Method and system for vehicle clutch performance detection system

Abstract

The invention provides a method and a system for a vehicle clutch performance detection system. A method for controlling a vehicle transmission system having a clutch system includes generating a torque-pressure (T-P) gain deviation based on a T-F characteristic and a nominal T-F characteristic of the clutch system; generating a pressure magnitude deviation based on the set of pressure values and the set of nominal pressure values; determining whether a T-F characteristic deviates from the nominal T-F characteristic based on the T-P gain deviation and the pressure magnitude deviation; identifying the T-F characteristic as a deviation in response to the T-F characteristic deviating from the nominal transfer characteristic; and issuing a notification regarding the deviation T-F characteristic to perform a corrective action associated with the clutch system.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a method and / or system for monitoring the performance of a vehicle clutch system. Background Art

[0002] Many vehicles are used over a wide range of vehicle speeds, both for forward and reverse movement. However, some types of engines can only operate efficiently over a narrow speed range. Therefore, a transmission that can efficiently transmit power at multiple gear ratios is often employed. When the vehicle is at low speeds, the transmission is typically operated at a higher gear ratio so that it multiplies the engine torque to increase vehicle speed. At high vehicle speeds, operating the transmission at a lower gear ratio allows for engine speeds associated with quiet, fuel-efficient cruising.

[0003] Typically, the transmission has a housing mounted to the vehicle structure, an input shaft driven by the engine crankshaft, and an output shaft that drives the wheels, typically via a differential assembly that allows the left and right wheels to rotate at slightly different speeds as the vehicle turns.

[0004] Discrete ratio transmissions are capable of transmitting power via a variety of power flow paths, each associated with a different gear ratio. A specific power flow path is established by engaging a specific shift element, such as a clutch or brake. Shifting from one gear ratio to another involves changing which shift elements are engaged. In many transmissions, the torque capacity of each shift element is controlled by directing fluid to the shift element at a controlled pressure. A controller adjusts the pressure by sending an electrical signal to a valve body. Summary of the invention

[0005] In one form, the present disclosure is directed to a method for controlling a vehicle transmission system having a clutch system. The method includes generating a torque-pressure (TP) gain deviation based on a transfer function characteristic and a nominal transfer function characteristic of the clutch system. The transfer function characteristic includes a set of torque values ​​and a set of pressure values, and the nominal transfer function characteristic includes a set of nominal pressure values ​​and a set of nominal torque values. The method also includes: generating a pressure magnitude deviation based on the set of pressure values ​​and the set of nominal pressure values; and issuing a notification indicating that the TF characteristic deviates from the NTF characteristic based on the TP gain and the pressure magnitude deviation to perform corrective action related to the clutch system.

[0006] In one form, the present disclosure relates to a system for controlling a vehicle transmission system having a clutch system. The system includes one or more computing devices configured to generate a torque-pressure (TP) gain deviation based on a transfer function characteristic and a nominal transfer function characteristic of the clutch system. The transfer function characteristic includes a set of torque values ​​and a set of pressure values, and the nominal transfer function characteristic includes a set of nominal pressure values ​​and a set of nominal torque values. The one or more computing devices are also configured to: generate a pressure magnitude deviation based on the set of pressure values ​​and the set of nominal pressure values; determine whether the TF characteristic deviates from the NTF characteristic based on the TP gain deviation and the pressure magnitude deviation; and issue a notification about the TF characteristic in response to the TF characteristic deviating from the NTF characteristic to perform corrective action related to the clutch system.

[0007] In one form, the present disclosure relates to a system for controlling a vehicle transmission system having a clutch system. The system includes one or more computing devices configured to generate a torque-pressure (TP) gain deviation based on a transfer function characteristic and a nominal transfer function characteristic of the clutch system. The transfer function characteristic includes a set of torque values ​​and a set of pressure values, and the nominal transfer function characteristic includes a set of nominal pressure values ​​and a set of nominal torque values. The one or more computing devices are also configured to: generate a pressure magnitude deviation based on the set of pressure values ​​and the set of nominal pressure values; detect the TF characteristic as a deviation TF characteristic that deviates from the NTF characteristic based on the TP gain deviation and the pressure magnitude deviation; and in response to the TF characteristic being identified as a deviation, adjust the transmission control algorithm so that the clutch system operates within the NTF characteristic.

[0008] Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the description provided herein.It should be understood that the description and specific examples are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] In order that the present disclosure may be better understood, various forms of the present disclosure will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0010] Figure 1 A vehicle in communication with a vehicle manufacturer system according to the present disclosure is shown;

[0011] Figure 2 According to the present disclosure Figure 1 A block diagram of a vehicle;

[0012] Figure 3is a graph of an example transfer function characteristic of a clutch system according to the present disclosure during clutch engagement;

[0013] Figure 4 is a block diagram of a clutch performance detection system according to the present disclosure; and

[0014] Figure 5 is a flow chart of a clutch performance detection routine according to the present disclosure.

