Patent · US Active

Systems and methods for increasing fuel efficiency

US9221451B2 · kind B2 · utility

7Cited by
19References
17Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventor

Key dates

Filing dateMay 17, 2012
Grant dateDec 29, 2015
Priority date
Expiry dateAug 9, 2032

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
  • CPC primaryB60Y2400/88
  • WIPO fieldTransport
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

The vehicle described herein employs an electronic control unit (“ECU”) and/or accessory control module configured to improve actual fuel, economy. The ECU and/or the accessory control module monitors vehicle operating conditions and reduces load from an accessory when the vehicle achieves predetermined operating conditions. The ECU and/or the accessory control module is also configured to engage a fuel cut and a torque converter lock up condition. The lock up condition causes the wheels to drive the motor to avoid engine stall. At a predetermined low level, the ECU and/or the accessory control module can re-engage the accessory and fuel supply and disengage the lock up condition.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.