Vehicle Countdown Timer Interface for Engine Shutdown Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional systems for managing vehicle shutdown lack a user-friendly interface for displaying the time remaining before shutdown, and vehicle operators cannot independently set or modify the countdown timer without remote access, leading to inefficiencies and potential fuel waste.
Innovation Solution
A method that allows vehicle operators to initiate and dynamically modify a countdown for engine shutdown, with a graphical display showing the remaining time, enabling them to manage power availability to consuming devices and transition the ignition bus to an inactive state when the countdown expires.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a mechanical ignition-bus timer is used to allow the engine to idle for a predetermined period, then electrical power is available to power-consuming devices during the countdown, but the system lacks a user-friendly interface for displaying the time remaining and operators cannot independently modify the timer
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables vehicle operators to independently set, modify, and control the countdown timer without requiring remote fleet manager intervention. The operator interface allows direct manipulation of timer parameters, making the system self-service capable rather than requiring external management for basic timer operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides real-time visual feedback through a display that shows the remaining countdown time to the operator. This feedback mechanism allows operators to monitor the timer status and understand when electrical power will become unavailable, enabling informed decision-making about engine shutdown timing.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the engine is maintained in an idle state for extended periods to provide electrical power, then power is available to consuming devices, but fuel consumption increases and engine wear occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically controls the engine idle state based on a programmable countdown timer rather than maintaining a static idle condition. The timer allows flexible adjustment of idle duration to match actual power needs, enabling the engine to shut down automatically when power is no longer required, thus reducing unnecessary fuel consumption and engine wear.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by pre-scheduling the engine shutdown time using the countdown timer. Operators can set the timer in advance to ensure electrical power is available for a specific duration before automatic shutdown, allowing proactive planning of power usage rather than reactive engine management.
3Extent of automation
If remote fleet manager access is required to set or modify the countdown timer, then centralized control is maintained, but communication channels may not always be established between vehicle and fixed site
Solution Approach 1:
The system transfers timer control capability from remote fleet managers to local vehicle operators. Operators can independently set, modify, and adjust the countdown timer using the onboard interface without requiring external communication infrastructure, ensuring reliable timer functionality regardless of communication channel availability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides multi-functionality by supporting both local operator control and potential remote fleet manager access. The timer control mechanism is designed to work autonomously at the vehicle level while maintaining the option for centralized monitoring or intervention, making the system adaptable to different operational modes and communication scenarios.
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the present invention are directed at allowing a vehicle to idle for a predetermined amount of time before shutdown. In accordance with one embodiment, a method is provided that accepts input from the vehicle operator to initiate a countdown to vehicle shutdown. When the input is received, a countdown is initiated that is regularly updated to reflect the passage of time. During the countdown, a vehicle ignition bus is maintained in an active state and a countdown value that reflects the time remaining before shutdown is presented on a graphical display. Then, in response to expiration of the countdown, the method allows the vehicle ignition bus to transition into an inactive state.