Travel direction determination method and system

US9020680B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• VOLVO CAR CORPORATION · SE

Inventors

• Stefan Solyom · Olofstorp, SE
• Martin Nordvall · Västerås, SE

Key dates

• Filing date: Mar 1, 2013
• Grant date: Apr 28, 2015
• Expiry date: Apr 11, 2033

Classification

• Technology area (CPC G): Physics
• CPC primary: G08G1/22
• WIPO field: Control
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

A method for determining a direction of travel for a following vehicle ensures that the following vehicle follows a path indicative of that of a target vehicle. The target vehicle extends in longitudinal (X) and lateral (Y) directions, the longitudinal direction (X) corresponding to an intended direction of travel of the following vehicle. The method may include determining a measured lateral offset (ΔYmeasure) between the following and target vehicles. The method may also include measuring a lateral position change parameter corresponding to an actual performed, ongoing and/or impending lateral position change of the following vehicle, an actual performed, ongoing and/or impending lateral position change of the target vehicle, or a combination thereof. The method may further include determining a lateral offset modification measure (OY) using the lateral position change parameter, and using the measured lateral offset (ΔYmeasure) and lateral offset modification measure (OY) when determining the direction of travel.