Method and apparatus for emergency braking performance testing, evaluation and / or driver training

Abstract

The invention relates to a method and apparatus for emergency braking performance testing, evaluation and / or driver training, comprising: a driver measurement unit comprising force measurement means and communication means, adapted to attach to a road vehicle brake applicator interface and operable to generate force measurement data representative of a force applied by a driver to the brake applicator during an evaluation period and to transmit said force measurement data using the communication means; a vehicle measurement unit having motion measurement means adapted to determine vehicle measurements comprising one or more of vehicle acceleration, speed and position, the vehicle measurement means operable to generate vehicle measurement data during the evaluation period and to transmit the vehicle measurement data using the communication means; and a processor unit operable to receive, via the communication means, the force measurement data generated by the driver measurement unit and the vehicle measurement data generated by the vehicle measurement unit.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of patent application No. 201680065205.5, filed on September 21, 2016, entitled "Method and apparatus for testing, evaluating and / or training emergency braking performance".

[0002] Related applications

[0003] This application claims priority to Australian Provisional Patent Application No. 2015903840, filed on September 21, 2015, entitled “Method and Apparatus for Emergency Braking Performance Testing, Evaluation and / or Driver Training,” in the name of CW&SR Investments Pty Ltd, and the description thereof is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes. Technical Field

[0004] This invention relates to methods and apparatus for testing and evaluating motorized wheeled vehicles, and particularly to the testing, evaluation, and training of drivers of motorized wheeled vehicles. With regard to emergency braking performance, it will be convenient to describe the invention below in relation to the evaluation of the braking performance of road vehicles; however, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to this purpose. Background Technology

[0005] The discussion throughout this specification arises from the inventor's implementation and / or identification of certain related technical problems, and furthermore, any discussion of documents, devices, operations, or knowledge in this specification is included to explain the background of the invention. It should not be construed as an admission that any material prior to the priority date of this disclosure and the claims herein forms part of the prior art or common general knowledge in the relevant field in Australia or elsewhere.

[0006] Driving a motor vehicle on public roads is a complex task requiring many learned skills. One aspect of driving that can significantly impact road safety is the ability to effectively perform braking maneuvers in emergency situations. Vehicle accidents can be caused by poor emergency braking skills. However, currently, there is a lack of emergency stop training tools for drivers based on one or more metrics.

[0007] License compliance agencies do not require any form of metric-based testing to understand a driver’s ability to react effectively and efficiently in emergency braking situations. Summary of the Invention

[0008] In a first aspect of the embodiments described herein, a system for evaluating driver braking performance is provided, comprising:

[0009] A driver measurement unit, comprising a force measuring device and a communication device, is adapted to be attached to a road vehicle brake applicator interface and operable to generate force measurement data representing the force applied by the driver to the brake pedal during an evaluation period and to transmit the force measurement data using the communication device.

[0010] A vehicle measurement unit, carried by a vehicle during use, has a motion measuring device suitable for determining vehicle measurement results including one or more of vehicle acceleration, speed, and position, and a communication device operable to generate vehicle measurement data during an evaluation period and to transmit the vehicle measurement data using the communication device; and a processor unit having a display screen and a communication device, wherein the processor unit is operable to receive force measurement data generated by a driver measurement unit and vehicle measurement data generated by the vehicle measurement unit via the communication device, and thereby generate one or more braking test result metrics for display on the display screen.

[0011] The force measuring device of the driver measuring unit can be adapted to be temporarily attached to the brake applicator interface, which can take the form of a brake pedal or brake handle or lever.

[0012] The motion measurement device of the vehicle measurement unit may include a GPS receiver, which is capable of determining vehicle speed, distance traveled, and / or path during the evaluation period. The motion measurement device may also include an accelerometer, which is capable of determining vehicle acceleration during the evaluation period.

[0013] The communication devices in the driver measurement unit, vehicle measurement unit, and processor unit may include short-range wireless transceivers, such as Bluetooth Low Energy transceivers.

[0014] The processor unit may include a portable computing device, such as a smartphone or tablet.

[0015] The processor unit and / or vehicle measurement unit may include devices for emitting an audible signal indicating the start of an evaluation period. This could be achieved, for example, through a built-in audio transmitter (such as a speaker or buzzer) or through short-range communication with the vehicle's audio system.

[0016] The processor unit may include a user interface that allows the user to input a desired vehicle test start speed. The system may be operable to emit an audible signal after the vehicle has reached the test start speed, as determined by a motion measurement device. The system may also, or alternatively, be operable to emit the audible signal based on a user command. The audible signal may be emitted by the processor unit or the vehicle measurement unit, or via the vehicle's audio system under the control of either.

[0017] The processor unit is operable to determine the driver's reaction time based on timing of audible signals and force measurement data received from the driver's measurement unit.

[0018] The system may further include an internet-based evaluation unit adapted to receive brake test result measurements from the processor unit via internet communication, comparing collected results from different tests and evaluations with predetermined standards. The processor unit (e.g., a smartphone) can send data to a website capable of recording continuous test sessions and other relevant information, ranking against industry standards and other users, and outputting processed data to relevant agencies. It may also have the ability to accurately record and print all measurement data for the purpose of determining pass / fail results for license compliance.

[0019] In a second aspect of the embodiments herein, a method for evaluating driver braking performance is provided, comprising the following steps:

[0020] During the evaluation period, measurement data representing the force applied by the driver to the vehicle's brake pedal were collected;

[0021] During the evaluation period, vehicle measurements, including one or more of vehicle acceleration, speed, and position, are collected; and

[0022] Force measurement data and vehicle measurement data collected during the evaluation period are transmitted to a processor unit with a display screen, wherein the processor unit is operable to receive the force measurement data and vehicle measurement data, and thereby generate one or more braking test result metrics for display on the display screen.

