Haptic apparatus and coaching method for improving vehicle fuel economy
First Claim
1. An aftermarket apparatus for encouraging improved vehicle fuel economy, comprising:
- a haptic actuator configured for mounting to an accelerator control assembly of the vehicle;
a connector configured for removably coupling to a vehicle controller via a diagnostic port inside a cabin of the vehicle; and
a controller in communication with the connector and the haptic actuator and configured to read a plurality of signals from the diagnostic port and energize the haptic actuator in response.
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Abstract
An apparatus is disclosed that includes a haptic actuator operatively associated with a pedal assembly of the vehicle, a human-machine interface (HMI) for enabling the driver to select between a plurality of fuel savings settings, and a controller coupled to a data interface in the vehicle and the HMI interface for causing the haptic actuator to provide feedback to the driver when an aspect of vehicle operation crosses at least one of a plurality of speed and acceleration thresholds responsive to the HMI setting. Additionally, a coaching method provides haptic-based feedback that will not interfere with the operation of the vehicle. This method of closed-loop feedback provides a timely signal to the driver in a way that will encourage a change in driver style over time, such as backing off the accelerator pedal to accelerate at a lower rate and braking earlier with less intensity. As not all driver preferences are the same under all conditions, the HMI selector will help coach the driver by providing feedback that best fits their driving preference at the particular time.
99 Citations
16 Claims
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1. An aftermarket apparatus for encouraging improved vehicle fuel economy, comprising:
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a haptic actuator configured for mounting to an accelerator control assembly of the vehicle; a connector configured for removably coupling to a vehicle controller via a diagnostic port inside a cabin of the vehicle; and a controller in communication with the connector and the haptic actuator and configured to read a plurality of signals from the diagnostic port and energize the haptic actuator in response. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7)
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8. An apparatus for encouraging a driver of a vehicle to improve fuel economy, comprising:
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a haptic actuator having a mounting clip to facilitate installation on an accelerator control assembly of the vehicle; a connector configured to be removably coupled to a diagnostic port inside a cabin of the vehicle; and a controller in communication with the connector and the haptic actuator and configured to read a plurality of signals from the diagnostic port and energize the haptic actuator. - View Dependent Claims (9, 10, 11, 12)
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13. A device for providing feedback to a vehicle driver, comprising:
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a haptic actuator adapted for mechanically coupling to an accelerator pedal of the vehicle; a plug adapted for removably connecting to a corresponding receptacle within a cabin of the vehicle to receive vehicle data; and a controller in communication with the connector and the haptic actuator and configured to energize the haptic actuator when the vehicle data indicates driving behavior that reduces fuel economy. - View Dependent Claims (14, 15, 16)
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Specification