Abstract: In a brake control system for mitigating the consequences of an accident in the case of a rear-on collision of a motor vehicle, it is provided that a comparison signal assigned to the positive longitudinal acceleration of the vehicle is determined, that the comparison signal is compared with a threshold value and that, in the event that the comparison signal exceeds the threshold value, a braking signal triggering the vehicle brake is generated.

Abstract: An emergency brake lock assembly that locks an emergency brake actuator in an engaged position to prevent the vehicle from moving while a lift assembly contained on the vehicle is being operated. The emergency brake lock assembly includes an emergency brake switch that is positioned to detect movement of the emergency brake actuator between an engaged position and a disengaged position. When the emergency brake actuator is in the engaged position, the emergency brake switch generates a brake engaged signal. An auxiliary door switch is positioned to detect the movement of an auxiliary door contained on the vehicle. When the auxiliary door opens, the auxiliary door switch generates a door open signal. Upon receiving both the door open signal and the brake engaged signal, a solenoid actuator moves a locking member to a locked position to retain the emergency brake actuator in the engaged position.

Abstract: A vehicle for separating a pedal lever (14) pivotable about a spindle (5) from the structure of a motor vehicle, in which the support (21) acting especially as a pressure pipe between the pedal lever (14) and a braking force amplifier (3) has a deformable rod section.

Abstract: When a collision detecting mechanism 27 detects a front collision of a vehicle, a clutch mechanism 18 integrally connecting a pedal arm 2 to a push rod lever 15 connecting a push rod 14 of a Master vac 13 is disconnected. Accordingly, even when the push rod 14 is backward moved together with the Master vac 13, the push rod lever 14 strikes the air, so that a collision load does not act on the pedal arm 2.

Abstract: A wheel braking system for a motor vehicle includes sensors, controllable actuators, and an electronic control device for regulating the rpm of a vehicle wheel when an actual driving state of the vehicle differs from a specified desired driving state calculated as a function of the driving parameters, using a mathematical vehicle model. An automatic correction of the vehicle model, corresponding to a deviation of the desired driving state specified at the moment from the actual driving state at the moment, is performed during vehicle operation if an ideal driving condition exists. The ideal driving condition is a driving state in which it is known that no deviation that leads to regulation occurs. At least one condition is defined by which it is detected whether ideal driving condition exists.

Abstract: A hybrid vehicle having an engine and a motor to be controlled independently of each other for running the vehicle. This hybrid vehicle is given a. braking demand detecting function to detect a braking demand through an idle ON of the engine while the vehicle is running, and a first braking function to suppress the rise in the vehicle speed of the vehicle by a regenerative braking force of the motor if the braking demand is detected by the braking demand detecting function.

Abstract: A supporting structure of a pedal device for a vehicle is provided in which displacement of the stepping surface of the pedal device can be controlled at the time when an external force of a predetermined value or greater is applied from the front of the vehicle. An elongated hole whose longitudinal direction is a substantially longitudinal direction of the vehicle is formed at the intermediate portion of a pedal supporting portion. A clevis pin is inserted into the elongated hole at the front end portion thereof. A bush, which is away from the elongated hole due to the application of load, is mounted to the other remaining portion of the elongated hole. A bush stopper is provided at the rear side of the bush such that, when an external force of a predetermined value or greater is applied from the front of the vehicle, due to the bush stopper, the bush is away from the elongated hole.

Abstract: A vehicle for an amusement ride attraction has front and rear bumper systems which include proximity or impact sensors connected to a programmable controller. The controller signals the vehicle to accelerate or decelerate for a pre-determined period of time, during a sensed collision. Consequently, during a collision, the chasing car is automatically decelerated and the leading car is automatically accelerated. The dynamic effect of a collision can thus be simulated or exaggerated without the full impact normally associated with collisions.

Abstract: A method and a device for controlling the brake system of a vehicle, in which, when a collision situation is identified, braking force beyond the driver's intent is built up, preferably up to a maximum value.

Abstract: An automatic safety protector relates to a safety protecting device for a traveling motor vehicle. It is installed with a set of automatic flameout, braking mechanisms in front of the head of a motor vehicle, and a shock absorbing device is mounted between a fender-guard and a frame side member. When motor vehicle is in collision, the former realize automatic flameout and braking, and the latter buffers the impact force on collision, thereby the loss due to a collision accident is minimized.