[0023] In another aspect of the embodiments described herein, a method for evaluating driver braking performance is provided, comprising:

[0024] The vehicle is equipped with a driver measurement unit, which includes a force measuring device adapted to attach to the interface of the road vehicle brake applicator and is operable to generate force measurement data representing the force applied to the brake pedal by the driver during an evaluation period.

[0025] The vehicle is equipped with a vehicle measurement unit having a motion measurement device adapted to determine vehicle measurement results including one or more of vehicle acceleration, velocity, and position, the vehicle measurement device being operable to generate vehicle measurement data during an evaluation period;

[0026] Force measurement data and vehicle measurement data collected during the evaluation period are transmitted to a processor unit with a display screen. The processor unit is operable to receive force measurement data generated by the driver measurement unit and vehicle measurement data generated by the vehicle measurement unit, and thereby generate a braking test result metric for display on the display screen.

[0027] The method may include issuing a test start signal, such as an audible or visual signal that can be discerned by the vehicle driver, under the control of one of the processor unit and the vehicle measurement unit. The test start signal can be issued once the motion measurement device determines that the vehicle has reached a predetermined test start speed.

[0028] The braking test result metrics generated by the processor unit may include driver reaction time determined based on the timing of the test start signal and force measurement data received from the driver measurement unit.

[0029] Braking test results can be quantified and transmitted to an internet-based evaluation unit for comparison of collected results from different tests and evaluations with predetermined standards. This internet-based evaluation unit can take the form of a website capable of recording continuous testing sessions and other relevant information, ranking against industry standards and other users, and outputting processed data to relevant bodies. It can also accurately record and print all measurement data for the purpose of determining pass / fail results for license compliance.

[0030] A preferred embodiment of the present invention relates to the generation of a braking result metric for display in a user or in-vehicle product, used in driver braking performance evaluation. This braking result metric is provided by force measurement data and vehicle measurement data, wherein the force measurement data is generated by a driver measurement unit adapted to attach to a road vehicle brake applyer interface, and the vehicle measurement data is generated by a vehicle measurement unit having a motion measurement device adapted to determine vehicle measurement results including one or more of vehicle acceleration, speed, and position. A communication device, together with a processor unit, is used for display.

[0031] Other aspects and preferred forms are disclosed in this specification and / or defined in the claims that form a part of the description of the invention.

[0032] The further scope of applicability of the embodiments of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description given below. However, it should be understood that although preferred embodiments of the invention have been indicated, the detailed description and specific examples are given by way of example only, as various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the disclosure herein will become apparent to those skilled in the art based on this detailed description. Attached Figure Description

[0033] Based on the following description of embodiments of the invention provided by way of example only and for understanding in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art will be able to better understand the invention, wherein:

[0034] Figure 1 This is a conceptual system diagram illustrating an embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 2 This is a functional block diagram of an embodiment of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 3 This is an exploded view illustrating the features of a brake pedal force sensing unit according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 4 This is an annotated system diagram of an embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 5 This is a screenshot representation from the processor unit software user interface used in the embodiments of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating a procedure according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 7 , Figure 8 and Figure 9 This is a view showing the analysis results according to an embodiment of the present invention; and Figure 10 This is a screenshot representation of a vehicle position display that can be used in embodiments of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0041] The following describes the apparatus, devices, systems, and processes that form embodiments of the present invention. The general purpose of this system is to enable quantifiable testing and evaluation of the braking performance of drivers and vehicles in real-world road driving conditions, particularly when emergency stops are required. This system and process can be used to aid driver training and therefore can be used during instruction of learner drivers, etc.

[0042] exist Figure 1A conceptual system diagram of an embodiment of the present invention is shown. System 10 includes several units that communicate and operate together to provide the functions described herein. A pedal force sensor (PFS) unit 100 is provided to measure the force applied by the driver to the vehicle's brake pedal during system use. A vehicle motion sensing (VMS) unit 200 is provided to measure the motion of the vehicle during system use, which may include position, velocity, and / or acceleration (for purposes of description, the term "acceleration" is generally used to refer to a change in vehicle velocity and therefore includes "deceleration" due to vehicle braking). A processor unit 300 is provided to coordinate the system during use and to receive measurement data from the VMS and PFS, process the received data, and thereby provide a visual display output. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the PFS, VMS, and processor unit are all carried by the vehicle during system use. Additionally, a web-based analysis tool 400 may be provided for post-event analysis and comparison with results from other drivers, vehicles, manufacturers, etc.

[0043] Figure 2 This is a functional block diagram of system 10 that shows the functional components in more detail.

[0044] The PFS unit 100 includes a force-sensitive load cell 102, a control circuit 106, a power supply unit 104, and a communication circuit 108.

[0045] The pressure measuring device 102 is a transducer used to generate an electrical signal whose amplitude is directly proportional to the force being measured. In this case, as explained further below, the force of interest is the force applied by the driver's foot to the vehicle's brake pedal. The pressure measuring device can be of any convenient type, such as a strain gauge or a piezoelectric transducer.

[0046] Control circuitry 106 is coupled to receive an output representing the measured force from pressure measuring device 102. The control circuitry may include amplifier circuitry, analog-to-digital converter circuitry, and general processing capabilities. A microcontroller in the form of an integrated circuit can be used for this purpose. In use, the control circuitry digitizes the force measurement signal from the pressure measuring device.

[0047] The communication circuit 108 is used for short-range wireless communication and may include, for example, a Bluetooth standard transceiver. The preferred form of the communication circuit operates according to the Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) specification to minimize power consumption. The communication circuit is coupled to the control circuitry for the purpose of transmitting digital force measurement signals using antenna 110.

