Method and systems for aligning a stationary vehicle with an artificial horizon
US7357397B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 28, 2006 |
| Grant date | Apr 15, 2008 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 28, 2026 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60G2800/912
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method of positioning a vehicle chassis of a stationary vehicle in approximate alignment with a predetermined datum is provided. The vehicle has an axle and a fluid suspension system. The fluid suspension system includes a control device, a pressurized fluid source and an exhaust passage. The pressurized fluid source and the exhaust passage are in fluid communication with the plurality of fluid suspension members through the control device. The vehicle also includes an electronic control unit operatively associated with the control device. The method including steps of providing an alignment sensor supported on the chassis for outputting a signal indicative of the orientation of the chassis to the electronic control unit and acquiring a signal output by the alignment sensor. Another step includes comparing the signal from the alignment sensor to alignment data stored in the electronic control unit. A further step includes selectively operating the control device to permit fluid communication between one or more of the fluid suspension members and one of the pressurized fluid source and the fluid exhaust until the signal from the alignment sensor approximately corresponds to the a…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.