Control apparatus for four-wheel drive vehicle
US4712635A · kind A · utility
Assignees
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 29, 1986 |
| Grant date | Dec 15, 1987 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 29, 2006 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60W2552/40
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The coefficient of friction of a road surface lying ahead of a four-wheel drive vehicle is predicted and, if control performed on the basis of the prediction is incorrect, the coefficient of friction of the road surface actually traversed by the vehicle is calculated, thereby revising the prediction so that the next prediction of coefficient of friction will be more accurate. Accordingly, control for changeover between two- and four-wheel drive or for locking a center differential mechanism can be made to conform to the road surface conditions immediately and in an appropriate manner to prevent skidding or lock-up of the tires and, hence, assure a safe and stable traveling state.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.