[0048] The embodiments described herein employ short-range wireless communication in the form of BLE transceivers, which is convenient because it eliminates the need for physical connections between units. However, the system can also be implemented using wires for communication between PFS, VMS, and / or processor units, in which case the form of the control circuitry and the signals therein can differ. While a hardwired embodiment of the system may be inconvenient for installation in a vehicle, improved timing accuracy can be achieved by circumventing wireless protocol transmission delays.

[0049] The power supply unit (PSU) 104 provides electrical power to the voltage sensing devices, control circuitry, and communication circuitry. The power supply is preferably self-contained and includes a battery. For example, the battery may be a lithium polymer rechargeable battery with a high energy density by weight.

[0050] exist Figure 3 The figure shows an exploded view illustrating features of an exemplary brake pedal force sensing unit 100. The figure shows an indicative structure including a base plate 152 and a fastening band 154. The base plate is adapted to be positioned on the foot engagement surface of a vehicle brake pedal. The fastening band is coupled to the base plate and adapted to pass around the underside of the brake pedal and be tightened in use to securely fasten the PFS unit to the brake pedal. The PFS unit 100 may also include a foot plate 156 coupled to the base plate, which houses operable components 158 (i.e., power supply, pressure sensing device, control circuitry, and communication circuitry).

[0051] When the PFS unit 100 is fastened to the pedal, it acts as an interface between the driver's foot and the vehicle's brake pedal. Therefore, when the driver applies the brakes, the driver's foot engages the top surface of the footplate 156, and the force is transmitted to the brake pedal through the PFS unit. Accordingly, the top surface of the footplate 156 may be adhesive-coated, textured, and / or otherwise treated to provide anti-slip properties. The coupling between the footplate and the base plate allows the force applied by the driver's foot and transmitted to the brake pedal to be sensed and measured by a pressure-sensing device mounted therebetween. To avoid interference with the driver's foot, the PFS should have a slim form factor.

[0052] The vehicle motion sensing (VMS) unit 200 includes a motion sensing circuit 202, a control circuit 206, a power supply unit 204, and a communication circuit 208.

[0053] A motion sensing circuit 202 is provided to measure the characteristics of vehicle motion during use. Specifically, this motion sensing circuit provides the VMS unit with the ability to determine vehicle acceleration, velocity, and / or position. To achieve this, the motion sensing circuit may include an inertial measurement unit (IMU) and / or a global positioning system (GPS) receiver. Several different methods exist for using such components in embodiments of the invention.

[0054] The first measurement method employs direct deceleration measurement based on a 3-axis accelerometer (IMU). In this case, deceleration measurements meeting national standards are possible at a relatively low cost, while high-precision deceleration measurements are possible at an increased cost. However, if used alone, double integration calculations are required to derive the distance metric, and the resulting cumulative error may lead to an average distance metric that only indicates mass.

[0055] The second measurement method uses Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) technology on Ntrip ('networked transmission via RTCM over Internet Protocol') to determine distance measurements based on differential GPS (DGPS) positioning. This can provide highly accurate positioning measurements down to the centimeter level. However, double integration calculations are required to derive the deceleration rate, thus reducing the accuracy of the measurement. Depending on the geographic location, an Ntrip subscription may be required, impacting implementation costs.

[0056] The third measurement method is based on the Doppler effect on the GPS L1 carrier signal to determine velocity. This emerging technology promises to achieve accurate velocity measurements, which will subsequently enable the determination of deceleration and / or distance metrics in a single step, calculated integral.

[0057] In the currently preferred form of VMS unit 200, motion sensing circuit 202, in use, combines a GPS receiver with an inertial measurement unit (IMU) to measure vehicle motion characteristics. For example, a 10Hz SBAS (Satellite-Based Augmentation System) enabled GPS receiver can be used for vehicle position tracking and speed determination. Furthermore, the IMU can be used for vehicle deceleration measurement and measurement compensation. An accelerometer range of + / -2g should be generally sufficient for deceleration calculations with 5% (3% MFDD) accuracy or better.

[0058] The VMS control circuit 206 is coupled to receive outputs representing the motion characteristics of the measured vehicle (i.e., vehicle position, speed, and acceleration) from the motion sensing circuit 202. The control circuit may include interface circuitry, analog-to-digital conversion circuitry, and general processing capabilities. A microcontroller in the form of an integrated circuit can be used for this purpose.

[0059] VMS communication circuitry 208 is used for short-range wireless communication and may include, for example, a Bluetooth standard transceiver. A preferred form of the communication circuitry operates according to the Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) specification to minimize power consumption. The communication circuitry is coupled to control circuitry for the purpose of transmitting the measured vehicle motion characteristics using antenna 210. As explained above, the VMS may alternatively communicate with the PFS and / or processor unit via wired coupling rather than wireless communication, if desired.

[0060] The power supply unit (PSU) 204 provides electrical power to the motion measurement circuitry, control circuitry, and communication circuitry. The power supply is preferably independent and includes a battery. This battery can be, for example, a lithium polymer rechargeable battery with a high energy density by weight.

[0061] To allow for reliable GPS signal reception, the VMS unit can be installed on the vehicle's windshield, dashboard, or other GPS-accessible locations (even on the exterior of the vehicle if necessary).

[0062] The processor unit 300 functions to receive measurement data signals from the PFS unit 100 and the VMS unit 200 for processing, analysis, and display. The processor unit 300 includes a processor and memory / data storage (302, 304), a power supply unit 306, short-range wireless communication circuitry and antennas (308, 310), cellular and / or Wi-Fi communication and antennas (312, 314), and a graphic display screen 320. The processor unit may also include or be coupled to an audible transmitter 330, such as a speaker, alarm buzzer, etc. The functionality of the processor unit 300 can be provided by a smartphone, tablet, or the like, thereby enabling it to operate under the control of application software programs to provide the operations described herein.

