SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR OPERATION OF A TRANSMISSION GEARBOX OF A VEHICLE

Abstract

A method 500 and a system 202 for operating a transfer case 104 of a vehicle 102 are disclosed. The method 500 comprises acquiring a multitude of operating parameters associated with the vehicle 102 and determining that a multitude of safety criteria are met. The multitude of safety criteria indicates safe operation of the transfer case 104 and comprises a multitude of conditions associated with the multitude of operating parameters. The method 500 further comprises operating the transfer case 104 based on a transfer case request received from a user 206, after determining that at least the multitude of safety criteria are met. In this way, the method 500 avoids dependence on a sensor or feedback switch 162 for activating or deactivating the transfer case 104.

Description

PREAMBLE TO THE DESCRIPTION:

[0001] The following description explains the invention and the manner in which it is to be implemented in more detail: DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION: Technical field

[0002] The following disclosure relates to a technical field of vehicle control systems and in particular to a method and a system for operating a transfer case of a vehicle. Background of the invention

[0003] A transfer case is a type of transmission used to transfer power between the axles of certain types of vehicles, such as all-wheel drive (AWD) vehicles, four-wheel drive (FWD) vehicles, Unimog vehicles, and the like, but not limited to these. The transfer case can switch between two gear ratios, such as "high" or "road" ratio and "low" or "off-road" ratio, but not limited to these. A transfer case may be particularly necessary when vehicles require additional torque off-road or at low speeds, for example, when the vehicle is stuck in mud, on a slippery surface on an incline, or similar situations, but not limited to these. Under such conditions, the transfer case provides the desired additional torque to the vehicle.

[0004] The transfer case can include at least one low-range solenoid and one high-range solenoid to provide the transfer case's operation. The transfer case can activate the low-range solenoid for off-road use and the high-range solenoid for on-road use. Furthermore, the transfer case can deactivate the activated solenoid. Various control mechanisms exist for the transfer case's operation between on-road and off-road conditions.

[0005] Existing methods disclosed in US20060105883A1, US10272918B2, US5443429A, US2006105883A1, RU174714U1, and DE102011114868A1 operate the transfer case, for example, based on feedback from switches / sensors or certain vehicle parameters such as vehicle speed or acceleration, axle speed, or the difference between the speeds of the front and rear axles. The feedback from switches / sensors may include a sensor that is hardwired to the transfer case and can detect and provide feedback on the current position of the transfer case. However, during the activation and deactivation of the solenoid, the switch / sensor may provide inaccurate feedback by incorrectly indicating "road operation" or "off-road."Furthermore, in the event of a malfunction of the feedback switch or sensor, or damage to the fixed wiring, the transfer case request from the user may not be executed correctly. Additionally, there are various other parameters that affect the transfer case's performance and that have not been considered in existing transfer case operating procedures.

[0006] Therefore, there is a need for an optimized procedure and system for the operation of the transfer case in order to provide the torque requested by the user both on the road and off-road.

[0007] The information disclosed in this section concerning the background of the revelation is provided solely for a better understanding of the general background of the revelation and is not to be understood as an acknowledgment or an indication that this information is state-of-the-art and already known to experts. SUMMARY OF THE REVELATION

[0008] One or more shortcomings of the prior art are overcome, and additional advantages are provided by the present disclosure. Additional features and advantages are realized through the techniques of the present disclosure. Other embodiments and aspects of the disclosure are described in detail herein and are considered part of the claimed disclosure.

[0009] A method for operating a vehicle's transfer case is disclosed. The method comprises acquiring a multitude of operating parameters associated with the vehicle and determining that a multitude of safety criteria are met. These numerous safety criteria indicate safe operation of the transfer case and are related to the multitude of operating parameters. The method further comprises operating the transfer case based on a transfer case request received from a user, after determining that at least the multitude of safety criteria are met.

[0010] Furthermore, the present disclosure relates to the operation of a vehicle's transfer case. The system comprises a memory and a processor that is communicatively coupled to the memory. The processor is configured to detect a multitude of operating parameters associated with the vehicle and determine whether a multitude of safety criteria are met. These numerous safety criteria indicate the safe operation of the transfer case and are related to the numerous operating parameters. The processor is configured to operate the transfer case based on a transfer case request received from a user when it is determined that at least the numerous safety criteria are met.

[0011] The foregoing summary serves solely for illustrative purposes and is in no way intended to be limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] The accompanying drawings, which are integrated into and form part of the disclosure, illustrate exemplary embodiments and, together with the description, explain the disclosed principles. In the figures, the leftmost digit(s) of a reference number identifies the figure in which the reference number first appears. The same numbers are used in the figures to refer to identical features and components. Some embodiments of systems and / or methods according to the embodiments of the present subject matter are now described solely by way of example and with reference to the accompanying figures, in which: Fig. 1a, Fig. 1b and Fig. 1c illustrate an exemplary architecture showing one or more operating modes of an existing transfer case (TGB) of a vehicle; Fig.2 an exemplary architecture of a proposed system for operating the TGB of the vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Fig. 3 an exemplary block diagram of a TGB operating system (TOS) for the operation of the vehicle's TGB according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Fig. 4 illustrates a flowchart of a procedure carried out by the TOS for the operation of the TGB of the vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and Fig. 5 illustrates a flowchart of a procedure carried out by the TOS for the operation of the TGB of the vehicle according to another embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0013] It is evident to experts that all block diagrams contained herein represent conceptual views of illustrative systems that embody the principles of the present subject matter. Likewise, it is evident that all flowcharts, process diagrams, state transition diagrams, pseudocodes, and the like represent various procedures that are essentially represented in a computer-readable medium and can be executed by a computer or processor, regardless of whether such a computer or processor is explicitly depicted. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0014] In this document, the word "exemplary" is used to mean "serving as an example, instance, or illustration." Any embodiment or implementation of the subject matter described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be understood as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments.

