Claims:We claim:

1. A method for automatically operating a vehicle in multiple drive modes, the method comprising:
receiving, by an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) (101), data related to one or more operating parameters from one or more sources (103) associated with the vehicle in real-time, wherein the one or more operating parameters includes load on the vehicle and terrain condition in current location of the vehicle;
detecting, by the ECU (101), a drive mode from a plurality of pre-set drive modes (102) for operating the vehicle by comparing the data related to the one or more operating parameters with a pre-stored data; and
communicating, by the ECU (101), the drive mode to an Engine Management System (EMS) (105), wherein the EMS (105) dynamically controls one or more drive parameters based on the drive mode.

2. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more sources (103) associated with the vehicle includes a load sensing unit, a Global Positioning System (GPS) and a terrain detection system.

3. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more operating parameters further comprises traffic condition in the current location of the vehicle and driving pattern of a vehicle user.

4. The method as claimed in claim 3, wherein the driving pattern of the vehicle user is determined by a driving pattern detection system associated with the vehicle based on one or more vehicle driving parameters.

5. The method as claimed in claim 4, wherein the one or more vehicle driving parameters includes vehicle speed pattern, throttle actuation pattern, brake pedal and clutch pedal actuation pattern, and gear shift pattern.

6. The method as claimed in claim 3, wherein the traffic condition in the current location of the vehicle is determined using at least one of Global Position System associated with the vehicle and a traffic condition detection system based on the driving pattern of the vehicle user.

7. The method as claimed in claim 1 further comprising deactivating, by the ECU (101), the process of operating the vehicle in multiple drive modes upon receiving a user input signal from an override button configured in the vehicle.

8. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the vehicle is at least one of an engine propelled vehicle and a hybrid vehicle.

9. The method as claimed in claim 8, wherein the one or more drive parameters dynamically controlled by the EMS (105) in the engine propelled vehicle includes rate of acceleration, fuel supply to engine and timing control.

10. The method as claimed in claim 8, wherein the one or more drive parameters dynamically controlled by the EMS (105) in the hybrid vehicle includes shifting to at least one of electric mode, engine mode, engine assist mode and regeneration mode by dynamically altering threshold limits of battery State Of Charge (SOC), vehicle speed, accelerator pedal position/throttle position, engine torque, motor torque and engine speed.

11. A system for automatically operating a vehicle in multiple drive modes, the system comprising:
an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) (101) configured to:
receive data related to one or more operating parameters from one or more sources (103) associated with the vehicle in real-time, wherein the one or more operating parameters includes load on the vehicle and terrain condition in current location of the vehicle;
detect a drive mode from a plurality of pre-set drive modes (102) for operating the vehicle by comparing the data related to the one or more operating parameters with a pre-stored data; and
communicate the drive mode to an Engine Management System (EMS) (105), wherein the EMS (105) dynamically controls one or more drive parameters based on the drive mode.

12. The system as claimed in claim 11 comprises a memory unit (206A) associated with the ECU (101) for storing pre-stored data corresponding to each of the plurality of pre-set drive modes (102).

13. The system as claimed in claim 11, wherein the one or more sources (103) associated with the vehicle includes a load sensing unit, a Global Positioning System (GPS) and a terrain detection system.

14. The system as claimed in claim 11, wherein the one or more operating parameters further comprises traffic condition in the current location of the vehicle and driving pattern of a vehicle user.

15. The system as claimed in claim 14, wherein the driving pattern of the vehicle user is determined by a driving pattern detection system associated with the vehicle based on one or more vehicle driving parameters.

16. The system as claimed in claim 15, wherein the one or more vehicle driving parameters includes vehicle speed pattern, throttle actuation pattern, brake pedal and clutch pedal actuation pattern, and gear shift pattern.

17. The system as claimed in claim 14, wherein the traffic condition in the current location of the vehicle is determined using at least one of Global Position System associated with the vehicle and a traffic condition detection system based on the driving pattern of the vehicle user.

18. A vehicle comprising the system for operating the vehicle in multiple drive modes as claimed in claim 11.
, Description:TECHNICAL FIELD

Present disclosure generally relates to field of automobile engineering. Particularly but not exclusively, the present disclosure relates to multi drive mode vehicles. Further embodiments of the present disclosure, discloses a method and a system for automatically operating a vehicle in multiple drive modes.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

In automobiles, various parameters such as driving conditions, driver’s needs and aspirations such as enhanced drivability and comfort, pose varying demanding requirements on an engine. In addition, topographical conditions like trail roads (slopes or gradients), city roads, highways, flat road, and the like may demand varying outputs in the form of torque, speed and power from the engine of the vehicle. For example, high torque may be required for moving the vehicle uphill, whereas, in slow moving city traffic conditions (where vehicles are densely populated) vehicles tend to move at low speeds due to which the torque requirement may be minimal. Further, while driving the vehicles on highways with minimal or no traffic, the driver aspires to propel the vehicle either at cruising speeds or at very high speeds, which demands more output power from the engine. Also, different individuals have different maneuvering styles. For example, some individuals may prefer performance over fuel efficiency tuned while some prefer the other way round. Therefore, it may be always a challenging task to meet such conflicting demands in a vehicle, and consequently, to design and manufacture an engine which meets optimum varying demands of the user without any compromise with performance of engine and fuel economy over the life term of the vehicle.

