Adaptive Clutch Torque Control via Dynamic Correction Maps

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for controlling a clutch arrangement in a motor vehicle drive train only account for engine torque and transmission temperature when adjusting clutch pressure, failing to consider other operating parameters that can affect driving situations.

Innovation Solution

The method adapts the frequency of characteristic field corrections based on the difference between desired and actual clutch torque, incorporating transmission input torque, engine torque, and clutch input speed, using a correction map to calculate and apply precise correction factors, which can be averaged and interpolated for precise control, and limits adaptation per step to prevent abrupt changes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the characteristic curve is regularly adapted using a fixed time interval, then the clutch pressure can be adjusted systematically, but the control cannot respond flexibly to varying driving situations and wear states

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to driving situationsVSAvoidcontrol complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the adaptation frequency variable rather than fixed. The control method adapts the characteristic curve at different frequencies depending on the current operating conditions and the magnitude of adaptation values, allowing the system to be more responsive when needed and more stable when conditions are normal.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses feedback by continuously monitoring the difference between desired and actual clutch torque, and using this information to dynamically adjust the adaptation frequency. The control unit determines whether to adapt the characteristic curve based on feedback from the current operating state and wear indicators.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Measurement precision

If the adaptation frequency is increased to improve control precision, then the clutch torque can be corrected more accurately, but abrupt changes may occur causing unstable acceleration characteristics

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveclutch torque correction precisionVSAvoidacceleration stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies periodic action by using regular adaptation intervals as a baseline, but modifying this periodicity dynamically based on operating conditions. The characteristic curve is adapted at scheduled intervals, but the frequency and magnitude of these adaptations are adjusted based on current needs to maintain stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses beforehand cushioning by limiting the maximum adaptation value that can be applied in a single step. This prevents overly aggressive corrections that could cause abrupt changes in clutch torque, thereby cushioning against potential instability before it occurs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

3Adaptability or versatility

If only engine torque and transmission temperature are considered for clutch pressure adjustment, then the control system remains simple, but other affecting operating parameters are not taken into account

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconsideration of operating parametersVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by making the control system capable of handling multiple operating parameters through a unified adaptive framework. The same characteristic curve adaptation mechanism responds to various inputs including engine torque, transmission temperature, clutch slip, and wear indicators, making the system versatile without requiring separate control paths for each parameter.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP2112391B1Method for controlling a clutch assembly
Publication Date: 2012.06.20 MAGNA PT BV & CO KG
  • EP2112391B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2112391B1 patent drawingFigure 2~3

AI summary

The method involves determining a clutch correcting variable (44) pertaining to a clutch target torque (26) from a pre-determined clutch characteristic diagram (42,52). The clutch target torque is corrected based on the correction factors (36), which are taken from parameter of a correction characteristic diagram (30), which is two-dimensionally formed and incorporates a rotary torque (32) and a rotational speed (34) of a drive train (10).