Ford Global Technologies, LLC

United States of America

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IPC Class
H01M 8/04 - Auxiliary arrangements, e.g. for control of pressure or for circulation of fluids 78
G01C 21/34 - Route searching; Route guidance 35
G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude, or attitude of land, water, air, or space vehicles, e.g. automatic pilot 23
B60L 11/18 - using power supplied from primary cells, secondary cells, or fuel cells 17
B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use 16
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1.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR RADAR PERCEPTION

      
Application Number US2022080804
Publication Number 2024/096915
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-12-02
Publication Date 2024-05-10
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor Cao, Ning

Abstract

This document discloses system, method, and computer program product embodiments for operating a radar system. For example, the method includes: obtaining radar scan data for a first scan performed by a first radar device and radar scan data for a second scan performed by the first radar device or a second device; identifying a detection pair comprising a first detection in the radar scan data for the first scan and a second detection in the radar scan data for the second scan; obtaining a 2D initial particle velocity using positions of first and second detections of the detection pair; using the 2D initial particle velocity to obtain a projected range rate for the second detection of the detection pair; and creating a particle when the projected range rate matches a range rate associated with the second detection of the detection pair by a certain amount.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01S 13/66 - Radar-tracking systems; Analogous systems
  • G01S 13/931 - Radar or analogous systems, specially adapted for specific applications for anti-collision purposes of land vehicles
  • G01S 17/93 - Lidar systems, specially adapted for specific applications for anti-collision purposes
  • G01S 13/42 - Simultaneous measurement of distance and other coordinates

2.

METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR DEALIASING RADAR RANGE RATE MEASUREMENTS USING MACHINE LEARNING

      
Application Number US2022052491
Publication Number 2024/049461
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-12-12
Publication Date 2024-03-07
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Li, Minhan
  • Ratnesh Kumar, Fnu
  • Song, Xiufeng

Abstract

Systems may include at least one processor configured to determine a predicted value of an unwrap factor using a machine learning model, wherein the machine learning model is a trained machine learning model configured to provide a predicted value of an unwrap factor for dealiasing a measurement of range rate of a target object as an output, dealiase a measurement value of range rate from a radar of an autonomous vehicle (AV) based on the predicted value of the unwrap factor to provide a true value of range rate, and control an operation of the AV in a real-time environment based on the true value of range rate. Methods, computer program products, and autonomous vehicles are also disclosed.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B60W 40/02 - Estimation or calculation of driving parameters for road vehicle drive control systems not related to the control of a particular sub-unit related to ambient conditions
  • B60W 40/10 - Estimation or calculation of driving parameters for road vehicle drive control systems not related to the control of a particular sub-unit related to vehicle motion
  • B60W 60/00 - Drive control systems specially adapted for autonomous road vehicles
  • G06N 20/00 - Machine learning

3.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR BIASING A TRAJECTORY OF AN AUTONOMOUS VEHICLE WHILE MOVING IN A LANE

      
Application Number US2023022764
Publication Number 2023/225218
Status In Force
Filing Date 2023-05-18
Publication Date 2023-11-23
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Kassar, Alice
  • Hukkeri, Ramadev Burigsay

Abstract

Disclosed herein are systems, methods, and computer program products for biasing a trajectory of a vehicle. The methods comprise: identifying a lane biasing interval of a lane in which the vehicle is to travel based on a lane width; obtaining a first reference path of travel for the vehicle that passes through the lane biasing interval; generating a second reference path of travel for the vehicle using a plurality of lateral offsets and the first reference path of travel for the vehicle; and adjusting the trajectory of the vehicle using the second reference path of travel. The lateral offsets are based on a lateral offset from each index point of the first reference path that resides in the lane biasing interval.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B60W 60/00 - Drive control systems specially adapted for autonomous road vehicles
  • B60W 40/02 - Estimation or calculation of driving parameters for road vehicle drive control systems not related to the control of a particular sub-unit related to ambient conditions
  • G06V 20/58 - Recognition of moving objects or obstacles, e.g. vehicles or pedestrians; Recognition of traffic objects, e.g. traffic signs, traffic lights or roads
  • G06V 20/56 - Context or environment of the image exterior to a vehicle by using sensors mounted on the vehicle
  • B60W 50/00 - CONJOINT CONTROL OF VEHICLE SUB-UNITS OF DIFFERENT TYPE OR DIFFERENT FUNCTION; CONTROL SYSTEMS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR HYBRID VEHICLES; ROAD VEHICLE DRIVE CONTROL SYSTEMS FOR PURPOSES NOT RELATED TO THE CONTROL OF A PARTICULAR SUB-UNIT - Details of control systems for road vehicle drive control not related to the control of a particular sub-unit

4.

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ASSESSING WHETHER A VEHICLE IS LIKELY TO LEAVE AN OFF-ROAD PARKING AREA

      
Application Number US2023063315
Publication Number 2023/177969
Status In Force
Filing Date 2023-02-27
Publication Date 2023-09-21
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor Schneemann, Friederike

Abstract

This document discloses system, method, and computer program product embodiments for assessing whether a vehicle that is positioned in an off-road parking area is exhibiting intent to enter the road. If the vehicle exhibits such intent, the system may forecast a trajectory for the vehicle. If the vehicle does not exhibit such intent, a trajectory forecast may not necessarily be required. The trajectory forecasts for vehicles that do exhibit such intent may then be used by an autonomous vehicle in motion planning operations.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B60W 60/00 - Drive control systems specially adapted for autonomous road vehicles
  • G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude, or attitude of land, water, air, or space vehicles, e.g. automatic pilot
  • G06V 20/58 - Recognition of moving objects or obstacles, e.g. vehicles or pedestrians; Recognition of traffic objects, e.g. traffic signs, traffic lights or roads
  • G08G 1/01 - Detecting movement of traffic to be counted or controlled

5.

SYSTEM, METHOD, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCT FOR DETECTING AND PREVENTING AN AUTONOMOUS DRIVING ACTION

      
Application Number US2023010735
Publication Number 2023/167759
Status In Force
Filing Date 2023-01-13
Publication Date 2023-09-07
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Ollis, Mark
  • Zhao, Ruben

Abstract

Provided are systems, methods, and computer program products for controlling an autonomous vehicle (AV) to maneuver in a roadway, comprising acquiring, data associated with an actor detected on a route of the AV in the roadway for sensing a trajectory of the actor, predicting that the trajectory of the actor includes at least one characteristic that is associated with invoking a conditionally disallowed action in the AV, automatically restricting the conditionally disallowed action from a motion plan of the AV to prevent the AV from executing the conditionally disallowed action in response to detecting that one or more conditions are present in the roadway, issuing a command to control the AV on a candidate trajectory generated to prevent an option for the conditionally disallowed action.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B60W 60/00 - Drive control systems specially adapted for autonomous road vehicles
  • B60W 50/00 - CONJOINT CONTROL OF VEHICLE SUB-UNITS OF DIFFERENT TYPE OR DIFFERENT FUNCTION; CONTROL SYSTEMS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR HYBRID VEHICLES; ROAD VEHICLE DRIVE CONTROL SYSTEMS FOR PURPOSES NOT RELATED TO THE CONTROL OF A PARTICULAR SUB-UNIT - Details of control systems for road vehicle drive control not related to the control of a particular sub-unit
  • B60W 40/02 - Estimation or calculation of driving parameters for road vehicle drive control systems not related to the control of a particular sub-unit related to ambient conditions
  • B60W 30/18 - Propelling the vehicle

6.

ARTICLE CARRIER SYSTEM FOR USE WITH PICKUP TRUCKS

      
Application Number US2022042831
Publication Number 2023/043650
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-09-08
Publication Date 2023-03-23
Owner
  • JAC PRODUCTS, INC. (USA)
  • FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Aftanas, Jeffrey M.
  • Presley, Michael J.
  • Wells, Samuel D.
  • Makin, Michael R.
  • Trentin, Daniel
  • Tribhuvan, Nikhil

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an article carrier system configured for use with a motor vehicle, in particular a pickup truck, and corresponding methods. The features described herein permit a user to use a slidable rear support to carry articles above the cargo area of a pickup truck, and allow for relatively easy repositioning of the rear support to accommodate articles of various sizes. Further, the features described herein do not interfere with use of the cargo area when the rear support is not being used to support articles thereon. This disclosure also allows for a smooth sliding motion of the rear support, while resisting if not eliminating vibrations.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B60J 7/02 - Non-fixed roofs; Roofs with movable panels of sliding type
  • B60J 7/19 - Locking arrangements for rigid panels
  • B60P 7/02 - Covering of load
  • B60P 7/08 - Securing to vehicle floor or sides

7.

HOUSING FOR A VIBRATION UNIT, VIBRATION UNIT, SEAT CUSHION AND METHOD FOR PRODUCING A SEAT CUSHION

      
Application Number EP2022074617
Publication Number 2023/031458
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-09-05
Publication Date 2023-03-09
Owner
  • FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
  • FORD-WERKE GMBH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Conrady, Heiko
  • Meyer, Sebastian

Abstract

The invention relates to a housing (12) for a vibration unit (4) which can be arranged on a seat cushion (1) of a vehicle seat (16) and is designed to produce a haptically perceptible signal at the vehicle seat (16). In order to improve the driving experience of an occupant, more particularly a driver, of a vehicle, the housing (12) has an edge-free surface (13) and at least one housing opening (14) through which sound waves can pass.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B60N 2/70 - Upholstery springs
  • B60N 2/90 - Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles - Details or parts not otherwise provided for
  • B29C 44/12 - Incorporating or moulding on preformed parts, e.g. inserts or reinforcements

8.

SENSOR ASSEMBLY WITH DRAIN CHANNEL MOUNTED TO ROOF OF VEHICLE

      
Application Number US2022072256
Publication Number 2022/241437
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-05-11
Publication Date 2022-11-17
Owner
  • FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
  • VALEO NORTH AMERICA, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Phinisee, Rashaun
  • Krishnan, Venkatesh
  • Patil, Sunil Reddy
  • Wlodyka, Joseph
  • Surampudi, Ravi
  • Wiesner, Timothy
  • Xiao, Yifu
  • Gonzalez, Luis Angel
  • True, Paul

Abstract

A sensor assembly includes an upper housing. The sensor assembly includes a monolithic lower housing fixed to the upper housing and defining a chamber therebetween. The monolithic lower housing defines a drain channel that slopes downward and outward in the chamber. The sensor assembly may be mounted to a roof of a vehicle. Specifically, the monolithic lower housing may be fixed to the roof.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01S 7/481 - Constructional features, e.g. arrangements of optical elements
  • G01S 7/02 - RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES - Details of systems according to groups , , of systems according to group
  • G01S 13/931 - Radar or analogous systems, specially adapted for specific applications for anti-collision purposes of land vehicles
  • G01S 17/931 - Lidar systems, specially adapted for specific applications for anti-collision purposes of land vehicles

9.

MACHINE LEARNING UPDATING WITH SENSOR DATA

      
Application Number US2021073165
Publication Number 2022/147456
Status In Force
Filing Date 2021-12-29
Publication Date 2022-07-07
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Chari, Varun
  • Tonshal, Basavaraj
  • Kondoju, Panduranga

Abstract

A system includes a vehicle control module, a vehicle gateway module, and a wired vehicle communications network communicatively coupling the vehicle gateway module to the vehicle control module. The vehicle control module is programmed to receive sensor data from at least one sensor, execute a machine-learning program trained to determine whether the sensor data satisfies at least one criterion, and transmit the sensor data satisfying the at least one criterion to the vehicle gateway module. The vehicle gateway module is programmed to transmit the machine-learning program to the vehicle control module; upon receiving the sensor data from the vehicle control module, store the sensor data; and upon establishing a connection with a remote server, transmit the sensor data to the remote server.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude, or attitude of land, water, air, or space vehicles, e.g. automatic pilot
  • G06N 20/00 - Machine learning
  • B60W 50/00 - CONJOINT CONTROL OF VEHICLE SUB-UNITS OF DIFFERENT TYPE OR DIFFERENT FUNCTION; CONTROL SYSTEMS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR HYBRID VEHICLES; ROAD VEHICLE DRIVE CONTROL SYSTEMS FOR PURPOSES NOT RELATED TO THE CONTROL OF A PARTICULAR SUB-UNIT - Details of control systems for road vehicle drive control not related to the control of a particular sub-unit
  • B60W 60/00 - Drive control systems specially adapted for autonomous road vehicles

10.

METHOD AND SYSTEM TO CALIBRATE CAMERAS DEVICES OF A VEHICLE VISION SYSTEM USING A PROGRAMMABLE CALIBRATION TARGET DEVICE

      
Application Number US2021072667
Publication Number 2022/120345
Status In Force
Filing Date 2021-12-01
Publication Date 2022-06-09
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Reddy, Dikpal
  • Miao, Hsin
  • Chang, Yu-Wei
  • Ding, Erli
  • Gardiner, Koji

Abstract

A method for calibration of vision sensors includes, by a processor: selecting a calibration sequence that has a base calibration pattern and calibration angles, generating a calibrating target that may include the calibration pattern at a selected calibration angle of the angles, and causing a display screen to display a digital image representative of the target at the selected angle relative to an originating border of the selected angle. Each of the calibration angles is associated with a different originating border of the screen. The method includes by a vision sensor capturing at least one image of the calibrating target displayed on the screen. The calibration is repeated for each calibration angle of the sequence. The method includes performing calibration of the vision sensor in response to image signal processing of extracted calibration features in the at least one image of the calibrating targets.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06T 7/80 - Analysis of captured images to determine intrinsic or extrinsic camera parameters, i.e. camera calibration
  • H04N 17/00 - Diagnosis, testing or measuring for television systems or their details
  • H04N 5/232 - Devices for controlling television cameras, e.g. remote control

11.

SUSPENSION SYSTEM WITH COMPREHENSIVE PITCH STABILITY CONTROL

      
Application Number US2020059066
Publication Number 2022/098357
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-11-05
Publication Date 2022-05-12
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor Otten, Erik

Abstract

A vehicle control system includes a plurality of sensors that determine ride height information of a vehicle, a sensor that determines pitch information for the vehicle, and a controller that selectively applies traction torque and braking torque to wheels of the vehicle based on vehicle speed, the pitch information and the ride height information.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 19/00 - Digital computing or data processing equipment or methods, specially adapted for specific applications (specially adapted for specific functions G06F 17/00;data processing systems or methods specially adapted for administrative, commercial, financial, managerial, supervisory or forecasting purposes G06Q;healthcare informatics G16H)

12.