Generally, in most of the vehicles, engine may be tuned or calibrated to operate in a specific way under particular set of conditions. For example, engines may be calibrated or tuned in such a way that it delivers greater output or delivers maximum fuel economy, depending on operating characteristics and needs of the user. Either way, there is a compromise on the other parameter. In case of high power requirements, the user opts for the engine with multiple cylinders, the number of cylinders may range from two to twelve cylinders. Undoubtedly, the quantity of fuel consumed in case of higher number of cylinders is high to deliver large amount of power. This is practically an unviable solution for individuals who prefer fuel economy over higher power output or increased performance of the engine. Thus, as stated, there is always a compromise either towards performance of the engine or towards fuel efficiency of the engine.
With the advancement in technology, some of the vehicles have been implemented with a system to operate the vehicle in multiple drive modes using the same engine. However, there are few limitations associated with the above stated technologies. In the conventional multi-drive mode vehicles, the user may have to change drive modes manually based on his preference of performance or fuel efficiency. Since the user has to manually change the drive modes, the number of drive modes which may be provided are minimum to avoid distraction to the user while driving the vehicle. As an example, the number of drive modes provided may be efficiency mode, performance mode and city mode. Further, many users may not prefer using these technologies though they are configured in the vehicle due to the distress involved in changing to multiple drive modes manually.

In some of the conventional vehicles, techniques have been implemented for automatic adaption to multiple drive modes of the vehicle based on various parameters such as driving style of the user and traffic condition in current location of the vehicle. However, the number of parameters considered in such conventional technologies to alter or control the engine and overall performance of the multi-drive mode vehicle are very basic and minimal. Due to the consideration of a limited number of input parameters to control and regulate the performance of the vehicle, the demanding requirements in multiple drive modes owing to varying conditions in different drive modes are not met. Further, these technologies that provide automatic adaption to multiple drive modes of the vehicle are limited to few variations of the drive mode.

The present disclosure is directed to overcome of the one or more limitations stated above.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

One or more shortcomings of the conventional systems are overcome by system and method as claimed and additional advantages are provided through the provision of system and method as claimed in the present disclosure. Additional features and advantages are realized through the techniques of the present disclosure. Other embodiments and aspects of the disclosure are described in detail herein and are considered a part of the claimed disclosure.

In one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure a method for automatically operating a vehicle in multiple drive modes is disclosed. The method comprising receiving data related to one or more operating parameters from one or more sources associated with the vehicle in real-time by an Electronic Control Unit (ECU). The one or more operating parameters includes load on the vehicle and terrain condition in current location of the vehicle. The method further comprises detecting a drive mode from a plurality of pre-set drive modes, by the ECU, for operating the vehicle by comparing the data related to the one or more operating parameters with a pre-stored data. Further, the ECU communicates the drive mode to an Engine Management System (EMS). The EMS dynamically controls one or more drive parameters based on the detected drive mode.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, the one or more sources associated with the vehicle comprises at least one of a load sensing unit, a Global Positioning System (GPS) and a terrain detection system.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, the one or more operating parameters further comprises traffic condition in the current location of the vehicle and driving pattern of a vehicle user.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, the method includes determining the driving pattern of the vehicle user by a driving pattern detection system associated with the vehicle based on one or more vehicle driving parameters. The one or more vehicle driving parameters includes vehicle speed pattern, throttle actuation pattern, brake pedal and clutch pedal actuation pattern, and gear shift pattern.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, wherein the traffic condition in the current location of the vehicle is determined using at least one of Global Position System associated with the vehicle and a traffic condition detection system based on the driving pattern of the vehicle user.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, the method further comprises deactivating, by the ECU, the process of operating the vehicle in multiple drive modes upon receiving an user input signals from an override button configured in the vehicle.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, the vehicle is at least one of an engine propelled vehicle and a hybrid vehicle.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, the one or more drive parameters dynamically controlled by the EMS in the engine propelled vehicle includes rate of acceleration, fuel supply to engine of the vehicle and timing control.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, the one or more drive parameters dynamically controlled by the EMS in the hybrid vehicle includes shifting to at least one of electric mode, engine mode, engine assist mode and regeneration mode in the hybrid vehicle.

In another non-limiting embodiment of the disclosure a system for automatically operating the vehicle in multiple drive modes is disclosed. The system comprises an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) configured to receive data related to one or more operating parameters from one or more sources associated with the vehicle in real-time. The one or more operating parameters includes load on the vehicle and terrain condition in current location of the vehicle. Further, the ECU is configured to detect a drive mode from a plurality of pre-set drive modes for operating the vehicle by comparing the data related to the one or more parameters with a pre-stored data. Furthermore, the ECU is configured to communicate the drive mode to an Engine Management System (EMS). The EMS dynamically controls one or more drive parameters based on the detected drive mode.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, the system comprises a memory unit associated with the ECU for storing pre-set values corresponding to each of the plurality of pre-set drive modes.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, the one or more sources associated with the vehicle comprises at least one of a load sensing unit, a Global Positioning System (GPS) and a terrain detection system.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, the one or more operating parameters further comprises traffic condition in the current location of the vehicle and driving pattern of a vehicle user.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, the driving pattern of the vehicle user is determined by a driving pattern detection system associated with the vehicle based on one or more vehicle driving parameters.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, the one or more vehicle driving parameters includes vehicle speed pattern, throttle actuation pattern, brake pedal and clutch pedal actuation pattern, and gear shift pattern.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, wherein the traffic condition in the current location of the vehicle is determined using at least one of Global Position System associated with the vehicle and a traffic condition detection system based on the driving pattern of the vehicle user.

