Abstract: A drive system for a motor vehicle comprising a power train made up of an IC engine with an associated transmission and a brake system, operating elements for control of the power train and control devices for modifying the function of the power train to take into account operational data and characteristic curves of the operating elements, such operating elements being designed to generate output control signals and transmit them to the control devices. The control devices comprise an electronic engine electronic control means, a transmission electronic control means for self-contained automatic control of the engine and the transmission respectively, and a supervising computer which is adapted to coordinate the functions of the engine and transmission electronic control means for optimizing operation of the power train by coordinating the functions of the electronic systems for the engine and the transmission.

Abstract: A method and device for automatically steering a trackless vehicle along a routing or guide line. A scanner senses the position of the longitudinal centerline of the vehicle with respect to the guide line and produces a position signal. A datum transmitter produces a datum signal. A comparator compares the two signals and produces a difference signal which is used by a control unit to produce a steering signal. In producing the steering signal, the device distinguishes between influences on the vehicle position caused by interference, e.g., wind gusts and rough roads, and influences caused by curvature of the guide line. The steering signal causes adjustment of the steering angle of the vehicle to minimize the distance between a reference point on the longitudinal centerline of the vehicle and the guide line.

Abstract: Method and device for controlling a motor vehicle power unit consisting of an internal combustion engine and a variable-ratio power divider transmission. For adjusting the output, use is made of the data from the only sensor sensing the speed at the transmission output end, and from the accelerator and brake pedals. The resultant reference value is directly transferred to an engine function generator in which engine characteristics are stored. The output signal from the engine function generator is used to control the throttle or the fuel supply system actuating lever. The reference generator also directly influences a speed function generator, in which the optimum speed is stored. Its output signal is linked with the indication from the sensor so as to form a reference value for the transmission ratio and is processed in a transmission control unit for form actuating signals for the transmission.

Abstract: A method of sensing the curvature of a routing or guide line used in automatic steering of a vehicle. The actual position of the vehicle with respect to the guide line is determined, and an estimated position of the vehicle with respect to the guide line is determined by means of a vehicle model. The actual and estimated positions are compared to obtain the difference between them, the difference being an indication of the curvature of the guide line.