ARB DISCONNECT SYSTEM WITH IMPROVED ROLL GRADIENT AND UNDERSTEER CHARACTERISTICS

      
Application Number US2020056471
Publication Number 2022/086502
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-10-20
Publication Date 2022-04-28
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor Otten, Erik

Abstract

A suspension assembly for a vehicle suspension system may include a lower control arm, an upper control arm, a damper, and a drop link. The lower control arm may be operably coupled to a chassis of a vehicle via a first bushing assembly and a second bushing assembly. The first and second bushing assemblies may each pivot about an axis substantially parallel to a longitudinal centerline of the vehicle. The upper control arm may be operably coupled to the chassis. The damper may be operably coupled to the lower control arm to dampen pivoting motion of the upper and lower control arms relative to the chassis. The drop link may operably couple the lower control arm and an anti-roll bar that includes a disconnect assembly to translate a roll motion into a force exerted on the lower control arm in a direction substantially parallel to the axis.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B60G 11/20 - Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location, or kind of springs having torsion-bar springs only characterised by means specially adapted for attaching the spring to axle or sprung part of the vehicle
  • B60G 11/18 - Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location, or kind of springs having torsion-bar springs only
  • B60G 11/26 - Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location, or kind of springs having fluid springs only, e.g. hydropneumatic springs
  • B60G 11/50 - Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location, or kind of springs having springs of different kinds not including leaf springs having helical, spiral, or coil springs, and also torsion-bar springs
  • B60G 17/00 - Resilient suspensions having means for adjusting the spring or vibration-damper characteristics, for regulating the distance between a supporting surface and a sprung part of vehicle or for locking suspension during use to meet varying vehicular or s
  • B60G 17/02 - Spring characteristics

13.

SUSPENSION SYSTEM WITH ELECTRONIC PITCH STABILITY CONTROL

      
Application Number US2020056304
Publication Number 2022/086487
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-10-19
Publication Date 2022-04-28
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor Otten, Erik

Abstract

A vehicle control system includes a plurality of ride height sensors, a brake system and a controller. The ride height sensors may determine ride height information associated with individual wheels of a vehicle. The brake system may apply braking force to the individual wheels of the vehicle responsive to provision of a brake application signal. The controller may generate the brake application signal during vehicle pitch based on vehicle speed and the ride height information.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06G 7/66 - Analogue computers for specific processes, systems, or devices, e.g. simulators for control systems

14.

BATTERY HOUSING FOR TRACTION BATTERY HAVING IMPROVED MAINTENANCE POSSIBILITY AND TRACTION BATTERY FOR MOTOR VEHICLE

      
Application Number EP2020074503
Publication Number 2022/048747
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-09-02
Publication Date 2022-03-10
Owner
  • KAUTEX TEXTRON GMBH & CO. KG (Germany)
  • FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Schäfer, Guido
  • Lenz, Stefan
  • Haas, Felix
  • Enkirch, Georg
  • Mulalic, Muhamed
  • Krüger, Marcel
  • Eftekhari, Mohammadreza
  • Maguire, Patrick Daniel
  • Perumalla, Kanchana

Abstract

The present invention discloses a battery housing (1) for a traction battery, the battery housing (1) having a first housing shell (10) and a second housing shell (20) which can be connected to the first housing shell (10) for bounding an interior (2) formed to receive at least one battery module, the battery housing (1) having the following features: - the first housing shell (10) has a first collar (11) which runs at least partially around the first housing shell (10); - the second housing shell (20) has a second collar (21) which runs at least partially around the second housing shell (20); - the battery housing (1) has at least one connection element (40) having two pressure limbs (41, 42); - the at least one connection element (40) is designed to engage around the first collar (11) and the second collar (21) and to clamp same to one another by the two pressure limbs (41, 42) of the connection element (40) exerting a normal force on the first collar (11) and on the second collar (21), the battery housing (1) being characterised by the following features: - the first collar (11) and/or the second collar (21) has at least one latching means (30, 31, 32); - the connection element (40) has at least one second latching means (50, 51, 52); - the connection element (40) can be latched to the first collar (11) and/or the second collar (21) by means of the first latching means (30, 31, 32) and the second latching means (50, 51, 52).

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01M 50/202 - Casings or frames around the primary casing of a single cell or a single battery
  • H01M 50/204 - Racks, modules or packs for multiple batteries or multiple cells
  • H01M 50/224 - Metals
  • H01M 50/227 - Organic material
  • H01M 50/24 - Mountings; Secondary casings or frames; Racks, modules or packs; Suspension devices; Shock absorbers; Transport or carrying devices; Holders characterised by physical properties of casings or racks, e.g. dimensions adapted for protecting batteries from their environment, e.g. from corrosion
  • H01M 50/249 - Mountings; Secondary casings or frames; Racks, modules or packs; Suspension devices; Shock absorbers; Transport or carrying devices; Holders specially adapted for aircraft or vehicles, e.g. cars or trains
  • H01M 50/262 - Mountings; Secondary casings or frames; Racks, modules or packs; Suspension devices; Shock absorbers; Transport or carrying devices; Holders with fastening means, e.g. locks

15.

V2X VEHICLE ROAD USAGE

      
Application Number US2020062597
Publication Number 2021/126506
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-11-30
Publication Date 2021-06-24
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Ibrahim, Samer
  • Zagajac, Jovan Milivoje
  • Bandi, Krishna
  • Ahmad, Syed Amaar
  • Neishaboori, Azin
  • Das, Sushanta
  • Vukovic, Ivan

Abstract

Vehicle road usage is monitored via vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication. From each of a plurality of vehicles via one or more RSUs communicating with vehicles using V2X communication, anonymized data is received indicating routing of the respective vehicle along roadways over time and location. From each of the plurality of vehicles via the one or more RSUs, non-anonymized usage amounts are received indicative of a cost incurred by the respective vehicle for overall usage of the roadway by the respective vehicle, the usage amounts being computed by the respective vehicle according to usage metrics broadcast by the one or more RSUs. Roadway areas of high roadway usage are identified according to the anonymized data. The usage metrics are updated to incentivize alternative routes to routes traversing the roadway areas of high roadway usage. The usage metrics, as updated, are broadcast for receipt by the plurality of vehicles.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06Q 30/02 - Marketing; Price estimation or determination; Fundraising
  • G07B 15/06 - Arrangements for road pricing or congestion charging of vehicles or vehicle users, e.g. automatic toll systems
  • G08G 1/00 - Traffic control systems for road vehicles
  • G08G 1/01 - Detecting movement of traffic to be counted or controlled
  • G08G 1/056 - Detecting movement of traffic to be counted or controlled with provision for distinguishing direction of travel
  • G08G 1/065 - Traffic control systems for road vehicles by counting the vehicles in a section of the road or in a parking area, i.e. comparing incoming count with outgoing count

16.

CLEANING APPARATUS FOR SENSOR

      
Application Number US2020057645
Publication Number 2021/101682
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-10-28
Publication Date 2021-05-27
Owner
  • FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
  • VALEO NORTH AMERICA, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Sykula, Andre
  • Phinisee, Rashaun
  • Krishnan, Venkatesh
  • Singh, Kunal
  • Surineedi, Raghuraman
  • Whitney, Michael
  • Franco, David
  • Moulart, Robin
  • Terrasse, William

Abstract

A sensor apparatus includes a cylindrical sensor window defining an axis, and a plurality of at least three tubular segments fixed relative to the sensor window. Each tubular segment is elongated circumferentially relative to the axis. The tubular segments collectively form a ring substantially centered around the axis. Each tubular segment includes at least one first nozzle and at least one second nozzle. The first nozzles and second nozzles are arranged in an alternating pattern around the ring. The first nozzles each have a direction of discharge in a radially inward and axial direction forming a first angle with the axis, and the second nozzles each have a direction of discharge in a radially inward and axial direction forming a second angle with the axis, the second angle being different than the first angle.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B05B 1/02 - Nozzles, spray heads or other outlets, with or without auxiliary devices such as valves, heating means designed to produce a jet, spray, or other discharge of particular shape or nature, e.g. in single drops
  • B08B 5/02 - Cleaning by the force of jets, e.g. blowing-out cavities
  • B08B 9/027 - Cleaning the internal surfaces; Removal of blockages
  • B08B 9/34 - Arrangement of conduits or nozzles
  • B60J 10/26 - Sealing arrangements characterised by the shape characterised by the surface shape
  • B60W 60/00 - Drive control systems specially adapted for autonomous road vehicles
  • G01N 21/15 - Preventing contamination of the components of the optical system or obstruction of the light path

17.

ENHANCED THREAT ASSESSMENT

      
Application Number US2020049161
Publication Number 2021/046193
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-09-03
Publication Date 2021-03-11
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Mills, Aaron L.
  • Seiler, Rebecca Lynne
  • Miller, Alex Maurice
  • Surnilla, Gopichandra
  • Ratnala, Alekhya
  • Zhang, Hao

Abstract

A computer is configured to determine a threat number for a first target vehicle based on data received from the first target vehicle indicating at least one of a position, speed, or route history of the first target vehicle, identify a second target vehicle based on data collected with one or more host vehicle sensors when the threat number of the first target vehicle exceeds a threshold upon determining that the first target vehicle and the second target vehicle are not the same vehicle and that at least one of (a) a barrier is detected between the host vehicle and the first target vehicle or (b) that a threat number of the second target vehicle exceeds a second threshold, suppress a collision avoidance action.

IPC Classes  ?

18.

CURRENT TRANSFERRING DEVICE FOR AN ELECTRIC MACHINE AND AN ELECTRIC MACHINE WITH THE SAME, AND A VEHICLE

      
Application Number US2020040645
Publication Number 2021/003360
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-07-02
Publication Date 2021-01-07
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Deng, Chuan
  • Du, Guohua
  • Yuan, Yigang

Abstract

Provided is a current transferring device for an electric machine comprising a rotary bearing member fixed in a rotor shaft and rotating with it and a non-rotary component. The rotary bearing member includes: a first compartment with a conducting fluid and having a first opening and a rotor positive connector that is in contact with the conducting fluid therein and connected to a rotor positive pole; a second compartment with a conducting fluid and having a second opening and a rotor negative connector that is in contact with the conducting fluid therein and connected to a rotor negative pole. The non-rotary component closes the first and second openings and includes: a power positive connector extending into the first compartment and being in contact with the conducting fluid therein; and a power negative connector extending into the second compartment and being in contact with the conducting fluid therein.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H02K 7/00 - Arrangements for handling mechanical energy structurally associated with dynamo-electric machines, e.g. structural association with mechanical driving motors or auxiliary dynamo-electric machines
  • H02K 16/00 - Machines with more than one rotor or stator
  • H02K 31/00 - Acyclic motors or generators, i.e. DC machines having drum or disc armatures with continuous current collectors
  • H02K 55/00 - Dynamo-electric machines having windings operating at cryogenic temperatures

19.

MODULAR DOUBLE PIN LOAD SENSING HITCHES INCLUDING TWO-PIECE PIN MOUNTS

      
Application Number US2020035552
Publication Number 2020/243703
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-06-01
Publication Date 2020-12-03
Owner
  • FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
  • METHODE ELECTRONICS, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Giaier, Kevin, Stanton
  • Niedert, Andrew
  • Pearson, Elliott
  • Rogness, Anton
  • Giessibl, Johannes
  • Reed, Chad

Abstract

Modular double pin load sensing hitches including two-piece pin mounts are disclosed herein. An example apparatus disclosed herein includes a pin mount including a first piece, and a second piece, separate from and to be disposed opposite to the first piece. The apparatus further includes and a receiver tube including a first mounting ear to be coupled to the first piece via a first pin and a second mounting ear to be coupled to the second piece via a second pin.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B60D 1/01 - Traction couplings or hitches characterised by their type
  • B60D 1/24 - Traction couplings; Hitches; Draw-gear; Towing devices characterised by arrangements for particular functions
  • B60D 1/36 - Traction couplings; Hitches; Draw-gear; Towing devices characterised by arrangements for particular functions for facilitating connection, e.g. hitch catchers

20.

METHODS OF POST-CURING ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING PARTS USING ELECTRON BEAMS

      
Application Number US2019012812
Publication Number 2020/145957
Status In Force
Filing Date 2019-01-09
Publication Date 2020-07-16
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Seubert, Christopher, Michael
  • Nichols, Mark, Edward
  • Lee, Ellen, Cheng-Chi

Abstract

A method of forming a part (50) includes 3D printing a photopolymerizable resin and forming a preformed part and subsequently post-curing the preformed part (50) with electron beams (127). The preformed part may be cured via UV curing. A section of the preformed part post-cured with electron beams may have a thickness of at least 1.0 centimeter, for example, at least 2.0 centimeters or at least 3.0 centimeters. An electron beam dosage to post-cure the preformed part may be between 10 kilogray (kGy) and 100 kGy. The preformed part may be 3D printed using stereolithography (SLA), digital light processing (DLP) or material jetting (MJ) and the photopolymerizable resin may include at least one of an acrylate functional polymer and a methacrylate functional polymer. In the alternative, or in addition to, the photopolymerizable resin may include at least one of a urethane, a polyester, and a polyether.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B29C 64/30 - Auxiliary operations or equipment
  • B29C 64/124 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using layers of liquid which are selectively solidified
  • B29C 64/268 - Arrangements for irradiation using electron beams [EB]
  • B29C 64/291 - Arrangements for irradiation for operating globally, e.g. together with selectively applied activators or inhibitors
  • B29C 71/04 - After-treatment of articles without altering their shape; Apparatus therefor by wave energy or particle radiation
  • B33Y 40/00 - Auxiliary operations or equipment, e.g. for material handling

21.

ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING OF MAGNET ARRAYS

      
Application Number US2019012818
Publication Number 2020/145959
Status In Force
Filing Date 2019-01-09
Publication Date 2020-07-16
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Degner, Michael, W.
  • Li, Wanfeng

Abstract

A method of forming a magnet (20) is provided. The method includes disposing an anisotropic magnetic powder (2) and a binder (3) within a bed (16), the anisotropic magnetic powder (2) having a defined magnetization direction. An energy beam (14) selectively melts the binder (3) such that the anisotropic magnetic powder (2) forms a permanent magnet (20) with the defined magnetization direction. The energy beam is a laser beam, a microwave beam and the like.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01F 1/057 - Alloys characterised by their composition containing rare earth metals and magnetic transition metals, e.g. SmCo5 and IIIa elements, e.g. Nd2Fe14B
  • H01F 41/02 - Apparatus or processes specially adapted for manufacturing or assembling magnets, inductances or transformers; Apparatus or processes specially adapted for manufacturing materials characterised by their magnetic properties for manufacturing cores, coils or magnets

22.

OBJECT DETECTION UNDER RAINY CONDITIONS FOR AUTONOMOUS SYSTEMS

      
Application Number US2020012920
Publication Number 2020/146622
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-01-09
Publication Date 2020-07-16
Owner
  • BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY (USA)
  • FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Radha, Hayder
  • Hnewa, Mazin
  • Diedrich, Jon
  • Gehrke, Mark

Abstract

Advanced automotive active-safety systems, in general, and autonomous vehicles, in particular, rely heavily on visual data to classify and localize objects, most notably pedestrians and other nearby cars, to assist the corresponding vehicles maneuver safely in their environment. However, the performance of object detection methods is anticipated to degrade under challenging rainy conditions. Nevertheless, and despite major advancements in the development of deraining approaches, the impact of rain on object detection has largely been understudied, especially in the context of autonomous systems. This disclosure analyzes this problem space and presents an improved system for detecting objects under rainy conditions.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06T 7/10 - Segmentation; Edge detection
  • G06T 7/292 - Multi-camera tracking
  • G06N 3/02 - Neural networks
  • G06N 20/10 - Machine learning using kernel methods, e.g. support vector machines [SVM]
  • G01W 1/02 - Instruments for indicating weather conditions by measuring two or more variables, e.g. humidity, pressure, temperature, cloud cover or wind speed
  • G01W 1/14 - Rainfall or precipitation gauges
  • G01W 1/18 - Testing or calibrating meteorological apparatus

23.

METHOD FOR OPERATING AN INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE WITH A HIGH-PRESSURE EXHAUST GAS RECIRCULATION AND A LOW-PRESSURE EXHAUST GAS RECIRCULATION

      
Application Number EP2019068080
Publication Number 2020/011662
Status In Force
Filing Date 2019-07-05
Publication Date 2020-01-16
Owner
  • ROBERT BOSCH GMBH (Germany)
  • FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Hausmann, Martin
  • Bleile, Thomas
  • Huck, Rene
  • Blumendeller, Wilhelm
  • Hoerner, Martin
  • Schwarz, Alfried
  • Vigild, Christian
  • Röttger, Daniel

Abstract

ṁEGRLPOptEGRLPOpt (ṁEGRLPOptEGRLPOpt ṁEGRLPThrEGRLPThr ṁEGRLPBalEGRLPBal ṁ1010 10 ) and a ratio of mass concentrations, and is used to operate the internal combustion engine (2).

IPC Classes  ?

  • F02D 41/00 - Electrical control of supply of combustible mixture or its constituents
  • F02D 41/14 - Introducing closed-loop corrections
  • F02M 26/05 - High pressure loops, i.e. wherein recirculated exhaust gas is taken out from the exhaust system upstream of the turbine and reintroduced into the intake system downstream of the compressor
  • F02M 26/06 - Low pressure loops, i.e. wherein recirculated exhaust gas is taken out from the exhaust downstream of the turbocharger turbine and reintroduced into the intake system upstream of the compressor

24.

METHOD FOR OPERATING AN INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE WITH A HIGH-PRESSURE EXHAUST GAS RETURN

      
Application Number EP2019068087
Publication Number 2020/011664
Status In Force
Filing Date 2019-07-05
Publication Date 2020-01-16
Owner
  • ROBERT BOSCH GMBH (Germany)
  • FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Hausmann, Martin
  • Bleile, Thomas
  • Huck, Rene
  • Blumendeller, Wilhelm
  • Hoerner, Martin
  • Schwarz, Alfried
  • Vigild, Christian
  • Röttger, Daniel

Abstract

(ṁEGRHPOpt EGRHPOpt )ṁEGRHPOptEGRHPOpt EGRHPBal(ṁ2121 21 ) and a ratio of mass concentrations, and used for operating the internal combustion engine (2).

IPC Classes  ?

  • F02D 41/00 - Electrical control of supply of combustible mixture or its constituents
  • F02D 41/14 - Introducing closed-loop corrections
  • F02M 26/05 - High pressure loops, i.e. wherein recirculated exhaust gas is taken out from the exhaust system upstream of the turbine and reintroduced into the intake system downstream of the compressor

25.

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DYNAMIC CARRIER AGGREGATION CONTROL

      
Application Number US2019040303
Publication Number 2020/010085
Status In Force
Filing Date 2019-07-02
Publication Date 2020-01-09
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Wirtanen, Jeffrey William
  • Zhang, Yihai
  • Islam, Muhammad Khaledul

Abstract

A system includes a processor configured to receive a data transfer request using a vehicle connectivity option. The processor is also configured to determine whether the request should be fulfilled using carrier aggregation, based on at least a power level powering the connectivity option. The processor is further configured to fulfil the request using or not using carrier aggregation, based at least in part on the results of the carrier aggregation determination.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H04L 5/00 - Arrangements affording multiple use of the transmission path

26.

INTELLIGENT ITINERARY OPTION SORTING

      
Application Number US2018027925
Publication Number 2019/203804
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-04-17
Publication Date 2019-10-24
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor Balva, Alexander

Abstract

A transportation service can sort itineraries that it proposes to service a passenger trip request. To enable sorting, the transportation service can evaluate itineraries based on itinerary characteristics, a passenger profile, and contextual information of the trip request. Itinerary characteristics can be manually supplied or automatically determined. Passengers can rate itineraries, provide reviews for itineraries, reject undesirable itineraries, and accept desirable itineraries. The service can then build a passenger profile based on the actions of a passenger. The service can determine itinerary characteristics based on weather conditions and exposure to the weather conditions.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06Q 50/00 - Systems or methods specially adapted for specific business sectors, e.g. utilities or tourism

27.

FILTERING FOR EFFICIENT ROUTING DATA

      
Application Number US2018027928
Publication Number 2019/203805
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-04-17
Publication Date 2019-10-24
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor Balva, Alexander

Abstract

Systems and methods are disclosed for efficient rideshare routing by removing redundant data and latency issues using a server-side filter. The method to configure a system and a system so configured include steps to receive a request for a trip. A determination is made for route offerings for the trip based at least in part on a time to complete the trip. Profile information associated with the request is accessed. A filtering action, using the profile information and using a filter at a location remote from an origin of the request, is performed for the route offerings based at least in part on restrictions from the profile information to provide filtered route offerings. Portions from the filtered route offerings are provided as computer-readable instructions in response to the request.

IPC Classes  ?

28.

RIDESHARING UTILIZING EXCESS CAPACITY

      
Application Number US2018027932
Publication Number 2019/203806
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-04-17
Publication Date 2019-10-24
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor Balva, Alexander

Abstract

A third-party provider, such as a transportation management service, can offer ridesharing-type transportation in response to requests. An employer, governmental agency, or other party might sponsor vehicles or routes for a first entity. Embodiments provide approaches for determining and selecting from various routes to serve transportation requests for the first entity, as well as a second entity and other entities interesting in obtaining rides or delivery of inanimate objects through excess capacity, including "standby" service. Incentives may be offered to the provider or the first entity in exchange for use of the excess capacity. The provider can utilize an objective function to balance metrics when selecting proposed routing solutions to serve a set of ride requests. Optimization network processes can be applied to improve each routing solution and capacity utilization. Approaches can also perform proactive placement of vehicles in order to more closely match vehicle capacity with anticipated demand.

IPC Classes  ?

29.

ROUTING WITH ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS

      
Application Number US2018027776
Publication Number 2019/203788
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-04-16
Publication Date 2019-10-24
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor Balva, Alexander

Abstract

A provider, such as a transportation management service, can evaluate potential routing solutions based on various environmental metrics. Environmental metrics can include various aspect of potential routing solution that might impact routing solution desirability such as weather exposure to a predicted weather event. The evaluation can be based on weights indicating preferences of riders relating to the environmental metrics. These weights can be determined through surveys, reviews, or otherwise analyzing historical data and rider responses.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01C 21/20 - Instruments for performing navigational calculations
  • G01C 21/28 - Navigation; Navigational instruments not provided for in groups specially adapted for navigation in a road network with correlation of data from several navigational instruments
  • G01C 21/34 - Route searching; Route guidance

30.

ITEM SHIPMENT FOR PASSENGERS

      
Application Number US2018027779
Publication Number 2019/203789
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-04-16
Publication Date 2019-10-24
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor Balva, Alexander

Abstract

A transit service can deliver an item to a passenger or receive an item for delivery from a passenger. The transit service can receive an item, a request to deliver the item to a passenger, and a request from the passenger for a trip. The transit service can perform an objective function to determine an optimal vehicle to deliver the item to the passenger. The objective function can consider capacities of vehicles, characteristics of the item, and rider preferences. The transit service can track items, vehicles, and passengers to coordinate delivery. The transit service can secure the item and disengage a security mechanism based on the locations of the item, respective vehicle, and respective passenger.

IPC Classes  ?

31.

MIXED VEHICLE SELECTION AND ROUTE OPTIMIZATION

      
Application Number US2018028124
Publication Number 2019/203816
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-04-18
Publication Date 2019-10-24
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor Balva, Alexander

Abstract

Various embodiments provide approaches for selecting vehicles and optimizing routes for a combination of passenger transportation requests and cargo delivery requests. The passenger transportation requests can relate to the transportation of people (i.e., passengers) and the cargo delivery request can related to the delivery of animals, packages, or other objects, from an origination location to a destination location. There may be several different types of vehicles available, each of which may be particularly advantageous (e.g., efficient) for a certain type of route, including passenger-only vehicles which are only used to serve passenger requests, cargo-only vehicles which are only used to serve cargo delivery requests, and mixed passenger and cargo vehicles which can be used to serve both passenger requests and cargo requests. In some embodiments, the mixed passenger and cargo vehicles may hold passengers and cargo at the same time, servicing both types of requests simultaneously.

IPC Classes  ?

32.

DYNAMIC PROMOTIONS BASED ON VEHICLE POSITIONING AND ROUTE DETERMINATIONS

      
Application Number US2018028126
Publication Number 2019/203818
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-04-18
Publication Date 2019-10-24
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor Balva, Alexander

Abstract

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide improved techniques of a route optimization system to provide dynamic promotions to compensate for predicted time of arrival of a vehicle in response to a ride request. The promotions may be for vendors located by the pickup location in the ride request and timed to compensate for a wait time or an unexpected delay. In another embodiment, dynamic promotions may be determined and provided to incentivize customers to go to an alternate pickup location providing a more optimized route for the assigned vehicle. The more optimized route may be based on a better quality route score compared to the quality route score of the route originally determined for the original pickup location from the ride request. The promotion may be for vendors identified to be on the way to the alternate pickup location and timed to optimize efficiency and reduce any lag or wait time on the customer's behalf.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01C 21/34 - Route searching; Route guidance
  • G06F 3/048 - Interaction techniques based on graphical user interfaces [GUI]
  • G06Q 10/06 - Resources, workflows, human or project management; Enterprise or organisation planning; Enterprise or organisation modelling

33.

3-D PRINTING COMPONENTS USING TWO-LIGHT SOURCES TO CONTROL LOCATION OF SOLIDIFICATION

      
Application Number US2018026021
Publication Number 2019/194798
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-04-04
Publication Date 2019-10-10
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Nichols, Mark
  • Seubert, Christopher
  • Cates, Chelsea
  • Ellwood, Kevin Richard, John

Abstract

A device and method of forming a three-dimensional component includes filling a reservoir (26) with a volume of curable resin (30), the resin configured to undergo a first reaction to form a first product when exposed to light (42) of a first wavelength and to undergo a second reaction to form a second product when exposed to light (62) of a second wavelength. The presence of the first and second products at a common location in the resin causes a third reaction that results in a solid polymer at the common location. The method further includes directing a first light source (34) of the first wavelength into the reservoir, directing a second light source (54) of the second wavelength into the reservoir such that the first and second light sources intersect at a first predetermined location (78) within the reservoir, and allowing the third reaction to form the solid polymer at the first predetermined location.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B29C 64/135 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using layers of liquid which are selectively solidified characterised by the energy source therefor, e.g. by global irradiation combined with a mask the energy source being concentrated, e.g. scanning lasers or focused light sources
  • B29C 64/282 - Arrangements for irradiation using multiple radiation means, e.g. micromirrors or multiple light-emitting diodes [LED] of the same type, e.g. using different energy levels
  • B33Y 10/00 - Processes of additive manufacturing

34.

CHARGING ROBOT AND METHOD FOR OPERATING SAME

      
Application Number EP2019057515
Publication Number 2019/185589
Status In Force
Filing Date 2019-03-26
Publication Date 2019-10-03
Owner
  • FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
  • FORD-WERKE GMBH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Sponheimer, Arnulf
  • Kees, Markus
  • Hobein, Bert

Abstract

The invention relates to a charging robot (1) for charging an accumulator of a parked electrically driven motor vehicle (4), wherein the charging robot (1) is connected to a power supply device (3) via a cable (2), and is configured to drive automatically to the motor vehicle (4) and charge its accumulator with electric current. According to the invention, the charging robot (1) contains a rotatable cable take-up reel which is configured to automatically wind in and unwind the cable (2) in accordance with the locomotion of the charging robot (1).

IPC Classes  ?

