Speed-Based Window Control for Fuel Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Occupants in vehicles face a dilemma on hot days between rolling down windows and using air conditioning, both of which decrease fuel efficiency, with no clear indication of the most efficient option, and closing windows at high speeds can be distracting and uncomfortable.
Innovation Solution
A speed-based window control system that uses a speed sensor to close side windows and activate the air conditioner when the vehicle reaches a certain speed, and reopens them when the speed decreases, optimizing fuel efficiency and reducing driver distraction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If windows are kept open to cool the cabin, then cooling comfort is improved, but fuel efficiency deteriorates due to increased wind resistance
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts window position based on real-time vehicle speed measurements. At low speeds, windows remain open for ventilation; at high speeds, windows automatically close to reduce drag. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction by optimizing the window state according to operating conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of window position (open/closed state) based on the parameter change of vehicle speed. When speed exceeds a threshold, the window position parameter changes from open to closed, thereby reducing aerodynamic resistance and improving fuel efficiency while maintaining cooling through the air conditioning system.
2Temperature
If air conditioner is activated to cool the cabin, then cooling comfort is improved, but fuel efficiency deteriorates due to compressor operation
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by closing windows before the air conditioning compressor needs to work at full capacity. By proactively closing windows at high speeds, the system reduces the cooling load required, thereby reducing compressor operation time and improving fuel efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses periodic monitoring of vehicle speed and periodically adjusts window position and air conditioning operation. This periodic control optimizes the balance between cooling demand and energy consumption, activating the air conditioner only when necessary and at optimal times.
3Loss of energy
If windows are automatically closed at high speed, then fuel efficiency is improved, but driver distraction and discomfort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides self-service by automatically monitoring vehicle speed and controlling window position without requiring driver intervention. The system serves itself by using the vehicle's existing speed sensor data and automatically executing window control, eliminating the need for the driver to manually adjust windows and reducing driver distraction.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus and methods are disclosed for speed-based window control. An example disclosed vehicle includes a speed sensor and a body control module. When a side window is open, the body control module monitors, via the speed sensor, a speed of the vehicle. In response to the speed of the vehicle satisfying a first speed threshold, the body control module closes the side window and then, after the side window is closed, activates an air conditioner.