Hybrid Vehicle Travel Mode Switching Preparation System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Drivers of hybrid vehicles may feel uncomfortable when the travel mode is switched unexpectedly upon entering a restriction area without prior notification, particularly in hybrid cars where mode switching can affect vehicle balance and driving experience.
Innovation Solution
A travel mode switching support system and method that determines if the vehicle is in a preparation area adjacent to a restriction area, transmitting a preparation signal to notify the driver and facilitate a smooth transition to a predetermined travel mode before entering the restriction area, using a support control device and output device to manage the mode switching process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the vehicle automatically switches to electric travel mode upon entering a restriction area, then the restriction area compliance is ensured, but the driver experiences discomfort due to unexpected mode switching
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by notifying the driver in advance (via preparation signal) before the actual mode switching occurs. When the vehicle enters a preparation area adjacent to a restriction area, the system activates an output device to alert the driver, allowing the driver to mentally and operationally prepare for the upcoming mode change, thereby reducing discomfort while ensuring compliance.
Solution Approach 2:
The preparation area and preparation signal act as an intermediary mechanism between the restriction area requirement and the driver's awareness. This intermediary zone provides a buffer that mediates the transition, allowing the system to fulfill restriction area compliance requirements while simultaneously maintaining driver comfort through advance notification.
2Speed
If the vehicle enters a restriction area without prior notification, then the response time is minimized, but the driver feels uncomfortable due to unexpected switching
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements preliminary action by activating the output device in the preparation area before the vehicle actually enters the restriction area. This advance notification maintains fast response time (the switching still occurs quickly upon entering the restriction area) while simultaneously improving driver awareness and reducing discomfort.
Data Source
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AI summary
There are provided a travel mode switching support method and a travel mode switching support system for supporting switching of a travel mode of a vehicle configured to travel in a plurality of travel modes, the travel mode switching support method including: determining whether the vehicle is present in a preparation area that is set adjacently to a restriction area in which a specific travel mode to be set is predetermined; transmitting a preparation signal indicating that the vehicle is present in the preparation area if determining that the vehicle is present in the preparation area; and outputting a predetermined output for switching from a travel mode in use to the specific travel mode if receiving the preparation signal.