Vehicle Range Extension via Dynamic System Parameter Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle systems do not actively manage fuel consumption to increase the remaining driving range when a low fuel condition is detected, failing to provide drivers with actionable information to improve propulsion system efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that automatically alter the operating parameters of vehicle systems, such as engine displacement, transmission calibration, climate control, and audio settings, to reduce fuel consumption and extend the driving range by prioritizing efficiency improvements based on their impact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If vehicle systems operate at standard settings, then normal performance and comfort are maintained, but fuel consumption remains high when fuel is low
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts vehicle system operating parameters based on detected fuel conditions. When low fuel is detected, the system automatically modifies engine displacement settings, transmission calibration, climate control parameters, and other vehicle systems to optimize for fuel efficiency. This dynamic adaptation allows the vehicle to transition between performance-oriented and efficiency-oriented operating modes without driver intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operating parameters of various vehicle systems in response to fuel level detection. Specifically, it modifies engine displacement (reducing active cylinders), transmission gear selection preferences, climate control temperature and fan speed settings, and other parameters to collectively reduce fuel consumption when fuel levels are low, while maintaining basic vehicle functionality.
2Duration of action of moving object
If the system actively manages fuel consumption by altering vehicle system parameters, then remaining driving range is extended, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fuel management system integrates with and controls multiple existing vehicle systems simultaneously - engine control, transmission control, climate control, and navigation. By making the system universal and multi-functional, it leverages existing vehicle infrastructure rather than requiring entirely new components, thereby extending driving range through coordinated parameter adjustments across systems without proportionally increasing overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically detects fuel levels and autonomously adjusts vehicle operating parameters without requiring driver input or manual intervention. The trip computer monitors fuel consumption patterns and fuel level, then self-initiates parameter changes to extend range, and can even automatically generate navigation routes to refueling stations, making the system self-serve the fuel management function.
3Loss of information
If the system provides detailed information and control over fuel management, then driver awareness and control are improved, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides continuous feedback to the driver through the display interface, showing current fuel consumption rate, estimated distance to empty, and information about active fuel-saving measures. This feedback loop keeps the driver informed about fuel status and system actions without requiring the driver to manually monitor or calculate fuel consumption, thereby improving awareness while maintaining ease of operation.
Data Source
AI summary
The technology described herein provides a system and method for automatically increasing the remaining driving range of a vehicle when a low fuel or other condition is detected by altering the operating parameters of one or more vehicle systems to improve propulsion system efficiency and thereby lower fuel consumption. The vehicle range extending system is capable of altering the operating parameters of any vehicle system, including for example variable displacement settings, start-stop technology settings, and HVAC operation. The disclosed technology can also provide information to the driver, suggesting which system operating parameters should be altered to reduce the fuel consumption rate.