Driver Guidance System for Engine Speed Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems fail to effectively guide driver behavior to reduce fuel consumption and engine/gearbox wear, particularly in arduous terrain, as they do not provide timely suggestions for adjusting engine speed during gear changes, leading to increased fuel consumption and wear.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that determine the appropriateness of an upshift sequence and suggest lowering engine speed if it exceeds a predetermined level, allowing the driver to consider and implement the suggestion independently, applicable to both manual and automatic transmissions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If the driver operates the engine at a higher engine speed on the maximum power output plateau to maintain vehicle speed, then the vehicle can travel more quickly up the hill, but the fuel consumption and engine/gearbox wear increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors engine speed, vehicle speed, gear position, and terrain conditions to determine when the driver is operating on the maximum power output plateau. Based on this feedback, the system provides real-time suggestions to the driver about optimal engine speed ranges, creating a closed-loop control system that guides driver behavior toward more fuel-efficient operation without automatic intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The system acts as an intermediary between the driver and the vehicle's powertrain operations. Rather than directly controlling engine speed or gear selection, it provides informational suggestions to the driver, who then makes the final decision. This intermediary approach influences driver behavior through awareness and guidance while preserving driver autonomy and manual control
2Reliability
If the driver operates the engine at a higher engine speed on the maximum power output plateau, then the vehicle can maintain speed on steep terrain, but the engine and gearbox wear increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary assessment of terrain conditions, vehicle state, and gear position before providing suggestions. By evaluating whether the vehicle is on a steep gradient and whether an upshift would compromise operability, the system proactively guides the driver to appropriate engine speed selections before harmful wear occurs, preventing damage rather than responding to it afterward
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors operational conditions and provides real-time feedback to the driver about engine speed recommendations, creating a closed-loop system that adapts to changing terrain and vehicle states, thereby maintaining reliability while reducing wear through informed driver behavior
3Use of energy by moving object
If the system provides automatic limitation of engine speed to reduce fuel consumption, then fuel efficiency improves, but the driver loses operational flexibility and autonomy
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables the driver to serve themselves by providing the information and guidance needed to make informed decisions about engine speed selection. Rather than removing control, it empowers the driver with knowledge about optimal operating ranges, allowing them to autonomously optimize fuel consumption based on real-time suggestions about plateau operation and upshift timing
Solution Approach 2:
The system acts as an informational intermediary that bridges the gap between complex vehicle dynamics and driver decision-making. It translates sensor data and vehicle state into simple, actionable suggestions without imposing automatic control, thereby reducing fuel consumption while preserving driver autonomy and operational flexibility
4Use of energy by moving object
If the system provides suggestions for engine speed adjustment, then fuel consumption and wear are reduced, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system leverages existing vehicle sensors and control units (engine control unit, transmission control unit, terrain detection systems) to gather necessary data, making it multi-functional and avoiding the need for dedicated hardware. By repurposing existing components for the additional function of providing fuel efficiency suggestions, the system reduces overall complexity while achieving its energy-saving goals
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for guidance of driver behaviour during driving of motor vehicles (1) which comprises the step of determining the consequences of an upshift sequence, comprising the steps of: determining (S1) whether effecting an upshift sequence is appropriate from the operability perspective; if an upshift sequence is not appropriate, determining (S2) a prevailing engine speed; if said prevailing engine speed is above a first predetermined level (A), presenting (S) the driver with a suggestion to lower said engine speed. The present invention also relates to a system for guidance of driver behaviour during driving of motor vehicles. The present invention relates also to a motor vehicle. The present invention relates also to a computer programme and a computer programme product.