It is to be understood that aspects and embodiments of the disclosure described above may be used in any combination with each other. Several aspects and embodiments may be combined together to form a further embodiment of the disclosure.

The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to drawings and the following detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING FIGURES
The disclosure itself, however, as well as a preferred mode of use, further objectives and advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following detailed description of an illustrative embodiment when read in conjunction with the accompanying figures. One or more embodiments are now described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying figures wherein like reference numerals represent like elements and in which:

FIG.1 illustrates block diagram of a system for automatically operating a vehicle in multiple drive modes, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG.2 shows a detailed block diagram of the system comprising an Electronic control Unit (ECU) associated with an Engine Management System (EMS) for automatically operating the vehicle in multiple drive modes in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG.3 illustrates a graphical representation of pre-set drive modes in a particular gear in accordance with a few embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG.4 illustrates a flowchart of a method for operating a vehicle in multiple drive modes using a system of FIG. 1.

It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that any block diagrams herein represent conceptual views of illustrative systems embodying the principles of the present subject matter. Similarly, it will be appreciated that any flow charts, flow diagrams, state transition diagrams, pseudo code, and the like represent various processes which may be substantially represented in computer readable medium and executed by a computer or processor, whether or not such computer or processor is explicitly shown.

The figures depict embodiments of the disclosure for purposes of illustration only. One skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the system illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles of the disclosure described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The foregoing has broadly outlined the features and technical advantages of the present disclosure in order that the detailed description of the disclosure that follows may be better understood. Additional features and advantages of the disclosure will be described hereinafter which form the subject of the claims of the disclosure. It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the conception and specific embodiment disclosed may be readily utilized as a basis for modifying or designing other structures for carrying out the same purposes of the present disclosure. It should also be realized by those skilled in the art that such equivalent constructions do not depart from the scope of the disclosure as set forth in the appended claims. The novel features which are believed to be characteristic of the disclosure, both as to its organization and method of operation, together with further objects and advantages will be better understood from the following description when considered in connection with the accompanying figures. It is to be expressly understood, however, that each of the figures is provided for the purpose of illustration and description only and is not intended as a definition of the limits of the present disclosure.

Embodiments of the present disclosure disclose a system and a method for operating a vehicle in multiple drive modes.

The present disclosure provides a method and a system for operating the vehicle in multiple drive modes. The provision of multiple drive modes in a single vehicle may be equivalent to having characteristics of different vehicles which are dedicated to operate or perform particular function (such as vehicles dedicated for fuel efficiency or vehicle dedicated to deliver maximum power) in a single vehicle. In the present disclosure, an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) of the vehicle may be configured with a plurality of modules for operating the vehicle under different driving conditions based on the drive mode selected. Essentially, the system of the present disclosure aims to provide features which contribute in significant improvement of overall performance of the vehicle and to reap maximum benefits out of a multi drive mode vehicle over conventional vehicles.

In an exemplary embodiment, the vehicle being operated with multiple drive modes disclosed in the present disclosure includes plurality of pre-set drive modes (102). As an example, the multiple drive modes may be broadly classified into economy mode, sports mode and city mode. Each of the above mentioned modes i.e. economy mode, sports mode and city mode may further include the plurality of pre-set drive modes (102). These drive modes may be configured to cater to different needs of a vehicle user. These drive modes allow the vehicle to have multiple characteristics in the way it is driven and handled as opposed to a single set of characteristics in the conventional vehicles. Generally, vehicle may be configured to operate in a single drive mode, for instance, the conventional vehicles are configured to operate either as a sports car or an economy car. Whereas, vehicles with multiple drive modes allows the vehicle user to experience and utilize the required drive mode based on various parameters. As an example, pre-set drive modes of the economy mode may comprise pre-set values such that, the engine response and other factors such as air conditioning are altered to produce best fuel economy the vehicle can offer. Whereas, pre-set drive modes of the sports mode may comprise the pre-set values such that powertrain components are controlled to attain sporty drivability. In the plurality of pre-set drive modes of other driving mode i.e. city mode which is supposed to be a balance between the economy mode and sports mode which is best suited when vehicle is driven within the city limits.

