Vehicle Remote Start Control with Proximity-Based Timer Extension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing remote start systems for vehicles do not optimally manage the duration of the remote start functionality, often terminating prematurely or remaining active unnecessarily, which can lead to inconvenience for users.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize a processor to set a timer for the remote start, extending its duration upon detection of user proximity before terminating if no action is detected within a predetermined threshold, differentiating between active and passive actions to adjust the extension time accordingly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the remote start duration is set to a fixed time, then the system is simple to operate, but it cannot adapt to different user needs and circumstances
Solution Approach 1:
The remote start duration is made dynamic rather than fixed. The system automatically adjusts the duration based on detected user actions, transitioning from a static time setting to a flexible, condition-based duration that adapts to different scenarios without requiring complex user input
Solution Approach 2:
The system monitors its own operation and automatically adjusts the remote start duration based on detected user actions. The control algorithm self-regulates the engine runtime without requiring user intervention or complex programming, making the system adaptable while maintaining operational simplicity
2Ease of operation
If the remote start remains active for an extended period, then users have more time to prepare the vehicle, but unnecessary prolonged engine operation occurs when not needed
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors for user actions during the remote start period and uses this feedback to determine when to terminate the engine. This feedback mechanism ensures the engine remains active long enough for user preparation while automatically shutting off when no further actions are detected, preventing unnecessary fuel consumption
Solution Approach 2:
The engine runtime parameter is dynamically changed based on detected user actions. The system transitions from a predetermined fixed duration to a variable duration that is continuously adjusted based on real-time monitoring of user behavior, optimizing both convenience and energy efficiency
3Loss of energy
If the remote start terminates automatically after a set time, then fuel is conserved, but users may experience inconvenience if they need more time to prepare
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary monitoring of user actions during the remote start period and proactively extends the engine runtime when actions are detected, rather than relying on a fixed termination time. This preliminary detection and response mechanism ensures fuel efficiency while preventing user inconvenience by extending runtime only when needed
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems are provided for controlling a remote start feature of an engine of a vehicle. A receiver is configured to receive a signal to initiate a remote start of the engine. A processor is coupled to the receiver, and is configured to initiate the remote start after receiving the signal; set a timer that measures an amount of time after which the remote start has been initiated, for a duration of the remote start; extend the remote start upon detection of an action by an individual proximate the vehicle before the amount of time exceeds a first predetermined threshold; and terminate the remote start after the amount of time exceeds the first predetermined threshold if no action has been detected during the duration of the remote start.