Adaptive Clutch Engagement Control via Rotational Speed Difference
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional clutch connection devices do not adjust their engagement speed based on the rotating speed difference between the drive and driven members, leading to inconsistent operation during varying operational demands such as quick braking or throttle changes, treating all engagements similarly regardless of the rotational speed difference.
Innovation Solution
A clutch connection control device that detects the rotating speed difference between the drive and driven sides of the clutch and varies the engagement speed accordingly, using a clutch actuator to control the engagement and disengagement process, allowing for adaptive clutch engagement speeds based on the detected difference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If the clutch engagement speed is fixed at two or three preset speeds, then the engagement time is shortened and the structure is simple, but the clutch cannot respond to different operational demands and the engagement feel is inconsistent
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch engagement speed is changed from fixed preset speeds to a dynamic variable speed controlled by the ECU. The control device adjusts the engagement speed in real-time based on the clutch rotating speed difference detected by sensors, allowing the system to adapt to different operational conditions while maintaining short engagement time.
Solution Approach 2:
A feedback control system is implemented where sensors detect the clutch rotating speed difference and transmit this information to the ECU. The ECU then adjusts the clutch engagement speed based on this feedback, creating a closed-loop control system that responds to actual operational conditions rather than following preset speeds.
2Speed
If the clutch engagement speed is increased to shorten engagement time, then the engagement speed is improved, but the impact between drive side and driven side increases reducing comfort
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement speed is made dynamic rather than fixed. The control device varies the engagement speed during the engagement process based on the detected clutch rotating speed difference, allowing high speed when the speed difference is large (reducing engagement time) and automatically reducing speed when the speed difference decreases (reducing impact).
Solution Approach 2:
The engagement speed parameter is changed from a constant or preset value to a variable parameter that changes continuously based on the clutch rotating speed difference. This parameter change allows the system to optimize both engagement speed and impact reduction by adjusting the speed according to real-time conditions.
3Device complexity
If conventional clutch control treats all engagements similarly, then the control logic is simple, but the operation feel is inconsistent during different riding conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The ECU-based control system uses feedback from sensors that detect clutch rotating speed difference to automatically adjust engagement parameters. This feedback mechanism provides consistent and appropriate control for different riding conditions without requiring complex manual intervention or switching logic from the rider.
Solution Approach 2:
The clutch control system serves itself by automatically detecting its own state (clutch rotating speed difference) and adjusting its own engagement speed accordingly. The ECU controls the clutch actuator based on sensor feedback, creating a self-regulating system that adapts to different conditions without external intervention.
Data Source
AI summary
Engagement of a clutch is at least partially controlled based upon the difference in rotational speed between the drive side of the clutch and the driven side of the clutch. As the rotational speed difference varies, the approach rate of the drive side and the driven side also varies for at least part of the total distance defined between the drive side and the driven side when the clutch is disengaged.