Torque converter protection action for high severity customers

Abstract

A torque converter management system includes a torque converter having a clutch and a recirculating circle. A torque converter management system includes memory hardware storing instructions that, when executed on data processing hardware of the system, cause the system to perform operations for protecting a torque converter. The operation includes receiving a torque converter temperature associated with the torque converter. The operation further includes obtaining a torque converter protection scheme including one or more torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperatures, each having an associated torque converter protection action, and determining whether the torque converter temperature exceeds a first one of the torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperatures. When the first torque converter temperature exceeds a first torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperature in the torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperatures, the system initiates a first torque converter protection action associated with the exceeded first torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperature.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to torque converter protection actions for high severity customers. Background Art

[0002] The information provided in this section is for the purpose of generally presenting the background of the present disclosure. To the extent described in this section, the work of the presently named inventors, as well as aspects of the description that may not qualify as prior art at the time of filing, are neither explicitly nor implicitly admitted to be prior art with respect to the present disclosure.

[0003] The torque converter is a fluid-coupled device that smoothly transfers engine power to the transmission. The stator located in the torque converter increases torque by changing the direction of oil flow between the pump and turbine. This change in direction increases the inertial fluid forces on the pump assembly, thereby increasing turbine torque. Because the stator changes the route of the fluid and is located in the center of the fluid-coupled flow, the stator receives a large amount of thermal energy. In addition, modern torque converters incorporate clutches to increase efficiency. In some cases, this clutch has intentional micro-slip to dampen engine vibrations and prevent violent engagement and disengagement between the engine and transmission. Combined with higher transmission fluid sump temperatures to improve fuel economy, this micro-slip can cause the clutch interface to operate at a higher temperature than the design intended. Summary of the invention

[0004] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a computer-implemented method that, when executed by data processing hardware of a vehicle having a torque converter, causes data processing hardware to perform operations. The operations include receiving a torque converter temperature associated with the torque converter. The operations also include obtaining a torque converter protection scheme, the scheme including one or more torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperatures, each with an associated torque converter protection action. The operations also include determining whether the torque converter temperature exceeds a first torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperature. The operations also include initiating a first torque converter protection action associated with the exceeded first torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperature when the torque converter temperature exceeds the first torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperature.

[0005] This aspect of the disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In some examples, the operation also includes determining whether the torque converter temperature exceeds a second torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperature of the torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperature; and when the torque converter temperature exceeds the second torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperature of the torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperature, requesting a second torque converter protection action different from the first torque converter protection action.

[0006] In some examples, the first torque converter protection action includes at least one of: (i) requesting an increased cooling rate of the torque converter, (ii) adjusting a clutch application pressure of a clutch of the torque converter, (iii) indicating a cylinder deactivation mode of the vehicle's internal combustion engine, (iv) indicating a transmission of the vehicle to operate in a different mode, (v) displaying a notification to a vehicle operator, (vi) releasing the clutch of the torque converter, or (vii) terminating a current clutch slip profile. In some embodiments, the second torque converter protection action includes another of: (i) requesting an increased cooling rate of the torque converter, (ii) adjusting a clutch application pressure of a clutch of the torque converter, (iii) indicating a cylinder deactivation mode of the vehicle's internal combustion engine, (iv) indicating a transmission of the vehicle to operate in a different mode, (v) displaying a notification to a vehicle operator, (vi) releasing the clutch of the torque converter, or (vii) terminating a current clutch slip profile.

[0007] In some configurations, the operation includes determining a torque converter temperature based on at least one of a measured torque converter temperature or a modeled torque converter temperature. In some examples, the torque converter temperature is a clutch temperature. In some configurations, the torque converter temperature is a cycle temperature.

[0008] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a system having a torque converter including a clutch and a circulation circle, data processing hardware, and memory hardware in communication with the data processing hardware, the memory hardware storing instructions that, when executed on the data processing hardware, cause the data processing hardware to perform operations. The operations include receiving a torque converter temperature associated with the torque converter. The operations also include obtaining a torque converter protection scheme that includes one or more torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperatures, each with an associated torque converter protection action. The operations also include determining whether the torque converter temperature exceeds a first torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperature. The operations also include initiating a first torque converter protection action associated with the exceeded first torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperature when the torque converter temperature exceeds the first torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperature.

[0009] This aspect of the disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In some examples, the operation also includes determining whether the torque converter temperature exceeds a second torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperature of the torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperature; and when the torque converter temperature exceeds the second torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperature of the torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperature, requesting a second torque converter protection action different from the first torque converter protection action.

[0010] In some examples, the first torque converter protection action includes at least one of: (i) requesting an increased cooling rate of the torque converter, (ii) adjusting a clutch application pressure of a clutch of the torque converter, (iii) indicating a cylinder deactivation mode of the vehicle's internal combustion engine, (iv) indicating a transmission of the vehicle to operate in a different mode, (v) displaying a notification to a vehicle operator, (vi) releasing the clutch of the torque converter, or (vii) terminating a current clutch slip profile. In some embodiments, the second torque converter protection action includes another of: (i) requesting an increased cooling rate of the torque converter, (ii) adjusting a clutch application pressure of a clutch of the torque converter, (iii) indicating a cylinder deactivation mode of the vehicle's internal combustion engine, (iv) indicating a transmission of the vehicle to operate in a different mode, (v) displaying a notification to a vehicle operator, (vi) releasing the clutch of the torque converter, or (vii) terminating a current clutch slip profile.

[0011] In some examples, the operation includes determining a torque converter temperature based on at least one of a measured torque converter temperature or a modeled torque converter temperature. In some configurations, the torque converter temperature is a clutch temperature. In some implementations, the torque converter temperature is a cycle temperature.

[0012] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes a computer program product encoded on a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium including instructions, which, when executed by a data processing device, cause the data processing device to perform operations. The operations include receiving a torque converter temperature associated with a torque converter. The operations also include obtaining a torque converter protection scheme, the scheme including one or more torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperatures, each with an associated torque converter protection action. The operations also include determining whether the torque converter temperature exceeds a first torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperature. The operations also include initiating a first torque converter protection action associated with the exceeded first torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperature when the torque converter temperature exceeds the first torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperature.

[0013] This aspect of the disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In some examples, the operation also includes determining whether the torque converter temperature exceeds a second torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperature of the torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperature; and when the torque converter temperature exceeds the second torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperature of the torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperature, requesting a second torque converter protection action different from the first torque converter protection action.

