The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Aug. 12, 2003
Filed:
Jul. 02, 1999
Frank Pietsch, Ronnenberg, DE;
Detlev Neuhaus, Hannover, DE;
Wabco GmbH, Hannover, DE;
Abstract
A method and device prevents damage to a vehicle approaching an obstacle, such as, for example, a loading ramp, while traveling in reverse. When a vehicle, particularly a vehicle train consisting of a towing vehicle and a trailer or semi-trailer, approaches an obstacle in reverse travel, there exists the possibility that the vehicle may impact the obstacle as a result of an erroneous estimation or inappropriate driving maneuver, potentially resulting in damage to the vehicle and/or to the obstacle. This problem occurs with relative frequency, particularly when approaching a loading ramp. In accordance with the invention, the driver of the vehicle is assisted during reverse travel such that damage due to excessive impact is automatically avoided, independently of the driver's actions. A distance sensor is installed on the vehicle, near the tail, which transmits a signal representative of the distance from an obstacle to an electronic control device. The electronic control device evaluates the distance value measured by the distance sensor and adapts the speed of the vehicle during reverse travel in accordance with a predetermined algorithm in such manner that the approach to the obstacle takes place without damage to the vehicle and/or the obstacle. The control device advantageously influences the braking system of the vehicle and, if necessary, the drive engine, in a suitable manner.