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Method and system for controlling an engine to maintain a comfortable cabin temperature within a vehicle

  • US 7,027,912 B1
  • Filed: 01/03/2005
  • Issued: 04/11/2006
  • Est. Priority Date: 01/03/2005
  • Status: Active Grant
First Claim
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1. A system for controlling an engine to maintain a comfortable cabin temperature within a vehicle having an engine, a battery and a heating/cooling apparatus, the system comprising:

  • an operator interface receiving input regarding an acceptable range of temperatures from a vehicle operator and producing signals indicative of said acceptable range;

    a system switch which includes on and off positions, the system switch producing a signal indicating that the engine may be automatically started or stopped when said system switch is in an on position;

    an ignition switch which includes on and off positions, the ignition switch producing a signal indicating that the ignition is off;

    a plurality of temperature sensors, the temperature sensors producing signals indicative of ambient temperature and cabin temperature; and

    a computer in communication with the engine, the temperature sensors, the system switch, the operator interface and the ignition switch, the computer;

    determining an acceptable range of cabin temperatures based upon signals received from the operator interface;

    determining whether the engine may be automatically started or stopped; and

    controlling automatic starting and stopping of the engine.

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