[0015] Although various modifications and alternative forms of the disclosure are possible, a specific embodiment has been shown as an example in the drawings and is described in detail below. It should be understood, however, that the disclosure is not limited to the specific forms disclosed, but rather is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives that fall within the scope of the disclosure. The terms "comprise," "encompassing," "includes," or other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, so that a setup, device, or step may also include other components or steps not expressly listed, or a method that includes a list of components or steps may include not only those components or those inherent in such a setup, device, or method.In other words, one or more elements in a system or device introduced by "includes ... a / s" does not, without further limitations, exclude the existence of other or additional elements in the system or process.

[0016] The following detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure refers to the accompanying drawings, which form part of this document and illustrate specific embodiments in which the disclosure can be applied. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable persons skilled in the art to put the disclosure into practice, and it is understood that other embodiments may be used and that modifications may be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure. The following description is therefore not to be understood in a limiting sense.

[0017] This disclosure provides methods and systems for operating a vehicle's transfer case (TC) without relying on feedback from a switch or sensor. The system can receive a transfer case request from a vehicle user regarding either "road operation" or "off-road" conditions. In response, the system acquires a variety of operational parameters related to the vehicle, the values ​​of which can affect the TTC's performance, for example, to ensure safe operation. These parameters include, but are not limited to, the vehicle's speed, the difference between the front and rear axle speeds, the current state of the transfer case, the clutch state, and the speed of the transmission output shaft.

[0018] Furthermore, the system can determine whether a variety of safety criteria are met for numerous operating parameters to verify that the TGB is operating within safe limits. For example, the system can detect whether the vehicle's speed is zero and the TGB's current state is neutral. Additionally, the system can check whether the vehicle's ignition switch is on or off. If the numerous safety criteria are met and the ignition switch is on, the system can operate the TGB based on the transfer case request to provide the necessary torque for on-road or off-road use. This allows the system to operate the TGB without relying on feedback from the sensor / switch, thus improving operational accuracy.Furthermore, the system also takes into account various operating parameters to ensure the safe operation of the TGB, thus preventing a failure of the TGB and enabling efficient operation of the TGB.

[0019] Fig. 1a, Fig. 1b and Fig. Figure 1c illustrates an exemplary architecture showing one or more operating modes of an existing vehicle transfer case system.

[0020] As in Fig.As shown in Figure 1, the architecture 100 comprises a variety of components in a vehicle 102 that enable the operation of a transfer case (TGB) 104. The vehicle 102 can include at least one internal combustion engine (ICE) 106, a transmission 108, a front differential 110, and a rear differential 112. The front differential 110 can be coupled to a variety of front wheels (not shown) of the vehicle 102, and the rear differential 112 can be coupled to a variety of rear wheels (not shown) of the vehicle 102.

[0021] The TGB 104 can further comprise a gear set 113 and a transfer case assembly 114. The gear set 113 can comprise at least a first set of gears 115 and 116, a second set of gears 117 and 118, and a front dog clutch 120. The transfer case assembly 114 can comprise at least one set of gears 121 and 122 and a rear dog clutch 124. Each of the at least one set of gears 121 and 122 can be coupled to each other via a coupling device 126. The gears 121 and 122 can be coupled, for example, using a belt, a chain, a gear drive, and the like. The gear 121 can be connected to a rear differential 112 via an output shaft 127 and the gear 122 can be connected to a front differential 110 via an auxiliary output shaft 128.

[0022] The size and shape of one or more gears shown in the figures of this disclosure serve solely for illustration and are not to be understood as limiting to the embodiment shown herein. Furthermore, it should be noted that the multitude of gears shown in the Fig. 1a and Fig. The components of vehicle 102 shown in 1b are not to be understood as limiting and vehicle 102 may comprise a multitude of other components not shown in the present disclosure. The components shown in the Fig. 1a, Fig. 1b and Fig. The gear set 113 shown in Figure 1c serves only for illustration and is not to be understood as limiting. It can be assumed that the number and arrangement of the gears in gear set 113 will vary depending on the type of TGB and its application. Fig. 1a, Fig. 1b and Fig. 1c may be different.

[0023] In operation, the TGB 104 can receive a transfer case request from a user of the vehicle 102 via a transfer case request switch, such as a modular switch panel (MSF) (but not limited to), on a user interface of the vehicle 102. The transfer case request switch can include two states of a transfer case request to the user, including the states "Road Operation" and "Off-Road." The "Road Operation" state may be required in situations such as the vehicle 102 driving on a normal road in typical scenarios requiring (but not limited to) high speed and acceleration. Therefore, the "Road Operation" transfer case request state may indicate that the user requires low torque. Alternatively, the "Off-Road" state may be required in situations where the vehicle 102 requires high torque, for example,When towing heavy vehicles, driving uphill where the vehicle might get stuck in mud, and similar situations. Therefore, the transfer case request state "Off-road" can indicate that the user requires high torque.

