So I started using the cruise control on my new Prius. Given the feedback on mileage the car gives, I started thinking if a better system for cruise control can be provided. One that takes mileage into consideration.
Instead of only specifying a speed for cruise control, the driver specifies a range of speed. The car will then restrict its speed within that range while maximizing the mileage. I was thinking that this could then adapt to elevation changes and wind. I think the biggest problem would be user interface, and making the system understandable to the common driver. Maybe instead of the driver specifying a speed range, the system just assumes a range of 10 mph around the specified speed.
Wonder if I should look into patenting this crazy idea... ^_^
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3 comments:
dude... I would seriously hate, hate hateHateHATE following someone with that turned on. The variability on people's speed is bad enough without making it programatic! You would single-handedly be responsible for increasing road rage by significant digits.
I generally agree with Kevin, with one exception. I hate it when I am going up a steep hill with cruise control and down shift to keep my speed. In that case, I just hit the break and let the car slow down.
So, it would not really make life any worse Kevin -- and you would still get the important efficiency benefits.
Hahaha. LOL. Yeah, I thought about what you said, Kevin, that it might be annoying to other drivers. But I would argue that it might not be that different from how some people drive right now. I think if the range is not too large it would be difficult to tell. The behavior Ian described is part of what motivated my thinking.
And if I become known as the man who increased road rage... at least I will be known for something. ^_^
Personally, I think this system is probably not viable except as part of one of those automated driving cars.
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