[0015] The drawings described herein are for illustration purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure in any way. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0016] The following description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the present disclosure, application, or uses. It should be understood that throughout the drawings, corresponding reference numerals indicate the same or corresponding parts and features.

[0017] Data collected by the vehicle can be used to detect and identify deviation performance issues in components / systems within the vehicle before the deviation performance affects, for example, the driving experience or physical components in the vehicle. As detailed herein, the present disclosure relates to a clutch performance detection system that is configured to monitor the performance of a clutch system in the vehicle based on data collected by the vehicle. Specifically, the clutch performance detection system employs two metrics to analyze a clutch transfer function that provides an existing torque-pressure correlation for the clutch system. If the clutch performance detection system detects deviation performance of the clutch system, corrective action can be taken to address the cause of the deviation performance and, thereby, address potential shift quality issues.

[0018] refer to Figure 1 In one form, the vehicle 100 is configured to exchange information with a vehicle manufacturer system 102 via a wireless communication network 104. More specifically, the vehicle manufacturer system 102 may receive and store information related to the operation and / or performance of the vehicle 100 and other vehicles.

[0019] In some applications, the vehicle manufacturer system 102 uses information from multiple vehicles (e.g., 100 vehicles, 10,000 vehicles, etc.) to monitor performance and, if applicable, identify potential performance issues of the vehicle. Specifically, the information can be analyzed to determine whether the vehicle is operating within one or more nominal performance characteristics. In a non-limiting example, the technical expert 106 can access the information in the vehicle manufacturer system 102 via the computing device 108 and the network 104. The technical expert 106 can view information related to deviation performance characteristics to identify the source of deviation performance and provide corrective actions. In addition to or in place of the technical expert 106, a neural network can be provided at the vehicle manufacturer system 102 to identify the deviation performance of the vehicle, the source of the deviation performance, and / or suggest remedial measures for addressing the deviation performance. In addition to other components, the vehicle manufacturer system 102 may include one or more servers configured to store and process information related to multiple vehicles.

[0020] In one form, the vehicle 100 includes a communication system 110 and a transmission system 112. The communication system 110 is configured to communicate with modules within the vehicle 100 and with external devices / systems such as the vehicle manufacturer system 112. Thus, the communication system 102 may include hardware components (e.g., modems, routers, transceivers, input-output interfaces, wires) and software protocols for establishing communications with modules within the vehicle 100 and with the wireless communication network 104.

[0021] refer to Figure 2 , provides a non-limiting example of a transmission system 112. Figure 2 In the figure, solid lines represent mechanical power flow connections; dashed lines represent the flow of hydraulic fluid or information signals. Power is provided by an actuator such as an internal combustion engine 202 or an electric motor (not shown). The transmission system 112 adjusts torque and speed to meet the needs of the vehicle 100 and delivers power to the differential 204. The differential 204 transmits power to the left wheel 206 and the right rear wheel 208, allowing slight speed differences when the vehicle turns.

[0022] The transmission system 112 includes a torque converter 210 and a gearbox 212. The torque converter 210 fluidically transmits torque based on the speed difference between the pump wheel driven by the crankshaft 214 and the turbine driving the gearbox input shaft 216 (sometimes referred to as the turbine shaft or transmission input shaft). Whenever the pump wheel rotates faster than the turbine, power is transmitted from the pump wheel to the turbine via the moving fluid.

[0023] The gearbox 212 includes a transmission and shifting elements, such as a clutch system 220, which is configured to establish various power flow paths between the input shaft 216 and the output shaft 222. The term "clutch" is generally used herein to describe a shifting element that connects two rotating parts, and describes a shifting element that connects a rotating part to a fixed part (such as a housing). Each power flow path can be established by engaging an associated subset of the shifting elements. At low vehicle speeds, a power flow path that provides torque multiplication and speed reduction can be established between the input shaft 216 and the output shaft 222 to optimize vehicle performance. At higher vehicle speeds, a power flow path that provides speed multiplication can be established to minimize fuel consumption.

[0024] In a non-limiting example, the clutches of the clutch system 220 are engaged by supplying hydraulic fluid at elevated pressure to a clutch apply chamber (not shown). The clutch system 220 may include a clutch pack having friction plates splined to one component and interleaved with spacer plates splined to a different component. The fluid forces the piston to squeeze the clutch pack so that friction between the friction plates and the spacer plates couples the components together. The torque capacity of each clutch varies in proportion to changes in fluid pressure.