[0024] Gear set 113 of the TGB 104 can receive the power transmitted by the transmission 108 from the ICE 106 and the transfer case requirement as input and generate the required torque either via the first set of gears 115 and 116 or via the second set of gears 17 and 118, based on the transfer case requirement. Furthermore, gear set 113 can provide the generated torque to the transfer case assembly 114. The at least one set of gears 121 and 122 of the transfer case assembly 114 can receive the generated torque from gear set 113 and transmit the generated torque to the rear differential 112 and the front differential 110. The rear differential 112 can receive the generated torque via the rear dog clutch 124 and the output shaft 127. Alternatively, the front differential 110 can receive the generated torque via the auxiliary output shaft 128.

[0025] Particularly when the transfer case requirement is "road operation", the TGB 104 can ensure the transmission via the first set of gears 115 and 116 by engaging the dog clutch 120, as shown in Fig.Figure 1a (shown with thick lines) illustrates this. The first set of gears can provide lower gear ratios, for example, a ratio of 1.037. The gear ratio can be defined as the ratio between the number of teeth on two coupled gears. In other words, the gear ratio of two gears can indicate the number of revolutions an output shaft makes for every one revolution of an input shaft. In this case, at lower gear ratios, the speed of the input shaft and the speed of the output shaft are the same, and the input torque and the torque produced are equal. Thus, the first set of gears provides the gear ratios required for vehicle 102 to travel on the road or under normal road conditions by providing the necessary acceleration without providing any additional torque.

[0026] If the transfer case requirement is “off-road”, the TGB 104 can ensure the transmission via gear 115, the second set of gears 117 and 118 and gear 116 by disengaging the dog clutch 120, as shown in Fig. Figure 1b (shown with thick lines) illustrates this. The second set of gears can provide higher gear ratios, for example, a gear ratio of 1.447. With the higher gear ratio, the input shaft speed can be lower than the output shaft speed, and the generated torque is greater than the input torque. Thus, the second set of gears can provide the vehicle 102 with additional torque to meet the demands of the vehicle 102's off-road conditions.

[0027] As in Fig.As shown in Figure 1c, the TGB 104 can receive feedback from a sensor or switch 162 connected to the TGB 104 regarding the engagement or non-engagement of the front claw coupling 120. In one embodiment, the switch or sensor 162 can be coupled to the TGB 104 to detect its current position. In one example, the switch or sensor 162 can be hardwired to the TGB 104. During operation, the switch 162 can provide feedback on "off-road" or "road" operation using a range of voltage values ​​164. In one example, the voltage range can be between 0 V and 15 V. The switch 162 can generate the highest voltage value 166 within a first range of values ​​168 when the TGB 104 is in the "off-road" state.Switch 162, on the other hand, can generate the lowest voltage value 170 within a second range of values ​​172 when the TGB 104 is in the "road operation" state.

[0028] One or more problems that can arise from the operation of the switch feedback are explained in detail below. In certain scenarios, for example, if the vehicle 102 is currently in "road mode" and a "terrain" request is received from the user, or vice versa, the switch 162 must move from its lowest to its highest position, or vice versa, as soon as the request is received. However, this movement can be subject to a delay, which can produce incorrect indications of the "road mode" or "terrain" states. In the scenario above, for example, the switch might introduce a certain delay when moving from position 174 to the lowest position 170. Because of this delay, the switch 162 could incorrectly indicate the "road mode" state when the switch is still at a voltage 176 that differs from the lowest voltage 170.

[0029] Furthermore, if there is another fault in switch 162, the transfer case request from the TGB 104 may not be executed accurately. Additionally, if the wiring harness between switch 162 and the TGB 104 is damaged or cut, the transfer case request may not be executed accurately, resulting in less torque being supplied than required.

[0030] This disclosure provides various methods and systems for solving one or more of the problems mentioned above.

[0031] Fig. Figure 2 illustrates the exemplary architecture of a proposed system 200 for operating the TGB 104 of the vehicle 102 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] As in Fig.As shown in Figure 2, the system 200 comprises one or more components configured to operate the TGB 104 of the vehicle 102 without dependence on the switch feedback. In one example, the vehicle 102 can be any type of transport vehicle, such as a car, bus, truck, and the like, which includes the TGB 104. The vehicle 102 can be, for example, an all-wheel-drive vehicle, a four-wheel-drive vehicle, a Unimog, and the like. The vehicle 102 can be an electric vehicle or a hybrid-electric vehicle. The vehicle 102 can have four or more wheels.

[0033] In one embodiment, the system 200 comprises a TGB operating system (TOS) 202 coupled to the vehicle 102 and a user interface 204 for providing interactions to a user 206. In some embodiments, the TOS 202 may be configured within the vehicle 102. In some other embodiments, the TOS 202 may be configured on a centralized server, such as a cloud server, which communicates with an electronic control unit (ECU) of the vehicle 102. The vehicle 102 may include at least the TGB 104 and a plurality of sensors 208 for monitoring one or more parameters associated with the vehicle 102 and / or the environmental conditions surrounding the vehicle 102. The TOS 202, the user interface 204, and the vehicle 102 may be coupled to each other via a communication network (not shown).

