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AssigneePeloton Technology, Inc.
InventorsJames B. KUSZMAUL, Austin B. SCHUH, Stephen M. ERLIEN, Joshua P. SWITKES
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A variety of methods, controllers and algorithms are described for controlling a vehicle to closely follow one another safely using automatic or partially automatic control. The described control schemes are well suited for use in vehicle platooning and/or vehicle convoying applications, including truck platooning and convoying controllers. In one aspect, a power plant (such as an engine) is controlled using a control scheme arranged to attain and maintain a first target gap between the vehicles. Brakes (such as wheel brakes) are controlled in a manner configured to attain and maintain a second (shorter) target gap. Such control allows a certain degree of encroachment on the targeted gap (sometimes referred to as a gap tolerance) before the brakes are actuated. The described approaches facilitate a safe and comfortable rider experience and reduce the likelihood of the brakes being actuated unnecessarily.
A method of controlling a first vehicle to at least partially automatically maintain separation from a second vehicle while driving, the first vehicle having a power plant and brakes, the method comprising:
A platoon controller for at least partially automatically controlling a host vehicle to attain and maintain a first target gap separation between the host vehicle and a second vehicle while the host vehicle is driving, the platoon controller comprising:
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.