Extendible bumper system and method of control
US6709035B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 19, 2002 |
| Grant date | Mar 23, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 19, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60R19/40
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An extendible bumper system for a vehicle includes a controller system configured to: determine a distance of travel of a first end of a bumper structure using a signal from a position sensor in a first motor, determine a distance of travel of a second end of the bumper structure using a signal from a position sensor in a second motor, and independently adjust at least one of rotational speed and torque output of rotors in the first and second motors in response to the distances of travel. The rotational speed or torque output of the first and second rotors may be independently adjusted in response to a difference in the distances of travel of the first and second ends of the bumper structure, and the rotational speed or torque output of the first and second rotors may be accelerated or decelerated during predetermined distances of travel. A bumper energy absorber for supporting the bumper structure relative to a vehicle includes an inner tube, outer tube, lead screw, nut and motor. Rotation of the lead screw by the rotor causes translation of the nut along the lead screw for driving at least a portion of the bumper structure between extended and retracted positions.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.