Vehicle Remote Communication Control via Timed Engine Auto-Start
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing remote vehicle control systems face user inconvenience due to the communication device switching to off mode after a specified period post-engine shutdown, leading to battery depletion and inability to receive remote operation signals.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus and method that initiates an auto-start process to operate the internal combustion engine for a specified period before switching the communication function to off mode, allowing the battery to recharge and maintain standby functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If the communication function is switched to off mode after a first period of time elapses post-engine shutdown, then battery consumption is reduced, but the ability to receive remote operation signals is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs a preliminary engine restart before the communication function would switch to off mode. The controller detects when the first period of time is approaching and automatically restarts the engine, thereby resetting the timer and maintaining communication functionality without requiring continuous engine operation. This preliminary action prevents the loss of remote operation capability while minimizing battery consumption.
2Reliability
If the engine operates continuously to maintain communication function, then remote operation signal reception is ensured, but fuel consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuous engine operation, the system implements periodic engine restarts. The controller monitors the elapsed time since engine shutdown and triggers restarts only when necessary to reset the timer before the first period of time expires. This periodic action maintains communication functionality while significantly reducing fuel consumption compared to continuous operation.
3Reliability
If the communication function remains in standby mode for extended periods, then remote operation capability is maintained, but battery depletes
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the engine itself as a self-service mechanism to maintain communication functionality. When the timer approaches the first period of time threshold, the system automatically restarts the engine, which resets the timer and extends the communication function's availability. This self-service approach eliminates the need for external battery charging or manual intervention, maintaining remote operation capability while minimizing battery depletion.
Data Source
AI summary
An information processing apparatus controls a vehicle having a communication function related to remote operation that is configured to be switched to off mode when a first period of time elapses after an internal combustion engine has stopped operating. The information processing apparatus has a controller configured to execute an auto-start process. The auto-start process is the process of sending a start command for causing the internal combustion engine to operate for a specified period of time when a second period of time that is shorter than the first period of time elapses after the internal combustion engine has stopped operating.