[0025] The vehicle 100 also includes an engine controller 221 and a transmission controller 223 in communication with the engine controller 221. The engine controller 221 is configured to adjust various actuators in the engine 202 to control the torque level delivered at the crankshaft 214. For example, the engine controller 221 can adjust the throttle opening, fuel injection amount and timing, spark timing, camshaft timing, etc. The engine controller 221 can determine the desired wheel torque level based primarily on driver input via a pedal (not shown). The engine controller 221 can adjust the torque output or speed based on a request from the transmission controller 223.

[0026] A pump 224 driven by the crankshaft 214 or electrically driven draws fluid from the sump 226 and delivers the fluid at an elevated pressure to a valve body 228. The valve body 228 delivers fluid to the clutch apply chamber at a pressure (i.e., clutch pressure) controlled by a signal from a transmission controller 234. In addition to the fluid provided to the apply chamber, the valve body 228 also provides fluid for lubrication and for the torque converter 210. The fluid is ultimately drained from the gearbox 212 back to the sump 226 at ambient pressure.

[0027] A pressure sensor may be provided to measure the fluid pressure in the clutch apply chamber and report the pressure to the transmission controller 223. During a gear shift, the transmission controller 223 may use the pressure amount to set or determine the clutch torque using a predefined transmission control algorithm.

[0028] A relatively smooth release or engagement of the clutch of the clutch system 220 may be controlled based on the relationship between clutch pressure and clutch torque. That is, the transmission controller 223 may employ a clutch transfer function (TF) that relates a desired clutch torque to a clutch pressure that is believed to provide a corresponding desired clutch torque. The defined TF may affect the shift quality of the clutch system and, therefore, the transmission system 112.

[0029] In some applications, the TF of a clutch system is modeled as a linear function between clutch torque and clutch pressure. However, nonlinearities do exist, and real-world clutch systems may behave nonlinearly. In addition, clutch-to-clutch variation, wear and / or aging are common and may also affect shift quality.

[0030] In one form, the present disclosure provides a clutch performance detection system that analyzes clutch TF characteristics including a set of torque values ​​and a set of pressure values, wherein each torque value is associated with a pressure value. In a non-limiting example, reference is made to Figure 3 , the clutch engagement (to be engaged) graph 300 shows a TF characteristic 304 that provides a relationship between torque and pressure. In this example, the TF characteristic 304 includes 12 data points detected by the transmission system 112, and the 12 data points are connected by 11 linear segments. Although the graph 300 shows 12 data points, the TF characteristic may include two or more data points with different values ​​and should not be limited to the examples provided herein.

[0031] exist Figure 3 , the clutch engagement diagram 300 shows a minimum pressure characteristic 308 and a maximum pressure characteristic 310 (i.e., collectively referred to as "nominal TF characteristics 308, 310") for the clutch system 220. The TF characteristic 304 of the clutch system 220 should be provided between the minimum pressure characteristic 308 and the maximum pressure characteristic 310. As shown, the nominal TF characteristic includes a set of nominal pressure values ​​and a set of nominal torque values ​​associated with the nominal pressure values.

[0032] As described herein, the clutch performance detection system defines two metrics to detect deviations in TF characteristics. Specifically, the clutch performance detection system evaluates the segment slope and pressure magnitude of the TF characteristics detected by the transmission system.

[0033] refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 The clutch performance detection system 400 includes a torque-pressure (TP) section deviation module 402 , a pressure magnitude deviation module 404 , a performance evaluation module 406 , and a notification module 408 . Figure 5 An example clutch performance testing routine 500 performed by the clutch performance testing system 400 is shown.

[0034] The TP segment bias module 402 is configured to evaluate the correlation between torque and pressure provided in the TF characteristic based on the nominal TF associated with the clutch system. More specifically, at 502, the TP segment bias module 402 is configured to generate a TP gain bias by generating a plurality of TP segment slopes based on the set of torque values ​​and the set of pressure values. For example, Equation 1 provides the TP segment slope (k ) for each segment ("s") between data points i and i+1. T2P )(i.e., 1≤i≤I, I is the number of data points). In equation 1, according to the TF characteristic, “P cl ” is the clutch pressure, and “T cl ” is the clutch torque. Similarly, for the nominal TF characteristic (ie, k T2P,base ) generates a plurality of TP segment slopes. In a non-limiting example, the nominal TF characteristic may be based on one of the following: the minimum pressure characteristic 308, the maximum pressure characteristic 310, or both (e.g., an average) of the minimum pressure characteristic 308 and the maximum pressure characteristic 310. In a non-limiting example, the nominal TF characteristic may be determined via testing of the clutch system and / or computer-aided modeling of the clutch system.