[0014] In some configurations, the first torque converter protection action includes at least one of: (i) requesting an increased cooling rate of the torque converter, (ii) adjusting a clutch application pressure of a clutch of the torque converter, (iii) indicating a cylinder deactivation mode of the vehicle's internal combustion engine, (iv) indicating a transmission of the vehicle to operate in a different mode, (v) displaying a notification to a vehicle operator, (vi) releasing the clutch of the torque converter, or (vii) terminating a current clutch slip profile. In some embodiments, the second torque converter protection action includes another of: (i) requesting an increased cooling rate of the torque converter, (ii) adjusting a clutch application pressure of a clutch of the torque converter, (iii) indicating a cylinder deactivation mode of the vehicle's internal combustion engine, (iv) indicating a transmission of the vehicle to operate in a different mode, (v) displaying a notification to a vehicle operator, (vi) releasing the clutch of the torque converter, or (vii) terminating a current clutch slip profile.

[0015] In some examples, the operations include determining a torque converter temperature based on at least one of a measured torque converter temperature or a modeled torque converter temperature. In some implementations, the torque converter temperature is at least one of a clutch temperature or a cycle temperature. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected configurations and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0017] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a vehicle including a torque converter management system in accordance with the principles of the present invention;

[0018] Figure 2A An example of a torque converter is shown with the clutch in a disengaged state;

[0019] Figure 2B The clutch is shown in the engaged state. Figure 2A Torque converter;

[0020] Figure 3 It is shown that the use Figure 1 A flowchart of example operations of initiating and terminating protective actions of a torque converter management system;

[0021] Figure 4 This includes the use of Figure 1 a clutch protection scheme for torque converter protection actions implemented by a torque converter management system; and

[0022] Figure 5 This includes the use of Figure 1 The torque converter management system implements a cyclic protection scheme for the torque converter protection action.

[0023] Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] Example configurations will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. Example configurations are provided so that the present disclosure will be thorough and will fully convey the scope of the present disclosure to those of ordinary skill in the art. Specific details, such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the configurations of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that specific details need not be employed, that example configurations may be implemented in many different forms, and that the specific details and exemplary configurations should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure.

[0025] The terms used herein are only for describing specific exemplary configurations, not for limiting. As used herein, the singular articles "a", "an" and "the" may also be intended to include plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms "comprise", "include", "contain" and "have" are inclusive, thus specifying the presence of features, steps, operations, elements and / or parts, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, parts and / or groups thereof. The method steps, processes and operations described herein should not be interpreted as necessarily requiring them to be performed in the specific order discussed or shown, unless specifically identified as an execution order. Additional or alternative steps may be adopted.

[0026] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on another element or layer," "engaged to," "connected to," "attached to," or "coupled to" another element or layer, it may be directly on, engaged, connected, attached to, or coupled to another element or layer, or there may be intermediate elements or layers. Conversely, when an element is referred to as being "directly on another element or layer," "directly engaged to," "directly connected to," "directly attached to," or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, there may be no intermediate elements or layers. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a similar manner (e.g., "between" versus "directly between," "adjacent" versus "directly adjacent," etc.). As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0027] The terms first, second, third, etc. can be used here to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or parts. These elements, components, regions, layers and / or parts should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish each element, component, region, layer or part. Terms such as "first", "second" and other numerical terms do not imply order or sequence unless the context clearly indicates. Therefore, the first element, component, region, layer or part discussed below can be referred to as the second element, component, region, layer or part, without departing from the teaching of the example configuration.

[0028] In this application, including the definitions below, the term module may be replaced by the term circuit. The term "module" may refer to or be part of an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or include 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 combinational logic circuit; a field programmable gate array (FPGA); a processor (shared, dedicated, or group) that executes code; a memory (shared, dedicated, or group) that stores code executed by the processor; other suitable hardware components that provide the functionality; or a combination of some or all of the above, such as in a system on a chip.

[0029] The term code used above may include software, firmware and / or microcode, and may refer to a program, a routine, a function, a class and / or an object. The term shared processor includes a single processor that executes some or all of the code from multiple modules. The term group processor includes a processor that executes some or all of the code from one or more modules in combination with an additional processor. The term shared memory includes a single memory that stores some or all of the code from multiple modules. The term group memory includes a memory that stores some or all of the code from one or more modules in combination with an additional memory. The term memory may be a subset of the term computer-readable medium. The term computer-readable medium does not include transient electrical signals and electromagnetic signals propagated through the medium and can therefore be considered to be tangible non-transitory memory. Non-limiting examples of non-transitory memory include tangible computer-readable media, including non-volatile memory, magnetic memory, and optical memory.

[0030] The apparatus and methods described in this application may be implemented in part or in whole by one or more computer programs executed by one or more processors. The computer program includes processor executable instructions stored on at least one non-transitory tangible computer readable medium. The computer program may also include and / or rely on stored data.

[0031] Software applications (i.e., software resources) may refer to computer software that enables a computing device to perform tasks. In some examples, software applications may be referred to as "applications," "apps," or "programs." Example applications include, but are not limited to, system diagnostic applications, system management applications, system maintenance applications, word processing applications, spreadsheet applications, messaging applications, media streaming applications, social networking applications, and gaming applications.

[0032] Non-transitory memory can be a physical device used to temporarily or permanently store programs (e.g., instruction sequences) or data (e.g., program state information) for use by a computing device. Non-transitory memory can be volatile and / or non-volatile addressable semiconductor memory. Examples of non-volatile memory include, but are not limited to, flash memory and read-only memory (ROM) / programmable read-only memory (PROM) / erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM) / electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM) (e.g., commonly used for firmware, such as bootloaders). Examples of volatile memory include, but are not limited to, random access memory (RAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), static random access memory (SRAM), phase change memory (PCM), and disk or tape.

[0033] These computer programs (also referred to as programs, software, software applications, or code) include machine instructions for a programmable processor and may be implemented in high-level procedural and / or object-oriented programming languages ​​and / or assembly / machine languages. As used herein, the terms "machine-readable medium" and "computer-readable medium" refer to any computer program product, non-transitory computer-readable medium, apparatus, and / or device (e.g., disk, optical disk, memory, programmable logic device (PLD)) for providing machine instructions and / or data to a programmable processor, including a machine-readable medium that receives machine instructions as a machine-readable signal. The term "machine-readable signal" refers to any signal for providing machine instructions and / or data to a programmable processor.

[0034] Various implementations of the systems and techniques described herein can be realized in digital electronic and / or optical circuits, integrated circuits, specially designed ASICs (application specific integrated circuits), computer hardware, firmware, software, and / or combinations thereof. These various implementations may include implementations in one or more computer programs executable and / or interpretable on a programmable system comprising at least one programmable processor, which may be special purpose or general purpose, coupled to receive data and instructions from a storage system, and to send data and instructions to the storage system.

