Dynamic safety envelope for autonomous-vehicle collision avoidance system
US6393362B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 7, 2000 |
| Grant date | May 21, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 7, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG05D1/0278
- WIPO fieldControl
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
The function of each autonomous vehicle in a surface mine is performed according to a predetermined trajectory related to its particular task and implemented by a guidance system through on-board GPS and two-way communication hardware. The current position of the vehicle is continuously monitored and correlated to the position of potential hazards along its path, so that corrective action can be taken by implementing appropriate, predetermined control strategies. Each vehicle is assigned a safety envelope that accounts for the vehicle's physical presence and operating tolerances. The safety envelope is characteristic of each vehicle and is defined by a variable space surrounding the vehicle wherein it may be physically present as it travels along its intended trajectory. The shape and size of the safety envelope is dynamically varied to meet safety requirements for current trajectory conditions facing the vehicle as it performs its autonomous function along its predetermined path. The safety envelope is changed according to a predetermined set of rules specific to the vehicle. Intersections between predetermined vehicle trajectories along paths and roadways within the mine's proper…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.