Data processing: vehicles – navigation – and relative location – Vehicle control – guidance – operation – or indication – With indication of fuel consumption rate or economy of usage
Reexamination Certificate
2006-05-25
2009-10-13
Black, Thomas G (Department: 3661)
Data processing: vehicles, navigation, and relative location
Vehicle control, guidance, operation, or indication
With indication of fuel consumption rate or economy of usage
C074S473120, C701S096000, C701S070000, C701S045000, C701S301000, C715S701000, C345S157000, C345S156000, C345S161000
Reexamination Certificate
active
07603228
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.
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Black Thomas G
Brooks & Kushman P.C.
Ford Global Technologies LLC
Kelley David B.
Louie Wae
LandOfFree
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