17959437. ICE AND SNOW WARNING AND REMOVAL FOR ELECTRIFIED VEHICLES simplified abstract (Ford Global Technologies, LLC)

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ICE AND SNOW WARNING AND REMOVAL FOR ELECTRIFIED VEHICLES

Organization Name

Ford Global Technologies, LLC

Inventor(s)

Brendan F. Diamond of Grosse Pointe MI (US)

Adam D. Deibler of Plymouth MI (US)

John R. Van Wiemeersch of Novi MI (US)

Ryan E. Hanson of Livonia MI (US)

Stuart C. Salter of White Lake MI (US)

ICE AND SNOW WARNING AND REMOVAL FOR ELECTRIFIED VEHICLES - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 17959437 titled 'ICE AND SNOW WARNING AND REMOVAL FOR ELECTRIFIED VEHICLES

Simplified Explanation

The abstract describes a system for determining and removing snow and ice accumulation on an electrified vehicle using weight/load estimation methods based on vehicle sensors and user input.

  • The system warns the driver of reduced range due to snow and ice accumulation.
  • It can adjust drivetrain and cabin heating to help melt the snow and ice.
  • The system may instruct the driver to go to a warm environment for further melting.

Potential Applications

This technology can be applied to electric vehicles, autonomous vehicles, and other vehicles that may be affected by snow and ice accumulation.

Problems Solved

This technology helps prevent reduced range and potential safety hazards caused by snow and ice accumulation on vehicles.

Benefits

The system improves the efficiency and safety of electrified vehicles in snowy and icy conditions, enhancing the overall driving experience for users.

Potential Commercial Applications

Commercial applications of this technology include electric vehicle manufacturers, automotive suppliers, and companies specializing in vehicle safety and efficiency technologies.

Possible Prior Art

One possible prior art could be systems that monitor and adjust vehicle performance based on environmental conditions, such as temperature sensors triggering heating systems in vehicles.

Unanswered Questions

How does the system differentiate between snow/ice accumulation and other weight variations?

The system uses a predetermined threshold to determine if the weight variation is due to snow and ice accumulation.

What happens if the driver does not follow the system's instructions to go to a warm environment?

If the driver does not follow the instructions, the system may continue to warn the driver of reduced range and potential risks associated with snow and ice accumulation.


Original Abstract Submitted

A snow and ice vehicle accumulation determination and removal system for an electrified vehicle uses weight/load estimation methods based on vehicle sensors and user input to determine if the vehicle has accumulated a significant amount of snow/ice that could negatively affect the vehicle range. When a weight variation exists above a predetermined threshold which can be accounted for only as being due to snow and ice, then the invention may (1) warn the driver of reduced range and the reason for it, (2) perform drivetrain and/or cabin heating that may contribute to melting of the snow and ice (e.g., automatically adjusting powertrain performance to generate increase heat, such as running at a higher RPM), and/or (3) instruct the driver to proceed to an environment which can warm the vehicle (such as a facility equipped with a hot water spraying device).