[0035]

[0036] The TP segment deviation module 402 is also configured to generate a TP gain ratio for each TP segment slope using an associated nominal TP segment slope (e.g., the torque values ​​of the associated segment slopes are the same). Specifically, Equation 2 provides the TP gain ratio for segment s (kratio,s), which is the TP segment slope of the clutch transfer function (i.e., k T2P ,s; adapted gain) and the TP section slope of the nominal TF characteristic (i.e., k T2P ,base,s; nominal gain).

[0037]

[0038] Using the TP gain ratio, the TP segment deviation module 402 is configured to determine the TP gain deviation (kratio,FD,s) for each segment using Equation 3, where "α" is a selectable constant. For example, α is set to 2.75.

[0039]

[0040] In the TP gain deviation of the segment, the TP segment deviation module 402 is configured to identify the deviating TP gain ratio based on the TP gain ratio threshold and determine the number of the identified deviating TP gain ratios. In a non-limiting example, when the magnitude of the TP gain deviation is greater than 1 (i.e., kratio,FDs>1), the TP segment deviation module 402 is configured to identify the deviating TP gain ratio based on the TP gain ratio threshold and determine the number of the identified deviating TP gain ratios. 区 The segment deviation module 402 determines that the TP gain deviation is deviating.

[0041] In one form, the TP segment deviation module 402 provides the number of deviations from the TP gain ratio as the TP gain deviation to the performance evaluation module 406. The total number of TP gain ratios is the number of segments of the TF characteristic.

[0042] The pressure magnitude deviation module 404 is configured to generate a pressure magnitude deviation (in Figure 5 504 of FIG. 4 ). More specifically, the pressure magnitude deviation module 404 generates a pressure distance ratio for each pressure value based on one or more nominal pressure values ​​associated with the pressure value (e.g., the same as the one or more nominal pressure values ​​and the torque value associated with the pressure value). For example, the pressure distance ratio indicates the distance of the pressure value from a minimum pressure (Pmin,i) (i.e., the minimum nominal pressure) to a maximum pressure (Pmax,i) (i.e., the maximum nominal pressure) and can be determined using Equation 4 for a selected torque value. In some applications, to improve detectability of additional deviation events, the minimum pressure characteristic and the maximum pressure characteristic are adjusted to reduce the gap between the two characteristics and, therefore, reduce the tolerance range of the pressure values ​​of the TF characteristic measured by the vehicle 100. The adjusted minimum pressure characteristic and the maximum pressure characteristic are used as the nominal TF characteristics.

[0043]

[0044] Using the pressure distance ratio, the pressure magnitude deviation module 404 identifies a deviating pressure ratio based on a pressure gain threshold and determines the number of identified deviating pressure ratios. In a non-limiting example, when the magnitude of the pressure distance ratio is greater than 1 (ie, dratioil>1), the pressure distance ratio is identified as being deviating.

[0045] In one form, the pressure magnitude deviation module 404 provides the number of deviations from the pressure distance ratio as the pressure magnitude deviation to the performance evaluation module 406. The total number of pressure distance ratios is the number of data values ​​provided in the transfer characteristic.

[0046] The performance evaluation module 406 is configured to determine whether the performance characteristics of the clutch system deviate from the nominal performance characteristics (at Figure 5506). More specifically, the performance evaluation module 406 is configured to determine the total deviation of the transfer function characteristic as the sum of the TP gain deviation and the pressure magnitude deviation. Thus, the total deviation may be a value between 0 and (I+S), where "I" is the total number of data points and "S" is the total number of bins (i.e., I-1).

[0047] The performance evaluation module 306 is configured to determine or identify the TF characteristic of the clutch system as deviating from the nominal TF characteristic (in Figure 5 In some applications, the deviation threshold is set based on experimental data or computer-aided modeling indicating an acceptable amount of deviation for the clutch system.

[0048] The notification module 408 is configured to issue a notification regarding a deviating TF characteristic, and therefore a deviating performance, of the clutch system to execute corrective actions related to the clutch system (in the event of a Figure 5 The notification includes identification information identifying the clutch system and performance information indicating at least the deviation transfer function.

[0049] Corrective action may include determining whether the deviating performance is due to a physical component of the vehicle or a software related issue. Corrective action may also include issuing a clutch maintenance request to the owner of the vehicle having the clutch system to address the physical component / software related issue. For example, corrective action may include updating a software application associated with controlling the clutch system, such as a transmission control algorithm, so that the TF characteristics of the clutch system are maintained within the nominal characteristics, which improves the shift quality of the clutch system and reduces wear on the clutch system.

