System for collision damage reduction
US6106038A · kind A · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 4, 1997 |
| Grant date | Aug 22, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 4, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60R2021/0074
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A collision damage reduction system to reduce contact velocities between a vehicle and a collidant by use of air bags on the exterior of the vehicle. The vehicle operator or an automatic collision imminence detection system e.g. radar, sonar, or an accelerometer and controller actuates a switch that actuates the air bag inflators when a collision is perceived imminent. The switch or controller can also interrupt vehicle motive power and actuate the brakes. The air bag has vents and shapes to steer it and its collidants. The controller can also actuate vehicle horns and lights to warn collidants when imminent collisions are detected.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.