Brake actuation system for towed vehicles
US6626504B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 23, 1999 |
| Grant date | Sep 30, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 23, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60T13/745
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An apparatus and system for automated operation of the brakes on a towed vehicle, in particular the conventional hydraulic brakes on an automotive vehicle, by controlled actuation of its own brake pedal or other such conventional operating component which is normally manipulated by the operator of the vehicle. The preferred embodiment of the system utilizes a power-actuated tension member such as a cable which is attachable to the towed vehicle brake pedal to pull it downward and thus apply the vehicle brakes in controlled response to commands from a controller mountable at a remote location such as on the towing vehicle, and the controller preferably includes, and operates in response to, an inertia sensor and related system which monitors deceleration of the towing vehicle caused by application of its brakes etc., as well as a manual control for selective optional braking of the towed vehicle by the tow vehicle driver at any desired time. The apparatus and system further includes a power unit typically mounted on the towed vehicle (e.g., under the hood) has a drive motor that operates through a controllable slip clutch, preferably a magnetically engageable and controllable clutch…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.