[0034] The TGB 104 can include a set of solenoid coils 210 and 212 configured to control the operation of the multiple gears 115-118 of the TGB 104's gear set 113. The set of solenoid coils can include, among others, a low-range solenoid coil 210 and a high-range solenoid coil 212. The low-range solenoid coil 210 can be configured to engage the second set of gears 117-118 to provide higher gear ratios and thus higher torque. The TOS 202 can activate the low-range solenoid coil 210 when high torque is requested or when the user selects the "Off-Road" state (206). The high-range solenoid coil 212 can be configured to engage the first set of gears 115-116 to provide lower gear ratios and thus high acceleration.The TOS 202 can activate the high range solenoid 212 when a lower torque is requested or the user 206 selects the "road operation" state.

[0035] The TOS 202 can be configured to operate the TGB 104 independently of the switch feedback. During operation, the TOS 202 can receive a transfer case request from the user 206 via the transfer case request switch as either "road operation" or "off-road." In response, the TOS 202 can detect a variety of operating parameters using the variety of sensors 208, which can affect the operation of the TGB 104. The TOS 202 can further determine that a variety of safety criteria and a variety of input criteria are met. The TOS 202 can operate the TGB 104 based on the transfer case request. In some embodiments, the TOS 202 can be configured in an ECU of the vehicle 102. For example, the TOS 202 can be configured in an expansion module cabin (XMC) of the vehicle 102.

[0036] The user interface 204 can be configured to interact with the user 206. The user interface 204 can be configured to receive one or more inputs from the user 206, such as (but not limited to) the transfer case request and an ignition switch signal. The user interface 204 can also be configured to provide one or more notifications to the user 206. In an exemplary embodiment, the user interface 204 can include, among other things, a transfer case request switch and an ignition switch. In some embodiments, the user interface 204 can be an instrument cluster configured in the vehicle 102. The user interface 204 can be communicatively coupled to an ECU configured to operate the instrument cluster of the vehicle 102.In one example, the ECU can be a common instrument cluster unit (ICUC). In some other embodiments, the user interface 204 can be configured in a user device, such as (but not limited to) a mobile device, belonging to the user 206.

[0037] User 206 can be a driver or passenger of the vehicle 102 who can generate "road operation" or "off-road" requests. In other embodiments, User 206 can be any other User 206 who can generate "road operation" or "off-road" requests. For example, User 206 could be a professional tester who generates the requests from a central server to test one or more operations of the TGB 104.

[0038] The multitude of sensors 208 can include, among others, a vehicle speed sensor, one or more axle speed sensors, a gear position sensor, a clutch sensor, a shaft sensor, a transfer case request switch sensor, and an ignition switch sensor. The vehicle speed sensor can be configured to detect the speed of the vehicle 102. The one or more axle speed sensors can be configured to measure at least the speed of a front axle and a rear axle of the vehicle 102. The gear position sensor can be configured to detect the current gear of the vehicle 102. The clutch sensor can be configured to detect the state of a clutch of the vehicle 102 as "engaged" or "disengaged." The shaft sensor can be configured to detect the speed of the output shaft 127.The transfer case request switch can detect the transfer case request as either "road operation" or "off-road". The ignition switch can detect the ignition switch status as "on", "off", or "starting". In some embodiments, the plurality of sensors 208 can be communicatively coupled to an ECU configured to control the operation of the plurality of sensors 208. In one example, the ECU can be an Advanced Acquisition and Actuation Module (ASAM).

[0039] Fig. Figure 3 illustrates an exemplary block diagram 300 of the TOS 202 for the operation of the TGB 104 of the vehicle 102 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] Block diagram 300 illustrates one or more components of the TOS 202. The TOS 202 comprises the processor 302, the memory 304, and a variety of modules 306. The variety of modules 306 may include a data processing module 310, a TGB security detection module 312, and a TGB operating module 314.

[0041] The data processing module 310 can be configured to acquire and monitor a multitude of parameters, including a multitude of operating parameters 316 and a multitude of input parameters 318, using a multitude of sensors 208. In some embodiments, the data processing module 310 can receive the multitude of parameters from the ECU, such as the ASAM (but not limited to). The multitude of operating parameters 316 can specify one or more parameters that may affect the safety of the TGB 104. The multitude of input parameters 318 can specify a multitude of parameters that are received as input from the user 206 for the operation of the TGB 104.The multitude of operating parameters 316 can include, among other things, the speed of the vehicle 102, a difference between the speed of the front axle and the speed of the rear axle of the vehicle 102, the current state of the TGB 104, the clutch status, and the speed of the output shaft 127, which is also referred to herein as the transmission output shaft. The multitude of input parameters 318 can include, among other things, the transfer case request signal and the status of the ignition switch. The TGB safety detection module 312 can be configured to determine whether the multitude of safety criteria 320 and the multitude of input criteria 322 are met in order to operate the TGB 104. The multitude of safety criteria 320 can also be referred to as temporary criteria, and the multitude of input criteria 322 as permanent criteria.A first safety criterion can include the detection that the speed of vehicle 102 is zero. This criterion ensures that vehicle 102 is in a stationary position and that the TGB 104 is therefore safe and does not fail when user 206 switches between "road operation" and "off-road".

[0042] A second safety criterion is that the difference between the speed of the front axle and the speed of the rear axle of vehicle 102 is zero. This criterion ensures that the TGB 104 is safe in scenarios where vehicle 102 has a certain speed at the rear axle while the front axle is stationary. For example, vehicle 102 may be stuck in mud at the front wheels while user 206 attempts to accelerate vehicle 102, which can cause only the rear wheels to spin. In this example, the speed at the front wheels can be zero, while the speed at the rear wheels can be a non-zero value. If the TGB 104 is operated in such a scenario, there is a high probability that the TGB 104 will be compromised and fail.