[0063] Figure 4This is an annotated system diagram showing the basic functional units of System 10. Brake pedal force sensor 100 is used to capture pedal application behavior and provide timing triggers, and is coupled to VMS unit 200 via Bluetooth and / or wired connection. VMS unit 200 includes one or more accelerometers or IMU / INS and GPS devices for capturing vehicle deceleration and speed data. Data from the VMS unit is transmitted to processor unit 300 via Bluetooth communication connection. Processor unit 300 may include a stand-alone and / or Internet of Things (IoT) connected smart device running an app that supports system setup, device calibration, test evaluation, and IoT connectivity. Processor unit 300 can use cellular data internet communication to transmit test result data to analysis computer 400, which runs web-based analysis software and provides temporary data storage facilities. Analysis computer 400 can be used for post-test result data analysis and comparison of results with other instances, users, vehicle types, vehicle manufacturers, etc.

[0064] When using system 10, processor unit 300 acts to provide signals to the driver during the test procedure, and the driver acts according to these signals. The processor unit receives and stores motion and braking force measurements from PFS unit 100 and VMS unit 200, stores and analyzes the measurement data, and provides a graphical display output of the test performance. For safety reasons, the system is preferably operated under the control of an instructor (who is a passenger in the vehicle). Figure 6 An example of a test procedure using system 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown in the form of a flowchart, and is explained below.

[0065] The vehicle braking performance test procedure 500, which can be executed using System 10 as described herein, is shown as follows: Figure 6 A series of operations begin at point 502. Program 500 is executed by: using the vehicle on which system 10 is installed, controlling the driver of the vehicle, and controlling the instructor (who is a passenger in the vehicle) of the processor unit.

[0066] First, the instructor uses the processor unit to record identification data (504), such as the nature of the test to be completed, the vehicle, and the driver. Then, before the start of the test, the processor unit is operable to establish wireless communication with the PFS unit and the VMS unit (506). Through the wireless communication link (e.g., BLE), the processor unit instructs the VMS unit to enable GPS tracking and IMU measurement (508), and instructs the PFS unit to initialize the force sensing measurement (510).

[0067] At operation 512, the instructor uses the processor unit application interface to select braking test parameters. For example, this could include the desired vehicle speed from which braking should begin. If necessary, IMU calibration is performed (514).

[0068] The driver then accelerates the vehicle to a predetermined speed, while data representing the vehicle's speed and position, determined by GPS, is streamed from the VMS to the processor unit (516). Once the vehicle has reached the predetermined speed, the instructor initiates a braking test via the processor unit interface (518). Alternatively, the processor unit can automatically initiate a braking test as soon as the predetermined vehicle speed is reached.

[0069] An audible test signal (e.g., an alarm sound) is emitted by the processor unit (520) to indicate to the driver that the vehicle should be braked to a stop. When the driver hears the test signal, he or she uses the vehicle brake pedal equipped with the PFS unit to perform an emergency stop (522). During this time, measurements from the VMS and PFS are collected and sent to the processor unit (524). Vehicle position, speed, and acceleration data received from the VMS unit and braking force data received from the PFS unit are stored by the processor unit in time series.

[0070] Once the vehicle has stopped, the test run is complete, and the instructor can then use the processor unit to display the test results to the driver (528). Test result data can also be uploaded to a web-based portal via cellular or wireless network (Wi-Fi) communication. Figure 2 (400 in the middle) for further analysis and comparison with test results from other drivers and vehicles.

[0071] Using measurement data collected from the VMS and PFS units, the processor unit is able to determine numerous metrics representing the results of the braking test procedure. These metrics may include things such as driver reaction time, vehicle stopping time, and vehicle stopping distance. The processor unit can also present the collected measurement data in one or more graphical representations. Figure 7 , Figure 8 and Figure 9 This is an example of a graphical representation showing test results, which can be displayed by the processor unit after the test run is complete. Figure 7 The graph shows the vehicle acceleration derived from the IMU during the test period that begins when the processor unit emits an audible test signal. For illustrative purposes, both the raw vehicle acceleration data curves (701, 801, 901) and the smoothed data curves (702, 802, 902) are shown. Figure 8 and Figure 9Additionally, curves (803, 903) of brake pedal force data during the test procedure period are shown. Figure 9 Additionally, a curve (904) showing the vehicle speed during the test procedure period is also shown.

[0072] Especially referencing Figure 8 The driver's reaction time and vehicle stopping time can be easily identified from this diagram. The driver's reaction time is the period from the start of the test session (i.e., when the processor unit issues an audible test signal) to the point where the driver begins to apply the vehicle's brakes. Figure 8 The reaction timestamp shown at 805 indicates when the force applied to the brake pedal reaches a predetermined level (50 N in this example). The point at which the vehicle stops can be easily determined based on acceleration measurement data (combined with brake pedal force data) and / or speed measurement data.

[0073] Using location data obtained from a GPS receiver, the processor unit can also provide users with a graphical overlay displayed on a map or aerial image to provide a record of braking test locations and routes, and can also indicate the vehicle's position at each important test time point (such as the start of the test, the first application of braking, the vehicle coming to a stop, etc.). Figure 10 An example of vehicle path graphic overlay on aerial imagery is shown during a series of test runs.

[0074] In the embodiment described above, the PFS and VMS are configured to pass their respective data to the processor unit; however, other arrangements are possible. For example, the system can be alternatively configured such that data from the PFS can be passed to the VMS instead of directly to the processor unit. This arrangement can provide improved measurement accuracy. In such a case, the VMS can receive and store measurement data from the PFS during the test period and then provide the complete dataset to the processor unit after the test is completed. During the test, the VMS can collate the moving data and receive / interleave PFS data. At the end of the test, the VMS can push the complete dataset to the processor unit.

