Method and apparatus for severe braking alert
US6424256B1 · kind B1 · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 29, 2000 |
| Grant date | Jul 23, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 29, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60Q1/445
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The present invention provides for a sensor and signal for unsafe occurrences. In the preferred embodiment, a severe braking alert system is coupled to a vehicle for notifying trailing drivers that the vehicle is braking severely. Sensors in the system detect when the vehicle exceeds a predetermined deceleration threshold value thereby causing one or more of the vehicle's existing rear lights to flash for a predetermined time period. Alternatively, a dedicated light(s) can be incorporated. The flashing light(s) alerts trailing drivers to the dangerous condition and provide them with valuable information about the vehicle's rate of deceleration. This allows the trailing drivers to apply the appropriate amount of braking power to their vehicles in order to prevent a rear-end collision. Alternative flashing schemes can also be incorporated to notify the trailing driver about the degree of severity with which the lead vehicle is decelerating.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.