  • B60L 53/12 - Inductive energy transfer
  • B60L 53/14 - Conductive energy transfer
  • B60L 53/34 - Plug-like or socket-like devices specially adapted for contactless inductive charging of electric vehicles
  • B60L 53/35 - Means for automatic or assisted adjustment of the relative position of charging devices and vehicles
  • B60L 53/37 - Means for automatic or assisted adjustment of the relative position of charging devices and vehicles using optical position determination, e.g. using cameras
  • B60L 53/38 - Means for automatic or assisted adjustment of the relative position of charging devices and vehicles specially adapted for charging by inductive energy transfer
  • B60L 53/68 - Off-site monitoring or control, e.g. remote control
  • H02G 11/02 - Arrangements of electric cables or lines between relatively-movable parts using take-up reel or drum
  • B65H 75/42 - Cores, formers, supports, or holders for coiled, wound, or folded material, e.g. reels, spindles, bobbins, cop tubes, cans specially adapted or mounted for storing and repeatedly paying-out and re-storing lengths of material provided for particular purposes, e.g. anchored hoses, power cables involving the use of a core or former internal to, and supporting, a stored package of material mobile or transportable attached to, or forming part of, mobile tools or machines

35.

DISPLAY FOR AN AUTONOMOUS TAXI

      
Application Number US2018024606
Publication Number 2019/190481
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-03-27
Publication Date 2019-10-03
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Dubey, Prashant
  • Baldovino, Segundo
  • Brown, Laron
  • Krishnan, Venkatesh
  • Kamath, Mohan

Abstract

An applique is mounted over one or both B-pillars of an autonomous vehicle and includes a display, speaker, touch input, and microphone. The applique may include a curved cover mounted over a printed circuit board (PCB) having LED arrays mounted thereto. A diffuser defines windows for the LED arrays and has a planar surface interfacing with the PCB and a curved surface interfacing with the curved cover. A controller of the vehicle detects proximity to a passenger to be picked up and displays the passenger's name at a first proximity, outputs a spoken message at a second, closer, proximity, and outputs a visible and audible prompt to enter an access code at a third proximity closer than the second proximity.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06K 9/20 - Image acquisition
  • G06K 9/28 - Image acquisition using discrete sensing elements at predetermined points
  • G06F 3/048 - Interaction techniques based on graphical user interfaces [GUI]

36.

BLOCKCHAIN AUTHENTICATION OF A VEHICLE RIDER

      
Application Number US2018021382
Publication Number 2019/172905
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-03-07
Publication Date 2019-09-12
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor Hassani, Ali

Abstract

Systems, methods, and devices for verifying an identity of a user of a vehicle. The method includes receiving user authentication data from a vehicle sensor and generating a transaction token comprising the user authentication data. The method includes transmitting the transaction token to a blockchain database. The method includes receiving a message from the blockchain database comprising one or more of: a request for additional user authentication data; or an indication that a rider authentication server has verified the identity of the user.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06Q 99/00 - Subject matter not provided for in other groups of this subclass

37.

ROUTE SUGGESTING AUTONOMOUS VEHICLE

      
Application Number US2018021610
Publication Number 2019/172915
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-03-08
Publication Date 2019-09-12
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Venkiteswaran, Prasad
  • Collins, Patrick

Abstract

Techniques and examples pertaining to suggesting an alternative route for an autonomous vehicle are described. A method for suggesting the alternative route may involve receiving, by a processor, information relevant to a via point in a vicinity of a predetermined route of a vehicle. The method may also involve performing, by the processor, a calculation for an alternative route comprising the via point based on the information and an itinerary of a next trip of the vehicle. The method may also involve presenting, by the processor, the alternative route to a passenger in the vehicle in an event that the calculation is positive. The method may further involve transmitting, by the processor via a wireless transmitter, commands to the autonomous vehicle to maneuver the autonomous vehicle to travel along the alternative route in an event that the passenger approves the alternative route.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude, or attitude of land, water, air, or space vehicles, e.g. automatic pilot

38.

CHANGING VEHICLE CONFIGURATION BASED ON VEHICLE STORAGE COMPARTMENT CONTENTS

      
Application Number US2018021717
Publication Number 2019/172927
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-03-09
Publication Date 2019-09-12
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Schmidt, David
  • Kreder, Richard, A.

Abstract

The present invention extends to methods, systems, and computer program products for changing vehicle configuration based on vehicle storage compartment contents. At an autonomous vehicle, a camera is mounted inside a storage compartment. The camera monitors the interior of the storage compartment. The camera can confirm that the storage compartment is empty when it is supposed to be empty and contains an object when it is supposed to contain an object. Any discrepancies can be reported to a human operator. The human operator can instruct the autonomous vehicle to change configuration to address discrepancies. In one aspect, a machine-learning camera memorizes a background pattern permeated to a surface of the storage compartment. The machine-learning camera detects objects in the storage compartment based on disturbances to the background pattern.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B60K 28/08 - Safety devices for propulsion-unit control, specially adapted for, or arranged in, vehicles, e.g. preventing fuel supply or ignition in the event of potentially dangerous conditions responsive to conditions relating to the cargo, e.g. overload
  • B60R 22/00 - Safety belts or body harnesses in vehicles
  • B60W 10/00 - Conjoint control of vehicle sub-units of different type or different function
  • G06Q 10/08 - Logistics, e.g. warehousing, loading or distribution; Inventory or stock management
  • H04W 4/02 - Services making use of location information
  • G06N 5/00 - Computing arrangements using knowledge-based models

39.

INTEGRATING TRANSPORTATION SERVICES AND FACILITY ACCESS SERVICES THROUGH A CALENDAR SYSTEM

      
Application Number US2018021744
Publication Number 2019/172929
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-03-09
Publication Date 2019-09-12
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Mikulski, Thomas
  • Chen, Yifan

Abstract

The present invention extends to methods, systems, and computer program products for integrating transportation services and facility access services through a calendar system. A client application used to access a calendar system can also include integrated user interface controls for scheduling rides from a transportation service. When a ride is confirmed, the application can also request (e.g., key card) access to a building at the ride's destination. Integrating transportation services and facility access services though a calendar system reduces context switching between different applications. Reduced context switching streamlines scheduling of transportation for events (e.g., corporate meetings), which may result in individuals requesting transportation to an event along with (or at least closer in time to) the scheduling the event. The earlier in time a transportation service receives transportation requests, the better the transportation service can optimize resource allocation to satisfy transportation requests.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06Q 10/02 - Reservations, e.g. for tickets, services or events

40.

TURN PATH VISUALIZATION TO IMPROVE SPATIAL AND SITUATIONAL AWARENESS IN TURN MANEUVERS

      
Application Number US2018021831
Publication Number 2019/172938
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-03-09
Publication Date 2019-09-12
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Ferrer, John Michael
  • Rao, Jayanthi
  • Schein, Victoria

Abstract

Sensor data and data from V2V messages are used to detect obstacles. Additional obstacles are identified in map data according to a vehicle's position. In response to detecting a turn intent, a controller calculates a turn path according to the detected obstacles and properties of the vehicle. The turn path is presented to a user, such as by display on a HUD or superimposing the turn path on an image from a forward facing camera. A desired steering angle to traverse the turn path may be displayed, such as relative to the current steering angle of the vehicle. Notifications regarding the path and turning intent of other vehicle may be displayed along with the turn path.

IPC Classes  ?

41.

SELF-CENTERING LANDING PLATFORM

      
Application Number US2018018149
Publication Number 2019/160540
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-02-14
Publication Date 2019-08-22
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Sugimoto, Yuji
  • Carthew, James
  • Singh, Aditya

Abstract

Example landing platform systems and methods are described. In one implementation, a landing platform includes a top plate configured to support an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), where the top plate has a plurality of slots therethrough. A rotating plate is located adjacent the top plate and includes multiple centering pins extending therefrom and extending through the plurality of slots in the top plate. A motor is capable of rotating the rotating plate, which causes the multiple centering pins to center the UAV on the top plate.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B64C 39/00 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for
  • B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
  • B64D 47/00 - Equipment not otherwise provided for
  • B64F 1/00 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations
  • B64F 1/02 - Arresting gear; Liquid barriers
  • B64F 1/12 - Anchoring
  • B64F 1/36 - Other airport installations

42.

VEHICLE LIGHTING SYSTEM

      
Application Number US2018017148
Publication Number 2019/156657
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-02-07
Publication Date 2019-08-15
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Al-Khafaji, Ameen Basim
  • Soloukmofrad, Ali
  • Boston, Daniel Lewis

Abstract

A lamp system includes a socket attachable to a vehicle, a ball engaged as a ball-and-socket joint with the socket, and a lamp fixed to the ball and directed outwardly relative to the ball. The ball is rotatable about a geometrical center of the ball in response to or anticipation of acceleration of the vehicle.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B60Q 1/08 - Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to illuminate the way ahead or to illuminate other areas of way or environments the devices being headlights adjustable, e.g. remotely-controlled from inside vehicle automatically
  • B60Q 1/00 - Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor
  • B60Q 1/06 - Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to illuminate the way ahead or to illuminate other areas of way or environments the devices being headlights adjustable, e.g. remotely-controlled from inside vehicle
  • B60Q 1/10 - Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to illuminate the way ahead or to illuminate other areas of way or environments the devices being headlights adjustable, e.g. remotely-controlled from inside vehicle automatically due to vehicle inclination, e.g. due to load distribution
  • B60Q 1/115 - Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to illuminate the way ahead or to illuminate other areas of way or environments the devices being headlights adjustable, e.g. remotely-controlled from inside vehicle automatically due to vehicle inclination, e.g. due to load distribution by electric means
  • B60Q 3/00 - Arrangement of lighting devices for vehicle interiors; Lighting devices specially adapted for vehicle interiors
  • B60Q 3/20 - Arrangement of lighting devices for vehicle interiors; Lighting devices specially adapted for vehicle interiors mounted on specific fittings of passenger or driving compartments

43.

PEDESTRIAN MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS AND METHODS

      
Application Number US2018017583
Publication Number 2019/156678
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-02-09
Publication Date 2019-08-15
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Perez Barrera, Oswaldo
  • Lopez Rubio, David Franco
  • Morales Bolanos, Hedy H.
  • Frieventh, Rodrigo C.

Abstract

Example pedestrian management systems and methods are described. In one implementation, a method identifies a pedestrian approaching a known pedestrian crossing location. A pedestrian management system notifies an approaching vehicle that the pedestrian wants to cross a road in front of the approaching vehicle. The approaching vehicle determines whether the pedestrian has sufficient time to cross the road ahead of the vehicle. The pedestrian management system then notifies the pedestrian whether they can cross the road ahead of the vehicle.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G08G 1/005 - Traffic control systems for road vehicles including pedestrian guidance indicator
  • G08G 1/16 - Anti-collision systems

44.

VIRTUAL WINDOW FOR TELECONFERENCING

      
Application Number US2018016457
Publication Number 2019/152038
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-02-01
Publication Date 2019-08-08
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Arvanitis, Andreas
  • Whitaker, Matthew

Abstract

Techniques and examples pertaining to a virtual window between two remotely located environments are described. A method for teleconferencing using the virtual window may involve receiving, from a camera, first multimedia data of a first environment. The method may also involve receiving, from a position tracker, position data of a user in a second environment. The method may also involve transforming, based on the position data, the first multimedia data to second multimedia data of the first environment. The method may further involve presenting the second multimedia data to the user such that the user perceives the first environment as being separated from the second environment by a physical window.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/048 - Interaction techniques based on graphical user interfaces [GUI]
  • H04N 7/14 - Systems for two-way working
  • H04N 7/15 - Conference systems

45.

MAP DISCREPANCY IDENTIFICATION WITH CENTRALIZED MAP DATA

      
Application Number US2018016678
Publication Number 2019/152049
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-02-02
Publication Date 2019-08-08
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Syed, Fazal
  • Nallapa, Venkatapathi

Abstract

Systems, methods, and devices for determining a vehicle path based on a plurality of inputs are disclosed. A method includes receiving map data from a centralized map information network pertaining to a current location of a vehicle and receiving sensor data from one or more vehicle sensors pertaining to the current location of the vehicle. The method includes determining if a map discrepancy exists between the map data and the sensor data. The method includes generating a transaction request to a blockchain database for map discrepancy data and receiving updated map information from the blockchain database.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01C 21/04 - Navigation; Navigational instruments not provided for in groups by terrestrial means
  • G01C 21/20 - Instruments for performing navigational calculations
  • G01C 21/26 - Navigation; Navigational instruments not provided for in groups specially adapted for navigation in a road network
  • G01C 21/28 - Navigation; Navigational instruments not provided for in groups specially adapted for navigation in a road network with correlation of data from several navigational instruments
  • G01C 21/30 - Map- or contour-matching
  • G01C 21/32 - Structuring or formatting of map data
  • G05D 1/02 - Control of position or course in two dimensions

46.

MOTION PLANNING FOR AUTONOMOUS POINT-OF-SALE VEHICLES

      
Application Number US2018016020
Publication Number 2019/151995
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-01-30
Publication Date 2019-08-08
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Herman, David Michael
  • Decia, Nunzio
  • Scheufler, Nicholas
  • Herman, David A.
  • Orris, Stephen
  • Orris, David

Abstract

A method for motion planning for a point-of-sale autonomous vehicle. The method includes scanning, via sensors of an autonomous vehicle, an external environment for a potential customer of a point-of-sale business. The sensors may detect the potential customer. The method may then determine whether the potential customer is likely to patronize the point-of-sale business. If so, the method may navigate the autonomous vehicle to a location proximate the potential customer to facilitate a business opportunity. A corresponding system and computer program product are also disclosed and claimed herein.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude, or attitude of land, water, air, or space vehicles, e.g. automatic pilot

47.