The method and system for operating the vehicle in multiple drive modes as disclosed in the present disclosure, may be adapted to automatically operate the vehicle in multiple drive modes. The system for operating the vehicle in multiple drive modes comprises an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) which may be configured to receive data related to one or more parameters from one or more sources associated with the vehicle in real-time. As an example, the one or more sources may include, but not limited to, a load sensing unit, a Global Positioning System (GPS) and a terrain detection system. The ECU may be further configured to detect a drive mode from the plurality of pre-set drive modes for operating the vehicle by comparing the data related to the one or more parameters with a pre-stored data. In an embodiment of the disclosure, the pre-set values corresponding to the plurality of pre-set drive modes may be stored in a memory unit which is located external to the ECU. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the memory unit may be a part of the ECU. Furthermore, the ECU may be configured to operate an Engine Management System (EMS) to dynamically control one or more drive parameters based on the detected drive mode. In an embodiment, the one or more drive parameters depend upon type of the vehicle in which the system is integrated. In an embodiment, the type of the vehicle may include, but not limited to, an engine propelled vehicle and a hybrid vehicle. As an example, the one or more drive parameters dynamically controlled by the EMS in the engine propelled vehicle may include, but not limited to, rate of acceleration, fuel supply to engine of the vehicle and timing control at which the fuel is supplied to the engine.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, the vehicle user referred herein above and below refers to driver of the vehicle.

The terms “comprises”, “comprising”, or any other variations thereof used in the specification, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a system or method that comprises a list of components or steps does not include only those components or steps but may include other components or steps not expressly listed or inherent to such setup or method. In other words, one or more elements in a system or apparatus proceeded by “comprises… a” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other elements or additional elements in the system or apparatus.

Henceforth, the present disclosure is explained with the help of one or more figures of exemplary embodiments. However, such exemplary embodiments should not be construed as limitations of the present disclosure.

FIG.1 is an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, which illustrates block diagram of a system (100) for operating a vehicle in multiple drive modes. The system (100) comprises an Electric Control Unit (ECU) (101) and an Engine Management System (EMS) (105). The ECU (101) is configured as a part of the EMS (105) or may be interfaced with the EMS (105) to communicate various data for controlling an engine of the vehicle. The EMS (105) may work in conjunction with powertrain components of the vehicle to control running of an engine based on various parameters such as, but not limited to, engine speed, load on the engine, engine temperature, and providing the ignition spark at the right time for the prevailing conditions.

The ECU (101) of the vehicle may be configured to receive data related to one or more operating parameters from one or more sources (103) associated with the vehicle in real-time. As an example, the one or more operating parameters may include, but not limited to, load on the vehicle, terrain condition in current location of the vehicle, traffic condition in the current location of the vehicle and driving pattern of a vehicle user. In an embodiment, the one or more sources (103) may include, but not limited to, a load sensing unit, a Global Positioning System (GPS) and a terrain detection system. In some embodiments, the load sensing unit may include, but not limited to, a load sensing valve, a pressure sensor and an occupancy detection unit. As an example, the load sensing valve may be installed between chassis and an axle of the vehicle in commercial vehicle. A pressure sensor associated with the load sensing valve senses an output pressure altered by the load sensing valve based on suspension deflection due to loading conditions of the vehicle. As an example, the loading conditions of the vehicle may include, but not limited to, no load, part load, rated load and overload. Further, the occupancy detection unit may provide information related to number of occupants in the vehicle. Seats of the vehicle may be configured with an occupancy detection switch which gets activated when the seat is occupied. In some embodiments, the GPS provides the current location of the vehicle and the terrain detection system detects the terrain condition based on latitude and longitude of the current location of the vehicle. Further, the traffic condition in the current location of the vehicle may be determined using the GPS or a traffic condition detecting system. The traffic condition detection system determines the traffic condition based on the driving pattern of the vehicle user. Further, the driving pattern of the vehicle user may be determined using a driving pattern detection system associated with the vehicle by continuously monitoring one or more vehicle driving parameters. As an example, the one or more vehicle driving parameters may include, but not limited to, vehicle speed pattern, throttle actuation pattern, brake pedal and clutch pedal actuation pattern, and gear shift pattern.

Upon receiving the data related to the one or more operating parameters, the ECU (101) automatically detects a drive mode from a plurality of pre-set drive modes (102) for operating the vehicle by comparing the data related to the one or more operating parameters with a pre-stored data. As an example, the pre-stored data is related to the one or more operating parameters. Finally, the ECU (101) communicates the drive mode to the EMS (105). The EMS dynamically controls one or more drive parameters based on the detected drive mode. In some embodiments, the one or more drive parameters depend upon vehicle type in which the system is integrated. As an example, the vehicle type may include, but not limited to, an engine propelled vehicle and a hybrid vehicle. As an example, the engine propelled vehicle may include, but not limited to, a petrol engine vehicle and a diesel engine vehicle. Upon implementing the drive mode by the EMS (105), an appropriate representation may be displayed to the vehicle user that indicates the implemented drive mode. Further, the vehicle is configured with an override button to override and deactivate the automatic control of drive modes by the ECU (101), and in such condition the vehicle may be driven as per the user actuations.

FIG.2 shows a detailed block diagram of the system comprising an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) associated with an Engine Management System (EMS) for automatically operating the vehicle in multiple drive modes, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

The system comprises an ECU (101) associated with an EMS (105), a memory unit (206A) and a memory unit (206B). The ECU (101) comprises a plurality of ECU modules (205) stored in the memory unit (206A). Further, the EMS (105) comprises a plurality of EMS modules (207) stored in the memory unit (206B).

