Abstract: A system for remote testing of a plurality of vehicles on a test track includes a plurality of guide wires and position transponders embedded in the track. Each vehicle to be tested includes an onboard vehicle controller (VCON) which in turn includes various servo components for operating the steering wheel, shift lever, brake and accelerator pedals of the vehicle. A base computer receives desired missions from an operating computer, and the base computer loads a respective mission into each VCON via an rf link. Then, the base computer monitors the vehicles for proper, safe operation. The VCONs execute the missions loaded by the base station and periodically report their status to the base computer.

Abstract: A right inductive coil is coupled to a vehicle at a first location offset from the vehicle's centerline for generating a first signal in response to an electromagnetic signal in a guide wire beneath the vehicle. Similarly, a left inductive coil coupled to the vehicle opposite the right coil relative to the centerline for generating a second signal in response to an electromagnetic signal in the guide wire. A signal comparator receives the signals and generates a guidance signal representative of the combination of the signals. Also, a position antenna is movably mounted in the vertical dimension on the vehicle for generating query pulses and detecting echo pulses from transponders embedded in a test track.

Abstract: A robotic system for automated durability road testing of a vehicle includes a robotic body that is positioned on a base plate, and the base plate in turn is positioned on the driver's seat of a vehicle. The robotic body includes a brake pedal bell crank assembly for operating the brake pedal, and an accelerator beel crank assembly for operating the accelerator pedal. Additionally, the robotic body includes a steering wheel shaft that is engaged with the steering column of the vehicle for turning the vehicle, and a shift mechanism engaged with the gear shifter of the vehicle to shift the gears of the vehicle.

Abstract: An apparatus for remotely operating an ignition switch mounted on the steering column of an automobile includes a motor mounted on the floor or other surface of the automobile away from the steering column, such that the steering column does not bear the weight of the motor. A drive cable is connected to the motor, and the drive cable is also connected to a coupling which is mounted on the steering column and which is connected to the ignition switch. The coupling translates rotational motion of the drive cable 90.degree., so that the coupling and drive cable do not unduly project straight out from the steering column and hence do not interfere with other components, e.g., shift levers, that are mounted on the steering column. A position sensor generates a signal representative of the position of the ignition switch, and the signal is received by a controller. In turn, the controller activates the motor as necessary to establish and/or maintain a desired position of the ignition switch.