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Drafting detection and vehicle operation optimization system

  • US 10,059,330 B2
  • Filed: 09/22/2016
  • Issued: 08/28/2018
  • Est. Priority Date: 09/22/2016
  • Status: Active Grant
First Claim
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1. A system for improving a performance or an efficiency of operation of a vehicle experiencing reduced aerodynamic loading due to driving behind a lead vehicle, the system comprising:

  • a first sensor configured to detect current vehicle speed data;

    a second sensor configured to detect current vehicle slope data;

    a third sensor configured to detect spatial data indicating distance to the lead vehicle;

    a pedal control unit configured to detect current pedal position data; and

    an electronic control unit (ECU) configured to;

    determine an expected driving power demand based on the current vehicle speed data and the current vehicle slope data,determine a detected driving power demand based on the current pedal position data,detect a drafting condition when the expected driving power demand exceeds the detected driving power demand and when the spatial data indicates the vehicle is within a proximity of the lead vehicle, andadjust, when the drafting condition is detected, at least one of a chassis control setting, an engine control setting, a transmission control setting, or a hybrid control setting to improve the performance or the efficiency of operation of the vehicle.

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