In a non-limiting embodiment, the plurality of ECU modules (205) stored in the memory unit (206A) are a user identification module (209), a receiving module (211), a detecting module (213), a comparing module (215), an operating module, a displaying module (219) and an overriding module (221). Further, the plurality of EMS modules (207) stored in the memory unit (206B) may be at least one of a hybrid vehicle control module (223) or a power train driven vehicle control module (207a) which may include a fueling control module (225), an acceleration control module (227) and a timing control module (229).

In some embodiments, the user identification module (209) may be configured in the ECU (101) to identify a vehicle user using one or more mechanisms. The vehicle user may be identified to determine driving pattern of the vehicle user for detecting the drive mode of the vehicle, based on the driving pattern. As an example, in the one mechanism, a touchpad may be integrated inside the vehicle. The vehicle user may manually enter a user identification pin/password through the touchpad, using which the user identification module (209) identifies the vehicle user. Further, in another mechanism, the vehicle may be integrated with 2 different control buttons associated with the user identification module (209), in which one control button may provide a personalized experience to the vehicle user, whereas the other control button may be configured for guest users of the vehicle. Furthermore, in another mechanism, the vehicle user may connect to the user identification module (209) via one or more wireless networks such as Bluetooth, Near Field Communication (NFC) and the like through one or more mobile communication devices. Further, in another mechanism, the user identification module (209) may be associated with one or more sensors such as face recognition sensors, voice recognition sensors, biometric sensors and the like. The user identification module (209) identifies the vehicle user based on sensor data obtained from the one or more sensors. Upon identifying the vehicle user, the user identification module (209) will set a default drive mode based on a pre-stored tag assigned to the vehicle user. The pre-stored tag may be assigned to the vehicle user based on historical data related to driving pattern of the vehicle user. As an example, if the driving pattern of the user is inclined towards aggressive driving, the default drive mode would be a pre-set drive mode comprising pre-set value corresponding to high performance of the vehicle (performance mode).

In some embodiments, upon identifying the vehicle user, the receiving module (211) receives one or more operating parameters from one or more sources (103) associated with the vehicle in real-time. As an example, the one or more operating parameters may include, but not limited to, load on the vehicle, terrain condition in current location of the vehicle, traffic condition in the current location of the vehicle and driving pattern of a vehicle user. The one or more sources (103) for identifying the one or more operating parameters may include, but not limited to, a load sensing unit, a Global Positioning System (GPS) and a terrain detection system. Further, the one or more sources (103) may include, but not limited to, a driving pattern detection system and a traffic condition detection system. In some embodiments, the driving pattern detection system continuously monitors one or more vehicle driving parameters to determine the driving pattern of the vehicle user. As an example, the one or more vehicle driving parameters may include, but not limited to, vehicle speed pattern, throttle actuation pattern, brake pedal and clutch pedal actuation pattern, and gear shift pattern. In some embodiments, the traffic condition may be detected using the GPS. In some other embodiments, the traffic condition may be detected using the driving pattern of the vehicle user. This may be identified by determining actuation pattern of the brake pedal and clutch pedal in a defined travel distance of the vehicle.

In some embodiments, the detecting module (213) detects a drive mode for operating the vehicle. Upon receiving the data related to the one or more operating parameters, the comparing module (215) compares the data related to the one or more operating parameters with a pre-stored data stored in the memory unit (206A). The pre-stored data may be related to the one or more operating parameters.

Based on the comparison, the detecting module (213) detects the drive mode from plurality of pre-set drive modes (102) for operating the vehicle. In some embodiments, the plurality of the pre-set drive modes is stored in the memory unit (206A). The plurality of pre-set drive modes (102) may vary based on vehicle type, specification of the vehicle and powertrain components of the vehicle. As an example, the vehicle type may include, but not limited to, an engine propelled vehicle and a hybrid vehicle. As an example, the engine propelled vehicle may include, but not limited to, a petrol engine vehicle and a diesel engine vehicle.

Considering an exemplary scenario in which the data related to the one or more parameters is received as shown in the below Table 1.

Vehicle type Operating parameter Source Data related to the operating parameter
Engine Propelled vehicle Load on the vehicle Load sensing unit Part load
Current location of the vehicle
Global positioning system
Latitude: X
Longitude: Y

Terrain condition in current location of the vehicle Terrain detection system based on GPS

Uphill

Driving pattern

Driving pattern detection system
Moderate speed

Traffic condition in the current location of the vehicle Global positioning system / Traffic condition detection system Low traffic

Table 1

The comparing module (215) compares the data related to the one or more operating parameters in the above Table 1 with the pre-stored data. An exemplary pre-stored data for the engine propelled vehicle may be as shown below.

Pre-stored data for an engine propelled vehicle:

Pre-stored data 1: Load on the vehicle – Part load
Terrain condition – uphill
Driving pattern – Moderate speed / Low speed
Traffic condition – Low traffic

Pre-stored data 2: Load on the vehicle – Rated load
Terrain condition – National Highway
Driving pattern – High speed
Traffic condition – Low traffic

When the comparing module (215) compares the data related to the one or more operating parameters with the pre-stored data, the data related to the one or more operating parameters matches with the pre-stored data 1. Based on the comparison, the detection module detects the drive mode of the vehicle based on the data related to the one or more operating parameters received in real-time as the pre-set drive mode 1. An exemplary pre-set drive mode 1 is as shown below.