VIRTUAL SOOTHING IN A TRANSPORTATION VEHICLE

      
Application Number US2018016260
Publication Number 2019/152025
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-01-31
Publication Date 2019-08-08
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Salter, Stuart
  • Buttolo, Pietro
  • Huebner, Annette
  • Dellock, Paul, Kenneth

Abstract

Techniques and examples pertaining to virtual soothing in a transportation vehicle are described. A method for soothing a passenger in a vehicle may involve receiving monitoring data relevant to the passenger from a plurality of sensors in the vehicle. The method may also involve determining a soothing need or an emergency condition of the passenger based on the monitoring data. The method may further involve presenting a multimedia message to the passenger that addresses the soothing need or the emergency condition. The multimedia message may be specific to the passenger and relevant to the soothing need or the emergency condition. The multimedia message may exhibit characteristics that enable the passenger to perceive the multimedia message as being verbally generated by a guardian with whom the passenger is personally acquainted.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61B 5/01 - Measuring temperature of body parts
  • A61B 5/02 - Measuring pulse, heart rate, blood pressure or blood flow; Combined pulse/heart-rate/blood pressure determination; Evaluating a cardiovascular condition not otherwise provided for, e.g. using combinations of techniques provided for in this group with electrocardiography; Heart catheters for measuring blood pressure
  • A61B 5/0205 - Simultaneously evaluating both cardiovascular conditions and different types of body conditions, e.g. heart and respiratory condition
  • A61B 5/024 - Measuring pulse rate or heart rate
  • A61B 5/0245 - Measuring pulse rate or heart rate using sensing means generating electric signals
  • A61B 5/0255 - Recording instruments specially adapted therefor
  • A61B 5/08 - Measuring devices for evaluating the respiratory organs
  • B60K 28/02 - Safety devices for propulsion-unit control, specially adapted for, or arranged in, vehicles, e.g. preventing fuel supply or ignition in the event of potentially dangerous conditions responsive to conditions relating to the driver
  • B60K 28/04 - Safety devices for propulsion-unit control, specially adapted for, or arranged in, vehicles, e.g. preventing fuel supply or ignition in the event of potentially dangerous conditions responsive to conditions relating to the driver responsive to presence or absence of the driver, e.g. to weight or lack thereof
  • B60K 28/06 - Safety devices for propulsion-unit control, specially adapted for, or arranged in, vehicles, e.g. preventing fuel supply or ignition in the event of potentially dangerous conditions responsive to conditions relating to the driver responsive to incapacity of driver
  • B60K 28/14 - Safety devices for propulsion-unit control, specially adapted for, or arranged in, vehicles, e.g. preventing fuel supply or ignition in the event of potentially dangerous conditions responsive to conditions relating to the vehicle responsive to accident or emergency, e.g. deceleration, tilt of vehicle
  • G08B 21/02 - Alarms for ensuring the safety of persons

48.

PATH PLANNING FOR AUTONOMOUS MOVING DEVICES

      
Application Number US2018015047
Publication Number 2019/147235
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-01-24
Publication Date 2019-08-01
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Hong, Sanghyun
  • Lu, Jianbo
  • Filev, Dimitar

Abstract

The present invention extends to methods, systems, and computer program products for path planning for autonomous moving devices. Aspects of the invention include planning a path for a mobile robot to move autonomously in an environment that includes other static and moving obstacles, such as, for example, other mobile devices and pedestrians, without reference to a prior map of the environment. A planned path for a mobile robot can be determined, adjusted, and adapted using diffusion maps to avoid collisions while making progress towards a global destination. Path planning can include using transition probabilities between grid points to find a feasible path through parts of the environment to make progress towards the global destination. In one aspect, diffusion maps are used in combination with a receding horizon approach, including computing diffusion maps at specified time intervals.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G05B 19/04 - Programme control other than numerical control, i.e. in sequence controllers or logic controllers

49.

METHOD FOR SUPRESSING SURGE INSTABILITIES IN TURBOMACHINE COMPRESSORS

      
Application Number US2019015158
Publication Number 2019/147942
Status In Force
Filing Date 2019-01-25
Publication Date 2019-08-01
Owner
  • OHIO STATE INNOVATION FOUNDATION (USA)
  • FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Dehner, Richard
  • Selamet, Ahmet
  • Miazgowicz, Keith

Abstract

drdrrrdd at a current compressor rotational speed.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F04D 27/00 - Control, e.g. regulation, of pumps, pumping installations or pumping systems specially adapted for elastic fluids
  • F04D 27/02 - Surge control
  • F02B 37/22 - Control of the pumps by varying the cross-section of exhaust passages or air passages
  • F02B 37/12 - Control of the pumps

50.

MOVEABLE MOUNTING STRUCTURE FOR UAV

      
Application Number US2018013158
Publication Number 2019/139574
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-01-10
Publication Date 2019-07-18
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Singh, Aditya
  • Carthew, James

Abstract

Example moveable mounting structures and methods are described. In one implementation, an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) includes a body and a moveable mounting structure coupled to the body. The moveable mounting structure can move between a stowed position and a deployed position without interfering with a payload carried by the UAV. A camera is mounted to the moveable mounting structure.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B64C 27/08 - Helicopters with two or more rotors
  • B64C 29/00 - Aircraft capable of landing or taking-off vertically, e.g. vertical take-off and landing [VTOL] aircraft

51.

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ADVERTISING ON SHUTTLE SERVICES

      
Application Number US2018013734
Publication Number 2019/139628
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-01-15
Publication Date 2019-07-18
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Macneille, Perry Robinson
  • Liu, Yimin

Abstract

An advertising method for a shuttle comprises by a controller, responsive to identifying a drop-off location and a business paying to influence a route travelled by the shuttle, selecting one of a plurality of routes to the drop-off location according to a priming estimate indicating that points of interest along the one share more characteristics with the business relative to others of the plurality; and commanding the shuttle to travel the one.

IPC Classes  ?

52.

HYBRID DRIVE

      
Application Number US2018012104
Publication Number 2019/135735
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-01-02
Publication Date 2019-07-11
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Elie, Larry Dean
  • Gale, Allan, Roy
  • Janson, David Allen
  • Woodside, Wayne Paul

Abstract

A system includes a support arm. The system includes an engine supported by the support arm. The system includes an armature supported by the support arm. The system includes a coupling device disposed around the armature and slidable between a first position in which the coupling device couples the engine to the armature, and a second position in which the coupling device is uncoupled from the engine.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B60W 20/40 - Controlling the engagement or disengagement of prime movers, e.g. for transition between prime movers
  • B60W 20/00 - Control systems specially adapted for hybrid vehicles
  • B60W 10/06 - Conjoint control of vehicle sub-units of different type or different function including control of propulsion units including control of combustion engines
  • B60W 10/08 - Conjoint control of vehicle sub-units of different type or different function including control of propulsion units including control of electric propulsion units, e.g. motors or generators
  • B60W 10/18 - Conjoint control of vehicle sub-units of different type or different function including control of braking systems
  • B60K 6/20 - Arrangement or mounting of plural diverse prime-movers for mutual or common propulsion, e.g. hybrid propulsion systems comprising electric motors and internal combustion engines the prime-movers consisting of electric motors and internal combustion engines, e.g. HEVs
  • B60K 6/387 - Actuated clutches, i.e. clutches engaged or disengaged by electric, hydraulic or mechanical actuating means
  • B60K 6/40 - Arrangement or mounting of plural diverse prime-movers for mutual or common propulsion, e.g. hybrid propulsion systems comprising electric motors and internal combustion engines the prime-movers consisting of electric motors and internal combustion engines, e.g. HEVs characterised by apparatus, components or means specially adapted for HEVs characterised by the assembly or relative disposition of components
  • B60K 6/405 - Housings

53.

ENQUEUING ELECTRIC VEHICLES FOR IMPROVED FLEET AVAILABILITY

      
Application Number US2017067133
Publication Number 2019/125395
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-12-18
Publication Date 2019-06-27
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor Dudar, Aed, M.

Abstract

Electric vehicles arriving at a charging station transmit their state of charge, capacity, and departure time to a computer system. Vehicles are sorted into tiers according to departure time and sorted within tiers according to charging time based on state of charge and capacity. The vehicles are then assigned to queues according to the tiers and ordering within tiers such that vehicles with sooner departure times and shorter charge times are given priority. Where there are multiple queues, vehicles with a shorter charge time may be assigned to a first queue while remaining vehicles are assigned to one or more other queues. Charging stations may have different capacity and vehicles with higher priority according to sooner departure time and shorter charging time may be assigned to faster chargers.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B60L 11/02 - using engine-driven generators
  • B60L 11/18 - using power supplied from primary cells, secondary cells, or fuel cells

54.

VEHICLE REAL-TIME PERFORMANCE FEEDBACK SYSTEM

      
Application Number US2017068202
Publication Number 2019/125485
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-12-22
Publication Date 2019-06-27
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Ostrowski, David
  • Tascillo, Mark Anthony
  • Panigrahi, Smruti Ranjan
  • Niemiee, Joseph

Abstract

A vehicle such as a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) and method of operation, which include controller(s) coupled to a communication unit, configured to respond to a trip signal, and in response, to generate a driver notification to adjust vehicle performance parameters, such as acceleration, speed, braking, and others. The driver notification is generated to reduce fuel and/or battery consumption, and according to a recommendation signal that is received from and generated by a remote fleet server, and in response to instantaneous vehicle operating conditions that are communicated in real-time from the vehicle to the remote server. The recommendation signal includes a fuel and/or a battery consumption estimate, among other data. The vehicle controller is also responsive to detecting the one or more adjusted vehicle performance parameters, and to generate and store one or more estimate errors, which are respective differences between the estimates and actual fuel and battery consumption.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G07C 5/08 - Registering or indicating performance data other than driving, working, idle, or waiting time, with or without registering driving, working, idle, or waiting time

55.

SHUTTLE ROUTING SYSTEM

      
Application Number US2017067113
Publication Number 2019/125389
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-12-18
Publication Date 2019-06-27
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Macneille, Perry
  • Yeung, Jeffrey
  • Van Hoecke, Patrick Lawrence Jackson
  • Gusikhin, Oleg
  • Shah, Ayush

Abstract

Riders may request rides from a rider location to a desired destination. Possible stops are selected according to a fairness calculation that accounts for distance, weather, and wait times. Stops may be selected from among predefined virtual stops and based on virtual curb colors defining permitted stopping locations. Stops may be moved to promotional locations or to avoid stop congestion due to too many shuttles or too many riders using the stop. Routes are calculated for these stops and ETAs for the routes calculated based on traffic congestion data. Stop locations are communicated to riders and updated based on current traffic conditions or change in rider locations.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01C 21/34 - Route searching; Route guidance
  • G06Q 10/06 - Resources, workflows, human or project management; Enterprise or organisation planning; Enterprise or organisation modelling
  • G06Q 50/30 - Transportation; Communications
  • H04W 4/04 - in a dedicated environment, e.g. buildings or vehicles

56.

AUTONOMOUS VEHICLE CLIMATE OPTIMIZATION

      
Application Number US2017065900
Publication Number 2019/117878
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-12-12
Publication Date 2019-06-20
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Boston, Daniel
  • Ahmed, Nayaz, Khalid
  • Soloukmofrad, Ali
  • Kapadia, Jimmy

Abstract

A method for optimizing climate control in an autonomous vehicle. The method includes receiving a ride request for an autonomous vehicle from a customer. A desired temperature for an interior of the autonomous vehicle may be determined based on the ride request. The current temperature of the vehicle interior may then be adjusted such that the current temperature substantially matches the desired temperature when the autonomous vehicle reaches the customer. The temperature of the vehicle interior may be allowed to deviate from the desired temperature, within a pre-determined temperature deviation range, when the autonomous vehicle is unoccupied. A corresponding system and computer program product are also disclosed and claimed herein.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B60H 1/00 - Heating, cooling or ventilating devices
  • G01C 21/34 - Route searching; Route guidance
  • G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude, or attitude of land, water, air, or space vehicles, e.g. automatic pilot
  • G08G 1/00 - Traffic control systems for road vehicles

57.

BAGGAGE TRANSPORTATION USING AUTONOMOUS VEHICLE

      
Application Number US2017066337
Publication Number 2019/117908
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-12-14
Publication Date 2019-06-20
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Krishnamurthy, Vivekananda
  • Hamilton, Kathryn
  • Siciak, Ray
  • Damsaz, Mahrdad

Abstract

Techniques and examples pertaining to baggage transportation in a vehicle-sharing environment are described. An automotive vehicle may have a plurality of baggage compartments each respectively having a size capacity and a weight capacity. The vehicle may also have a plurality of sensors capable of monitoring a loading situation of the plurality of baggage compartments. The vehicle may further have a memory element capable of storing capacity data representing the loading situation, as well as a processor capable of updating the capacity data in an event that the loading situation is changed due to a baggage having been loaded to, or unloaded from, a baggage compartment of the plurality of the baggage compartment. The automotive vehicle may be an autonomous ride-sharing vehicle.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06Q 50/30 - Transportation; Communications
  • G06Q 10/06 - Resources, workflows, human or project management; Enterprise or organisation planning; Enterprise or organisation modelling
  • G06Q 10/08 - Logistics, e.g. warehousing, loading or distribution; Inventory or stock management
  • G01C 21/34 - Route searching; Route guidance

58.

RANGE-BASED VEHICLE PLATOON ORDERING

      
Application Number US2017066130
Publication Number 2019/117894
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-12-13
Publication Date 2019-06-20
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Rao, Jayanthi
  • Neubecker, Cynthia
  • Mitra, Pramita
  • Macneille, Perry
  • Ignaczak, Brad
  • Datta Gupta, Somak

Abstract

Vehicles that are autonomous or human-operated may drive in a platoon to achieve energy savings. A leader vehicle receives information broadcasts from following vehicles that include a state of energy and one or more other values such as energy usage rates, range, destination, and aerodynamic properties. The leader vehicle may then determine an ordering of vehicles that increases the range of the platoon, e.g., reduces the number of refueling/recharging stops of the platoon. Other considerations for ordering the vehicles may include overall energy savings and a fair distribution of energy savings. A desired ordering may be achieved by transmitting swap commands to pairs of vehicles until the platoon is in the correct ordering.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G05D 1/02 - Control of position or course in two dimensions
  • G08G 1/00 - Traffic control systems for road vehicles
  • B60W 10/04 - Conjoint control of vehicle sub-units of different type or different function including control of propulsion units
  • B60W 30/165 - Control of distance between vehicles, e.g. keeping a distance to preceding vehicle automatically following the path of a preceding lead vehicle, e.g. "electronic tow-bar"
  • B60W 10/20 - Conjoint control of vehicle sub-units of different type or different function including control of steering systems

59.

CHARGING DELIVERY SYSTEM FOR A VEHICLE

      
Application Number US2017065089
Publication Number 2019/112586
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-12-07
Publication Date 2019-06-13
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Zenner, Thomas
  • Hammoud, Mazen
  • Layden, Kevin

Abstract

A charge delivery system is described. The system includes a robotic arm couplable to a charge-providing vehicle. The arm may include a plurality of segments, wherein a charge port is coupled to one of the plurality. In some examples, the system further includes a charge circuit that provides power to the charge port. In some examples, the system further includes a computer programmed to control the arm.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B60L 11/18 - using power supplied from primary cells, secondary cells, or fuel cells
  • H02J 7/00 - Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries
  • H02J 7/14 - Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries for charging batteries from dynamo-electric generators driven at varying speed, e.g. on vehicle
  • G05D 1/02 - Control of position or course in two dimensions

60.

