US Patent 10162366 Methods and systems for semi-autonomous vehicular convoys

The present invention relates to a method and system for enabling vehicles to closely follow one another through partial automation. Following closely behind another vehicle can have significant fuel savings benefits, but is unsafe when done manually by the driver. By directly commanding the engine torque and braking of the following vehicle while controlling the gap between vehicles using a sensor system, and additionally using a communication link between vehicles that allows information about vehicle actions, such as braking events, to be anticipated by the following vehicle, a Semi-Autonomous Vehicular Convoying System that enables vehicles to follow closely together in a safe, efficient and convenient manner may be achieved.