[0075] The foregoing describes a system and method for capturing driver reaction time and braking performance data to assess and improve a driver's overall emergency braking ability. The system can support the electronic recording of learner driver practice logs and, if necessary, output these logs to the relevant vehicle licensing authority. Embodiments of the invention can be applied to learners and advanced driving schools (for passenger and heavy vehicles) as well as learner drivers and their supervisors (e.g., parents). The system and method can be used to test and improve the emergency braking skills of all drivers, and also for fleet management / service and vehicle inspection and compliance.

[0076] The systems and methods of the present invention can be applied to various types of vehicles, including automobiles, trucks, vans, buses, and RVs, as well as vehicles such as bicycles, tricycles, motorcycles, and scooters. Therefore, although the term "driver" has been used throughout the specification to refer to the person controlling the vehicle during the testing procedure, the term will be understood to include the "rider" of the vehicle where such reference is appropriate.

[0077] While the described basic embodiment employs three main functional units—PFS, VMS, and a processor unit—this result can also be achieved using a simpler system, although the accuracy will generally be somewhat lower. A simple implementation can employ a single unit carried by the vehicle, performing the functions of both the processor unit and the vehicle measurement unit described above. For example, a smartphone or tablet containing a GPS receiver and / or accelerometer can be used to perform the VMS function and process the data generated therefrom during the test period. In this example, evaluation metrics such as driver reaction time can be estimated based on vehicle motion data rather than actual data from brake pedal sensors. However, the GPS and accelerometer sensors included in such devices may lack sufficient accuracy and / or sensitivity to provide adequate measurement results. Sections I-VI below provide guidance for interpreting this specification.

[0078] I. Terminology

[0079] Unless otherwise expressly stated, the term “product” means any machine, article and / or component of a substance.

[0080] Unless otherwise expressly stated, the term "process" means any procedure, algorithm, or method, etc.

[0081] Every process (whether referred to as a method, algorithm, or otherwise) inherently comprises one or more steps, and therefore all references to “steps” or “multiple steps” of a process have an inherent prior basis in the mere recitation of the term 'process' or similar terms. Accordingly, any reference to “steps” or “multiple steps” of a process in the claims has a sufficient prior basis.

[0082] Unless otherwise expressly stated, the term "invention" means "one or more inventions disclosed in this specification".

[0083] Unless otherwise expressly stated, the terms “an embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “multiple embodiments,” “the embodiment,” “the multiple embodiments,” “one or more embodiments,” “some embodiments,” “certain embodiments,” “one embodiment,” and “another embodiment,” etc., mean “one or more (but not all) embodiments of the disclosed invention.”

[0084] Unless otherwise expressly stated, the term "variation" in this invention means an embodiment of the invention.

[0085] Unless otherwise expressly stated, references to “another embodiment” in the description of embodiments do not imply that the referenced embodiment is mutually exclusive with another embodiment (e.g., an embodiment described prior to the referenced embodiment).

[0086] Unless otherwise expressly stated, the terms “including,” “comprise,” and their variations mean “including but not limited to.”

[0087] Unless otherwise expressly stated, the terms “a,” “an,” and “the” mean “one or more.”

[0088] Unless otherwise expressly stated, the term "multiple" means "two or more".

[0089] Unless otherwise expressly stated, the term "this document" means "included in this specification anything that may be incorporated by reference".

[0090] When the phrase "at least one of" modifies multiple things (such as an enumerated list of things), unless otherwise explicitly stated, the phrase means any combination of one or more of these things. For example, the phrase "at least one of a widget, a car, and a wheel" means either (i) a widget, (ii) a car, (iii) a wheel, (iv) a widget and a car, (v) a widget and a wheel, (vi) a car and a wheel, or (vii) a widget, a car, and a wheel. When the phrase "at least one of" modifies multiple things, the phrase does not mean "one of each of the multiple things".

[0091] When numerical terms such as “one” and “two” are used as cardinal numbers to indicate the quantity of something (e.g., one piece, two pieces), they mean the quantity indicated by the numerical term, but not the minimum quantity indicated by the numerical term. For example, the phrase “one piece” does not mean “at least one piece,” and therefore the phrase “one piece” does not cover, for example, two pieces.

[0092] Unless otherwise expressly stated, the phrase “based on” does not mean “based on only”. In other words, the phrase “based on” describes both “based on only” and “based on at least”. The phrase “based on at least” is equivalent to the phrase “based on at least partially”.

[0093] Unless otherwise expressly stated, the term "represents" and similar terms are not exclusive. For example, unless otherwise expressly stated, the term "represents" does not mean "represents only". In other words, the phrase "the data represents a credit card number" describes both "the data represents only a credit card number" and "the data represents a credit card number and the data also represents other things".

[0094] The term "therefore" is used only herein before clauses or other sets of words that express only the intended result, purpose, or consequence of something that is explicitly enumerated prior to it. Therefore, when the term "therefore" is used in a claim, the clause or other words modified by that term do not constitute a specific further limitation on the claim or additionally constrain its meaning or scope.

[0095] The term "for example (eg)" and similar terms mean "for instance" and therefore do not limit the terms or phrases they describe. For example, in the sentence "The computer sends data (e.g., instructions, data structures) via the Internet," the term "for example" indicates that "instructions" are examples of "data" that the computer can send via the Internet, and also indicates that "data structures" are examples of "data" that the computer can send via the Internet. However, both "instructions" and "data structures" are merely examples of "data," and other things besides "instructions" and "data structures" can also be "data."

[0096] The term “i.e.” and similar terms mean “that is to say”, and therefore limit the terms or phrases they describe. For example, in the sentence “The computer sends data (i.e., instructions) over the Internet,” the term “i.e.” indicates that the “instructions” are the “data” that the computer sends over the Internet.

[0097] Any given range of values ​​should include both the integer and decimal parts within that range. For example, the range “1 to 10” should be interpreted as specifically including integers (e.g., 2, 3, 4...9) and non-integers (e.g., 1.1, 1.2...1.9) between 1 and 10.