DYNAMIC VEHICLE CHARGING

      
Application Number US2017065088
Publication Number 2019/112585
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-12-07
Publication Date 2019-06-13
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Zenner, Thomas
  • Hammoud, Mazen
  • Layden, Kevin

Abstract

A system for receiving an electric charge from a charge-providing vehicle (CPV) and a method of using the system. A method includes: receiving, at a target vehicle, a message from a charge-providing vehicle (CPV), the message identifying a rendezvous location; operating in an autonomous follow mode at or after the location; and receiving, at a battery, an electrical charge from the CPV.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B60L 11/18 - using power supplied from primary cells, secondary cells, or fuel cells
  • G01C 21/36 - Input/output arrangements for on-board computers
  • G05D 1/02 - Control of position or course in two dimensions
  • G06F 17/00 - Digital computing or data processing equipment or methods, specially adapted for specific functions

61.

VEHICLE ROUTE CONTROL

      
Application Number US2017063610
Publication Number 2019/108171
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-11-29
Publication Date 2019-06-06
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor Zahedi, Emad

Abstract

A system includes a computer including a processor and a memory. The memory includes instructions executable by the processor to determine a route density that is a measure of an amount of cargo traveling between specified locations and destinations per unit of distance traveled, to determine a route for each of a plurality of vehicles based on a maximum route density, and to instruct a plurality of computers to actuate components of the plurality of vehicles to move along the routes.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01C 21/34 - Route searching; Route guidance
  • G01C 21/36 - Input/output arrangements for on-board computers
  • G05D 1/02 - Control of position or course in two dimensions
  • G08G 1/123 - Traffic control systems for road vehicles indicating the position of vehicles, e.g. scheduled vehicles
  • G06Q 50/28 - Logistics, e.g. warehousing, loading, distribution or shipping

62.

UAV LANDING SYSTEMS AND METHODS

      
Application Number US2017063686
Publication Number 2019/108174
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-11-29
Publication Date 2019-06-06
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Carthew, James
  • Singh, Aditya

Abstract

Example UAV landing systems and methods are described. In one implementation, a landing platform includes a conveyor belt capable of supporting an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). The conveyor belt can move in a first direction and a second direction that is opposite the first direction. The landing platform also includes a first positioning bumper and a second positioning bumper, where the first positioning bumper and the second positioning bumper are capable of repositioning the UAV on the conveyor belt. The landing platform further includes a cradle that can receive and secure the UAV.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B64C 27/08 - Helicopters with two or more rotors
  • B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
  • B65G 15/30 - Belts or like endless load-carriers
  • G05D 1/10 - Simultaneous control of position or course in three dimensions

63.

SINGLE CHANNEL LIGHT COMMUNICATION FOR VEHICLE REGISTRATION

      
Application Number US2017063776
Publication Number 2019/108181
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-11-29
Publication Date 2019-06-06
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Singh, Aditya
  • Xiong, Weifeng
  • Carthew, James

Abstract

Techniques and examples pertaining to single channel line-of-sight (LOS) communication are described. The transmitting end of the LOS communication involves direct modulation of a light emitted from a light emitter. The receiving end of the LOS communication involves receiving a video stream of the light emitter emitting the light, wherein the video stream comprises a plurality of video frames that are continuous in time. The receiving end of the LOS communication also involves converting the video stream to a binary string comprising a plurality of binary bits. Each of the binary bits corresponds to a respective one of the plurality of video frames, and the binary string contains a repeated binary pattern representing a message being conveyed. The receiving end of the LOS communication also involves extracting the binary pattern from the binary string and then decoding the binary pattern to obtain the message.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H04B 10/116 - Visible light communication
  • G06K 9/46 - Extraction of features or characteristics of the image
  • B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use

64.

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR VEHICLE TO DRONE INTERACTION

      
Application Number US2017064258
Publication Number 2019/108228
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-12-01
Publication Date 2019-06-06
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Miller, Kenneth James
  • Dudar, Aed M.
  • Leone, Thomas G.

Abstract

A vehicle includes a controller that may be configured to, responsive to receiving a delivery request associated with a drone, periodically transmit a current location, trip route information, and acceleration data of the vehicle to guide the drone to a rendezvous location, and responsive to receiving a proximity notification associated with the drone, open a delivery opening of the vehicle.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G05D 1/10 - Simultaneous control of position or course in three dimensions
  • B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
  • B64C 39/00 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for

65.

OBJECT LOCATION COORDINATE DETERMINATION

      
Application Number US2017062725
Publication Number 2019/103721
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-11-21
Publication Date 2019-05-31
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Zagajac, Jovan, Milivoje
  • Vukovic, Ivan

Abstract

A system includes a processor and a memory. The memory stores instructions executable by the processor to receive an image from a stationary camera. The memory stores instructions to determine location coordinates of an object identified in the image based on location coordinates specified for the image. The memory stores instructions to operate a vehicle based on the object location coordinates.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06K 9/00 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints
  • B60R 11/04 - Mounting of cameras operative during drive; Arrangement of controls thereof relative to the vehicle
  • G05D 1/10 - Simultaneous control of position or course in three dimensions
  • G06K 9/52 - Extraction of features or characteristics of the image by deriving mathematical or geometrical properties from the whole image
  • G08G 1/16 - Anti-collision systems

66.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SHARING MEDIA CONTENT

      
Application Number US2017062824
Publication Number 2019/103725
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-11-21
Publication Date 2019-05-31
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Chen, Yifan
  • Mitra, Pramita
  • Sharma, Abhishek
  • Wang, Qianyi

Abstract

An infotainment system includes a transceiver to receive media content from a plurality of sources and communicate with a plurality of user devices and a broadcast device configured to broadcast media content. The infotainment system also includes a controller programmed to query the user devices for at least one media preference factor, and generate a composite public playlist based on an arbitration between different media preference factors received from the user devices.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H04W 4/00 - Services specially adapted for wireless communication networks; Facilities therefor
  • G06F 17/30 - Information retrieval; Database structures therefor
  • G06Q 30/00 - Commerce
  • G06Q 30/02 - Marketing; Price estimation or determination; Fundraising
  • H04L 29/06 - Communication control; Communication processing characterised by a protocol

67.

TRIP INFORMATION CONTROL SCHEME

      
Application Number US2017062381
Publication Number 2019/099033
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-11-17
Publication Date 2019-05-23
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Ragazzi, Franco
  • Schneider, Donald Peter
  • Elson, John Craig

Abstract

A climate control system for a vehicle includes a thermal management system and a controller configured to activate the thermal management system. The controller activates the thermal management system to satisfy a remote precondition request for a cabin of the vehicle, responsive to receiving the remote precondition request, data indicating the vehicle is in a ventilated area, and an estimated precondition time being less than a threshold precondition time. Each of the estimated precondition and threshold precondition times are derived from the remote precondition request and data.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B60H 1/00 - Heating, cooling or ventilating devices
  • B60W 10/06 - Conjoint control of vehicle sub-units of different type or different function including control of propulsion units including control of combustion engines
  • B60W 10/08 - Conjoint control of vehicle sub-units of different type or different function including control of propulsion units including control of electric propulsion units, e.g. motors or generators

68.

ENHANCED ROUTE PLANNING

      
Application Number US2017062136
Publication Number 2019/099016
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-11-17
Publication Date 2019-05-23
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Miller, Kenneth, J.
  • Dudar, Aed, M.
  • Leone, Thomas, G.

Abstract

A computer is programmed to estimate a total travel time for a vehicle from a current location in a multilevel structure to a destination. The estimated total travel time includes a sum of an estimated travel time from a specified point at the multilevel structure to the destination and estimated travel times for each level of the multilevel structure from a level of the current location to the specified point.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01C 21/00 - Navigation; Navigational instruments not provided for in groups
  • G01C 21/30 - Map- or contour-matching
  • G01C 21/32 - Structuring or formatting of map data
  • G01C 21/36 - Input/output arrangements for on-board computers

69.

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR ECONOMICAL REFUELING OF DRONES

      
Application Number US2017060125
Publication Number 2019/089052
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-11-06
Publication Date 2019-05-09
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Leone, Thomas G.
  • Miller, Kenneth James
  • Dudar, Aed M.

Abstract

A drone control method is provided. The method may be responsive to drone recharge energy cost being greater than a predefined threshold and include commanding a processor of the drone to execute actions that preclude the drone from recharging. The method may also be responsive to drone charge level falling below a charge threshold selected only while the drone recharge energy cost exceeds the predefined threshold and include commanding the processor to execute actions to recharge the drone.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
  • B60L 11/18 - using power supplied from primary cells, secondary cells, or fuel cells
  • G08G 5/00 - Traffic control systems for aircraft
  • G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude, or attitude of land, water, air, or space vehicles, e.g. automatic pilot
  • G05D 1/10 - Simultaneous control of position or course in three dimensions

70.

VEHICLE MODE AND PASSENGER INTERFACE

      
Application Number US2017059431
Publication Number 2019/089019
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-11-01
Publication Date 2019-05-09
Owner
  • FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
  • LIVIO, INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Kirk, Austin
  • Byrne, John
  • Grover, Joey Ray
  • Mcisaac, Brett
  • Lech, Theresa

Abstract

A vehicle system including a vehicle component and a controller is provided. The controller may selectively activate the vehicle component and communicate with a mobile unit including an interface. The controller may be programmed to interact with the mobile unit upon detection by accessing vehicle sleep mode instructions preprogrammed by a user via the interface in which the controller activates the vehicle component according to an escalation sequence schedule to disengage a vehicle sleep mode. The system may further include a sensor in communication with the vehicle component and the controller. The controller may be further programed to activate the vehicle component according to the escalation sequence schedule based on receipt of a signal from a sensor indicating a passenger is asleep.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 7/00 - Methods or arrangements for processing data by operating upon the order or content of the data handled

71.

DELIVERY VEHICLE WITH FLEXIBLE STORAGE

      
Application Number US2017057989
Publication Number 2019/083502
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-10-24
Publication Date 2019-05-02
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Buttolo, Pietro
  • Salter, Stuart C.
  • Huebner, Annette L.
  • Dellock, Paul K.

Abstract

A delivery vehicle has separate compartments with a common sidewall. Doors that are interchangeable between the compartments close the compartments. A latching assembly between the doors and sidewall limits movement of the sidewall when only one of the doors is closed. The compartments are combined into a single compartment by moving the sidewall when the doors are open. A hinge assembly connects the doors. A contact and wiper assembly between the doors carries power and commands for the hinge assembly.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A47B 45/00 - Cabinets, racks or shelf units, characterised by features enabling enlarging in height, length, or depth
  • B60P 1/02 - Vehicles predominantly for transporting loads and modified to facilitate loading, consolidating the load, or unloading with parallel up-and-down movement of load supporting or containing element
  • B65D 25/06 - Partitions adapted to be fitted in two or more alternative positions
  • B65D 43/02 - Removable lids or covers

72.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING AN AUTONOMOUS VEHICLE

      
Application Number US2017058035
Publication Number 2019/083505
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-10-24
Publication Date 2019-05-02
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Glenn, Tyler
  • Hand, Michael
  • Patel, Jash

Abstract

A method for controlling an autonomous vehicle is provided. While the vehicle is at a commanded destination the method may be responsive to an absence of an ingress/egress of a passenger for a predetermined period. The predetermined period may depend on whether the vehicle is in arrival mode or departure mode. The method may include commanding the vehicle to travel to a predetermined location selected to have measures of cellular-wireless signal strength that are greater than a predetermined threshold.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G05D 1/02 - Control of position or course in two dimensions
  • G06Q 10/02 - Reservations, e.g. for tickets, services or events
  • B60W 40/02 - Estimation or calculation of driving parameters for road vehicle drive control systems not related to the control of a particular sub-unit related to ambient conditions
  • B60W 40/08 - Estimation or calculation of driving parameters for road vehicle drive control systems not related to the control of a particular sub-unit related to drivers or passengers
  • B60W 40/12 - Estimation or calculation of driving parameters for road vehicle drive control systems not related to the control of a particular sub-unit related to parameters of the vehicle itself

73.

VEHICLE COMMUNICATION SYSTEM FOR SHARING REAL-TIME ARTICULATED VEHICLE POSITIONS

      
Application Number US2017058057
Publication Number 2019/083511
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-10-24
Publication Date 2019-05-02
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Ferrer, John Michael Galan
  • Rao, Jayanthi
  • Schein, Victoria Leigh

Abstract

A vehicle, hitch, and articulating trailer include vehicle to vehicle and infrastructure communications and vehicle computing systems, which have a controller coupled to and/or including one or more of a dynamics measurement unit, a transceiver, and a position sensor, among other components. The controller(s) are configured to, in response to detecting positions of trailer corners from the position sensor, generate vehicle and trailer relative orientation and navigation data including location, velocity, and orientation, utilizing vehicle and trailer electronic polyhedrons articulating about a hitch point and representing the combination vehicle and trailer predicted path and envelopes. In response to detected trailer movement relative to the hitch point, the generated articulated polyhedrons are generated with the navigation data, which includes the location, speed, and orientation, which are in turn communicated to nearby vehicles and roadway infrastructure. Initial trailer vertices may be generated with wireless and mobile devices to generate the trailer polyhedron.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B60D 1/62 - Auxiliary devices involving supply lines, electric circuits, or the like
  • B60R 1/00 - Optical viewing arrangements; Real-time viewing arrangements for drivers or passengers using optical image capturing systems, e.g. cameras or video systems specially adapted for use in or on vehicles
  • B62D 13/06 - Steering specially adapted for trailers for backing a normally-drawn trailer
  • B62D 15/02 - Steering position indicators
  • G01B 11/26 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques for testing the alignment of axes

74.

