Inventors:
Qingfeng Huang - San Jose CA, US
James E. Reich - San Francisco CA, US
Patrick C. P. Cheung - Castro Valley CA, US
Daniel L. Larner - San Jose CA, US
Assignee:
Palo Alto Research Center Incorporated - Palo Alto CA
International Classification:
B60Q 1/00
Abstract:
This disclosure introduces a system which generates a visual, audio, and/or tactile warning to a driver of a lead vehicle when a possible rear-end collision is detected, based on the approach of a second vehicle from a rear direction. The system may also generate a warning signal (such as quick blinking red brake light, or an array of multi-color lights) directed to the approaching vehicle when it is determined to be approaching at an unsafe speed. The system may include one or more of: approaching-vehicle-sensors mounted on the back end of the lead vehicle, a computer processing system, a set of warning lights, a set of speakers within the lead vehicle, and an antenna and transmitter/receiver for communicating with systems of other vehicles. This system may include a connection to the existing taillight system and other existing systems in the lead vehicle. Extended systems may include connections to and control of head support system, seat-belt systems and airbags system to provide additional safety to the occupants of the lead vehicle.