for generating output signals if the actual speed is in excess of the reference speed, the output signals controlling valves (13, 14 and 15) of an air supply system (12) to a retarder of the vehicle and being arranged to operate sequentially to control progressively magnitude of power applied to the retarder if control of the vehicle is not effected to reduce speed of the engine during sequential periods of predetermined duration.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 1981Date of Patent: July 31, 1984Assignee: Ogden Electronics Ltd.Inventor: James Steel
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Patent number: 4433746Abstract: Apparatus for controlling speed of a vehicle having a retarder includes a receiver (1) for receiving signals from a transmitter (2) indicative of a reference speed and a processor (26) for comparing actual speed of the vehicle with the reference speed and for generating output signals if the actual speed is in excess of the reference speed, the output signals controlling valves (13, 14 and 15) of an air supply system (12) to the retarder and being arranged to operate sequentially to control progressively magnitude of power supplied to the retarder if the vehicle speed is not reduced during sequential periods of predetermined duration.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 1981Date of Patent: February 28, 1984Assignee: Ogden Electronics Ltd.Inventor: James Steel
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Patent number: 4398174Abstract: A fuel consumption signalling system for signalling both efficient and inefficient fuel consumption conditions in the engine of a motor vehicle is herein disclosed. The system comprises an alarm circuit connected in series with an indicator circuit including an indicator light connected in parallel with a vacuum operated switch pneumatically connected to the engine manifold. An electric potential sufficient to actuate the alarm circuit, but insufficient to actuate both the indicator light and the alarm circuit is applied across the series connected indicator and alarm circuits. When the engine is consuming fuel efficiently, the vacuum switch is open, and the electric potential is divided between the indicator circuit and the alarm circuit. The divided potential is sufficient to illuminate the indicator light, but insufficient to actuate the alarm circuit.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 1980Date of Patent: August 9, 1983Inventor: Raymond P. Smith, Jr.
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Patent number: 4371864Abstract: The digital display device of a vehicle is provided with a control facility for controlling other vehicle mounted electric equipment such as a warning device, an auto-door lock mechanism, or the like. The control is effected by using a control signal intended for turning on a particular segment of an indicating portion of the digital display indicator.Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 1980Date of Patent: February 1, 1983Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Teruo Kawasaki, Hiroyuki Nomura, Mikio Takeuchi
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Patent number: 4314237Abstract: A fail-safe acknowledging circuit having a plurality of relay switching contacts having a predetermined order of more restrictive significance. A differentiating circuit selectively interconnected by certain ones of the plurality of relay switching contacts for establishing a selected one of a plurality of charging potential levels from a d.c. voltage source. A latching circuit is conditioned by a holding voltage and is set by momentarily closure of an acknowledging switch to produce a.c. signals which are fed to one input of a two-input AND gate. A checking circuit monitors the voltage level of the d.c. voltage source and verifies the integrity of the differentiating circuit to produce a d.c. potential which is conveyed to the other input of the two-input AND gate.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 1980Date of Patent: February 2, 1982Assignee: American Standard Inc.Inventor: John O. G. Darrow
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Patent number: 4304202Abstract: A speed control for an engine having a throttle and a drive shaft made up of a selective gear connected to a differential gear and a responsive gear connected to a second differential gear all rotatable about a common axis. Two differential pinions rotatably connected to the differential gears and supported on a pinion shaft disposed at right angles to the axis. The center of the pinion shaft being attached to a drum mounted concentric to the axis and having an actuating member connected from the drum to the engine throttle and a reference motor operatively connected to the first side gear to drive it at a selected speed and a drive shaft from the engine driving the second side gear.Type: GrantFiled: December 31, 1979Date of Patent: December 8, 1981Inventor: Robert R. Schofield
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Patent number: 4291295Abstract: In an on-board sensible signal that is activated by the speedometer of a vehicle when the vehicle speed exceeds a predetermined threshold and that remains activated when the speed is reduced below this threshold, the improvement consists of a combination of timing and logic circuitry that deactivates the signal when and only when the vehicle stops and remains at rest for a predetermined period of time.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 1980Date of Patent: September 22, 1981Inventor: Robert D. Arnold
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Patent number: 4278969Abstract: A driver warning system has a steering sensor with a light source and photocell mounted on the steering column and directing a light beam towards a strip having alternate bands of reflective and non-reflective material formed thereon. A circuit coupled to the photocell is provided for sensing the transition between a reflected beam and a non-reflected beam. The beam is radiated at a frequency to which the circuit is sensitive so that ambient light will not cause a false signal. A transducer is provided for sensing the vehicle speed and providing a corresponding voltage. The warning system is inoperative below a minimum vehicle speed. Alarm circuitry is actuated upon the absence of a transition for a predetermined time period, dependent on vehicle speed. Both the predetermined time period between transitions to trigger the alarm and the vehicle speed at which the system alarm is operative are adjustable with the predetermined time period between transitions varying with vehicle speed.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 1979Date of Patent: July 14, 1981Assignee: Reli CorporationInventor: Richard E. Woods
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Patent number: 4275378Abstract: A method of and apparatus for monitoring the operation of a motor vehicle subjected to a decelerative force, wherein the vehicle's throttle opening is sensed, an indication is given when the throttle opening exceeds a predetermined value, wherein the decelerative force is sensed, and wherein said predetermined value is varied automatically as said decelerative force on the vehicle varies. If the throttle opening continues to exceed said predetermined value, then a recording is made.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 1978Date of Patent: June 23, 1981Assignee: Kiloking (Proprietary) LimitedInventor: Henning M. Henderson
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Patent number: 4250485Abstract: A method of and apparatus for monitoring the operation of a motor vehicle subjected to a decelerative force, wherein the vehicle's throttle opening is sensed, an indication is given when the throttle opening exceeds a predetermined value, wherein the decelerative force is sensed, and wherein the predetermined value is varied automatically as the decelerative force on the vehicle varies. If the throttle opening continues to exceed the predetermined value, then a recording is made.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 1978Date of Patent: February 10, 1981Assignee: Kiloking (Proprietary) LimitedInventors: Jacob J. Mostert, Henning M. Henderson
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Patent number: 4229727Abstract: A vehicle speed alarm is used to alert a driver of a vehicle that the instantaneous speed thereof has exceeded a pre-established maximum vehicular speed. The speed alarm produces a reference signal upon receipt of a transmitted signal containing information corresponding to the pre-established maximum vehicle speed. This reference signal is compared with a speed signal which corresponds to the instantaneous speed of the vehicle. When the instantaneous speed of the vehicle exceeds the pre-established maximum speed, a control signal is developed to alert the driver of that condition.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 1979Date of Patent: October 21, 1980Inventor: Robert Gilhooley