Adjustable Clutch Control for Vehicle Responsiveness
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automatic clutch devices in vehicles have fixed drive control settings that may not suit all drivers' preferences for responsiveness, particularly during vehicle start-up and gear shifts, leading to inconsistent operational feel.
Innovation Solution
A clutch control device that adjusts the target clutch position based on user input, using a driving-side rotational speed detection device, clutch position detection device, storage device, and drive control unit to tailor vehicle responsiveness by changing the friction clutch's engagement characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If the target clutch position is set closer to the engagement side, then the vehicle response is improved and the half-clutch period is shortened, but the clutch engagement becomes more abrupt and may cause discomfort to some drivers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the target clutch position adjustable rather than fixed. The system allows real-time modification of the target position based on driver preferences, enabling the clutch engagement characteristics to be dynamically adapted. This resolves the contradiction by allowing the system to shift toward faster engagement when responsiveness is prioritized while maintaining the ability to soften engagement when smoothness is preferred.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the target clutch position parameter to resolve the contradiction. By allowing this parameter to be adjusted between different positions (closer to engagement for faster response, or more conventional for smoother engagement), the system can optimize performance according to driver preferences, effectively managing the trade-off between response speed and engagement smoothness.
2Loss of time
If the target clutch position is adjusted to improve responsiveness, then the half-clutch period is shortened, but the control system complexity increases due to additional adjustment mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by integrating the target position change device into the existing clutch control system. The same control unit that manages clutch engagement also handles the position adjustment function, allowing a single system to serve multiple purposes: standard clutch control and responsive engagement adjustment. This minimizes additional complexity while achieving the shortened half-clutch period.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies self-service through the clutch position change device that allows drivers to independently adjust target positions according to their preferences without requiring complex external calibration equipment or specialized service intervention. The adjustment mechanism is designed to be user-accessible and self-configurable.
Data Source
AI summary
An EEPROM of an ECU (engine control unit) stores regulation maps corresponding to a plurality of running modes (e.g., normal mode, swift mode and gentle mode). The regulation maps regulate the relationship between the clutch rotational speed difference and the target clutch position. When any one of the running modes is selected according to user intentions, the target clutch position is uniformly changed according to the running mode.