[0043] A third safety criterion can include detecting whether the current gear is "neutral" in an automated transmission or whether the clutch is disengaged in a manual transmission. This criterion can ensure the safety of the TGB 104 in scenarios where the vehicle 102 is in a low gear, such as first gear (but not limited to this), and the user 206 may not have initiated driving the vehicle 102 but instead increased acceleration by applying a brake. This can result in a non-zero speed at the output shaft 127. In such a scenario, the operation of the TGB 104 may not be safe if the clutch is engaged in a manual transmission or if the TGB 104 is not in a "neutral" state in an automated transmission.A fifth safety criterion can consist of determining whether the speed of the output shaft 127 is less than a shaft speed threshold. The shaft speed threshold can be a value that specifies a safe speed for the operation of the TGB 104. The shaft speed threshold can specify a safe speed at which two gears mesh fully to provide the required torque.

[0044] Furthermore, a first input criterion can be to check whether the ignition switch status is either "On" or "Starting". A second input criterion can involve checking whether the transfer case request indicates either "Road Operation" or "Off-Road". The TGB Safety Detection Module 312 can generate a safety indicator for the TGB Operation Module 314 based on the determination that each of the multiple safety criteria 320 and each of the multiple input criteria 322 is met or not met. If the multiple safety criteria 320 and the multiple input criteria 322 are met, the TGB Safety Detection Module 312 can generate the safety indicator as "achieved".Alternatively, the TGB security detection module 312 can generate the security indicator as "not reached" if one of the multitude of security criteria 320 and / or one of the multitude of input criteria 322 is not met.

[0045] The TGB operating module 314 can activate or deactivate one of the set of solenoid coils based on the information received from the TGB safety detection module 312. Based on this information, the TGB operating module 314 can generate an internal status signal. The internal status signal can be "HIGH" if the transfer case request is "Road Operation" and the safety indicator is "Reached." Alternatively, the internal status signal can be "HIGHLOW" if the safety indicator is "Not Reached" and the transfer case request is "Road Operation." Conversely, the internal status signal can be "LOW" if the safety indicator is "Reached." Alternatively, the internal status signal can be "LOWLOWLOW" if the safety indicator is "Not Reached" and the transfer case request is "Off-Road."If the internal status signal is either "LOW" or "HIGH", the TGB operating module 314 must not activate any of the set of solenoid coils.

[0046] The TGB operating module 314 can initiate a counter (324) 324 when the internal state signal is either "HIGH" or "LOW". The counter (324) 324 can be used to monitor the number of attempts by the TGB operating module 314 to activate one of the set of solenoids. The counter (324) 324 can be set to a starting value, e.g., "0". The TGB operating module 314 can activate one of the set of solenoids, also referred to herein as the request solenoid, based on the internal state signal. When the internal state signal is "HIGH", the TGB operating module 314 can activate the high-range solenoid 212, which in turn can engage the first set of gears 115-116 to provide high acceleration and speed under "road operation" conditions.Alternatively, if the internal signal is “LOW”, the TGB operating module 314 can activate the low range solenoid 210, which in turn can engage the second set of gears 117-118 to provide high torque for “off-road” conditions.

[0047] The TGB operating module 314 can then determine whether the activation of the request solenoid was successful or failed. If a request solenoid deactivation cycle follows the activation, the TGB operating module 314 can increment counter (324) 324 and reactivate the request solenoid based on the transfer case request if counter (324) is less than or equal to the predetermined threshold. The TGB operating module 314 can iteratively increment counter (324) 324 up to a predetermined threshold for failed activations. The predetermined threshold can be the maximum number of reactivations the solenoid is allowed to experience after a failed activation. For example, the predetermined threshold could be "2".

[0048] After activation, the TGB operating module 314 can initiate a timer 326 up to a predetermined time threshold. The timer 326 can be used to monitor the duration for which the request solenoid remains active. The predetermined time threshold can specify a maximum duration for which the request solenoid can remain active safely and without failure. For example, the predetermined time threshold could be 60 seconds. After the timer 326 expires, the TGB operating module 314 can deactivate the request solenoid. The TGB operating module 314 can also deactivate the request solenoid if one of the multiple safety criteria or one of the multiple input criteria is not met before the timer 326 expires. In this case, the TGB operating module 314 can terminate the timer 326 by stopping or resetting it before its normal expiration date.Furthermore, the TGB operating module 314 can reset the counter (324) 324 to the starting value, e.g. to “0”, if the user 206 makes a change to the transfer case request.

[0049] Furthermore, the TGB operating module 314 can display a TGB activation indicator on the user interface 204 immediately after the request solenoid is deactivated or after the timer 326 has finished. The TGB activation indicator may, for example, be an ICUC symbol that displays a “TGB symbol” or no “TGB symbol” to the user 206. Table 1 illustrates various examples of a current status 330 of the TGB 104, the transfer case request 332, the safety indicator 334, and a status 336 of the second set of gears 117-118, as well as the corresponding TGB activation indicator 338. Table 1 TGBaktuellerStatus 330 Transfer case requirement 332 Safety indicator 334 Status of the second set of gears 336 TGB activation indicator 338 terrain High Not reached Intervention TGB symbol terrain High Reached Not intervening No TGB symbol Road operation Low Not reached Not intervening No TGB symbol Road operation Low Reached Intervention TGB symbol

[0050] As shown in Table 1, the status 336 of the second set of gears 117-118 can be engaged or disengaged when the low-range solenoid 210 is activated by the TGB operating module 314 based on the current TGB status 330, the transfer case request 332, and the safety indicator 334. Furthermore, the TGB activation indicator 338 can display a “TGB symbol” when the second set of gears is engaged and “No TGB symbol” when the second set of gears is disengaged.