Abstract: A structure for controlling displacement of a vehicle pedal includes: a pedal bracket supporting a rotating shaft portion of a suspended-type vehicle pedal, a front end portion of the pedal bracket being joined to a first vehicle structural member which deforms substantially toward a rear of a vehicle when an external force of a predetermined value or greater is applied to a front portion of the vehicle, and a rear end portion of the pedal bracket being joined to a second vehicle structural member which is disposed at a substantially vehicle rear side of the first vehicle structural member; a separating device for canceling a joined state of the rear end portion of the pedal bracket and the second vehicle structural member by the pedal bracket being displaced substantially toward the rear of the vehicle, so as to separate the rear end portion of the pedal bracket and the second vehicle structural member; and a displacement controlling device disposed in a vicinity of the rear end portion of the pedal bracket,

Abstract: A supporting structure of a pedal device for a vehicle including a pedal bracket and a displacement controlling device. The pedal bracket includes side plates and a rotating shaft portion disposed between the side plates. An assembly is provided proximate to the rotating shaft for holding the rotating shaft between the side plates. The assembly is provided within an elongated hole located on the side plates. A pedal support portion is provided about the rotating shaft portion and extends downward to a stepping surface. The pedal bracket is fixed to the vehicle. The displacement controlling device includes the side plates and a push plate disposed on the outside surfaces of the side plates. The push plates are coupled to the rotating shaft by the assembly. The push plates are guided within the elongated holes of the side plates when an external force of a predetermined value or greater is applied to the vehicle.

Abstract: A structure for controlling displacement of a vehicle pedal, comprising: a vehicle pedal supported at a pedal bracket fixed to a vehicle body, and swinging around a rotating shaft portion disposed further substantially toward a rear of a vehicle and toward a bottom of the vehicle than an upper end portion of the vehicle pedal which upper end portion is at an opposite side of a lower end portion at which a stepping surface is provided; and a displacement controlling device, provided at a load receiving portion which is disposed further substantially toward a front of the vehicle than the vehicle pedal, for controlling displacement of the stepping surface of the vehicle pedal by displacing the upper end portion of the vehicle pedal substantially toward a rear of the vehicle when there is displacement of the load receiving portion in at least one of a direction substantially toward the rear of the vehicle and a direction substantially toward a top of the vehicle at the time when an external force of a predetermi

Abstract: Foot operated safety driving system, that realizes slow down of vehicle by driver's pushing a gas pedal (10). A foot toe pressure piezoelectric sensor (12T) and a foot heel sensor (12H), joined with gas pedal (10), convert all driver's foot pressure impulses to an electric signal; a sensors' cord (78) transmits the signal to an electric device (74). An input processing circuit of the device (74) selects from the electric signal a brake pulse by comparators (28) and (30), verifies and forms the brake pulse by a strobing transistor (22) and a conjunction gate (32), and uses the processed brake pulse to actuate a group of output thyristor controllable electron valves (34), (36), (38).

Abstract: A vehicle back-up safety device comprising a sensing system for detecting the presence of an obstruction within a prescribed area behind the vehicle while a user is driving in reverse. In response to a signal from the sensing system signifying the presence of a an obstruction, a control means activates a pair of electrically-motivated plunger assemblies to force fluid into the vehicle's brake line system, thereby activating the vehicle's brakes.

Abstract: A vehicular safety distance alarm system for monitoring a travelling distance between a source vehicle and a target vehicle and activating an alarm when a predetermined safety distance defined between the two for a given speed is compromised comprising a distance measurement mechanism coupled to a source vehicle for determining and transmitting a distance signal representing a travelling distance between the source vehicle and a remote target vehicle; a selection mechanism coupled to the source vehicle for allowing a driver to select a desired range of safety distances expressed as a function of source vehicle velocity and a set time to reach a target vehicle; an alarm signal generation mechanism coupled to the distance measurement mechanism and selection mechanism for comparing the distance signal to a safety distance at a given source vehicle velocity and transmitting an alarm signal when the safety distance is compromised; and an alarm mechanism coupled to the alarm signal generation mechanism for providin

Abstract: A pedal device disposed within a passenger compartment of a vehicle, including a pedal bracket attached to a vehicle body, and a pedal pivotally supported by the pedal bracket and having at a lower end thereof a pedal pad to be depressed by a foot of an operator of the vehicle, wherein a mechanism is provided for permitting, upon application of an external force to the vehicle, displacement of the pedal pad such that an operator's leg whose foot is depressing the pedal pad is moved in a direction away from a steering device disposed within the passenger compartment.