Pre-set drive mode 1: If pre-stored data 1 is satisfied, then
{
Rate of Acceleration: R
Fueling Control: F
Timing Control: T
}

In some embodiments, the communicating module (217) communicates the detected drive mode to the EMS (105). The EMS (105) may dynamically control one or more drive parameters based on the detected drive mode. The one or more drive parameters depend upon the type of the vehicle. In some embodiments, the one or more drive parameters dynamically controlled by the EMS (105) in the engine propelled vehicle may include, but not limited to, rate of acceleration, fuel supply to engine of the vehicle and timing control.

In some embodiments, the one or more drive parameters dynamically controlled by the EMS (105) in the hybrid vehicle includes shifting to at least one of electric mode, engine mode, engine assist mode and regeneration mode by dynamically altering threshold limits of battery State Of Charge (SOC), vehicle speed, accelerator pedal position/throttle position, engine torque, motor torque and engine speed in the hybrid vehicle.

In some embodiments, the electric mode includes driving and launching the hybrid vehicle by battery of the hybrid vehicle while engine of the hybrid vehicle is completely switched off. The detecting module (213) detects the electric mode for the hybrid vehicle when the below given Condition 1 is satisfied along with the one or more operating parameters.

If {
SOC>SOC_threshold
and
Vehicle speed < Vehicle Speed_EngineLaunch } --------- Condition 1

In some embodiments, the engine mode includes driving the hybrid vehicle by the engine of the hybrid vehicle. The detecting module (213) detects the engine mode for the hybrid vehicle when the below given Condition 2 is satisfied along with the one or more operating parameters.

If {

SOC < SOC_Threshold
and
Vehicle speed > Vehicle Speed_EngineLaunch } ---------- Condition 2

In some embodiments, the regeneration mode includes charging the hybrid vehicle using kinetic energy derived from coasting and braking of the hybrid vehicle. The detecting module (213) detects the regeneration mode for the hybrid vehicle when the below given Condition 3 is satisfied along with the one or more operating parameters.

If {
Accelerator_Pedal < Accelerator_Pedal_LowLimit
and
Brake pedal is pressed
and
Vehicle Speed > VehicleSpeed_Regeneration}
then {
request Torque_Regen to motor based on vehicle speed regeneration torque} --------- Condition 3

In some embodiments, the assist mode includes driving the hybrid vehicle engine and the battery based on accelerator pedal position, vehicle speed, engine speed and the SOC. The detecting module (213) detects the assist mode for the hybrid vehicle when the below given Condition 4 is satisfied along with the one or more operating parameters.

If {
Accelerator_Pedal > Accelerator_Pedal_Assist
and
VehicleSpeed > VehicleSpeed_Asisst
and
SOC > SOC_Assist_Limit
and
EngineRPM > EngineRPM_Assist }

Then{
Engine_Requested_Torque = ActualRequestedTorque*DivisionFactor
and
MotorRequestedTorque = ActualRequestedTorque*DivisionFactor1} ------- Condition 4

In some embodiments, the operating parameter “load on the vehicle” may not be considered for detecting the drive mode for the hybrid vehicle.

In case of the hybrid vehicle, upon communicating the detected drive mode to the EMS (105), the hybrid vehicle control module (223) dynamically controls the one or more drive parameters like the threshold limits of the battery SOC, the vehicle speed, the accelerator pedal position/throttle position, the engine torque, the motor torque and the engine speed of the hybrid vehicle.

In case of the engine propelled vehicle, upon communicating the detected drive mode to the EMS (105), the fueling control module (225) controls supply of the fuel to the engine in accordance with the pre-set values of the detected drive mode. The fuel supply may be controlled by varying the operation of one or more fuel injection units based on the drive mode selected.

Further, the acceleration control module (227) controls the rate of acceleration for various accelerator pedal positions in accordance with the pre-set values in the detected drive mode. In an embodiment, the rate of acceleration may be controlled by varying response of an accelerator pedal of the vehicle depending on the drive mode. The variation in the response of the accelerator pedal may control the throttle actuation which would in-turn control the charge i.e. fuel and air mixture supplied to engine.

Also, the timing control module (229) includes timing control for ignition for the engine propelled vehicle having “petrol engine” in accordance with the pre-set values in the detected drive mode. Furthermore, the timing control module (229) includes timing control of fuel for the engine propelled vehicle having “diesel engine” or “gasoline engine” i.e. the period of time for which fuel is supplied to the engine, the exact time for which the fuel is to be supplied, in accordance with the pre-set values in the detected drive mode.

In some embodiments, the ECU (101) comprises the displaying module (219) to display the drive mode in which the vehicle is currently running to the vehicle user. The display of the drive mode may be as using one or more representations and colours that best illustrate the drive mode. In some embodiment, the display module (219) may indicate different drive modes in different graphical patterns or images. As an example, the one or more drive modes having performance mode operation may be indicated with accelerator graphic, and the one or more drive modes having economy mode operation may be indicated with environmental graphic. Further, the one or more drive modes having city mode operation may be indicated with roadmap or city map graphic.