[0051] In this way, the TOS 202 can operate the TGB 104 solely on the basis of the multitude of operating parameters 316 and the multitude of input parameters 318, thus avoiding feedback from the switch 162. The TOS 202 also ensures the safe operation of the TGB 104 by evaluating the multitude of safety criteria 320 and the multitude of input criteria 322 before activating the request solenoid. Furthermore, the TOS 202 also ensures the successful activation of one of the set of solenoids, either in a second or subsequent attempt, if the request solenoid was not activated in a first attempt based on the counter (324). The TOS 202 also ensures the safe activation of the set of solenoids, and thus a longer service life for the set of solenoids, by automatically deactivating the request solenoid using the timer 326.

[0052] Fig. Figure 4 shows an exemplary flowchart of a method for operating the TGB 104 of the vehicle 102 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0053] Procedure 400 can be described in the general context of computer-executable instructions. In general, computer-executable instructions can include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, procedures, modules, and functions that perform specific functions or implement specific abstract data types. The order in which Procedure 400 is described is not a restriction, and any number of the described procedure blocks can be combined in any order to implement the procedure. Furthermore, individual blocks can be omitted from the procedure without altering the scope of the subject matter described herein. Additionally, the procedure can be implemented in any suitable hardware, software, firmware, or a combination thereof.

[0054] In block 402, the TOS 202 can receive a transfer case request from user 206, specifying either "road operation" or "off-road".

[0055] In block 404, TOS 202 can determine whether the multitude of security criteria 320 and the multitude of entry criteria 322 are met. If the multitude of security criteria 320 and the multitude of entry criteria 322 are met, TOS 202 proceeds to block 406. Alternatively, TOS 202 can proceed back to block 405 if either of the multitude of security criteria 320 or the multitude of entry criteria 322 is not met.

[0056] In block 405, the TOS 202 can deactivate a request solenoid and move to block 420.

[0057] In block 406, the TOS 202 can check whether a value of counter (324) 324 is less than or equal to a predetermined threshold. If the value is less than or equal to the predetermined threshold, the TOS 202 can proceed to block 408. Alternatively, if the value exceeds the predetermined threshold, the TOS 202 can proceed to block 410 and take no action, such as (but not limited to) refraining from operating the transfer case.

[0058] In block 408, the TOS 202 can activate either the low range solenoid 210 or the high range solenoid 212 based on the transfer case request.

[0059] In block 412, the TOS 202 can initiate a timer 326.

[0060] In block 414, the TOS can determine whether timer 326 has expired. If timer 326 has expired, the TOS 202 can proceed to block 405, or it can proceed to block 416.

[0061] In block 416, TOS 202 can determine whether at least one of the multiple safety criteria and the multiple input criteria is not met during the activation of timer 326. TOS 202 can proceed to block 405 if at least one of the multiple safety criteria and the multiple input criteria is not met. Alternatively, TOS 202 can proceed to block 418 and take no action if all of the multiple safety criteria and the multiple input criteria are met.

[0062] In block 420, TOS 202 can increment the counter (324) 324 and continue with block 406.

[0063] In block 422, the TOS 202 can detect whether a change to the transfer case request is received from user 206. If the change is detected, the TOS 202 can proceed to block 424, and if the change is not detected, it can proceed to block 402.

[0064] In block 424, TOS 202 can reset the counter (324) 324.

[0065] Fig. Figure 5 shows a flowchart of a procedure carried out by the TOS 202 for the operation of the TGB 104 of the vehicle 102 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0066] Procedure 500 can be described in the general context of computer-executable instructions. In general, computer-executable instructions can include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, procedures, modules, and functions that perform specific functions or implement specific abstract data types. The order in which Procedure 500 is described is not a restriction, and any number of the described procedure blocks can be combined in any order to implement the procedure. Furthermore, individual blocks can be omitted from the procedure without altering the scope of the subject matter described herein. Additionally, the procedure can be implemented in any suitable hardware, software, firmware, or a combination thereof.

[0067] In block 502, the TOS 202 can capture the multitude of operating parameters associated with the vehicle 102 in response to the transfer case request received from a user 206 of the vehicle 102.

[0068] In block 504, the TOS 202 can determine whether the multitude of safety criteria is met. The multitude of safety criteria indicates safe operation of the TGB 104. The multitude of safety criteria can encompass a variety of conditions associated with the multitude of operating parameters.

[0069] In Block 506, the TOS 202 can operate the TGB 104 based on the transfer case requirement, if it is determined that at least the multitude of safety criteria are met.

[0070] Fig.Figure 6 illustrates a block diagram of an exemplary computer system for implementing embodiments in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0071] In one embodiment, the computer system 600 can be the TOS 202 for operating the TGB 104 of the vehicle 102 without dependence on feedback from the switch. The computer system 600 can include a central processing unit (“CPU” or “processor”) 608. The processor 608 can include at least one data processor for executing program components for carrying out user- or system-generated business processes. The processor 608 can include specialized processing units such as integrated system (bus) controllers, memory management control units, floating-point units, graphics processing units, digital signal processing units, etc.

