Devices, systems, and methods for remote authorization of vehicle platooning
US12346427B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 20, 2021 |
| Grant date | Jul 1, 2025 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 20, 2041 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04W4/029
- WIPO fieldControl
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Systems and methods for coordinating and controlling vehicles, for example heavy trucks, to follow closely behind each other, or linking to form a platoon. In one aspect, on-board controllers in each vehicle interact with vehicular sensors to monitor and control, for example, relative distance, relative acceleration or deceleration, and speed. In some aspects, vehicle onboard systems supply various data (breadcrumbs) to a Network Operations Center (NOC), which in turn provides data (authorization data) to the vehicles to facilitate platooning. The NOC suggests vehicles for platooning based on, for example, travel forecasts and analysis of relevant roadways to identify platoonable roadway segments. The NOC also can provide traffic, roadway, weather, or system updates, as well as various instructions. In some aspects, a mesh network ensures improved communication among vehicles and with the NOC. In some aspects, a vehicle onboard system may provide the authorization data.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.