Vehicle Climate Control Feedback System for Fuel Economy Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Motor vehicle operators face a dilemma in maintaining comfort and optimizing fuel economy, as opening vehicle closures or using the air conditioning system both negatively impact fuel efficiency, with the optimal choice varying by vehicle make and model, and without guidance, operators cannot determine the better option.
Innovation Solution
A fuel economy and comfort control apparatus equipped with sensors and a controller that uses a fuel economy map database specific to the vehicle's make and model to advise operators on the most fuel-efficient climate control mode, incorporating data on aerodynamic drag, tire resistance, and climate control systems, while providing a scoring system to encourage optimal behavior.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If closures are opened to allow free flow of ambient air, then occupant comfort is improved, but aerodynamic drag increases and fuel economy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors vehicle operating conditions (speed, temperature, closure positions) and provides real-time feedback to the operator through the controller display, recommending whether to open or close closures based on calculated fuel economy impacts. This feedback loop enables operators to make informed decisions that balance comfort with fuel efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller acts as an intermediary between the operator and the complex aerodynamic/thermal calculations. It processes sensor data, consults the fuel economy map database, and translates complex computations into simple, actionable recommendations displayed to the operator, eliminating the need for the operator to understand the underlying physics.
2Ease of operation
If air conditioning system is activated to provide cool air, then occupant comfort is improved, but power consumption increases and fuel economy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides real-time feedback to the operator about the fuel economy impact of using air conditioning versus opening closures. By displaying recommendations based on current operating conditions, it guides operators to choose the lower-energy option when comfort requirements are met through natural ventilation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes the recommended control strategy based on varying operating parameters such as vehicle speed, ambient temperature, and closure positions. At different speed ranges, the optimal strategy shifts between natural ventilation and air conditioning, and the system adapts its recommendations accordingly.
3Loss of energy
If the system provides detailed guidance and scoring, then fuel economy optimization is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller leverages existing vehicle sensors (engine speed, vehicle speed, ambient temperature, closure position sensors) and the existing fuel economy map database infrastructure, making the system universally applicable across different vehicle platforms without requiring proprietary sensor development. The same hardware infrastructure supports multiple functions including climate control monitoring and fuel economy optimization guidance.
Data Source
AI summary
A fuel economy and comfort control apparatus is provided for a motor vehicle. That apparatus includes a plurality of sensors and a controller. The controller is configured to determine and advise an operator of the motor vehicle of the most fuel efficient mode of operating a climate control system of the motor vehicle to maintain occupant comfort while optimizing fuel efficient operation of the motor vehicle. A related method is also disclosed.