In some embodiments, the ECU (101) comprises the overriding module (221). The override module may be operated by the user or driver of the vehicle through one or more override buttons configured in vehicle body. The override module (221) may be configured to override and deactivate the process of operating the vehicle in multiple drive modes upon receiving a user input signal from an override button configured in the vehicle. The override button may be activated by the vehicle user when the vehicle user decides to manually control the vehicle without the drive modes as opposed to the automatic control of drive modes by the ECU (101).

FIG.3 is an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, which illustrates graphical representation of pre-set drive modes in a particular gear in accordance with a few embodiments of the present disclosure. The graphical representation illustrates that a plurality of drive modes may be configured in each of the drive modes like performance mode, economy mode, and city mode.

The graph represents torque achieved in Newton meter (Nm) in response to engine speed in rotations per minute (rpm) for different pre-set drive modes when the vehicle is running in second gear according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. In the FIG.3 the horizontal axis or the X-axis (303) represents engine speed in rpm and the vertical axis or the Y-axis (305) represents torque achieved in Nm. According to representation in the graph, when the vehicle is operating in second gear, lowest performance range indicated by “performance 1 (307a) ” includes achieving the minimum torque of 80 Nm for 1000 rpm and the maximum torque of 240 Nm for 2750 rpm. Further, according to the representation in the graph, when the vehicle is operating in second gear the highest performance range indicated by “performance 4 (307d)” includes achieving the minimum torque of 140 Nm for 1000 rpm and the maximum torque of 270 Nm for 1650 rpm. Therefore, the pre-set drive modes can be set based on the lowest performance range and the highest performance range. One of the pre-set drive mode may be indicated by “performance 2 (307b)” may provide high torque when the vehicle is shifted to second gear and gradually lower the torque value. As represented in the graph, “performance 2 (307b)” may provide the torque of 95 Nm for 1000 rpm when the vehicle is in second gear.

As an example, the performance mode may be configured with three different pre-set modes like performance 1 (307a) to provide minimum torque in smooth operating condition of the vehicle like in highway roads with heavy load. Further, the performance mode may have “performance 2 (307b)”, and may provide moderate torque in moderate operating condition of the vehicle like in smooth terrains with heavy load. Also, the performance mode may have “performance 3 (307c)” to provide high torque when the vehicle is operating at an uphill terrain condition with heavy load. As represented in the graph, “performance 3 (307c)” provides the torque of 135 Nm for 1700 rpm. Therefore, “performance 3 (307c)” may be applicable in extreme uphill terrain conditions when a boost is required to push the vehicle forward. Similarly, the plurality of pre-set drive modes may be configured in other modes like economical mode and city mode.

Referring to FIG.4, which is an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure illustrating a flowchart of method for automatically operating a vehicle in multiple drive modes using a system (100) as explained in aforementioned paragraphs.

As illustrated in FIG.4, the method comprises one or more blocks for automatically operating vehicle in multiple drive modes. The method may be described in the general context of processor executable instructions. Generally, the executable instructions can include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, procedures, modules, and functions, which perform particular functions or implement particular abstract data types. The order in which the method is described is not intended to be construed as a limitation, and any number of the described method blocks can be combined in any order to implement the method. Additionally, individual blocks may be deleted from the methods without departing from the scope of the subject matter described herein. Furthermore, the method can be implemented in any suitable hardware, software, firmware, or combination thereof.

At block 401, the method (400) includes, receiving, by an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) (101), data related to one or more operating parameters from one or more sources (103) associated with the vehicle in real-time. As an example, the one or more parameters may include, but not limited to, load on the vehicle and terrain condition in current location of the vehicle. Further, the one or more parameters may include traffic condition in the location of the vehicle and driving pattern of the vehicle.

At block 403, the method (400) includes, detecting, by the ECU (101), a drive mode from a plurality of pre-set drive modes (102) for operating the vehicle. In some embodiments, the ECU (101) compares the data related to the one or more operating parameters with a pre-stored data. In some embodiments, the pre-stored data may be related to the one or more parameters. Based on the comparison, the ECU (101) detects a relevant drive mode for the vehicle from the plurality of the pre-set drive modes.

At block 405, the method (400) includes, communicating, by the ECU (101), the drive mode to an Engine Management System (EMS) (105). The EMS (105) dynamically controls one or more drive parameters based on the detected drive mode. As an example, the one or more drive parameters depend upon type of the vehicle. As an example, the type of the vehicle may include, but not limited to, an engine propelled vehicle and a hybrid vehicle. In some embodiments, the one or more drive parameters dynamically controlled by the EMS (105) in the engine propelled vehicle may include, but not limited to, rate of acceleration, fuel supply to engine of the vehicle and timing control. In some embodiments, the one or more drive parameters dynamically controlled by the EMS (105) in the hybrid vehicle includes shifting to at least one of electric mode, engine mode, engine assist mode and regeneration mode by dynamically altering threshold limits of battery State Of Charge (SOC), Vehicle speed, accelerator pedal position/throttle position, engine torque, motor torque and engine speed in the hybrid vehicle.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, the ECU (101) provided in the vehicle may be implemented by any computing systems that is utilized to implement the features of the present disclosure. The ECU (101) comprises of a processing unit. The processing unit may comprise at least one data processor for executing program components for executing user- or system-generated requests. The processor may include specialized processing units such as integrated system (bus) controllers, memory management control units, floating point units, graphics processing units, digital signal processing units, etc. The processing unit may include a microprocessor, such as AMD Athlon, Duron or Opteron, ARM’s application, embedded or secure processors, IBM PowerPC, Intel’s Core, Itanium, Xeon, Celeron or other line of processors, etc. The processing unit may be implemented using mainframe, distributed processor, multi-core, parallel, grid, or other architectures. Some embodiments may utilize embedded technologies like application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital signal processors (DSPs), Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), etc.