[0050] Using two different metrics, the clutch performance detection system 400 of the present disclosure is configured to effectively detect deviating TF characteristics, and therefore effectively detect deviating performance in a clutch system. Figure 3 , the slope of the segment of the TF characteristic between about 1500 Nm and 3000 Nm does not appear to be characteristic of the slopes provided by lines 308 and 310, however, the pressure magnitude may be sufficient because the pressure is between the minimum and maximum pressure values. On the other hand, the slope of the segment between 4000 Nm and 6000 Nm appears to be aligned with the slope of the segment of line 308, but the pressure values ​​at 4000 Nm to 6000 Nm are very close to the maximum pressure, which may not be characteristic of the clutch system. Using these two metrics and the defined thresholds, the entire TF characteristic 304 is analyzed to evaluate the performance of the clutch system.

[0051] The clutch performance detection system 400 may be configured to obtain and analyze TF characteristics periodically and / or based on a request from the vehicle manufacturer system 102 / technical expert 106 .

[0052] The clutch performance detection system 400 may be provided at a vehicle, a vehicle manufacturer system 102, or a combination of the vehicle 100 and the vehicle manufacturer system 102. For example, the clutch performance detection system 400 may be provided as part of a controller of the vehicle 100, such as, but not limited to, a transmission controller. If the transfer function is deviating, the vehicle 100 transmits a data packet including a notification and, in some applications, a TF characteristic. Once obtained, the vehicle manufacturer system 102 may store the information in a record associated with the vehicle and mark the vehicle as having a deviated TF characteristic. A technician may then analyze the data to determine corrective action for the clutch system having a deviating TF characteristic, such as adjusting the transmission control algorithm so that the vehicle's TF characteristic is within the nominal TF characteristic. In some applications, notifications may also be provided to a user of the vehicle via the vehicle's infotainment system or a vehicle software application.

[0053] In another example, the vehicle manufacturer system 102 includes the clutch performance detection system 400 and obtains TF characteristics from the vehicle 100 and other vehicles. The vehicle manufacturer system 102 stores information related to the nominal TF characteristics of the vehicle, or alternatively, the vehicle 100 provides the nominal TF characteristics to the vehicle manufacturer system 102. The vehicle manufacturer system 102 can issue a notification to flag a record associated with the vehicle and / or transmit a message to the engineering department for further review.

[0054] In another example, the vehicle 100 may be configured to generate and transmit the TP gain deviation and the pressure magnitude deviation to the vehicle manufacturer system 102 , which then determines that the TF characteristic is deviating based on the TP gain and pressurization magnitude deviation received.

[0055] Unless otherwise expressly indicated herein, all numerical values ​​indicating mechanical / thermal properties, composition percentages, dimensions and / or tolerances or other characteristics when describing the scope of the present disclosure should be understood to be modified by the word "about" or "approximately". Such modifications are desirable for a variety of reasons, including: industrial practice; material, manufacturing and assembly tolerances; and testing capabilities.

[0056] In this application, the terms "controller" and / or "module" may refer to, be part of, or include: a computing device; an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC); a digital, analog, or mixed analog / digital discrete circuit; a digital, analog, or mixed analog / digital integrated circuit; a combinatorial logic circuit; a field programmable gate array (FPGA); a processor circuit (shared, dedicated, or group) that executes code; a memory circuit (shared, dedicated, or group) that stores code executed by the processor circuit; other suitable hardware components that provide the described functionality; or a combination of some or all of the above, such as in a system on a chip.

[0057] The term memory is a subset of the term computer-readable medium. The term computer-readable medium as used herein does not encompass transient electrical or electromagnetic signals propagated through a medium (such as on a carrier wave); therefore, the term computer-readable medium may be considered to be tangible and non-transitory. Non-limiting examples of non-transitory tangible computer-readable media are non-volatile memory circuits (such as flash memory circuits, erasable programmable read-only memory circuits, or mask read-only circuits), volatile memory circuits (such as static random access memory circuits or dynamic random access memory circuits), magnetic storage media (such as analog or digital tape or hard drives), and optical storage media (such as CDs, DVDs, or Blu-ray discs).

[0058] The apparatus and methods described in this application may be implemented partially or completely by a special-purpose computer, which is created by configuring a general-purpose computer to perform one or more specific functions embodied in a computer program. The functional blocks, flow chart components, and other elements described above are used as software specifications, which can be translated into a computer program by routine work of a technician or programmer.

[0059] As used herein, the phrase at least one of A, B, and C should be construed to mean a logical (A or B or C), using a non-exclusive logical "or", and should not be construed to mean "at least one of A, at least one of B, and at least one of C."

