Method and apparatus for improving the fuel economy of a variable displacement engine
US8738270B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 15, 2011 |
| Grant date | May 27, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 10, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF02D2400/11
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A secondary controller for controlling the performance of a moving automobile is described. The secondary controller can be configured to communicate with one or more vehicle controllers, such as the engine control unit, while the automobile is being driven. The secondary controller can send control commands, such as self-test or diagnostic commands to the vehicle controller to effect the operation of the vehicle's power train. The secondary controller can receive power train related data from the engine control unit and based upon the received power train data determine when to send the control commands. In one embodiment, the secondary controller communicates with the vehicle controller via the vehicle's diagnostic port, such as an OBD-II port. In another embodiment, the secondary controller can be configured to control a variable displacement engine in a vehicle to improve the fuel efficiency of the vehicle while it is driven.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.