System and method for indicating an efficiency level of energy usage by an automotive vehicle
US8433473B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 18, 2010 |
| Grant date | Apr 30, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 8, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02T10/84
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A system and method is provided for indicating an efficiency level of energy usage by an automotive vehicle to a passenger in the vehicle. The system includes a computer-readable storage medium, a controller, an interior-lighting system, and a display unit. The controller processes energy usage signals to obtain the given operating mode of the vehicle as well as indications of energy usage amounts that the passenger can control. The controller determines the efficiency level of energy usage by the vehicle based on the energy usage amounts and the given operating mode. The interior-lighting system illuminates at least a portion of the passenger compartment with ambient light having defined characteristics including a luminance and a color, the ambient light indicating the efficiency level. The display unit displays a graphical representation of the efficiency level.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.