[0060] The description of the present disclosure is merely exemplary in nature, and therefore, variations that do not depart from the essence of the present disclosure are intended to be within the scope of the present disclosure. Such variations should not be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0061] According to the present invention, a method for controlling a vehicle transmission system having a clutch system includes: generating a torque-pressure (TP) gain deviation based on a transfer function (TF) characteristic and a nominal (NTF) characteristic of the clutch system, wherein the TF characteristic includes a set of torque values ​​and a set of pressure values, and the NTF characteristic includes a set of nominal pressure values ​​and a set of nominal torque values; generating a pressure magnitude deviation based on the pressure values ​​and the nominal pressure values; and issuing a notification indicating that the TF characteristic deviates from the NTF characteristic based on the TP gain and the pressure magnitude deviation, so as to perform corrective action related to the clutch system.

[0062] In one aspect of the invention, each torque value in the set of torque values ​​is associated with a pressure value in the set of pressure values.

[0063] In one aspect of the invention, the method comprises determining a total deviation of the TF characteristic as the sum of the TP gain deviation and the pressure magnitude deviation, wherein when the total deviation is greater than or equal to a deviation threshold, the TF characteristic is determined to deviate from the NTF characteristic.

[0064] In one aspect of the present invention, generating the TP gain deviation also includes: generating a plurality of TP segment slopes based on the torque value and the pressure value of the TF characteristic; generating a TP gain ratio for each of the plurality of TP segment slopes based on a selected nominal TP segment slope from a plurality of nominal TP segment slopes; and determining the TP gain deviation based on the TP gain ratio.

[0065] In one aspect of the invention, the method includes: identifying a deviating TP gain ratio from the TP gain ratios based on a TP gain ratio threshold; and determining a number of the identified deviating TP gain ratios, wherein the TP gain deviation is based on the number of deviating TP gain ratios.

[0066] In one aspect of the present invention, generating the pressure magnitude deviation further comprises: generating a pressure distance ratio for each pressure value based on the pressure value and a nominal pressure value associated with the pressure value, wherein the nominal pressure value is selected from the set of nominal pressure values; and determining the pressure magnitude deviation based on the pressure distance ratio of the set of pressure values.

[0067] In one aspect of the invention, the method includes identifying a deviating pressure ratio from the pressure ratios based on a pressure gain threshold; and determining a number of the identified deviating pressure ratios, wherein the pressure magnitude deviation is based on the number of the deviating pressure ratios.

[0068] In one aspect of the present invention, the notification includes identification information identifying the clutch system and performance information indicating that the TF characteristic deviates from the NTF characteristic.

[0069] In one aspect of the invention, the method includes issuing a clutch maintenance request to an owner of a vehicle having the clutch system as the corrective action.

[0070] In one aspect of the present invention: generating the TP gain deviation also includes: generating a plurality of TP segment slopes based on the set of torque values ​​and the set of pressure values; generating a TP gain ratio for each of the plurality of TP segment slopes based on a selected nominal TP segment slope from a plurality of nominal TP segment slopes; identifying a deviated TP gain ratio from the TP gain ratios based on a TP gain ratio threshold; and determining the number of the identified deviated TP gain ratios, wherein the TP gain deviation is based on the number of the deviated TP gain ratios, and generating the pressure magnitude deviation also includes: generating a pressure distance ratio for each pressure value based on the pressure value and a nominal pressure value associated with the pressure value, wherein the nominal pressure value is selected from the set of nominal pressure values; identifying a deviated pressure distance ratio from the pressure ratios based on a pressure gain threshold; and determining the number of the identified deviated pressure distance ratios, wherein the pressure magnitude deviation is based on the number of the deviated pressure ratios.

[0071] In one aspect of the present invention, the method includes: determining the total deviation of the TF characteristic as the sum of the number of deviations from the TP gain ratio and the number of deviations from the pressure ratio, wherein: when the total deviation is greater than or equal to a deviation threshold, the TF characteristic is determined to deviate from the NTF characteristic.

[0072] According to the present invention, a system for controlling a vehicle transmission system having a clutch system is provided, comprising: one or more computing devices, wherein the one or more computing devices are configured to: generate a torque-pressure (TP) gain deviation based on a transfer function (TF) characteristic and a nominal (NTF) characteristic of the clutch system, wherein the TF characteristic includes a set of torque values ​​and a set of pressure values, and the NTF characteristic includes a set of nominal pressure values ​​and a set of nominal torque values; generate a pressure magnitude deviation based on the set of pressure values ​​and the set of nominal pressure values; determine whether the TF characteristic deviates from the NTF characteristic based on the TP gain deviation and the pressure magnitude deviation; and issue a notification about the TF characteristic in response to the TF characteristic deviating from the NTF characteristic to perform corrective action related to the clutch system.

