Automotive slipstreaming support system
First Claim
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1. A system for use in slipstreaming, comprising:
- (a) at least one mechanism for sensing a presence of an in-path vehicle;
(b) at least one mechanism for sensing factors on a host vehicle relevant to an estimation of coefficient of drag;
(c) a controller in communication with the sensing mechanism(s) for the in-path vehicle and with the sensing mechanism(s) for the host vehicle, the controller adapted to calculate an estimated range of distances for the host vehicle to trail the in-path vehicle to optimize for fuel economy of the host vehicle.
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Abstract
Systems and methods are provided to enhance the ability of a driver to safely slipstream a leading vehicle to realize a fuel economy benefit.
27 Citations
18 Claims
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1. A system for use in slipstreaming, comprising:
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(a) at least one mechanism for sensing a presence of an in-path vehicle; (b) at least one mechanism for sensing factors on a host vehicle relevant to an estimation of coefficient of drag; (c) a controller in communication with the sensing mechanism(s) for the in-path vehicle and with the sensing mechanism(s) for the host vehicle, the controller adapted to calculate an estimated range of distances for the host vehicle to trail the in-path vehicle to optimize for fuel economy of the host vehicle. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10)
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11. A method of supporting a driver in a host vehicle for slipstreaming, comprising:
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(a) sensing an in-path vehicle; (b) sensing factors about a host vehicle relevant to a calculation of coefficient of drag; (c) calculating an estimated distance or a range of estimated distances by which the host vehicle can trail the in-path vehicle to optimize for fuel economy; and (d) displaying whether an instantaneous distance results in a fuel economy benefit. - View Dependent Claims (12, 13, 14, 15, 16)
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17. A method of supporting a driver in a host vehicle for improving fuel economy, comprising:
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(a) sensing an in-path vehicle; (b) receiving input about the host vehicle relevant to fuel economy; (c) calculating a distance or range of distances by which the host vehicle can trail the in-path vehicle to optimize for fuel economy; and (d) displaying whether an instantaneous distance results in a fuel economy benefit. - View Dependent Claims (18)
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Specification