[0072] The processor 608 can be connected to one or more input / output devices (I / O devices) 602 and 604 via the I / O interface 606. The I / O interface 606 can use communication protocols / methods such as... B. Audio, analog, digital, stereo, IEEE-1694, serial bus, universal serial bus (USB), infrared, PS / 2, BNC, coaxial, component, composite, digital visual interface (DVI), high-definition multimedia interface (HDMI), radio frequency (RF) antennas, S-Video, video graphics array (VGA), IEEE 802.n / b / g / n / x, Bluetooth, mobile communications (e.g., code division multiple access, CDMA), high-speed packet access, HSPA+, global system for mobile communications, GSM, long-term evolution (LTE), or the like, etc. (without limitation).

[0073] Using the I / O interface 606, the computer system 600 can communicate with one or more I / O devices 602 and 604. In some implementations, the processor 608 can be arranged via a network interface 610 in conjunction with a communication network 609. The network interface 610 can use connection protocols, including, but not limited to, direct connection, Ethernet (e.g., twisted pair 10 / 100 / 1000 Base T), Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol (TCP / IP), Token Ring, IEEE 802.11a / b / g / n / x, etc. Using the network interface 610 and the communication network 609, the computer system 600 can be connected to the vehicle 102.

[0074] The Communication Network 609 can be implemented as one of several types of networks, such as an intranet or any wireless network interfaces. The Communication Network 609 can be either a dedicated network or a shared network, representing an aggregation of several types of networks that use different protocols, such as Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP), Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol (TCP / IP), Wireless Application Protocol (WAP), etc., to communicate with each other. Furthermore, the Communication Network 609 can include a variety of network devices, including routers, bridges, servers, computer devices, storage devices, etc. In some embodiments, the Communication Network 609 can be one or more components of a V2V network, V2C network, and the like.

[0075] In some embodiments, the processor 608 can be connected via a memory interface 612 in conjunction with a memory 630, e.g., RAM 614 and ROM 616, etc., as in Fig. The 612 memory interface can be connected to the 630 memory, including, without limitation, storage drives, removable disk drives, etc., using connection protocols such as Serial Advanced Technology Attachment (SATA), Integrated Drive Electronics (IDE), IEEE-1694, Universal Serial Bus (USB), Fiber Channel, Small Computer Systems Interface (SCSI), etc. The storage drives can further include a drum, a magnetic disk drive, a magneto-optical drive, an optical drive, a redundant array of independent disks (RAID), solid-state storage devices, solid-state drives, etc.

[0076] The memory 630 can store a collection of program or database components, including, without limitation, a user / application 618, an operating system 628, a web browser 624, a mail client 620, a mail server 622, a user interface 626, and the like. In some embodiments, the computer system 600 can store user / application data 618, such as the data, variables, records, etc., described in this invention. Such databases can be implemented as fault-tolerant, relational, scalable, secure databases like Oracle or Sybase.

[0077] The 628 operating system can facilitate resource management and the operation of the 600 computer system. Examples of operating systems include, without limitation, Apple Macintosh™ OS X™, UNIX™, Unix-like system distributions (e.g., Berkeley Software Distribution (BSD), FreeBSD™, NetBSD™, OpenBSD™, etc.), Linux distributions (e.g., Red Hat™, Ubuntu™, K-Ubuntu™, etc.), International Business Machines (IBM™) OS / 2™, Microsoft Windows™ (XP™, Vista / 7 / 8, etc.), Apple iOS™, Google Android™, Blackberry™ operating system (OS), or the like. A user interface can facilitate the display, execution, interaction, manipulation, or operation of program components through textual or graphical means. For example, user interfaces can provide interface elements for computer interaction on a display system that is functionally connected to the Computer System 600, such as cursors, icons, checkboxes, menus, windows, widgets, etc.Graphical user interfaces (GUIs) can be used, including, without limitation, Apple™ Macintosh™ operating systems, Aqua™, IBM™ OS / 2™, Microsoft™ Windows™ (e.g., Aero, Metro, etc.), Unix X-Windows™, web interface libraries (e.g., ActiveX, Java, JavaScript, AJAX, HTML, Adobe Flash, etc.), or the like.

[0078] The illustrated steps serve to explain the exemplary embodiments shown, and it should be assumed that ongoing technological development will change the way certain functions are performed. These examples are for illustrative purposes only and do not constitute a limitation. Furthermore, the boundaries of the functional building blocks herein have been arbitrarily defined for the sake of simplicity. Alternatives (including equivalents, extensions, variations, deviations, etc., from those described herein) are apparent to persons skilled in the relevant fields based on the information contained herein. Such alternatives fall within the scope of the disclosed embodiments.