[0035] The processes and logic flows described in this specification can be performed by one or more programmable processors, also known as data processing hardware, executing one or more computer programs to perform functions by operating on input data and generating outputs. These processes and logic flows can also be performed by dedicated logic circuits, such as FPGAs (field programmable gate arrays) or ASICs (application-specific integrated circuits). For example, processors suitable for executing computer programs include general-purpose and special-purpose microprocessors, and any one or more processors of any kind of digital computer. Typically, the processor will receive instructions and data from a read-only memory or a random access memory or both. The basic elements of a computer are a processor for executing instructions and one or more storage devices for storing instructions and data. Typically, a computer will also include or be operably connected to one or more large-capacity storage devices for storing data, such as magnetic disks, magneto-optical disks, or optical disks, to receive data from the large-capacity storage device or to transmit data to it, or both. However, a computer does not need to have such a device. Computer-readable media suitable for storing computer program instructions and data include all forms of non-volatile memory, media and storage devices, including, for example, semiconductor memory devices, such as EPROM, EEPROM and flash memory devices; magnetic disks, such as internal hard disks or removable disks; magneto-optical disks; and CD ROM and DVD-ROM disks. The processor and memory may be supplemented by or incorporated in special purpose logic circuitry.

[0036] To provide interaction with a user, one or more aspects of the present disclosure may be implemented on a computer having a display device for displaying information to the user, such as a CRT (cathode ray tube), LCD (liquid crystal display) monitor, or touch screen, and an optional keyboard and pointing device, such as a mouse or trackball, through which the user can provide input to the computer. Other types of devices may also be used to provide interaction with the user; for example, the feedback provided to the user may be any form of sensory feedback, such as visual feedback, auditory feedback, or tactile feedback; and input from the user may be received in any form, including sound, voice, or tactile input. In addition, the computer may interact with the user by sending documents to and receiving documents from a device used by the user; for example, by sending a web page to a web browser on a user's client device in response to a request received from the web browser.

[0037] The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for providing torque converter protection for high severity duty cycle applications, whereby the system and method minimizes operation of the torque converter outside of operating thresholds by using synthetic temperature estimates and / or physical measurements of clutch and fluid temperatures within the torque converter. This additional method of providing cooling to the torque converter provides a way to ensure that the torque converter operates within a preferred range. The cooling action of the present disclosure is designed so that as the estimated temperature increases, the level of cooling action also increases. In addition, the present disclosure provides for calibrating the threshold temperature for initiating cooling action based on the application, which allows the system to be adjusted to appropriately initiate cooling action during normal driving.

[0038] refer to Figure 1 , relevant subsystems of a vehicle 10 are schematically provided. In particular, a representative example of the vehicle 10 includes a torque converter management system 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In addition, the vehicle 10 includes one or more peripheral vehicle control modules related to the torque converter management system 100. In particular, the vehicle 10 is shown with a vehicle engine control module (ECM) 200, a vehicle driver information console (DIC) 300, and a vehicle thermal management system 400.

[0039] Continue to refer Figure 1 , the torque converter management system 100 includes a torque converter 110 having a recirculating circle 114 and a clutch 112, a torque converter controller 120, a torque converter clutch control valve 130, a fluid sump 140, a fluid cooler 150, a torque converter clutch pressure control solenoid valve 160, and a torque converter clutch regulator valve 170, as described in more detail below. Generally, the torque converter management system 100 is operable to manage the operation of the torque converter 110 and / or one of the vehicle subsystems 200, 300, 400 based on the temperature of the torque converter 110. For example, when the temperature of the torque converter 110 exceeds a corresponding torque converter threshold temperature, the torque converter management system 100 may generate instructions for one or more protective actions to address the high temperature condition of the torque converter 110.

[0040] Although torque converter 110 is shown as a simplified schematic for purposes of this disclosure, Figure 2A and 2BAn example of a torque converter 110 is shown in FIG. 1 , including a circulation circle 114 and a clutch 112. It should be understood that the torque converter 110 will include an input housing 111, on which a drive lug suitable for connection to an internal combustion engine (not shown) is fixed. The circulation circle 114 of the torque converter 110 also includes an impeller, a turbine and a stator, wherein the impeller is welded or otherwise fixed to the input housing 111, and the turbine is welded or otherwise fixed to the torque converter output shaft. The stator is connected to a fixed part of the vehicle transmission via a one-way drive device. The impeller, turbine and stator are fluid power drive components that provide fluid drive within the circulation circle. In a fluid drive, such as the torque converter 110, a hydraulic fluid circulates in the circulation circle 114 formed by the impeller, turbine and stator. The friction clutch assembly 114 is disposed between the input housing 111 and the circulation circle 114. In the example shown, the clutch 112 includes a pressure plate and a friction lining coupled to the pressure plate, whereby during clutch engagement, the friction lining is adapted to frictionally engage the input housing 111 such that the pressure plate and the input housing 111 rotate in unison. However, other examples of the present disclosure may be implemented in conjunction with a dual plate torque converter including a floating plate disposed between the pressure plate and the input housing 111. Figure 2A The torque converter 110 is shown with the clutch 112 in a disengaged state (ie, fluid pressure applied to the left side of the clutch 112 biases the clutch 112 away from the input housing 111). Figure 2B The torque converter is shown with clutch 112 in an engaged state (e.g., fluid pressure applied to the right side of clutch 112 biases clutch 112 against input housing 111). Although one example of a torque converter 110 is described herein for purposes of illustration, the principles of the present invention may be applied to any torque converter 110 that includes a friction clutch assembly in conjunction with a recirculating circle.

[0041] In the illustrated example, the torque converter management system 100 includes a plurality of temperature measurement units, such as temperature sensors. For example, the torque converter management system 100 may include a clutch temperature sensor (e.g., thermocouple, thermistor) 113 configured to measure a clutch temperature 117, a recirculation circle temperature sensor 115 configured to measure a recirculation circle temperature 119, an oil sump temperature sensor 142 configured to measure an oil sump temperature 143, and / or a fluid cooler temperature sensor 152 configured to measure a fluid cooler temperature 153. It should be understood that the torque converter management system 100 may include any combination of the temperature sensors 113, 115, 142, 152. In particular, the torque converter management system 100 may not be provided with the recirculation circle temperature sensor 115 and / or the clutch temperature sensor 113 (as shown in dashed lines). For example, due to the rotating nature of the recirculation circle 114 and the clutch 112, it may be impractical to incorporate wired temperature sensors into the torque converter 110. In contrast, while wireless temperature sensors can be used to directly measure the temperatures of the cycle circle 114 and the clutch 112, such systems are relatively expensive and may be cost-prohibitive in a mass production environment. Therefore, as discussed in more detail below, it is advantageous to determine the temperatures 117, 119 of the torque converter 110 without requiring direct measurement (i.e., temperature sensors).