[0073] According to an embodiment, each torque value of the set of torque values ​​is associated with a pressure value of the set of pressure values.

[0074] According to an embodiment, to determine whether the TF characteristic deviates from the NTF characteristic, the one or more computing devices are further configured to: determine the total deviation of the TF characteristic as the sum of the TP gain deviation and the pressure magnitude deviation; and when the total deviation is greater than or equal to a deviation threshold, determine the TF characteristic as deviating from the NTF characteristic.

[0075] According to an embodiment, to generate the TP gain deviation, the one or more computing devices are further configured to: generate a plurality of TP segment slopes based on the set of torque values ​​and the set of pressure values; generate a TP gain ratio for each of the plurality of TP segment slopes based on a selected nominal TP segment slope among the plurality of nominal TP segment slopes; identify a deviated TP gain ratio from the TP gain ratios based on a TP gain ratio threshold; and determine the number of the identified deviated TP gain ratios, wherein the TP gain deviation is based on the number of the deviated TP gain ratios.

[0076] According to an embodiment, to generate the pressure magnitude deviation, the one or more computing devices are further configured to: generate a pressure distance ratio for each pressure value based on the pressure value and a nominal pressure value associated with the pressure value, wherein the nominal pressure value is selected from the set of nominal pressure values; identify a deviation pressure distance ratio from the pressure ratios based on a pressure gain threshold; and determine the number of identified deviation pressure distance ratios, wherein the pressure magnitude deviation is based on the number of deviation pressures.

[0077] According to an embodiment, the notification comprises identification information identifying the clutch system and performance information indicative of at least the deviating TF characteristic.

[0078] According to an embodiment, the one or more computing devices are further configured to issue a clutch maintenance request to an owner of a vehicle having the clutch system as the corrective action.

[0079] According to an embodiment: to generate the TP gain deviation, the one or more computing devices are further configured to: generate a plurality of TP segment slopes based on the set of torque values ​​and the set of pressure values; generate a TP gain ratio for each of the plurality of TP segment slopes based on a selected nominal TP segment slope among the plurality of nominal TP segment slopes; identify a deviated TP gain ratio from the TP gain ratios based on a TP gain ratio threshold; and determine the number of the identified deviated TP gain ratios, wherein the TP gain deviation is based on the number of the deviated TP gain ratios; to generate the pressure magnitude deviation, the one or more computing devices are further configured to: A pressure distance ratio is generated for each pressure value based on the pressure value and a nominal pressure value associated with the pressure value, wherein the nominal pressure value is selected from the set of nominal pressure values; a deviation pressure distance ratio is identified from the pressure ratios based on a pressure gain threshold; a number of the identified deviation pressure distance ratios is determined, wherein the pressure magnitude deviation is based on the number of deviation pressures; and the one or more computing devices are further configured to: determine a total deviation of the TF characteristic as the sum of the number of deviations from the TP gain ratio and the number of deviations from the pressure ratio, wherein when the total deviation is greater than or equal to the deviation threshold, the TF characteristic is determined to be a deviation from the NTF characteristic.

[0080] According to the present invention, a system for controlling a vehicle transmission system having a clutch system is provided, comprising: one or more computing devices, wherein the one or more computing devices are configured to: generate a torque-pressure (TP) gain deviation based on a TF characteristic and an NTF characteristic of the clutch system, wherein the TF characteristic includes a set of torque values ​​and a set of pressure values, and the NTF characteristic includes a set of nominal pressure values ​​and a set of nominal torque values; generate a pressure magnitude deviation based on the set of pressure values ​​and the set of nominal pressure values; detect the TF characteristic as a deviation TF characteristic that deviates from the NTF characteristic based on the TP gain deviation and the pressure magnitude deviation; and in response to the TF characteristic being identified as a deviation, adjust a transmission control algorithm so that the clutch system operates within the NTF characteristic.

Claims

1. A method for controlling a vehicle transmission system having a clutch system, the method comprising: generating a torque-to-pressure (TP) gain deviation based on a transfer function (TF) characteristic and a nominal (NTF) characteristic of the clutch system, wherein the TF characteristic includes a set of torque values ​​and a set of pressure values, and the NTF characteristic includes a set of nominal pressure values ​​and a set of nominal torque values; generating a pressure magnitude deviation based on the pressure value and the nominal pressure value; and A notification is issued indicating that the TF characteristic deviates from the NTF characteristic based on the TP gain and the pressure magnitude deviation to perform corrective action associated with the clutch system. 2 . The method of claim 1 , wherein each torque value in the set of torque values ​​is associated with a pressure value in the set of pressure values.

