Inventors:
David B. Smith - Monroe MI, US
Michael D. Smith - Farwell MI, US
International Classification:
G06F 17/18, G06F 11/30
Abstract:
Apparatus and methods are used to sense powered vehicle operating conditions, and compute and display to the operator the instant, most advantageous or optimum speed for conditions based on variable and fixed costs for that particular vehicle. Instead of the conventional or traditional display of fuel consumption relative to distance, the invention computes and displays the speed at which all cost factors result in optimal utilization of resources. If adhered to by the operator, either manually or through direct interface with vehicle speed control, this speed will provide the best balance between distance traveled per unit time with minimum negative impact from fixed and operating costs, resulting in minimum overall operating cost as well as maximum profit potential for the commercial operator. In addition, waste of valuable and limited-supply fossil fuel is minimized by encouraging avoidance of excessive speeds that waste fuel.