[0042] Still refer to Figure 1 , the torque converter controller 120 includes a temperature evaluation module 121 and a torque converter thermal management module 123. The torque converter controller 120 (e.g., data processing hardware) may include or communicate with memory hardware, the memory hardware being particularly configured to store instructions (e.g., computer readable program instructions) that, when executed by the torque converter controller 120, cause the torque converter controller 120 to perform various operations described herein. In the illustrated example, the torque converter controller 120 is embodied as a separate controller within the torque converter management system 100. However, it should be understood that the torque converter controller 120 may be implemented or embodied within other controllers of the vehicle, such as the engine control module 200 and / or the transmission control module (TCM). Generally, the temperature evaluation module 121 is configured to obtain or determine temperatures 117, 119 associated with the torque converter 110 and transmit these torque converter temperatures 117, 119 to the torque converter thermal management module 123, which in turn evaluates the torque converter temperatures 117, 119 and determines whether to initiate one or more torque converter protection actions.

[0043] Although the temperature evaluation module 121 can obtain the torque converter temperatures 117, 119 directly from the torque converter 110, as previously described, the temperature evaluation module 121 of the present invention is configured to determine the estimated torque converter temperature 117 based on the modeled vehicle operating parameters. est , 119 estFor example, the torque converter management system 100 may include or look up a torque converter temperature model 122 that is built based on specific parameters of the torque converter 110 and the vehicle 10. For example, the estimated cycle temperature 119 est and estimated clutch temperature 117 est may be modeled as a function of a combination of various torque converter operating parameters, including one or more of: (i) calculated clutch power, (ii) estimated clutch pressure, (iii) measured engine speed, (iv) measured transmission input speed, (v) operating mode of the torque converter clutch 112 (e.g., high slip, low slip, locked), (vi) commanded hydraulic line pressure, (vii) calculated cycle round power, (viii) measured sump temperature 143 of the fluid sump 140, (ix) temperature model reset at key on, (x) engine shut off time, (xi) auto stop definition, and / or (xii) cutout / stall definition, (xiii) last stored cutout estimated model temperature. Additionally, the estimated cycle round temperature 119 may be modeled as a function of a combination of various torque converter operating parameters, including one or more of: (i) calculated clutch power, (ii) estimated clutch pressure, (iii) measured engine speed, (iv) measured transmission input speed, (v) operating mode of the torque converter clutch 112 (e.g., high slip, low slip, locked), (vi) commanded hydraulic line pressure, (vii) calculated cycle round power, (viii) measured sump temperature 143 of the fluid sump 140, (ix) temperature model reset at key on, (x) engine shut off time, (xi) auto stop definition, and / or (xii) cutout / stall definition, (xiii) last stored cutout estimated model temperature. est and estimated clutch temperature 117 est The estimated cycle temperature 119 may be modeled to account for the physical properties of the torque converter 110, such as mass, shape, size, thermal conductivity, and heat capacity. est and estimated clutch temperature 117 est Estimated operating parameters such as transmission fluid flow rate, coolant flow rate, and ambient air convection may also be considered.

[0044] The torque converter temperature model 122 may be generated for a particular torque converter management system 100 to account for specific performance characteristics associated with the design of the torque converter 110 and peripheral components 130, 140, 150, 170, 160. In some examples, the torque converter temperature model 122 may be established and calibrated for a particular configuration of the torque converter management system 100 by derivation or sampling, whereby the torque converter management system 100 operates within a range of each of the aforementioned torque converter operating parameters during a model development phase, and the corresponding torque converter temperatures 117, 119 are measured during the model development phase. This may be accomplished using a development torque converter management system 100 that includes a cycle circle temperature sensor 115 and a clutch temperature sensor 113. The resulting torque converter temperature model 122 is then stored for use with a production torque converter management system 100 that does not include the temperature sensors 113, 115. In the production torque converter management system 100, the temperature estimation module 121 receives the real-time torque converter operating parameters and performs a lookup function to retrieve the estimated cycle circle temperature 119 from the torque converter temperature model 122. est and estimated clutch temperature 117 est .

[0045] In use, the torque converter thermal management module 123 uses the estimated cycle temperature 119 est and / or estimated clutch temperature 117 est To request and initiate one or more protection actions 125a-125h based on the torque converter protection scheme 124a, 124b. Generally, the torque converter temperature evaluation module 121 determines the estimated cycle circle temperature 119 based on the torque converter temperature model 122 of the torque converter management system 100. est and / or estimated clutch temperature 117 est The torque converter thermal management module 123 obtains the estimated cycle temperature 119 est and / or estimated clutch temperature 117 est , and determines whether the torque converter management system 100 needs to initiate one or more protection actions 125a-125h based on the torque converter protection schemes 124a, 124b.

[0046] The torque converter protection scheme 124a, 124b includes one or more torque converter protection actions 125a-125h ( Figure 4 ) and a clutch protection scheme 124a and one or more torque converter protection actions 125a, 125b, 125f, 125g ( Figure 5 ) of the cyclic protection scheme 124b. The initiation of each clutch protection action 125a-125h is associated with a corresponding threshold or trigger temperature 126a-126h, whereby when the estimated clutch temperature 117 est When the corresponding protection action initiation threshold temperature 126a-126h is exceeded, the torque converter thermal management module 123 initiates a corresponding one of the clutch protection actions 125a-125h. The initiation of each cycle circle protection action 125a, 125b, 125f, 125g is associated with a corresponding threshold or trigger temperature 127a-127d, so that when the estimated cycle circle temperature 119 est When the corresponding protection action initiation threshold temperature 127a-127d is exceeded, the torque converter thermal management module 123 initiates a corresponding one of the protection actions 125a, 125b, 125f, 125g. The protection action initiation threshold temperature 126a-126h, 127a-127d of each torque converter protection scheme 124a, 124b is calibrated based on the specific configuration and expected operating characteristics of the torque converter 110. In operation, the torque converter management system 100 can be based on the estimated clutch temperature 117 at any given time. est and estimated cycle circle temperature 119 est Both torque converter protection schemes 124a, 124b are utilized simultaneously.

[0047] In some examples, the torque converter protection schemes 124a, 124b may apply a threshold temperature time period for each protection action initiation threshold temperature 126a-126h, 127a-127d. For example, the torque converter thermal management module 123 will not initiate a protection action 125a-125h unless the protection action initiation threshold temperature 126a-126h, 127a-127d is exceeded for at least a certain time period. The threshold temperature time period may be a continuous time period (e.g., ten (10) consecutive seconds) or an aggregate time period (e.g., ten (10) seconds totaling within a twenty (20) consecutive second time period). Conversely, once a protection action 125a-125h is initiated, the torque converter thermal management module 123 may maintain the corresponding protection action 125a-125h until the estimated cycle circle temperature 119 is exceeded. est and / or estimated clutch temperature 117 est Drops below the corresponding protection action termination temperature for a threshold period of time.