Abstract: An electronic obstacle detection system for guiding and warning a motorist of obstacles in the detection area while backing-up. The main components of the system include a pair of sensor clusters to be affixed to the rear of the vehicle, a pair of exterior visual indicators, and an audio-visual indicator located in the vehicle. Each of the sensor clusters are encased in a housing having angled, stepped portions configured to provide complete area coverage of transmitted and received signals.

Abstract: In a anticollision device for driverless industrial trucks (1), preferably automotive assembly platforms, switching bails (9) are articulated by a bilateral lever mechanisms at one end of the industrial truck. These switching bails are located in an outer operating position (37) during single travel and they trigger an emergency stop via switches (11, 30) on impact against an obstacle. On entry into a pushing unit section, control rollers (13) run, in a mechanically restrictedly guided manner, up onto stationary guide rails (14), and automatically engage the lever mechanisms (42) via roller levers (12), and two guide sleeves (24), arranged on a cross guide (25), are displaced linearly in relation to one another against the pretensioning force of at least one spring (26) via spring levers (23).

Abstract: An automatic control device includes a danger detector unit for generating a danger signal upon detection of a danger condition. A power switching unit bypasses a manual control unit of the automatic control device so as to provide a power signal from a dc power supplying unit to a driving control unit, thereby enabling the driving control unit to activate a gate driver unit for moving a roll-up gate automatically to an open position upon reception of the danger signal. The driving control unit can be used to activate an automatic brake mechanism, an automatic door opening mechanism or both when the automatic control device is installed in an automobile.

Abstract: A deadman brake assembly incorporating a turnover spring in a link mechanism thereof to exert a spring force in a direction in which a seat supporting plate is kept in a state it enters when a driver sits on the driver's seat and to exert the spring force in another direction in which the seat supporting plate is lifted when the driver leaves the driver's seat, suppressing as much as possible the lifting force acting on the driver's seat when the driver sits thereon.

Abstract: A band-like safety bumper for an automatic guided vehicle has a hinge pin rigidly attached at either end with a lever rigidly attached to the pin. A proximity switch is located near the lever and sends control signals to stop the vehicle as a result of obstacle induced movement of the lever.

Abstract: Safety device for forklift trucks comprises a bumper fixed to a telescopic support fitted to the vehicle chassis, the support being able to traverse and rotate to a limited extent in relation to the chassis. The support is connected to equipment designed to activate devices which stop the vehicle if the movements and/or rotations of the support exceed a preset value.

Abstract: An auxiliary vehicle control device for maneuvering a vehicle (1) from a position other than the driver's position is disclosed which includes an operations unit (3) composed of an operating panel, a drive unit (40) and a control unit (23). The control unit (23) is mounted beneath the steering wheel (20) of the vehicle and coacts with the steering wheel (20) through a multi-disc clutch. The drive unit (40) is disposed in the region of the universal joint of the vehicle and coacts with a flange or collar on the output shaft of the gearbox, through a slip coupling arrangement. The front of the vehicle is equipped with a collision guard (50) which, when activated, is operative to activate devices, via operating devices, which apply one of the standard brake systems of the vehicle. The auxiliary vehicle control device can be fitted advantageously to many different types of vehicles.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a motor vehicle having a brake mechanism capable of braking the vehicle to a stop, detection means adapted to detect the presence of a foreign object in the direct path only of slow movement of said vehicle on a supporting surface, and control means to apply the brakes and stop movement of said vehicle instantly upon the detection of such an object. The detection means, which preferably is yieldable a sufficient distance upon contact with a foreign object to prevent damage thereto while said vehicle is braked to a stop, may comprise a straight front part as wide as the vehicle with end panels extending at right angles to and away from the straight part, a like rear part, and/or an L-shaped flap on one or both sides of the vehicle having two integral panels with one of them at the front of the rear tires on one or both sides of said vehicle and the other extending along and spaced from the tire.