PROACTIVE VEHICLE POSITIONING DETERMINATIONS

      
Application Number US2017058348
Publication Number 2019/083528
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-10-25
Publication Date 2019-05-02
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor Balva, Alexander

Abstract

A provider, such as a transportation management service, can utilize an objective function to balance various metrics when selecting routing options to serve a set of customer trip requests. The objective function can provide a compromise between rider experience and provider economics, taking into account metrics such as rider convenience, operational efficiency, and ability to deliver on confirmed trips. The analysis can consider not only planned trips, or trips currently being planned, but also trips currently in progress as well as anticipated trips based on historical demand. The probability of various requests occurring can be used, along with anticipated capacity needs and trip parameters, to generate a set of proactive ride requests, which can be submitted with actual ride requests to attempt to optimize the placement of vehicles for future demand.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01C 21/00 - Navigation; Navigational instruments not provided for in groups
  • G01C 21/36 - Input/output arrangements for on-board computers
  • G06Q 10/00 - Administration; Management
  • G06Q 10/04 - Forecasting or optimisation specially adapted for administrative or management purposes, e.g. linear programming or "cutting stock problem"
  • G06Q 10/06 - Resources, workflows, human or project management; Enterprise or organisation planning; Enterprise or organisation modelling
  • G06Q 50/30 - Transportation; Communications

75.

POSITIONING SYSTEMS AND METHODS

      
Application Number US2017056760
Publication Number 2019/078812
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-10-16
Publication Date 2019-04-25
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Carthew, James
  • Ellis, Patrick
  • Singh, Adi

Abstract

Example positioning systems and methods are described. In one implementation, a landing platform includes a base having an aperture and multiple positioning arms attached to the base. Each of the multiple positioning arms can rotate between an unlocked position and a locked position. Additionally, each of the multiple positioning arms are configured to engage a positioning ring on an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and further configured to reposition the UAV on the base.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B64F 1/00 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations

76.

ROUTING OF HITCHHIKING DRONES WITH RESPECT TO AUTONOMOUS AND CONNECTED VEHICLES

      
Application Number US2017056802
Publication Number 2019/078815
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-10-16
Publication Date 2019-04-25
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Zeng, Connie
  • Knickerbocker, Jacob
  • Shaik, Razia
  • Marx, Kevin

Abstract

A drone flight plan between an origin and destination is evaluated with respect to planned routes of connected vehicles. The drone flight path is calculated such that it includes one or more docking segments on one or more vehicles. For multiple vehicles, multiple permutations of docking segments may be evaluated and assigned scores according to risk, drone flying time, timing issues, and other factors. A permutation having a score indicating higher desirability may be selected. The one or more vehicles may be autonomous and routes of the one or more vehicles may be adjusted in order to provide suitable docking segments for the drone flight path. The destination of the drone flight path may also be adjusted in order to permit docking on one or more vehicles.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G08G 5/00 - Traffic control systems for aircraft
  • B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
  • B64D 1/00 - Dropping, ejecting, releasing, or receiving articles, liquids, or the like, in flight
  • B64D 1/08 - Dropping, ejecting, or releasing articles the articles being load-carrying devices
  • B64D 1/12 - Releasing
  • B64D 1/22 - Taking-up articles from earth's surface
  • G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude, or attitude of land, water, air, or space vehicles, e.g. automatic pilot

77.

MOBILE DEVICE FOR CONNECTED MANUFACTURING FACILITY

      
Application Number US2017056863
Publication Number 2019/078817
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-10-17
Publication Date 2019-04-25
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Van Hoecke, Jack Lawrence Jackson
  • Melatti, Anthony
  • Rosenblatt, Danielle
  • Golgiri, Hamid M.

Abstract

A method of monitoring user location relative to a vehicle in an industrial setting is provided. The method includes, in response to a proximity of the vehicle to a user mobile device being less than a threshold proximity when the user mobile device is outside of a pedestrian zone defined by a perimeter, effecting an annunciation mode at the user mobile device.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G08B 21/02 - Alarms for ensuring the safety of persons
  • G08B 21/00 - Alarms responsive to a single specified undesired or abnormal condition and not otherwise provided for
  • G08G 9/00 - Traffic control systems for craft where the kind of craft is irrelevant or unspecified

78.

VEHICLE TO VEHICLE AND INFRASTRUCTURE COMMUNICATION AND PEDESTRIAN DETECTION SYSTEM

      
Application Number US2017057388
Publication Number 2019/078866
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-10-19
Publication Date 2019-04-25
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Mcquillen, Michael
  • Makled, Daniel A.

Abstract

A vehicle that includes controller(s) and components that are coupled with, among other devices and systems, imaging sensors, transceivers, and obstacle and infrastructure detectors, which are configured to detect and predict locations and movements of roadway obstacles, infrastructure features and elements that include, for example, intersections and crosswalks, and positions, movement, and trajectories of pedestrians and other vehicles. Such roadway obstacles may include the other vehicles, pedestrians on and entering the crosswalks and roadway, and other potential obstacles. The controller(s) and device(s) are also coupled to and/or configured as trajectory and intersection signal detectors, which detect the roadway obstacles and features such as the pedestrians, other vehicles, intersections, and crosswalks, as well as signals for the roadways and crosswalks. The vehicle controller(s) and device(s) generate and communicate signaling changes to the intersection and crosswalk infrastructure controllers, and message alerts that are communicated to the other vehicles.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H04N 5/232 - Devices for controlling television cameras, e.g. remote control
  • H04N 5/247 - Arrangement of television cameras
  • G08G 1/087 - Override of traffic control, e.g. by signal transmitted by an emergency vehicle
  • G08G 1/09 - Arrangements for giving variable traffic instructions
  • G08G 1/123 - Traffic control systems for road vehicles indicating the position of vehicles, e.g. scheduled vehicles
  • G08G 1/0965 - Arrangements for giving variable traffic instructions having an indicator mounted inside the vehicle, e.g. giving voice messages responding to signals from another vehicle, e.g. emergency vehicle
  • G08G 1/0967 - Systems involving transmission of highway information, e.g. weather, speed limits
  • H04W 76/00 - Connection management
  • H04W 84/18 - Self-organising networks, e.g. ad hoc networks or sensor networks

79.

IDENTIFYING AND MITIGATING VEHICLE ODORS

      
Application Number US2017056660
Publication Number 2019/074526
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-10-13
Publication Date 2019-04-18
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Macneille, Perry, Robinson
  • Schein, Victoria, Leigh
  • Yeung, Jeffrey, Brian
  • Maranville, Clay, Wesley
  • Gath, Kerrie, Kathleen
  • Boccuccia, Daniel

Abstract

A method for mitigating odor includes detecting a known smell using on one or more odor sensors in a vehicle. The method includes determining whether the known smell is agreeable to one or more passengers of the vehicle. The method includes mitigating the known smell using one or more odor control devices if the known smell is not agreeable to the one or more passengers of the vehicle.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A61L 9/01 - Deodorant compositions
  • G01N 33/00 - Investigating or analysing materials by specific methods not covered by groups
  • A61L 9/015 - Disinfection, sterilisation or deodorisation of air using gaseous or vaporous substances, e.g. ozone

80.

VEHICLE AND NAVIGATION SYSTEM

      
Application Number US2017054877
Publication Number 2019/070237
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-10-03
Publication Date 2019-04-11
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Wang, Bo
  • Liu, Yimin
  • Wong, Ambrose
  • Macneille, Perry Robinson

Abstract

A vehicle includes a navigation system that is programmed to, in response to selection of a destination, generate a travel route to the destination and display a total estimated travel time to the destination based on estimated travel times through intersections on the travel route and estimated travel times through road segments between intersections.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01C 21/00 - Navigation; Navigational instruments not provided for in groups
  • G01C 21/20 - Instruments for performing navigational calculations
  • G01C 21/34 - Route searching; Route guidance
  • G08G 1/00 - Traffic control systems for road vehicles
  • G08G 1/0962 - Arrangements for giving variable traffic instructions having an indicator mounted inside the vehicle, e.g. giving voice messages
  • G08G 1/0968 - Systems involving transmission of navigation instructions to the vehicle

81.

NATURAL SPEECH DATA GENERATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS

      
Application Number US2017055170
Publication Number 2019/070254
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-10-04
Publication Date 2019-04-11
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Chartte, Francois
  • Krishnan, Lakshmi
  • Tokatyan, Shant

Abstract

Example natural speech data generation systems and methods are described. In one implementation, a natural speech data generator initiates a game between a first player and a second player and determines a scenario associated with the game. A first role is assigned to the first player and a second role is assigned to the second player. The natural speech data generator receives multiple natural speech utterances by the first player and the second player during the game.

IPC Classes  ?

82.

ADVENTURE MODE FOR AUTONOMOUS VEHICLE

      
Application Number US2017055293
Publication Number 2019/070272
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-10-05
Publication Date 2019-04-11
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Rhodes, Kevin James
  • Bednar, Chad
  • Abdelhamid, Mahmoud

Abstract

An autonomous vehicle includes a steering and powertrain arrangement and a controller. The controller is programmed to, responsive to a request for adventure mode being received, operate the steering and powertrain arrangement to drive the vehicle along a wandering route having a same beginning and end location and including segments randomly selected by the controller.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude, or attitude of land, water, air, or space vehicles, e.g. automatic pilot

83.

DYNAMIC VEHICLE ROUTING DETERMINATIONS

      
Application Number US2017058346
Publication Number 2019/070298
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-10-25
Publication Date 2019-04-11
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor Balva, Alexander

Abstract

A provider, such as a transportation management service, can utilize an objective function to balance various metrics when selecting routing options to serve a set of customer trip requests. The objective function can provide a compromise between rider experience and provider economics, taking into account metrics such as rider convenience, operational efficiency, and ability to deliver on confirmed trips. The analysis can consider not only planned trips, or trips currently being planned, but also trips currently in progress. One or more optimization processes can be applied, which can vary the component values or weightings of the objective function, in order to attempt to improve the quality score generated for each proposed routing solution. A solution can be selected for implementation based at least in part upon the resulting quality scores of the proposed routing solutions.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06Q 10/02 - Reservations, e.g. for tickets, services or events
  • G06Q 30/02 - Marketing; Price estimation or determination; Fundraising
  • G06Q 50/30 - Transportation; Communications

84.

POLYURETHANE FOAMS CONTAINING ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING WASTE AS FILLER FOR AUTOMOTIVE APPLICATIONS AND PROCESSES FOR MANUFACTURING THE SAME

      
Application Number US2018053344
Publication Number 2019/067856
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-09-28
Publication Date 2019-04-04
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Kiziltas, Alper
  • Dowling, Zachary
  • Bedell, Mathew, Linden
  • Mielewski, Deborah

Abstract

A closed loop recycling process of manufacturing a foam part includes dispersing a filler material recycled from an additive manufacturing (AM) process in at least one foam reactant and pouring or injecting the at least one foam reactant with the filler material into a mold and forming the foam part. The foam part has a foam matrix with between 2.5 wt.% and 30 wt.% of the filler material. The filler material can be a recycled powder from a selective laser sintering process that is not graded (i.e., sized) before being dispersed in the at least one foam reactant. For example, the recycled powder can be a recycled polyamide 12 (rPA12) powder with an average particle diameter of less than 100 micrometers. Also, the least one foam reactant can be a polyol reactant and an isocyanate reactant such that a polyurethane foam matrix with recycled rPA12 filler material is formed.

IPC Classes  ?

  • C08G 18/48 - Polyethers
  • C08G 18/66 - Compounds of groups , , or
  • C08G 18/76 - Polyisocyanates or polyisothiocyanates cyclic aromatic
  • C08J 9/00 - Working-up of macromolecular substances to porous or cellular articles or materials; After-treatment thereof
  • C08G 18/32 - Polyhydroxy compounds; Polyamines; Hydroxy amines
  • C08G 18/40 - High-molecular-weight compounds
  • C08G 18/42 - Polycondensates having carboxylic or carbonic ester groups in the main chain
  • C08G 18/44 - Polycarbonates
  • C08L 75/04 - Polyurethanes
  • C08L 75/08 - Polyurethanes from polyethers

85.

VEHICLE FLUID FILL SYSTEM

      
Application Number US2017052429
Publication Number 2019/059900
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-09-20
Publication Date 2019-03-28
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Linan, Eric Vargas
  • Pesado, Sebastian
  • Lopez, Victor Ma Gutierrez

Abstract

A system includes a fill station, a vehicle, and a controller. The fill station has a first conduit. The vehicle has a subsystem that includes a second conduit configured to couple with the first conduit to establish a fluid connection between the subsystem and the fill station. The controller is programmed to, in response to a predetermined condition of the subsystem while the first and second conduits are coupled, automatically pump fluid from the fill station into the subsystem via the fluid connection.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B60S 5/02 - Supplying fuel to vehicles; General disposition of plant in filling stations
  • B60S 5/00 - Servicing, maintaining, repairing, or refitting of vehicles
  • B60S 5/04 - Supplying air for tyre inflation
  • B67D 7/00 - Apparatus or devices for transferring liquids from bulk storage containers or reservoirs into vehicles or into portable containers, e.g. for retail sale purposes
  • B67D 7/02 - Apparatus or devices for transferring liquids from bulk storage containers or reservoirs into vehicles or into portable containers, e.g. for retail sale purposes for transferring liquids other than fuel or lubricants
  • B67D 7/04 - Apparatus or devices for transferring liquids from bulk storage containers or reservoirs into vehicles or into portable containers, e.g. for retail sale purposes for transferring fuels, lubricants or mixed fuels and lubricants

86.

AUTONOMOUS DELIVERY VEHICLE WITH EXTERIOR SCANNING SYSTEM

      
Application Number US2017052898
Publication Number 2019/059921
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-09-22
Publication Date 2019-03-28
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Salter, Stuart C.
  • Huebner, Annette Lynn
  • Kenneth, Paul
  • Buttolo, Pietro
  • Krishnan, Venkatesh

Abstract

A vehicle includes a storage compartment configured to house a package for delivery and a side-mirror assembly. The side-mirror assembly includes an imager and a puddle light aimed to illuminate an area in a field of view of the imager. A vehicle controller is programmed to receive data representing a code associated with the delivery, energize the puddle lamp to illuminate the area, and unlock the storage compartment responsive to the imager detecting an image encoding data matching the code.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B60Q 1/32 - Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic for indicating vehicle sides
  • B60R 1/06 - Rear-view mirror arrangements mounted on vehicle exterior
  • G06K 7/14 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using light without selection of wavelength, e.g. sensing reflected white light

87.