[0098] II. Determined

[0099] The term "determine" and its grammatical variations (e.g., determine price, determine value, determine an object that meets a specific criterion) are used in an extremely broad sense. The term "determine" encompasses a wide variety of actions, and therefore "determine" can include calculation, computation, processing, derivation, investigation, consulting (e.g., consulting a table, database, or other data structure), and ascertainment. Furthermore, "determine" can include receiving (e.g., receiving information) and accessing (e.g., accessing data in memory). Moreover, "determine" can include parsing, picking, selecting, and constructing.

[0100] The term “certain” does not imply certainty or absolute precision, and therefore “certain” can include estimation, extrapolation, prediction, and guessing.

[0101] The term “determine” does not imply that mathematical processing must be performed, nor does it imply that numerical methods must be used, nor does it imply the use of algorithms or procedures.

[0102] The term "determine" does not mean that any particular device must be used. For example, a computer does not necessarily need to perform the determination.

[0103] III. Instructions

[0104] The term "indication" is used in an extremely broad sense. Among other things, the term "indication" can include signs, omens, or symbols of other things.

[0105] The term “indication” can be used to refer to any mark and / or other information that indicates or is associated with a subject, item, entity and / or other object and / or idea.

[0106] As used herein, the phrases “information indicating…” and “mark” can be used to refer to any information that represents, describes, and / or otherwise relates to a relevant entity, subject, or object.

[0107] The marking of information may include, for example, code, reference, link, signal, indicator and / or any combination thereof and / or any other informative representation associated with the information.

[0108] In some embodiments, the labeling (or indication of) information may be or include the information itself and / or any part or component of the information. In some embodiments, the indication may include a request, solicitation, broadcast, and / or any other form of information collection and / or dissemination.

[0109] IV. Sentence Form

[0110] Where the limitation of the first claim covers one or more of the features (e.g., a limitation such as “at least one small part” covers one small part and more than one small part), and where the second claim, which is dependent on the first claim, uses the definite article “the” to refer to the limitation (e.g., “the small part”), it does not mean that the first claim covers only one of the features, nor does it mean that the second claim covers only one of the features (e.g., “the small part” can cover one small part and more than one small part).

[0111] When ordinal numbers (such as “first,” “second,” “third,” etc.) are used as adjectives preceding terms, the ordinal number (unless otherwise explicitly stated) is used only to indicate a particular characteristic, such as to distinguish that particular characteristic from another characteristic described by the same or similar terms. For example, “first part” can be named so as to distinguish it only from, for example, “second part.” Thus, using the ordinal numbers “first” and “second” only before the term “part” does not indicate any other relationship between the two parts, nor does it indicate any other characteristic of either or both parts. For example, using the ordinal numbers “first” and “second” only before the term “part” (1) does not indicate that either part is preceding or following any other part in terms of order or position; (2) does not indicate that either part occurs or acts before or after any other part in terms of time; and (3) does not indicate that either part is superior or inferior to any other part in terms of importance or quality. Furthermore, the use of ordinal numbers alone does not impose numerical limitations on the characteristics identified by ordinal numbers. For example, simply using the ordinal numbers "first" and "second" before the term "widget" does not indicate that there must be no more than two widgets.

[0112] When describing a single device or article herein, more than one device / article (whether or not they cooperate) may be used instead of the single device / article described. Accordingly, the function described as having by a device may be alternatively having by more than one device / article (whether or not they cooperate).

[0113] Similarly, where more than one device or article (whether or not they cooperate) is described herein, a single device / article may be used instead of the more than one device or article described. For example, multiple computer-based devices may be replaced by a single computer-based device. Accordingly, the various functionalities described as having by more than one device or article may be alternatively having by a single device / article.

[0114] The functionality and / or features of the single device described may alternatively be implemented by one or more other devices that are described but not explicitly described as having such functionality / features. Therefore, other embodiments do not need to include the described device itself, but may include one or more other devices that would have such functionality / features in those other embodiments.

[0115] V. The examples and terms provided are non-restrictive.

[0116] The headings and abstracts in this specification are not intended to be construed as limiting the scope of the disclosed invention(s). The headings and titles of the parts provided in this specification are for convenience only and are not intended to limit this disclosure in any way.

[0117] Numerous embodiments are described in this application and are presented for illustrative purposes only. The described embodiments are not, and are not intended to be, limiting in any sense. As will be apparent from this disclosure, the invention(s) disclosed herein are broadly applicable to various embodiments. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the disclosed invention(s) can be practiced with various modifications and alterations (e.g., structural, logical, software, and electronic modifications). Although specific features of the disclosed invention(s) may be described with reference to one or more particular embodiments and / or drawings, it should be understood that, unless expressly indicated otherwise, such features are not limited to their use in the one or more particular embodiments or drawings to which they are described.

[0118] This disclosure is not a literal description of all embodiments of the invention(s). Furthermore, this disclosure is not an enumeration of features of the invention(s) that must be present in all embodiments.

[0119] Unless otherwise expressly stated, devices described as communicating with each other do not need to communicate continuously. Instead, such devices only need to transmit data to each other when necessary or required, and in fact avoid exchanging data most of the time. For example, a machine communicating with another machine via the Internet may not transmit data to the other machine for a long period of time (e.g., several weeks at a time). Furthermore, devices communicating with each other can communicate directly or indirectly through one or more intermediaries.

[0120] The description of embodiments having several components or features does not imply a requirement for all or even any of such components / features. Rather, various optional components are described to illustrate a wide range of possible embodiments of the present invention(s). Unless otherwise expressly stated, no component / function is essential or required.

