Appeal No. 1998-0675 Page 2
Application No. 08/423,512
brake pedal. More specifically, the invention adapts the
triggering to the driving situation existing during each
braking maneuver by taking into account three factors. The
first factor is the speed of return of an accelerator pedal.
In emergencies, an accelerator pedal is suddenly returned to
rest as the driver reduces the driving power of his vehicle.
At high return speeds of the accelerator pedal, accordingly,
the value for the speed of actuation of the brake pedal is
lowered.
The second factor is the time between the reaching of the
idling position of the accelerator pedal and the actuation of
the brake. A long period therebetween implies that the
vehicle is running down to a standstill under control.
Accordingly, the triggering threshold for the automatic
braking operation is raised. The third factor is the time
between the driver’s placing his foot on the brake pedal and
his application of the brakes. A long period therebetween
implies that the driver is ready to brake but purposefully
delays application of the brake. Accordingly, the triggering
threshold is raised. Accounting for the three factors permits
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