[0048] refer to Figure 3 , a simplified flow chart illustrating the operation of the torque converter thermal management module 123 is provided. Figure 3 The operations shown in FIG. 1 are merely for explaining how the torque converter thermal management module 123 may operate relative to the estimated clutch temperature 117 est Thus, the operations include determining protection actions for a first "previous" protection action 125n and a second "subsequent" protection action 125n+1 with respect to the general clutch protection scheme 124a. However, the operations associated with the "previous" and "subsequent" protection actions 125n, 125n+1 will follow the subsequent protection actions in the scheme, whereby the clutch protection scheme 124a may include additional protection actions. In addition, Figure 3 This is provided merely as an illustrative example with respect to the clutch protection scheme 124a, but it should be understood that the torque converter thermal management module 123 will provide a torque converter thermal management scheme with respect to the estimated cycle temperature 119. est The same operation is performed when evaluating the round-robin protection scheme 124b.

[0049] like Figure 3 As shown, the torque converter thermal management module 123 receives the estimated clutch temperature 117 from the temperature evaluation module 121 est , and determine the estimated clutch temperature 117 est Whether the first protection action starting threshold temperature 126n is exceeded. When the estimated clutch temperature 117 est When the first protection action initiation threshold temperature 126n is not exceeded, the torque converter thermal management module 123 does not initiate the protection action and returns to the first operation to receive the subsequent estimated clutch temperature 117 est .

[0050] When the estimated clutch temperature is 117 est When the first protective action initiation threshold temperature 126n is exceeded for a threshold period of time, the torque converter thermal management module 123 generates and transmits a command to initiate a corresponding protective action 125n. Subsequently, the torque converter thermal management module 123 evaluates the estimated clutch temperature 117 est Whether the corresponding protection action termination threshold temperature 128n (i.e., the estimated clutch temperature 117 est When the previous protection action termination threshold temperature 128n is met (yes), the torque converter thermal management module 123 terminates the previous protection action 125n and continues to monitor the subsequent estimated clutch temperature 119. est .

[0051] When the previous protection action termination threshold temperature 128n is not met (NO), the torque converter thermal management module 123 maintains the previous protection action 125n and continues to evaluate the estimated clutch temperature 117 relative to the subsequent protection action initiation threshold temperature 126n+1. est When the estimated clutch temperature is 117 est When the subsequent protection action initiation threshold temperature 126n+1 is not exceeded, the torque converter thermal management module 123 does not initiate the subsequent protection action 125n+1 and returns to the previous operation to determine the estimated clutch temperature 117 est Whether the previous protection action termination threshold temperature 128n is met.

[0052] When the estimated clutch temperature is 117 est When the second protection action initiation threshold temperature 126n+1 is exceeded, the torque converter thermal management module 123 generates and transmits a command to initiate a subsequent protection action 125n+1. Subsequently, the torque converter thermal management module 123 evaluates the estimated clutch temperature 117 est Whether the subsequent protection action termination threshold temperature 128n+1 (i.e., the estimated clutch temperature 117 est When the subsequent protection action termination threshold temperature 128n+1 is met (yes), the torque converter thermal management module 123 terminates the subsequent protection action 125n+1 and returns to determining the estimated clutch temperature 117. est Whether the previous protection action termination threshold temperature 1289n operation is met.

[0053] When the preceding protection action termination threshold temperature 128n is not met (NO), the torque converter thermal management module 123 maintains the preceding protection action 125n and the subsequent protection action 125n+1, and evaluates the estimated clutch temperature 117 relative to the escalated protection actions (e.g., 125n+2, etc.) of the clutch protection scheme 124a. est Further operation of the clutch protection scheme 124a continues.

[0054] refer to Figure 4 , provides an example of a clutch protection scheme 124a, which includes a plurality of clutch protection action initiation threshold temperatures 126a-126h and corresponding torque converter protection actions 125a-125h. Figure 4 The purpose of this example is to illustrate the scheme of torque converter protection actions 125a-125h associated with clutch 112. However, it should be understood that each torque converter protection action 125a-125h will be based on Figure 3 In other words, initiation and termination of the torque converter protection actions 125a-125h will be performed by the torque converter thermal management module 123 based on the respective protection action initiation and termination threshold temperatures 126a-126h, 127a-127d of each of the respective torque converter protection actions 125a-125h.

[0055] The torque converter protection actions 125a-125h are provided in an order from least intrusive to most intrusive with respect to the operation of the vehicle powertrain and / or driveline. In other words, as subsequent temperatures of the clutch protection action initiation threshold temperatures 126a-126h are exceeded, the torque converter thermal management module 123 gradually initiates more aggressive protection actions 125a-125h. Here, the term "intrusive" refers to the level at which normal vehicle operation may be modified to accommodate the corresponding torque converter protection action, which may result in sacrificing performance or efficiency of vehicle operation.

[0056] Still refer to Figure 4 , when the torque converter thermal management module 123 determines the estimated clutch temperature 117 est When the first clutch threshold temperature 126a is exceeded, the torque converter thermal management module 123 initiates the first torque converter protection action 125a and instructs the vehicle 10 to initiate a phase one active thermal management to provide additional cooling capacity to the torque converter 110. For example, the torque converter thermal management module 123 sends a phase one cooling command 125a to the vehicle thermal management system 400 to increase the cooling rate of the transmission fluid flowing from the torque converter 110 through the fluid cooler 150. In the illustrative example, the first clutch threshold temperature 126a may be 130 degrees Celsius. When the estimated clutch temperature 117 estWhen the temperature exceeds 130 degrees Celsius for a threshold period of time, the torque converter thermal management module 123 sends a stage one cooling instruction 125a to the vehicle thermal management system 400 to increase the cooling rate of the transmission fluid flowing from the torque converter through the fluid cooler 150 until the first protection action termination threshold temperature 128a (e.g., 120 degrees Celsius) is met (as described in relation to Figure 3 discuss).

[0057] Still refer to Figure 4 , when the torque converter thermal management module 123 determines the estimated clutch temperature 117 est When the second clutch threshold temperature 126b is exceeded, the torque converter thermal management module 123 instructs the vehicle 10 to initiate phase two active thermal management to provide additional cooling capacity to the torque converter 110. For example, the torque converter thermal management module 123 sends a phase two cooling instruction 125b to the vehicle thermal management system 400 to maximize the cooling rate of the transmission fluid flowing from the torque converter 110 through the fluid cooler 150. In other words, in phase two cooling, the cooling demand of the torque converter 110 equals or exceeds the total cooling capacity of the fluid cooler 150. In the illustrative example, the second clutch threshold temperature 126b may be 140 degrees Celsius. When the estimated clutch temperature 117 est When the temperature exceeds 140 degrees Celsius for a threshold period of time, the torque converter thermal management module 123 sends a stage two cooling instruction 125b to the vehicle thermal management system 400 to maximize the cooling rate of the transmission fluid flowing from the torque converter through the fluid cooler 150 until the second protection action termination threshold temperature 128b (e.g., 130 degrees Celsius) is met (as described in relation to Figure 3 discuss).