Abstract: An automatic brake actuation system for use on a vehicle having an existing braking system is disclosed as including an elongate detector mounted to the vehicle and being controllably extendable from the vehicle to contact objects being approached by the vehicle when at predetermined distances therefrom. A compression sensor is included to sense contact between the elongate detector and an object. Provision is also made to sense vehicle speed, vehicle-object closing speed, and detector position and to extend and retract the detector and actuate the vehicle braking system in response thereto.

Abstract: A bumper system for use on automatic guided vehicles includes a bumper, a pair of double-action, spring biased hinges, and a pair of switches cooperating with the hinges. The bumper is an arcuate, resilient strip which extends across the entire forward portion of the vehicle and is fixed at its opposite ends to the hinges. Upon engagement with an obstruction, the bumper flexes and pivots either of the hinges. Such movement by the hinges is sensed by the switches which, in turn, cooperate with the drive control system to stop the vehicle.

Abstract: A device for automatic brake of cars and trucks on striking an obstacle, mainly in reverse driving. The device incorporates two types of impact sensors, one of which is operated by the mudguards, while the second is of a spongy bumper type. The invention's novelty lies in the spongy bumper type sensor, which appears in two alternatives: one alternative is a spongy impact sensor with a rigid casing, and the other is a spongy impact sensor with rubber switches. The device further incorporates means for operating the brakes, including, in the case of vehicles with a hydraulic brake system, an electromagnetic valve installed on the air chamber in the brake booster. A control system enabling reverse driving at a controlled speed is also described.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for operating the braking system of a vehicle, in which the system is automatically, on movement of the vehicle, pneumatically armed for actuation by a detector signal to cause brake application, and the armed brake system is actuated by a contact of the moving vehicle with an obstruction to generate a pneumatic signal, the braking system being releasable and automatically rearmable. In another mode the braking system is constantly armed.

Abstract: A security system which monitors a number of vehicles each of which includes an immobilizer and a transceiver. The system includes a number of security stations which detect signals emitted by vehicles when an unauthorized at, e.g. breaking and entering, stealing, or the like, is detected. The signals, which identify the respective vehicles, are stored, and transmitted to a base station, preferably in response to a polling signal. The affected vehicles are immobilized by means of a signal from the base station, or from one of the security stations, at an appropriate time or location. The vehicle's lights may be turned on and its hooter sounded. When the vehicle is not used within range of a security station its security station may be monitored by means of a portable receiver.

Abstract: The device senses the impact of a vehicle backing into an object, and automatically applies the brakes of an ordinary hydraulic brake system to stop the vehicle very quickly, before any significant damage can be done. The device uses a pneumatic cylinder to quickly and powerfully pull on the brake pedal of the vehicle when the vehicle is in reverse gear and an impact is sensed. A small, light-weight and relatively inexpensive air compressor which runs off of the battery of the vehicle and a reservoir are used to supply the air cylinder. The brakes stay in the actuated condition until the vehicle is taken out of reverse gear; then the air cylinder is vented to atmosphere automatically, and the brake pedal is released to return it to its initial position and enable the normal operation of the vehicle. The device can be supplied in the form of a kit to be used to easily modify existing vehicles without invading the hydraulic brake lines or vacuum system of the vehicle.

Abstract: A locking apparatus for a skid steer loader which is operable to secure the wheels against movement, the locking apparatus including a support tube disposed in substantially coaxial alignment with an aperture formed in a drive sprocket, a locking member slideably housed in the support tube and reciprocally moveable between a retracted position and a locking position, a pair of biasing springs individually housed in the support tube and positioned on opposite ends of the locking member; and a control cable for urging the locking member into the locking position.

Abstract: This invention relates to an automatic control device adapted for preventing rear-end collision of a front motorized vehicle and a rear motorized vehicle running behind the front vehicle. The automatic control device for preventing rear-end collision according to this invention comprises: a microprocessor, a least one signal emitter, a speed detector, a least one signal receiver, a brake controller and an accelerator pedal controller, in which the at least one signal emitter is installed at the rear end of the front vehicle while the other comprising mechanisms are installed in the rear vehicle. The microprocessor couples separately with the signal emitter, the speed detector, the signal receiver, the brake controller and the accelerator pedal controller so as to transfer and process various signals.