[0121] Although process steps or algorithms can be described in sequential order, such processes can be configured to operate in different orders. In other words, any order or sequence of steps that can be explicitly described does not necessarily indicate a requirement to perform the steps in that order. The steps of the process described herein can be performed in any actual order. Furthermore, although described or implied to occur non-simultaneously (e.g., because one step is described after other steps), some steps can be performed concurrently. Moreover, the illustration of the process depicted in the accompanying drawings does not imply that the process shown does not include other variations and modifications thereof, nor does it imply that any step of the process shown or its steps is necessary for the invention(s)(s), nor does it imply that the process shown is preferred.

[0122] Although a process may be described as including multiple steps, this does not mean that all or any of the steps are preferred, essential, or necessary. Various other embodiments within the scope of the described invention(s) include other processes that omit some or all of the described steps. Unless otherwise expressly stated, no step is essential or necessary.

[0123] Although the process may be described independently or without reference to other products or methods, in one embodiment, the process may interact with other products or methods. For example, such interaction may include linking one business model to another. Such interaction may be provided to enhance the flexibility or desirability of the process.

[0124] Although a product may be described as including multiple parts, aspects, qualities, characteristics, and / or features, this does not indicate that some or all of these multiple parts are preferred, essential, or necessary. Various other embodiments within the scope of the described invention (one or more) include other products in which some or all of the described multiple parts are omitted.

[0125] Unless otherwise expressly stated, an enumeration list of items (which may or may not be numbered) does not imply that some or all of the items are mutually exclusive. Similarly, unless otherwise expressly stated, an enumeration list of items (which may or may not be numbered) does not imply that some or all of the items are exhaustive of any category. For example, the enumeration list "computer, laptop, PDA" does not imply that some or all of the three items in the list are mutually exclusive, nor does it imply that some or all of the three items in the list are exhaustive of any category.

[0126] An enumerated list of items (which may or may not be numbered) does not imply that some or all of the items are identical or easily interchangeable.

[0127] All embodiments are illustrative and do not imply the formulation or implementation of the invention or any embodiments, but are subject to specific circumstances.

[0128] VI. Calculation

[0129] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the various processes described herein can be implemented, for example, by a properly programmed general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, and computing device. Typically, a processor (e.g., one or more microprocessors, one or more microcontrollers, one or more digital signal processors) will receive instructions (e.g., from memory or similar devices) and execute those instructions, thereby performing one or more processes defined by those instructions.

[0130] "Processor" means one or more microprocessors, central processing units (CPUs), computing devices, microcontrollers, digital signal processors or similar devices or any combination thereof.

[0131] Therefore, the description of a process is also a description of the device used to perform that process. The device that performs the process may include, for example, a processor, as well as input and output devices suitable for performing the process.

[0132] Furthermore, programs implementing such methods (and other types of data) can be stored and transmitted using various media (e.g., computer-readable media) in a variety of ways. In some embodiments, hardwired circuitry or custom hardware may be used in place of some or all of the software instructions that can implement the processes of various embodiments, or in combination thereof. Thus, various combinations of hardware and software can be used instead of software alone.

[0133] The term "computer-readable medium" refers to any medium, a combination of multiple identical media, or different media that participate in providing data (such as instructions or data structures) that can be read by a computer, processor, or similar device. Such media can take many forms, including but not limited to non-volatile media, volatile media, and transmission media. Non-volatile media include, for example, optical discs or magnetic disks, and other permanent storage devices. Volatile media include dynamic random access memory (DRAM), which typically constitutes main memory. Transmission media include coaxial cables, copper wires, and optical fibers, including conductors that contain a system bus coupled to a processor. Transmission media may include or transmit sound waves, light waves, and electromagnetic emissions (such as those generated during radio frequency (RF) and infrared (IR) data communications). Common forms of computer-readable media include, for example, floppy disks, flexible disks, hard disks, magnetic tape, any other magnetic media, CD-ROMs, DVDs, any other optical media, punched cards, paper tape, any other physical media with a perforated pattern, RAM, PROM, EPROM, FLASH-EEPROM, any other memory chip or cassette, carrier waves as described below, or any other media from which a computer can read.

[0134] Various forms of computer-readable media can involve the transfer of data (e.g., sequences of instructions) to a processor. For example, data can be (i) delivered from RAM to the processor; (ii) transmitted via wireless transmission media; or (iii) according to protocols such as Ethernet (or IEEE 802.3), SAP, ATP, Bluetooth, etc. TM Formatting and / or transmitting in many formats, standards or protocols of TCP / IP, TDMA, CDMA and 3G; and / or (iv) encrypting to ensure privacy or to prevent fraud in any of the various methods known in the art.

[0135] Therefore, a description of a process is also a description of a computer-readable medium that stores the program used to execute the process. A computer-readable medium may store (in any suitable format) those program elements suitable for executing the method.

[0136] Just as the description of the various steps in the process does not indicate that all of the described steps are necessary, embodiments of the device include computer / computing devices operable to perform some (but not necessarily all) of the described processes.

[0137] Similarly, just as the description of the various steps in the process does not indicate that all the described steps are necessary, embodiments of a computer-readable medium containing a stored program or data structure include a computer-readable medium containing a stored program that, when executed, can cause a processor to perform some (but not all) of the described process.

[0138] In the described process, in one embodiment, the process can operate without any user intervention. In another embodiment, the process includes some human intervention (e.g., steps performed by a person or with the assistance of a person).