[0058] Continue to refer Figure 4 , when the torque converter thermal management module 123 determines the estimated clutch temperature 117 est When the third clutch threshold temperature 126c is exceeded, the torque converter thermal management module 123 initiates a third torque converter protection action 125c and instructs the vehicle to initiate a pressure increase operation of the torque converter clutch 112. For example, when the clutch 112 is operating in a high slip state, the clutch 112 will generate a relatively large amount of heat energy due to the friction between the clutch plates and the housing. By instructing the torque converter management system 100 to increase the pressure of the clutch 112, the relative slip will be reduced, thereby reducing the amount of friction-related heat energy generated by the clutch 112 within the torque converter 110 to below the cooling capacity of the vehicle thermal management system 400 and the fluid cooler 150. This in turn allows the temperature of the torque converter fluid to decrease and cool the torque converter 110. The amount of clutch pressure increase may be based on the estimated clutch temperature 117 est The estimated clutch temperature 117 is determined by a scalar value of the magnitude of the clutch temperature exceeding the third clutch threshold temperature 126c. estA larger difference between the estimated clutch temperature 117 and the third clutch threshold temperature 126c may correspond to a larger increase in clutch pressure. In the illustrative example, the third clutch threshold temperature 126c may be 130 degrees Celsius (ie, the same as the first clutch threshold temperature 126a). est When the temperature exceeds 130 degrees Celsius for a threshold period of time, the torque converter thermal management module 123 instructs the torque converter clutch control valve 130 to apply increased pressure at the torque converter clutch 112 to reduce clutch slip until a third protection action termination threshold temperature 128c (e.g., 125 degrees Celsius) is met (as described in relation to Figure 3 discuss).

[0059] Still refer to Figure 4 , when the torque converter thermal management module 123 determines (i) the estimated clutch temperature 117 est When the fourth clutch protection action initiation threshold temperature 126d is exceeded and / or (ii) the torque converter energy output (calculated as a function of the torque output and the relative speed of the input and output shafts of the torque converter) exceeds the threshold torque converter energy, the torque converter thermal management module 123 initiates the fourth torque converter protection action 125d and instructs the vehicle 10 to terminate the current clutch slip profile. The clutch slip profile corresponds to a predetermined profile for managing torque converter slip during a transient event (e.g., a gear shift). Therefore, during steady-state operation, the torque converter controller 120 maintains a baseline slip condition, targeting a steady-state noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) minimum feasible slip for the current engine speed, load, and gear state, which may result in zero slip or a relatively small slip. However, the torque converter controller 120 may execute a slip profile associated with a transient event, whereby the slip is temporarily increased to accommodate the transient condition. Therefore, at the fourth torque converter protection action 125d, the torque converter controller 120 terminates the slip profile and instructs the torque converter 110 to operate under the aforementioned baseline slip condition. As the relative friction at the clutch 112 is reduced or eliminated, this in turn allows the temperature of the torque converter 110 to cool in the manner previously described. In the illustrative example, the fourth clutch protection action initiation threshold temperature 126d may be 135 degrees Celsius. When the estimated clutch temperature 117 est When the temperature exceeds 135 degrees Celsius for a threshold period of time, the torque converter thermal management module 123 instructs the torque converter clutch control valve 130 to apply increased pressure at the torque converter clutch 112 to minimize clutch slip until a fourth protection action termination threshold temperature 128d (e.g., 130 degrees Celsius) is met (as described in relation to Figure 3 discussed).

[0060] Continue to refer Figure 4 , when the torque converter thermal management module 123 determines the estimated clutch temperature 117 estWhen the fifth protection action initiation threshold temperature 126e is exceeded, the torque converter thermal management module 123 initiates the fifth torque converter protection action 125e and instructs the vehicle 10 to terminate the cylinder deactivation mode. Typically, the vehicle can be configured to slip the clutch 112 of the torque converter 110 at a higher rate when the vehicle engine is operating in the cylinder deactivation mode to reduce potential vibration and imbalance associated with cylinder deactivation. Therefore, the fifth torque converter protection action 125e involves instructing the vehicle ECM 200 to operate the engine under normal conditions (i.e., without cylinder deactivation) so that the clutch 112 can operate at a reduced slip rate. This reduced slip in turn allows the temperature of the torque converter 110 to cool in the manner previously described. In the illustrative example, the fifth protection action initiation threshold temperature 126e can be 140 degrees Celsius. When the estimated clutch temperature 117 est When the temperature exceeds 140 degrees Celsius for a threshold period of time, the torque converter thermal management module 123 instructs the vehicle ECM 200 to terminate the cylinder deactivation mode until the fifth protection action termination threshold temperature 128e (eg, 135 degrees Celsius) is met (as described in relation to Figure 3 discuss).

[0061] Continue to refer Figure 4 , when the torque converter thermal management module 123 determines the estimated clutch temperature 117 est When the sixth protection action initiation threshold temperature 126f is exceeded, the torque converter thermal management module 123 initiates the sixth torque converter protection action 125f and activates the vehicle "thermal mode". In thermal mode, the torque converter thermal management module 123 instructs the vehicle ECM200 to downshift the transmission to a lower gear (e.g., from fourth gear to third gear) so that the engine can operate at a higher speed (i.e., RPM), and the clutch 112 can be locked, thereby eliminating relative slip within the torque converter 110 and minimizing the heat energy generated by the corresponding friction. This in turn allows the temperature of the torque converter 110 to drop in the manner described above. In the illustrative example, the sixth clutch threshold temperature 126f can be 145 degrees Celsius. When the estimated clutch temperature 117 est When the temperature exceeds 145 degrees Celsius for a threshold period of time, the torque converter thermal management module 123 instructs the vehicle ECM 200 to start the "hot mode" until the sixth protection action termination threshold temperature 128f (e.g., 140 degrees Celsius) is met (according to Figure 3 ).

[0062] Continue to refer Figure 4 , when the torque converter thermal management module 123 determines the estimated clutch temperature 117 estWhen the seventh clutch protection action initiation threshold temperature 126g is exceeded, the torque converter thermal management module 123 initiates the seventh torque converter protection action 125g and instructs the driver information console (DIC) 300 to display a notification about the temperature of the torque converter 110. The notification can instruct the vehicle operator to operate the vehicle engine at idle for a period of time to minimize slip and thermal energy at the torque converter 110, while providing an increased transmission fluid flow through the torque converter 110 than when the clutch 112 is locked, thereby providing maximum cooling capacity for the torque converter 110. This in turn allows the temperature of the torque converter 110 to be reduced. In the illustrative example, the seventh clutch protection action initiation threshold temperature 126g can be 150 degrees Celsius. When the estimated clutch temperature 117 est When the temperature exceeds 150 degrees Celsius for a threshold period of time, the torque converter thermal management module 123 instructs the vehicle DIC300 to display a notification until the seventh protection action termination threshold temperature 128g (e.g., 145 degrees Celsius) is met (according to Figure 3 ).

