Vehicle Mode Control for Eco and Dynamic Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle systems with stop/start functionality do not offer flexible driver control over modes of operation, limiting fuel efficiency and performance optimization during a drivecycle.
Innovation Solution
A motor vehicle with driver-selectable first and second modes, where the first mode enables automatic stop/start functionality to reduce engine-on time, and the second mode allows changing of vehicle operating parameters for improved performance characteristics, such as acceleration or special driving conditions, with seamless transitions between modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If stop/start functionality is implemented to reduce engine-on time, then fuel economy is improved, but driver control flexibility over vehicle performance is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between stop/start functionality and disabled state based on driver selection, allowing the engine control strategy to adapt between fuel-saving operation and full performance availability. The mode selection mechanism enables real-time adjustment of system behavior to match driver needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameter of the stop/start functionality from enabled to disabled state based on driver input. This parameter change allows transition between fuel-efficient operation and performance-optimized operation, giving drivers control over the trade-off between economy and performance.
2Speed
If second mode changes operating parameters for improved performance, then acceleration and special driving conditions are optimized, but fuel efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts operating parameters such as throttle response, transmission shift points, and engine mapping based on the selected mode. In sport mode, parameters are optimized for acceleration and performance, while in eco mode, parameters prioritize fuel efficiency, allowing real-time adaptation to driver performance needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes multiple operating parameters simultaneously when switching between eco mode and sport mode, including throttle body positioning, transmission control strategies, and engine management settings. These coordinated parameter changes enable the vehicle to optimize either for fuel efficiency or acceleration performance based on driver selection.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple modes are driver-selectable, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mode selection system serves multiple functions: it controls stop/start functionality, adjusts performance characteristics, and coordinates various vehicle systems. By consolidating these control functions into a single driver-selectable mode system, the patent reduces overall complexity compared to having separate independent controls for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges the control of stop/start functionality with performance mode selection into a unified control architecture. The single mode selection input simultaneously controls multiple vehicle systems, reducing the number of separate control mechanisms needed and simplifying the overall control system while maintaining adaptability.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention provides a motor vehicle having driver- selectable first and second modes (eco, dynamic) of operation and driver -operable means for selecting the first and second modes. Driver selection of the second mode (dynamic) when the first mode (eco) has also been selected causes the vehicle to deselect the first mode (eco), subsequent deselection by the driver of the second mode (dynamic) causing the first mode (eco) to be reselected automatically by the vehicle. If the first mode (eco) is selected by the driver when the vehicle is in the second mode (dynamic), the vehicle selects the first mode (eco) in addition to the second mode (dynamic). A further aspect is directed to a method.