In some embodiments, the ECU (101) may be disposed in communication with one or more memory devices (e.g., RAM, ROM etc.) via a storage interface. The storage interface may connect to memory devices including, without limitation, memory drives, removable disc drives, etc., employing connection protocols such as serial advanced technology attachment (SATA), integrated drive electronics (IDE), IEEE-1394, universal serial bus (USB), fiber channel, small computing system interface (SCSI), etc. The memory drives may further include a drum, magnetic disc drive, magneto-optical drive, optical drive, redundant array of independent discs (RAID), solid-state memory devices, solid-state drives, etc.

In some embodiments, the memory unit (206A and 206B) may store data as described in this disclosure. Such databases may be implemented as fault-tolerant, relational, scalable, secure databases such as Oracle or Sybase. Alternatively, such databases may be implemented using standardized data structures, such as an array, hash, linked list, struct, structured text file (e.g., XML), table, or as object-oriented databases (e.g., using ObjectStore, Poet, Zope, etc.). Such databases may be consolidated or distributed, sometimes among the various computing units discussed above in this disclosure. It is to be understood that the structure and operation of the any computer or database component may be combined, consolidated, or distributed in any working combination.

Furthermore, one or more computer-readable storage media may be utilized in implementing embodiments consistent with the present disclosure. A computer-readable storage medium refers to any type of physical memory on which information or data readable by a processor may be stored. Thus, a computer-readable storage medium may store instructions for execution by one or more processors, including instructions for causing the processor(s) to perform steps or stages consistent with the embodiments described herein. The term “computer-readable medium” should be understood to include tangible items and exclude carrier waves and transient signals, i.e., are non-transitory. Examples include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), volatile memory, non-volatile memory, hard drives, CD ROMs, DVDs, flash drives, disks, and any other known physical storage media.

Advantages of the present disclosure:

The present disclosure provides a method and a system for automatically operating a vehicle in multiple drive modes.

The present disclosure provides a feature wherein the Electric Control Unit (ECU) automatically detects appropriate pre-set drive mode for the vehicle based on one or more operating parameters computed in real-time. The one or more operating parameters include load on the vehicle and the terrain condition that help in selecting the best suited drive mode.

The present disclosure provides a feature wherein the vehicle may be adaptable to any number of pre-set drive modes. The present disclosure reduces distress to the vehicle user by automating implementation of the various drive modes to the vehicle.

The present disclosure provides a feature wherein the ECU is capable of deciding whether the vehicle requires a drive mode that provides performance or fuel economy based on the user requirement identified using the one or more operating parameters.

Equivalents:
With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singular terms herein, those having skill in the art can translate from the plural to the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as is appropriate to the context and/or application. The various singular/plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sake of clarity.

It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, terms used herein, are generally intended as "open" terms (e.g., the term "including" should be interpreted as "including but not limited to," the term "having" should be interpreted as "having at least," the term "includes" should be interpreted as "includes but is not limited to," etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding the description may contain usage of the introductory phrases "at least one" and "one or more" to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles "a" or "an" limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to inventions containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases "one or more" or "at least one" and indefinite articles such as "a" or "an" (e.g., "a" and/or "an" should typically be interpreted to mean "at least one" or "one or more"); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should typically be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of "two recitations," without other modifiers, typically means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations). Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogous to "at least one of A, B, and C, etc." is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., "a system having at least one of A, B, and C" would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). In those instances where a convention analogous to "at least one of A, B, or C, etc." is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., "a system having at least one of A, B, or C" would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that virtually any disjunctive word and/or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase "A or B" will be understood to include the possibilities of "A" or "B" or "A and B."

While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope and spirit being indicated in the description.

Referral Numerals:

Reference Number Description
100 A system for operating a vehicle in multiple drive modes
101 Electronic Control Unit (ECU)
102 Drive modes
103 One or more sources
105 Engine Management System (EMS)
205 ECU Modules
206A Memory Unit of the ECU
206B Memory Unit of the EMS
207 EMS Modules
207a Power train driven vehicle control module
209 User identification module
211 Receiving module
213 Detecting module
215 Comparing module
217 Communicating module
219 Displaying module
221 Overriding module
223 Hybrid vehicle control module
225 Fueling control module
227 Acceleration control module
229 Timing control module
303 X-axis (303) representing engine speed in rotations per minute (rpm)
305 Y-axis (305) representing torque in Newton meter (Nm)
307a Performance 1
307b Performance 2
307c Performance 3
307d Performance 4
401 – 405 Flowchart blocks