[0063] Still refer to Figure 4 , when the torque converter thermal management module 123 determines the estimated clutch temperature 117 est When the eighth clutch protection action initiation threshold temperature 126h is exceeded, the torque converter thermal management module 123 initiates the eighth torque converter protection action 125h and instructs the torque converter management system 100 to release or disengage the clutch 112 so that all torque is transmitted only through the circulation circle 116. The eighth clutch protection action initiation threshold temperature 126h may be particularly relevant in situations where the clutch cannot be locked (i.e., the sixth torque converter protection action 125f) and / or the vehicle operator does not respond to the DIC notification (i.e., the seventh torque converter protection action 125g). Releasing or disengaging the clutch 112 allows the temperature of the clutch 112 to be reduced by eliminating friction within the torque converter 110 and helps increase the flow of transmission fluid through the torque converter 110 to maximize cooling.

[0064] In some examples, the torque converter thermal management module 123 may evaluate the estimated cycle temperature 119 est To determine whether to start the eighth torque converter protection action 125h. For example, when the estimated cycle temperature 119 est If the estimated clutch temperature 117h also exceeds a predetermined threshold cycle circle temperature (discussed below), the torque converter thermal management module 123 will not release the clutch 112 because doing so would shift the torque transfer burden solely to the cycle circle 114, resulting in an increase in temperature in the cycle circle 114. In the illustrative example, the eighth clutch threshold temperature 126h may be 160 degrees Celsius. When the estimated clutch temperature 117h is estWhen the temperature exceeds 160 degrees Celsius for a threshold period of time (and without exceeding a threshold cycle temperature), the torque converter thermal management module 123 instructs the torque converter clutch control valve 130 to release pressure applied to the clutch 112 .

[0065] refer to Figure 5 , an example round-trip protection scheme 124b is provided, which includes a plurality of round-trip protection action initiation threshold temperatures 127a-127d and corresponding torque converter protection actions 125a, 125b, 125f, 125g. Figure 5 The purpose of this invention is to illustrate the scheme of torque converter protection actions 125a, 125b, 125f, 125g. However, it should be understood that each of the torque converter protection actions 125a, 125b, 125f, 125g will be based on Figure 3 In other words, for each of the corresponding torque converter protection actions 125a, 125b, 125f, 125g, the initiation and termination of the torque converter protection actions 125a, 125b, 125f, 125g will be performed by the torque converter thermal management module 123 based on the corresponding protection action initiation and termination threshold temperatures 127a, 127b, 127f, 127g.

[0066] In the example shown, the torque converter protection actions 125a, 125b, 125f, 125g for the recycle circle 114 are the same as the torque converter protection actions 125a, 125b, 125f, 125g previously described with respect to the clutch 112, and are provided in a sequence from least intrusive to most intrusive with respect to the operation of the vehicle powertrain and / or driveline. In other words, as subsequent temperatures in the recycle circle protection action initiation threshold temperatures 127a-127d are exceeded, the torque converter thermal management module 123 gradually initiates more aggressive protection actions 125a, 125b, 125f, 125g. Here, the term "interference" refers to the level at which normal vehicle operation may be modified to accommodate the corresponding torque converter protection action, which may result in sacrificing performance or efficiency of vehicle operation.

[0067] Still refer to Figure 5 , when the torque converter thermal management module 123 determines the estimated cycle temperature 119 est When the first cycle circle protection action initiation threshold temperature 127a is exceeded, the torque converter thermal management module 123 initiates the first torque converter protection action 125a and instructs the vehicle 10 to initiate phase one active thermal management to provide additional cooling capacity to the torque converter 110. For example, the torque converter thermal management module 123 sends a phase one cooling instruction 125a to the vehicle thermal management system 400 to increase the cooling rate of the transmission fluid flowing from the torque converter through the fluid cooler 150. In the illustrative example, the first cycle circle protection action initiation threshold temperature 127a may be 130 degrees Celsius. When the estimated cycle circle temperature 119est When the temperature exceeds 130 degrees Celsius for a threshold period of time, the torque converter thermal management module 123 sends a stage one cooling instruction 125a to the vehicle thermal management system 400 to increase the cooling rate of the transmission fluid flowing from the torque converter 110 through the fluid cooler 150 until the first protection action termination threshold temperature 129a (e.g., 120 degrees Celsius) is met.

[0068] Still refer to Figure 5 , when the torque converter thermal management module 123 determines the estimated cycle temperature 119 est When the second cycle circle protection action initiation threshold temperature 127b is exceeded, the torque converter thermal management module 123 initiates the second torque converter protection action 125b and instructs the vehicle to initiate phase two active thermal management to provide additional cooling capacity to the torque converter 110. For example, the torque converter thermal management module 123 sends a phase two cooling instruction 125b to the vehicle thermal management system 400 to maximize the cooling rate of the transmission fluid flowing from the torque converter 110 through the fluid cooler 150. In other words, in phase two cooling, the cooling demand of the torque converter 110 equals or exceeds the total cooling capacity of the fluid cooler 150, and the torque converter thermal management module 123 can send an instruction to the vehicle 10 to operate the torque converter 110 in a degraded state. In the illustrative example, the second cycle circle threshold temperature 119b can be 140 degrees Celsius. When the estimated cycle circle temperature 119 est When the temperature exceeds 140 degrees Celsius for a threshold period of time, the torque converter thermal management module 123 sends a stage two cooling instruction 125b to the vehicle thermal management system 400 to maximize the cooling rate of the transmission fluid flowing from the torque converter 110 through the fluid cooler 150 until the second protection action termination threshold temperature 129b (e.g., 130 degrees Celsius) is met (according to Figure 3 ).

[0069] Continue to refer Figure 5 , when the torque converter thermal management module 123 determines the estimated cycle temperature 119 est When the third cycle circle threshold temperature 127c is exceeded, the torque converter thermal management module 123 initiates the sixth torque converter protection action 125f and activates the vehicle "thermal mode". In thermal mode, the torque converter thermal management module 123 instructs the vehicle ECM200 to downshift the transmission to a lower gear (e.g., from fourth gear to third gear) so that the engine can operate at a higher speed (i.e., RPM) and the clutch 112 can be locked, thereby eliminating relative slip within the torque converter 110 and minimizing the heat energy generated associated with the corresponding friction. This in turn allows the temperature of the torque converter 110 to cool in the manner described above. In the illustrative example, the third cycle circle threshold temperature 127c can be 150 degrees Celsius. When the estimated cycle circle temperature 119 estWhen the temperature exceeds 150 degrees Celsius for a threshold period of time, the torque converter thermal management module 123 instructs the vehicle ECM 200 to start the "hot mode" until the third protection action termination threshold temperature 129c (e.g., 140 degrees Celsius) is met (according to Figure 3 ).