Abstract: A sensing apparatus capable of delivering a control signal in response to contact between an element of the apparatus and an external object should respond readily to a predetermined level of contact, and should be sensitive along all portions of the contact sensing surface. The instant invention provides a contact sensing apparatus including a conduit having a generally hollow tubular construction and being formed a resilient deformable material. A sonic generator is connected to one end of the conduit and a sonic detector is connected to the other end of the conduit. An electrical circuit is connected to the sonic generator and sonic detector, and is adapted to controllably produce a control signal in response to contact between the conduit and an external object.

Abstract: An obstacle detection system for protecting a frame upper end portion and laser scanning device of a self guided vehicle from damage by external objects includes a device for delivering a light signal in a direction along a preselected elevationally oriented axis and a device for receiving a reflection of the delivered light signal and delivering a condition control signal in response to receiving the reflected light signal. A supporting assembly is connected to the frame upper end portion and a guide frame is connected to the supporting assembly and defines a plane passing through the elevationally oriented axis.

Abstract: A fork truck is provided with a collision-preventing safety arrangement which initiates an emergency stopping in response to a contact with or detection of an obstacle. That safety arrangement comprises a safety device which at least adjacent to a load carrier (3) encloses the space for accommodating a picked-up load (20) on a level within the height range of a human being. That safety device is designed to permit a handling of the load (20) by means of the load carrier (3) at least in a forward direction. For that purpose the safety device may comprise a confining structure, which in its operative position encloses at least the space adjacent to the load carrier (3) and is movable out of its operative position when a load (20) is to be handled.

Abstract: A mobile bank teller unit includes a cabinet supported by a pair of main wheels having automatic brakes. Vertically adjustable caster pairs at each end provide sidewise mobility. The cabinet opens to form an enclosure for two tellers, each having complete bank transaction equipment. Two banking customers can be accommodated simultaneously. The unit closes into a compact, secure portable form.

Abstract: A security device for monitoring unmanned vehicles within an area, the device comprising at least two oppositely directed light barriers associated with the area. Each light barrier includes a light emitter, a reflector, and a light receiver. The light barriers are disposed such that their light-beams are interrupted by the vehicles entering the area. Reflectors are arranged laterally on authorized vehicles, thereby making them undetectable by the security device. Another embodiment uses the light barriers attacted to the vehicle such that unauthorized objects will cause the vehicle to stop.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an arrangement in vehicle hydraulic service brake systems for activating at least one of two conventional braking cirucits included in the brake system when an obstacle is detected, by means of a sensor, in the direction in which the vehicle is travelling. The novel matter of the invention resides in that a pressure accumulator is connected to the brake circuit via a valve unit which is adapted, in normal position, to establish free communication between the vehicle main cylinder and the vehicle wheel brakes, and to permit pressure build-up of the pressure accumulator upon depression of the vehicle brake pedal. The sensor is adapted, upon actuation, to activate the valve unit, whereby the communication between the vehicle wheel brakes and the vehicle main cylinder is interrupted, and the pressure accumulator is connected with the wheel brakes for application thereof.

Abstract: Collision detection systems are commonly provided on automatic guided industrial vehicles. Such systems should be as reliable as possible and can advantageously utilize a fault detection apparatus. The subject apparatus provides a plurality of radiant energy emitting devices and receiving devices positioned along a vehicle at locations sufficient that an obstacle in a respective path of the vehicle interrupts the reception of radiant energy by respective ones of the receiving devices. Interruptable devices controllably connect a power supply to a brake control circuit in response to continuous reception of radiant energy by the respective receiving devices, and disconnect the power supply from the brake control circuit in response to any of the receiving devices failing to continue to receive radiant energy from the respective emitting device.

Abstract: To provide safe operation for unmanned operation of a guiding wire controd vehicle also at higher speeds of about 10 km/h the vehicle comprises a contact feeler mounted on a safety cart, which contact feeler is located ahead of the face surface of the vehicle by a distance exceeding the braking distance thereof. Upon contacting an obstacle the contact feeler triggers a retracting means which retracts the safety cart against the face area of the vehicle triggering at the same time the braking operation thereof. Accordingly, the vehicle can be brought to a full stop without injuring or damaging as well as bodily contacting the obstacle.