Claims

1. A system for evaluating a driver's braking performance in relation to road safety during emergency situations, comprising: A driver measurement unit includes a force measuring device and a communication device. The driver measurement unit is adapted to attach to a road vehicle brake applicator interface and is operable to generate force measurement data representing the force applied by the driver to the brake applicator during an evaluation period, and to transmit the force measurement data using the communication device of the driver measurement unit. The force measuring device includes a base plate, and a fastening strap and foot plate coupled to the base plate. The fastening strap is adapted to pass around the underside of the applicator interface to be tightened during use to securely fasten the force measuring device to the applicator interface. A vehicle measurement unit, carried by a vehicle during use, has a motion measuring device suitable for determining vehicle measurement results including one or more of vehicle acceleration, velocity, and position, and a communication device for the vehicle measurement unit. The vehicle measurement unit is operable to: generate vehicle measurement data during the evaluation period, receive force measurement data generated by the driver measurement unit via the vehicle measurement unit's communication device, interleave the vehicle measurement data and force measurement data to generate a complete dataset, and transmit the complete dataset using the vehicle measurement unit's communication device. as well as A processor unit having a display screen and a communication device, wherein the processor unit is operable to receive a complete dataset generated by the vehicle measurement unit via the processor unit's communication device, and thereby generate a braking test result metric for road safety to be displayed on the display screen; The system is characterized by: The force measuring device is adapted to provide timed triggering for the evaluation period; The motion measurement device includes a combination of an inertial measurement unit and a GPS receiver, wherein the inertial measurement unit is used to determine acceleration / deceleration measurements, and the GPS receiver is configured to determine one or a combination of distance / position measurements and velocity measurements based on the Doppler effect on a GPS carrier signal; and The processor unit is operable to enable the selection of braking test parameters and to provide signals to the driver during the braking test procedure so that the driver can act according to the provided signals, wherein the braking test result metric for road safety includes driver reaction time for road safety. Specifically, in response to a timed trigger provided by the force measuring device for the evaluation period, a test start signal is issued under the control of one of the processor unit and the vehicle measuring unit. The processor unit is operable to determine the driver's reaction time based on the timing of the test start signal and a complete dataset received from the vehicle measurement unit, including interleaved vehicle measurement data and force measurement data.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The force measuring device of the driver measuring unit is adapted to be temporarily attached to the brake applicator interface, which is in the form of a brake pedal.

3. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The force measuring device of the driver measuring unit is adapted to be temporarily attached to the brake applicator interface, which is in the form of a brake handle.

4. The system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The communication devices in the driver measurement unit, the vehicle measurement unit, and the processor unit include short-range wireless transceivers.

5. The system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The motion measurement device in the vehicle measurement unit includes a GPS receiver capable of determining the vehicle speed, distance traveled, and / or path during the evaluation period.

6. The system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The motion measurement device of the vehicle measurement unit includes an accelerometer capable of determining acceleration during the evaluation period.

7. The system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The processor unit includes a portable computing device in the form of a smartphone or tablet.

8. The system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, One of the processor unit and the vehicle measurement unit includes a device for emitting an audible signal to indicate the start of the evaluation period.

9. The system according to claim 8, wherein, The processor unit includes a user interface that allows the user to select the starting speed for vehicle testing.

10. The system according to claim 9, wherein, One of the processor unit and the vehicle measurement unit is operable to emit an audible signal after the motion measurement device determines that the vehicle has reached the test start speed.

11. The system according to claim 8, wherein, One of the processor unit and the vehicle measurement unit is operable to issue an audible signal based on a user command.

12. The system according to claim 1 or 2 further includes an Internet-based evaluation unit adapted to receive braking test result metrics from the processor unit via Internet communication, so as to compare the collected results from different tests and evaluations with predetermined standards.

13. A method for evaluating a driver's braking performance in relation to road safety under emergency conditions, comprising: A vehicle is equipped with a driver measurement unit, the driver measurement unit including a force measuring device adapted to attach to a road vehicle brake applicator interface of the vehicle, and operable to generate force measurement data representing the force applied by the driver to the brake applicator during an evaluation period, wherein the driver measurement unit is adapted to transmit the force measurement data using a communication device of the driver measurement unit, wherein the force measuring device includes a base plate, and a fastening strap and foot plate coupled to the base plate, wherein the fastening strap is adapted to pass around the underside of the applicator interface to be tightened in use to securely fix the force measuring device to the applicator interface; The vehicle is equipped with a vehicle measurement unit having a motion measurement device adapted to determine vehicle measurement results including one or more of vehicle acceleration, velocity, and position. The vehicle measurement unit is operable to: generate vehicle measurement data during the evaluation period; receive force measurement data generated by the driver measurement unit via a communication device of the vehicle measurement unit; interleave the vehicle measurement data and force measurement data to generate a complete dataset; and transmit the complete dataset using the communication device of the vehicle measurement unit. The method is characterized in that: The force measuring device is adapted to provide timed triggering for the evaluation period; The motion measurement device includes a combination of an inertial measurement unit and a GPS receiver, wherein the inertial measurement unit is used to determine acceleration / deceleration measurements, and the GPS receiver is configured to determine one or a combination of distance / position measurements and velocity measurements based on the Doppler effect on a GPS carrier signal; and The method further includes the following steps: Select braking test parameters; The braking test is initiated by providing signals to the driver during the evaluation period so that the driver can act according to the provided signals; The complete dataset generated by the vehicle measurement unit is received via the communication device of the vehicle measurement unit; Generate braking test result metrics for road safety from the received measurement data, including driver reaction time for road safety; In response to a timed trigger provided by the force measuring device for an evaluation period, a test start signal is issued under the control of one of the processor unit and the vehicle measuring unit; The driver's reaction time is determined based on the timing of the test start signal and a complete dataset received from the vehicle measurement unit, including interleaved vehicle measurement data and force measurement data; and Displays the generated braking test results metrics for road safety.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein, The test start signal includes audible or visual signals that can be identified by the vehicle driver.

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein, Once the motion measuring device determines that the vehicle has reached the predetermined test start speed, the test start signal is issued.

16. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 15, comprising transmitting the braking test result measurement to an Internet-based evaluation unit to compare the collected results from different tests and evaluations with predetermined standards.

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein, The internet-based evaluation unit takes the form of a website, which has the ability to record continuous test sessions and rank them against industry standards and other users, and has the ability to output the processed data to relevant agencies for the purpose of determining whether the license compliance result is qualified or unqualified.

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