3. The method of claim 1 , further comprising determining a total deviation of the TF characteristic as a sum of the TP gain deviation and the pressure magnitude deviation, wherein when the total deviation is greater than or equal to a deviation threshold, the TF characteristic is determined to deviate from the NTF characteristic.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein said generating said TP gain deviation further comprises: generating a plurality of TP segment slopes based on the torque value and the pressure value of the TF characteristic; generating a TP gain ratio for each of the plurality of nominal TP segment slopes based on a selected nominal TP segment slope of the plurality of nominal TP segment slopes; and The TP gain deviation is determined based on the TP gain ratio.

5. The method of claim 4, further comprising: identifying a deviating TP gain ratio from the TP gain ratios based on a TP gain ratio threshold; as well as A number of the identified deviating TP gain ratios is determined, wherein the TP gain deviation is based on the number of deviating TP gain ratios.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein said generating said pressure magnitude deviation further comprises: generating a pressure distance ratio for each pressure value based on the pressure value and a nominal pressure value associated with the pressure value, wherein the nominal pressure value is selected from the set of nominal pressure values; as well as The pressure magnitude deviation is determined based on the pressure distance ratio of the set of pressure values.

7. The method of claim 6, further comprising: identifying a deviating pressure ratio from the pressure ratios based on a pressure gain threshold; as well as A number of identified deviating pressure ratios is determined, wherein the pressure magnitude deviation is based on the number of deviating pressure ratios.

8. The method of claim 1, wherein the notification includes identification information identifying the clutch system and performance information indicating that the TF characteristic deviates from the NTF characteristic.

9. The method of claim 1 further comprising issuing a clutch maintenance request to an owner of a vehicle having the clutch system as the corrective action.

10. The method of claim 1, wherein: Generating the TP gain deviation further comprises: generating a plurality of TP segment slopes based on the set of torque values ​​and the set of pressure values; generating a TP gain ratio for each of the plurality of TP segment slopes based on a selected nominal TP segment slope of the plurality of nominal TP segment slopes; identifying a deviating TP gain ratio from the TP gain ratios based on a TP gain ratio threshold; and determining a number of identified deviating TP gain ratios, wherein the TP gain deviation is based on the number of deviating TP gain ratios, and Generating the pressure magnitude deviation further includes: generating a pressure distance ratio for each pressure value based on the pressure value and a nominal pressure value associated with the pressure value, wherein the nominal pressure value is selected from the set of nominal pressure values; identifying a deviation pressure distance ratio from the pressure ratio based on a pressure gain threshold; and A number of identified deviating pressure distance ratios is determined, wherein the pressure magnitude deviation is based on the number of deviating pressure ratios.

11. The method of claim 10, further comprising: The total deviation of the TF characteristic is determined as the sum of the amount of deviation from the TP gain ratio and the amount of deviation from the pressure ratio, where: When the total deviation is greater than or equal to a deviation threshold, the TF characteristic is determined to deviate from the NTF characteristic.

12. A system for controlling a vehicle transmission system having a clutch system, the system comprising: One or more computing devices configured to: generating a torque-to-pressure (TP) gain deviation based on a transfer function (TF) characteristic and a nominal (NTF) characteristic of the clutch system, wherein the TF characteristic includes a set of torque values ​​and a set of pressure values, and the NTF characteristic includes a set of nominal pressure values ​​and a set of nominal torque values; generating a pressure magnitude deviation based on the set of pressure values ​​and the set of nominal pressure values; determining whether a TF characteristic deviates from the NTF characteristic based on the TP gain deviation and the pressure magnitude deviation; and A notification regarding the TF characteristic is issued in response to the TF characteristic deviating from the NTF characteristic to perform corrective action associated with the clutch system.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein each torque value in the set of torque values ​​is associated with a pressure value in the set of pressure values.

14. The system of claim 12, wherein to determine whether the TF characteristic deviates from the NTF characteristic, the one or more computing devices are further configured to: determining a total deviation of the TF characteristic as a sum of the TP gain deviation and the pressure magnitude deviation; and When the total deviation is greater than or equal to a deviation threshold, the TF characteristic is determined to deviate from the NTF characteristic.

15. The system of claim 12, wherein to generate the TP gain deviation, the one or more computing devices are further configured to: generating a plurality of TP segment slopes based on the set of torque values ​​and the set of pressure values; generating a TP gain ratio for each of the plurality of TP segment slopes based on a selected nominal TP segment slope of the plurality of nominal TP segment slopes; identifying a deviating TP gain ratio from the TP gain ratios based on a TP gain ratio threshold; and A number of the identified deviating TP gain ratios is determined, wherein the TP gain deviation is based on the number of deviating TP gain ratios.

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