Abstract: A retractable safety bumper and air brake actuator is provided in which a bumper is carried at the rear of a trailer such that as the bumper is engaged by an obstruction at the rear of the trailer, the bumper drives a piston to which it is attached into a sleeve, activating a switch and solenoid which release air from the trailer emergency air tank, through the trailer triple valve and into the brake pots of the trailer, thereby immediately locking the trailer brakes without affecting the tractor brakes.

Abstract: The collision protection device comprises a collision protector held in a rest position by spring force. Upon collision against an obstacle, the collision protector is displaced against the spring force and thus cooperates with a de-energizing device. This collision protector is mounted on the vehicle chassis by two swing arms arranged symmetrically non-parallel or in angled relationship to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle. This is to permit the de-energizing device to function effectively, irrespective of the place of impact of the obstacle against the collision protector and irrespective of any deformation of the collision protector. Each swing arm is pivotably mounted on the collision protector and on a sliding link member. Each sliding link member is acted upon by the spring force and is displaceably positioned on a cross-shaft mounted on the vehicle chassis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle.

Abstract: An auxiliary braking device for a vehicle operable when the vehicle is in a reversing condition is disclosed.

Abstract: A steerable device for moving trailer type vehicles, for example in working and parking areas. The device includes an engine for driving at least one of the wheels, means for connecting the device to that part of a trailer type vehicle normally connected to the fifth wheel connection of a tractor unit, and tiller steering for turning a steerable wheel or wheels. The device also includes an air compressor driven by the engine and a flexible connection provided with a quick-release adaptor for coupling the air compressor to the braking system of a trailer type vehicle for releasing its brakes.

Abstract: For indicating whether a vehicle can pass through a bridge, a radio transmitter is positioned adjacent the bridge to generate radio signals which are encoded with information as to the height of the bridge as presented to vehicles. A vehicle is provided with a radio receiver capable of receiving and decoding the signals from the transmitter, and comparing the height information so derived with pre-encoded information as to the height of the vehicle. A warning signal is produced in the event that the comparison indicates a danger that the vehicle cannot safely pass under the bridge. The technique is also applicable to railway crossings where a transmitter is positioned at the crossing to generate ratio signals indicative of approach of a train so that the receiver on the vehicle may provide a warning of such approach of a train on decoding the radio signals.

Abstract: An auxiliary air brake system is provided for a mobile vehicle which has a drive selector having reverse and other positions and which has a main air brake system which includes a plurality of compressed air tanks, main conduit including a foot brake line and a hand brake line for connecting at least one of the tanks to wheel brake chambers, and air control valves in the main conduit for controlling air pressure at the wheel brake chambers.

Abstract: Apparatus for controlling movement of a heavy vehicle used in the mining and construction industries comprises a radar scanner (30) and an infra red detector (31) mounted at the rear of the vehicle for detecting a hazard in the path of the vehicle while reversing and a control system (10) responsive to the detection devices (30, 31) for controlling supply of air in a pneumatic supply system (11) of a retarder of the vehicle when a hazard is detected by the detection means (30, 31). The control system (10) includes driver operable apparatus (19, 23 and 40) for releasing the retarder.

Abstract: This invention provides a safety arrangement for a dumping vehicle which may include a bumper movable to energize a brake actuator, the bumper being retractable upon tilting of the dumping bed. Modified bumper mounting arrangements are provided for various kinds of vehicles. A latching relay may be included to cause the brake actuator to hold the brakes locked, irrespective of disengagement of the obstruction. The bumper may include a pneumtic chamber with a flexible wall, with a pressure-operated switch for operating the brake actuator. Also, an exteriorly actuated switch may be used in a two-man operation in lieu of a bumper.

Abstract: A device on a vehicle to activate its brake system on the presence of an obstacle behind the vehicle during backing. Holders (7) project backwards from the vehicle with members (9, 10) for transmitting and receiving light. If the beam of light is interrupted, the vehicle is braked.In order to keep members (9, 10) free of dirt etc. air lines (5) directed towards them are connected to the quick-emptying valve (2) of the vehicle.