[0079] Furthermore, the words “comprehensive,” “exhibiting,” “containing,” and “including,” as well as other similar forms, are to be considered equivalent and open in meaning, such that an element or elements following any of these words does not constitute an exhaustive listing of such element or elements, nor are they limited to the listed element or elements. It should also be noted that, as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a / an” and “the” include references to the plural unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0080] Finally, the language used in the description was chosen primarily for readability and teaching purposes, and not to define or limit the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the disclosure of embodiments of the disclosure is for illustrative purposes only and not to limit the scope of the disclosure. Regarding the use of terms in the plural and / or singular, those skilled in the art may translate from the plural to the singular and / or from the singular to the plural depending on the context and / or application. The various singular / plural permutations may be expressly listed herein for the sake of clarity. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] US 20060105883A1

[0005] US 10272918B2

[0005] US 5443429A

[0005] US 2006105883A1

[0005] RU 174714U1

[0005] DE 102011114868A1

[0005]

Claims

[1] Method (500) for operating a transfer case (104) of a vehicle (102), wherein the method (500) comprises: Acquiring (502) a variety of operating parameters associated with the vehicle (102) in response to a transfer case request received from a user of the vehicle (102); Determine (504) that a multitude of safety criteria are met, wherein the multitude of safety criteria indicates safe operation of the transfer case (104) and wherein the multitude of safety criteria is linked to the multitude of operating parameters; and Operating (506) the transfer case (104) based on the transfer case requirement, after it has been determined that at least the plurality of safety criteria is met. [2] Method (500) according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of safety criteria comprises: Determine that the speed of the vehicle (102) is zero; Determine that the difference between the speed of a front axle and the speed of a rear axle of the vehicle (102) is zero; Record one of the following: A current gear is neutral, and A clutch status is not engaged; and Determining a speed of a transmission output shaft (127) as being less than a shaft speed threshold value, wherein the shaft speed threshold value is a value that specifies a safe speed for the operation of the transfer case (104). [3] Method (500) according to claim 1, wherein the operation comprises: Determining a transfer case request state as "road operation" or "off-road" based on an input from a transfer case request switch; Determine that a plurality of input criteria is met; and in determining that the plurality of input criteria is met, operate the transfer case (104) on the basis of the type of transfer case requirement, wherein the plurality of input criteria includes: The status of an ignition switch is one of "On" or "Starting"; and the transfer case request switch indicates one of the states "Road Operation" or "Off-Road". [4] Method (500) according to claim 3, wherein the operation comprises: Initiating a counter (324) to a starting value; Comparison of the counter (324) with a predetermined threshold; when it is determined that the numerator (324) is less than or equal to the predetermined threshold, Activating a high-range solenoid (212) or a low-range solenoid (210) based on the type of transfer case requirement; Initiating a timer up to a predetermined time threshold; Monitoring the multitude of safety criteria and the multitude of input criteria during a timer activation period; and Deactivating the magnetic coil when it is determined that either the timer has finished or at least one of the numerous safety criteria and the numerous input criteria has not been met; and Incrementing the counter (324); and recomparing the counter (324) with the predetermined threshold; and wherein, if it is determined that a value of the counter (324) exceeds the predetermined threshold, the solenoid is not supplied with energy, further comprising: Resetting the counter (324) when determining a change in the transfer case requirement. [5] Method (500) according to claim 1, further comprising: Non-activation of the high-range solenoid (212) and the low-range solenoid (210) if it is determined that at least one of the multiple safety criteria is not met. [6] System (202) for operating a transfer case (104) of a vehicle (102), wherein the system (202) comprises: a memory (302); and a processor (304) that is communicatively coupled to the memory (302), wherein the processor (304) is configured to: Acquiring a variety of operating parameters associated with the vehicle (102) in response to a transfer case request received from a user of the vehicle (102); Determine that a multitude of safety criteria are met, wherein the multitude of safety criteria indicates safe operation of the transfer case (104) and wherein the multitude of safety criteria is linked to the multitude of operating parameters; and Operating the transfer case (104) on the basis of the transfer case requirement, if it is determined that at least the multitude of safety criteria are met. [7] System (202) according to claim 6, wherein the plurality of safety criteria comprises: Determine that the speed of the vehicle (102) is zero; Determine that the difference between the speed of a front axle and the speed of a rear axle of the vehicle (102) is zero; Recording one of the following points: A current gear is neutral, and A clutch status is not engaged; and Determining a speed of a transmission output shaft (127) as being less than a shaft speed threshold value, wherein the shaft speed threshold value is a value that specifies a safe speed for the operation of the transfer case (104). [8] System (202) according to claim 6, wherein the processor (304) is configured to operate the transfer case (104) to: Determining a transfer case request state based on an input from a transfer case request switch as "road operation" or "off-road"; Determine that a plurality of input criteria is met; and when it is determined that the plurality of input criteria is met, operate the transfer case (104) on the basis of the type of transfer case requirement, wherein the plurality of input criteria includes: One state of an ignition switch is either "On" or "Starting"; and The transfer case request switch indicates either "road operation" or "off-road". [9] System (202) according to claim 8, wherein the processor (304) is configured to operate the transfer case (104) to: Initiating a counter (324) to a starting value; Comparing the counter (324) with a predetermined threshold; when it is determined that the numerator (324) is less than or equal to the predetermined threshold, Activating a solenoid coil from a high-range solenoid coil (212) and a low-range solenoid coil (210) based on the type of transfer case requirement; Initiating a timer with a predetermined time threshold; Monitoring the multitude of safety criteria and the multitude of input criteria during a timer activation period; and Deactivating the magnetic coil when it is determined that either the timer has stopped or at least one of the numerous safety criteria and the numerous input criteria has not been met; Incrementing the counter (324); and Re-comparing the counter (324) with the predetermined threshold; and wherein, when it is determined that the counter (324) exceeds the predetermined threshold, the solenoid is not supplied with energy, wherein the processor (304) is further configured to: Resetting the counter (324) when determining a change in the transfer case requirement. [10] System (202) according to claim 6, wherein the processor (304) is further configured to: Deactivating the high-range solenoid (212) and the low-range solenoid (210) if it is determined that at least one of the multiple safety criteria is not met.

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