ADAPTABLE STOWAGE ELEMENTS

      
Application Number US2017051295
Publication Number 2019/054996
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-09-13
Publication Date 2019-03-21
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Scheufler, Nicholas, Alexander
  • Orris, David, Joseph
  • Orris, Stephen, Jay, Jr.
  • Decia, Nunzio
  • Herman, David, A.

Abstract

A current location and a destination location of a vehicle are identified. A stowage parameter is predicted based on the current and destination locations. A vehicle component is actuated based on the stowage parameter.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B25J 9/16 - Programme controls
  • B60P 3/00 - Vehicles adapted to transport, to carry or to comprise special loads or objects
  • B60R 5/00 - Compartments within vehicle body primarily intended or sufficiently spacious for trunks, suit-cases, or the like
  • B60R 16/02 - Electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided for; Arrangement of elements of electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided for electric
  • B65G 1/137 - Storage devices mechanical with arrangements or automatic control means for selecting which articles are to be removed
  • G01C 21/26 - Navigation; Navigational instruments not provided for in groups specially adapted for navigation in a road network

88.

CATALYST FOR AUTOMOTIVE EMISSIONS CONTROL

      
Application Number US2017052001
Publication Number 2019/055040
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-09-18
Publication Date 2019-03-21
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Cheng, Yisun
  • Cavataio, Giovanni
  • Hepburn, Jeffrey Scott
  • Bumbaroska, Mira
  • Hubbard, Carolyn Parks

Abstract

An automotive catalytic converter includes a three-way catalyst having Rh as the only precious metal configured as a front zone and a three-way catalyst having a mixture of Rh and Pd, Pt, or both configured as a rear zone, such that an exhaust gas from an internal combustion engine passes through the front zone before passing through the rear zone to minimize sulfur poisoning of the catalytic converter.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B01D 53/94 - Chemical or biological purification of waste gases of engine exhaust gases by catalytic processes
  • B01J 23/42 - Platinum
  • B01J 23/44 - Palladium
  • B01J 23/46 - Ruthenium, rhodium, osmium or iridium
  • B01J 35/04 - Foraminous structures, sieves, grids, honeycombs
  • B01J 35/10 - Solids characterised by their surface properties or porosity
  • B01J 37/025 - Impregnation, coating or precipitation using a distinct intermediate layer, e.g. substrate-support-active layer
  • F01N 3/10 - Exhaust or silencing apparatus having means for purifying, rendering innocuous, or otherwise treating exhaust for rendering innocuous by thermal or catalytic conversion of noxious components of exhaust
  • F01N 3/28 - Construction of catalytic reactors

89.

VEHICLE SECURITY SYSTEMS AND METHODS

      
Application Number US2017049162
Publication Number 2019/045694
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-08-29
Publication Date 2019-03-07
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Spasovski, Kiril
  • Athavale, Shounak
  • Rodrigues, Flavia
  • Shirsat, Anuja, Anil

Abstract

Example vehicle security systems and methods are described. In one implementation, a method receives a destination and a driving route to the destination for an autonomous vehicle to follow. A vehicle security system identifies a passkey associated with the driving route and communicates the passkey to a user designated to meet the autonomous vehicle at the destination. The vehicle security system confirms that the user designated to meet the autonomous vehicle possesses the passkey.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B60W 30/00 - Purposes of road vehicle drive control systems not related to the control of a particular sub-unit, e.g. of systems using conjoint control of vehicle sub-units
  • G01C 21/00 - Navigation; Navigational instruments not provided for in groups
  • G01C 21/34 - Route searching; Route guidance
  • G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude, or attitude of land, water, air, or space vehicles, e.g. automatic pilot

90.

ENHANCED VEHICLE REFUELING

      
Application Number US2017048512
Publication Number 2019/040074
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-08-24
Publication Date 2019-02-28
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Leone, Thomas, G.
  • Miller, Kenneth, James
  • Dudar, Aed, M.

Abstract

Data are collected on at least one of a coolant temperature of a vehicle, an atmospheric ozone level, and air quality. A refueling time is determined based on the collected data. The vehicle is moved to a fueling station based on the refueling time.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B60W 10/04 - Conjoint control of vehicle sub-units of different type or different function including control of propulsion units
  • B60W 10/30 - Conjoint control of vehicle sub-units of different type or different function including control of auxiliary equipment, e.g. air-conditioning compressors or oil pumps
  • B60W 50/00 - CONJOINT CONTROL OF VEHICLE SUB-UNITS OF DIFFERENT TYPE OR DIFFERENT FUNCTION; CONTROL SYSTEMS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR HYBRID VEHICLES; ROAD VEHICLE DRIVE CONTROL SYSTEMS FOR PURPOSES NOT RELATED TO THE CONTROL OF A PARTICULAR SUB-UNIT - Details of control systems for road vehicle drive control not related to the control of a particular sub-unit
  • F17C 5/06 - Methods or apparatus for filling pressure vessels with liquefied, solidified, or compressed gases for filling with compressed gases
  • F17C 13/02 - Special adaptations of indicating, measuring, or monitoring equipment
  • G01C 21/34 - Route searching; Route guidance

91.

ENHANCED VEHICLE REFUELING

      
Application Number US2017048513
Publication Number 2019/040075
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-08-24
Publication Date 2019-02-28
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Leone, Thomas, G.
  • Miller, Kenneth, James
  • Dudar, Aed, M.

Abstract

Data are collected on a turbidity of a fuel tank at each of a plurality of fueling stations. A fueling station is selected based on the collected data. A vehicle is moved to the selected fueling station.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G07C 5/08 - Registering or indicating performance data other than driving, working, idle, or waiting time, with or without registering driving, working, idle, or waiting time
  • B60R 25/10 - Fittings or systems for preventing or indicating unauthorised use or theft of vehicles actuating a signalling device
  • G01C 21/00 - Navigation; Navigational instruments not provided for in groups
  • G06F 7/00 - Methods or arrangements for processing data by operating upon the order or content of the data handled
  • G07C 5/00 - Registering or indicating the working of vehicles

92.

DETECTION OF ANOMALIES IN THE INTERIOR OF AN AUTONOMOUS VEHICLE

      
Application Number US2017048606
Publication Number 2019/040080
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-08-25
Publication Date 2019-02-28
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Jales Costa, Bruno, Sielly
  • Deilamsalehy, Hanieh
  • Gerardo Castro, Marcos Pau
  • Bailur, Smita, Vinayak
  • Jain, Jinesh, J.

Abstract

An autonomous vehicle includes a microphone sensing sounds in the interior of the vehicle. The output of the interior microphone is processed according to an unsupervised machine learning model such that anomalies are indicated by the model. In response to detection of an anomaly, a remote dispatcher is notified, who may then dismiss the anomaly or transmit an instruction to the vehicle to alter its trajectory. The output of an exterior microphone and infotainment system may be removed from the output of the interior microphone prior to processing. An anomaly may be found to occur in response to detecting speaking of a keyword in the output of the interior microphone.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G08B 25/00 - Alarm systems in which the location of the alarm condition is signalled to a central station, e.g. fire or police telegraphic systems
  • G08B 25/01 - Alarm systems in which the location of the alarm condition is signalled to a central station, e.g. fire or police telegraphic systems characterised by the transmission medium
  • H04W 4/00 - Services specially adapted for wireless communication networks; Facilities therefor
  • H04W 4/04 - in a dedicated environment, e.g. buildings or vehicles
  • H04W 4/22 - Emergency connection handling

93.

VEHICLE-TO-VEHICLE COMMUNICATION USING DRONES

      
Application Number US2017048485
Publication Number 2019/040072
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-08-24
Publication Date 2019-02-28
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Macneille, Perry, Robinson
  • Hamel, Jeffrey, Anthony
  • Pfeiffer, John, Jeffrey
  • Moore, Doug

Abstract

A drone communication system is described. Using the system, a method may be executed that includes: when a recipient vehicle is out of wireless range, transmitting a message, from a sending vehicle, to a plurality of drones that are focusing antenna beams on the sending vehicle so that the plurality then may transmit the message to the recipient vehicle by focusing antenna beams thereon.

IPC Classes  ?

94.

A BEARING ASSEMBLY

      
Application Number GB2018051690
Publication Number 2019/034831
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-06-19
Publication Date 2019-02-21
Owner
  • FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
  • FORD MOTOR COMPANY LIMITED (United Kingdom)
Inventor
  • Gangopadhyay, Arup
  • Stark, Roland
  • Reddyhoff, Thomas
  • Vladescu, Sorin-Cristian
  • Tufail, Khizer

Abstract

A bearing assembly (2) comprising a first component (10) and a second component (20), the first and second components being slidably disposed with respect to each other, wherein the first component slides relative to the second component in a first direction (4), wherein the first component comprises a plurality of first recesses (11) formed in a first surface (12) facing the second component, wherein the first recesses are distributed in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction with neighbouring first recesses being spaced apart in the second direction with a first spacing (13, wherein the second component comprises a plurality of second recesses (21) formed in a second surface (22) facing the first surface of the first component, wherein the second recesses are distributed in the second direction with neighbouring second recesses being spaced apart in the second direction with a second spacing (23), wherein the first recesses are sized to fit within the second spacings and the second recesses are sized to fit within the first spacings, and wherein the first and second components are urged into a relative position in the second direction in which the first and second recesses do not overlap one another.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F16C 17/02 - Sliding-contact bearings for exclusively rotary movement for radial load only
  • F16C 29/02 - Sliding-contact bearings
  • F16C 33/10 - Construction relative to lubrication
  • F02F 1/20 - Other cylinders characterised by constructional features providing for lubrication
  • F02F 3/02 - Pistons having means for accommodating or controlling heat expansion

95.

VEHICLE BOARDING CONFIRMATION

      
Application Number US2017047181
Publication Number 2019/035826
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-08-16
Publication Date 2019-02-21
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Mitra, Pramita
  • Buttolo, Pietro
  • Tonshal, Basavaraj
  • Strumolo, Gary, Steven
  • Wang, Qianyi
  • Zechel, Kelley, Lee
  • Nash, Brian
  • Wingrove, Theodore

Abstract

A system includes a vehicle computer that is programmed to wirelessly broadcast one or more actions included in boarding of a vehicle, and receive, from a mobile device, confirmation that the one or more actions are completed. The vehicle computer is programmed to actuate a vehicle component based on the received confirmation.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude, or attitude of land, water, air, or space vehicles, e.g. automatic pilot
  • G05D 1/02 - Control of position or course in two dimensions
  • G05D 1/12 - Target-seeking control

96.

LOCATING A VEHICLE USING A DRONE

      
Application Number US2017045803
Publication Number 2019/032091
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-08-07
Publication Date 2019-02-14
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Gusikhin, Oleg Yurievitch
  • Makke, Omar
  • Kadry, Haysam, M.

Abstract

A system that includes a computer and an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is described. The computer may be programmed to receive, from the UAV, image data of a vehicle parking region; to process the data by identifying an actuation of a UAV indicator that occurs within a predetermined interval of a response of a vehicle in the region; and based on the identification, to determine a location of the vehicle.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06K 9/00 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints
  • B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
  • G01C 21/34 - Route searching; Route guidance
  • G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
  • G06T 7/50 - Depth or shape recovery

97.

ENHANCED WEARABLE DEVICE OPERATION

      
Application Number US2017045835
Publication Number 2019/032094
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-08-08
Publication Date 2019-02-14
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Chen, Yifan
  • Wang, Qianyi

Abstract

A first horizontal axis of a plane of a display is determined based on a user input. Angular movement data of the display is collected. A second horizontal axis of the plane of the display is determined based on the angular movement data. A second user input on the display is mapped based on the second horizontal axis.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 1/16 - Constructional details or arrangements
  • A61B 5/1455 - Measuring characteristics of blood in vivo, e.g. gas concentration, pH-value using optical sensors, e.g. spectral photometrical oximeters
  • G09G 5/00 - Control arrangements or circuits for visual indicators common to cathode-ray tube indicators and other visual indicators

98.

VEHICLE INSPECTION SYSTEMS AND METHODS

      
Application Number US2017045924
Publication Number 2019/032097
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-08-08
Publication Date 2019-02-14
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Gusikhin, Oleg Yurievitch
  • Jales Costa, Bruno Sielly
  • Goh, Madeline J.

Abstract

Example vehicle inspection systems and methods are described. In one implementation, a method activates an unmanned aircraft inside a vehicle to capture images of the vehicle interior. The method accesses a flight path for the unmanned aircraft and receives data associated with the vehicle's current movement. The method adjusts the flight path of the unmanned aircraft to compensate for the vehicle's current movement.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01M 17/00 - Testing of vehicles
  • G06F 19/00 - Digital computing or data processing equipment or methods, specially adapted for specific applications (specially adapted for specific functions G06F 17/00;data processing systems or methods specially adapted for administrative, commercial, financial, managerial, supervisory or forecasting purposes G06Q;healthcare informatics G16H)

99.

IDENTIFYING A VEHICLE USING A WEARABLE DEVICE

      
Application Number US2017044612
Publication Number 2019/027411
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-07-31
Publication Date 2019-02-07
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor
  • Mitra, Pramita
  • Buttolo, Pietro
  • Tonshal, Basavaraj
  • Wang, Qianyi
  • Strumolo, Gary, Steven
  • Zechel, Kelly, Lee
  • Nash, Brian
  • Wingrove, Theodore

Abstract

A system that includes a wearable device, and a method of using the system, including: receiving, at a first transceiver element of a wearable device, a target beam from a ride- share vehicle, the element having a first axis of reception; and when the first axis is oriented toward the beam, providing an indication, via the device, to a user thereof.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01C 21/00 - Navigation; Navigational instruments not provided for in groups
  • G01S 3/04 - Direction-finders for determining the direction from which infrasonic, sonic, ultrasonic, or electromagnetic waves, or particle emission, not having a directional significance, are being received using radio waves - Details

100.

WIRELESS CHARGER ACTIVATION

      
Application Number US2017044808
Publication Number 2019/027441
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-08-01
Publication Date 2019-02-07
Owner FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (USA)
Inventor Dudar, Aed, M.

Abstract

A computer including a processor is programmed to determine that an object including ferrous material is in a charging field of an inductive charger, actuate the inductive charger, and determine a temperature of the object. The processor is further programmed to determine, based on the temperature, whether the inductive charger is operational.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H02J 50/00 - Circuit arrangements or systems for wireless supply or distribution of electric power
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