Abstract: System for controlling the speed of a vehicle such as an automobile. The operator selects the desired speed, and thereafter the system brings the vehicle to the desired speed and maintains it at that speed. The system can be calibrated for any given vehicle, and it cannot be engaged until the vehicle is moving at a predetermined percentage or fraction of the desired speed. The system can be disengaged in a number of ways to return full control of the vehicle to the operator, and redundant circuits are employed to assure disengagement upon application of the brakes. As the desired speed is approached, the amount of correction is decreased to assure a smooth, positive transition to the desired speed.

Abstract: System for controlling the speed of a vehicle such as an automobile. The operator selects the desired speed, and thereafter the system brings the vehicle to the desired speed and maintains it at that speed. The system can be calibrated for any given vehicle, and it cannot be engaged until the vehicle is moving at a predetermined percentage or fraction of the desired speed. The system can be disengaged in a number of ways to return full control of the vehicle to the operator, and redundant circuits are employed to assure disengagement upon application of the brakes. As the desired speed is approached, the amount of correction is decreased to assure a smooth, positive transition to the desired speed.