Tech Briefs
Savannah River National Laboratory
Authenticated Sensor Interface Device
Engineers at Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL) are working on development of a new method for providing feedback to drivers of vehicles in order to maximize fuel efficiency through improved driving habits.
Background
Today’s vehicles provide feedback to the driver on a wide variety of vehicle or driver characteristics. Some of the information provided includes speed, temperatures, tire pressure, radio, GPS, cell phone controls, trip monitors and fuel consumption. The majority of the current systems are visual, providing data on an already crowded instrument cluster. In order to realize the benefits of this information, drivers have to consciously take their eyes off the road to view the data. The more frequently the data is reviewed, the better drivers can adjust to changing conditions; however, doing so can take a driver’s attention away from operating the vehicle in a safe manner. Studies have shown that differences in driving style can cause a 20 percent variation in fuel economy, making improvements in driver feedback an area that can realize significant real world fuel economy gains.
Using a seat equipped to provide non-visual feedback to the driver enables the presentation of continuous, real-time information on fuel economy without having to divert attention from traffic and road conditions.
At a glance
- Provides continuous, non-visual feedback
- Helps maximize fuel economy
- Adaptable for many feedback applications
- Non-distractive
- U.S. Patent 9,428,124 B2
How it works
This technology is in early stage research and development in collaboration with a major university involved in progressive automotive research and development activities. A patent has been filed on this invention with the U. S. Patent and Trademark Office.
Stage of development
This technology has been developed and tested with a field sensor. A second generation ASID is under development A patent has been filed with the U. S. Patent and Trademark Office.
Partnering Opportunities
SRNL invites interested companies with proven capabilities in this area of expertise to develop commercial applications for this process or product under a cooperative research and development agreement or licensing agreement. Interested companies will be requested to submit a business plan setting forth company qualifications, strategies, activities, and milestones for commercializing this invention. Qualifications should include past experience at bringing similar products to market, reasonable schedule for product launch, sufficient manufacturing capacity, established distribution networks, and evidence of sufficient financial resources for product development and launch.
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Contact Information
Savannah River National Laboratory
E-mail: partnerships@srnl.doe.gov