[0070] Continue to refer Figure 5 , when the torque converter thermal management module 123 determines the estimated cycle temperature 119 est When the fourth cycle circle threshold temperature 127d is exceeded, the torque converter thermal management module 123 initiates the seventh torque converter protection action 125g and instructs the driver information console (DIC) 300 to display a notification regarding the temperature of the torque converter 110. The notification may instruct the vehicle operator to operate the vehicle engine at idle for a period of time to minimize slip and heat energy generated at the torque converter 110 while providing an increased coolant (i.e., transmission fluid) flow through the torque converter 110 than when the clutch 112 is locked, thereby providing maximum cooling capacity for the torque converter 110. This in turn allows the temperature of the torque converter 110 to decrease. In the illustrative example, the fourth cycle circle protection action initiation threshold temperature 127d may be 165 degrees Celsius. When the estimated cycle circle temperature 119 est When the temperature exceeds 165 degrees Celsius for a threshold period of time, the torque converter thermal management module 123 instructs the vehicle DIC300 to display a notification until the fourth protection action termination threshold temperature 128d (e.g., 150 degrees Celsius) is met (according to Figure 3 ).

[0071] The foregoing description of the torque converter protection schemes 124a, 124b provides representative illustrations of each of the clutch protection scheme 124a and the revolving circle protection scheme 124b, including example temperatures that may be associated with each protection scheme 124a, 124b. However, it should be understood that, depending on the configuration of the vehicle 10, one or more of the protection actions 125a-125h may be omitted from the protection schemes 124a, 124b. For example, a vehicle that is not equipped with a cylinder deactivation mode would not include the fifth torque converter protection action 125e. Furthermore, the temperature values ​​provided for each threshold temperature are merely example temperatures provided to illustrate the progressive or escalating nature of the protection actions 125a-125h. Therefore, it should be understood that each subsequent protection action 125b-125h is typically initiated by the thermal management module 123 at an estimated temperature 117 that is equal to or greater than the preceding protection action 125a-125g. est , 119 est. In some configurations, one or more of the protection actions 125a-125h may be initiated and executed simultaneously, whereby each simultaneous protection action 125a-125h is associated with the same threshold temperature initiation and / or termination temperature. In addition, one or more of the protection actions 125a-125h may be terminated or interrupted based on the initiation of a different one of the torque converter protection actions 125a-125h. For example, when the clutch 112 is released in association with the eighth torque converter protection action 125h, the torque converter protection actions 125c, 125d associated with increasing clutch pressure and terminating the current slip curve are interrupted. Therefore, although the torque converter protection actions 125a-125h are illustrated as being initiated and terminated in the illustrated order, other configurations of the torque converter management system 100 may execute the torque converter protection actions 125a-125h in a different order and / or omit, skip, or interrupt one or more of the torque converter protection actions 125a-125h.

[0072] Many embodiments have been described. However, it should be understood that various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, other embodiments are also within the scope of the following claims.

[0073] The foregoing description has been provided for the purpose of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present disclosure. Individual elements or features of a particular configuration are generally not limited to that particular configuration, but where applicable, they are interchangeable and can be used in a selected configuration even if not specifically shown or described. This can also be varied in a variety of ways. Such variations should not be considered a departure from the present disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A computer-implemented method, when executed by data processing hardware of a vehicle having a torque converter, causes the data processing hardware to perform operations comprising: receiving a torque converter temperature associated with the torque converter; obtaining a torque converter protection scheme, the scheme comprising one or more torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperatures, each having an associated torque converter protection action; determining whether the torque converter temperature exceeds a first torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperature; as well as When the torque converter temperature exceeds the first torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperature, a first torque converter protection action associated with the exceeded first torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperature is initiated.

2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: determining whether the torque converter temperature exceeds a second torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperature among the torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperatures; as well as When the torque converter temperature exceeds a second one of the torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperatures, a second torque converter protection action different from the first torque converter protection action is requested.

3. The method according to claim 2, wherein: The first torque converter protection action includes at least one of: (i) requesting an increased cooling rate of the torque converter, (ii) adjusting a clutch application pressure of a clutch of the torque converter, (iii) indicating a cylinder deactivation mode of an internal combustion engine of the vehicle, (iv) indicating a transmission of the vehicle to operate in a different mode, (v) displaying a notification to a vehicle operator, (vi) releasing the clutch of the torque converter, or (vii) terminating a current clutch slip profile.

4. The method according to claim 3, wherein: The second torque converter protection action includes another of: (i) requesting an increased cooling rate of the torque converter, (ii) adjusting a clutch apply pressure of a clutch of the torque converter, (iii) indicating a cylinder deactivation mode of an internal combustion engine of the vehicle, (iv) indicating a transmission of the vehicle to operate in a different mode, (v) displaying a notification to a vehicle operator, (vi) releasing the clutch of the torque converter, or (vii) terminating a current clutch slip profile. 5 . The method of claim 1 , further comprising determining the torque converter temperature based on at least one of a measured torque converter temperature or a modeled torque converter temperature.

6. The method according to claim 1, wherein: The torque converter temperature is the clutch temperature.

7. The method according to claim 1, wherein: The torque converter temperature is a cycle circle temperature.

8. A system comprising: A torque converter including a clutch and a recirculating circle; Data processing hardware; and Memory hardware in communication with the data processing hardware, the memory hardware storing instructions that, when executed on the data processing hardware, cause the data processing hardware to perform operations including: receiving a torque converter temperature associated with the torque converter; obtaining a torque converter protection scheme, the scheme comprising one or more torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperatures, each having an associated torque converter protection action; determining whether the torque converter temperature exceeds a first torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperature; as well as When the torque converter temperature exceeds the first torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperature, a first torque converter protection action associated with the exceeded first torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperature is initiated.

9. The system according to claim 8, wherein: The operations also include: determining whether the torque converter temperature exceeds a second torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperature among the torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperatures; and When the torque converter temperature exceeds a second one of the torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperatures, a second torque converter protection action different from the first torque converter protection action is requested.

10. A computer program product encoded on a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium comprising instructions which, when executed by a data processing device, cause the data processing device to perform operations comprising: receiving a torque converter temperature associated with the torque converter; obtaining a torque converter protection scheme, the scheme comprising one or more torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperatures, each having an associated torque converter protection action; determining whether the torque converter temperature exceeds a first torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperature; as well as When the torque converter temperature exceeds the first torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperature, a first torque converter protection action associated with the exceeded first torque converter protection action initiation threshold temperature is initiated.

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