Auxiliary Clutch Failure Detection via Output Power Difference
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Solution Overview
Problem
Auxiliary clutches in vehicles and powered systems often fail to operate at intermediate outputs, leading to reduced fuel efficiency due to full-on or full-off modes, and existing diagnostic methods are inadequate for timely detection of clutch failures.
Innovation Solution
A controller system that determines the difference in output power between intermediate and maximum operation modes of auxiliary clutches, generating a control signal indicative of clutch failure when the difference is below a designated threshold, allowing for timely remedial actions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If the clutch system operates in full-on or full-off modes only, then the system simplicity is maintained, but fuel efficiency deteriorates due to inability to operate at intermediate outputs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by enabling the clutch system to transition from static full-on/full-off operation to dynamic intermediate output operation. The controller continuously adjusts the clutch engagement level based on real-time monitoring of engine power output and cooling requirements, allowing the system to operate optimally across a range of conditions rather than being constrained to binary states.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the clutch engagement parameter from discrete (on/off) to continuous (intermediate levels). The controller adjusts the clutch engagement percentage based on calculated cooling demands and actual engine power output, enabling precise control over the clutch's torque transmission characteristics to optimize fuel efficiency.
2Reliability
If existing diagnostic methods are used, then the diagnostic system complexity is low, but the detection timeliness deteriorates leading to delayed failure identification
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by continuously monitoring clutch performance parameters during normal operation to detect deviations from expected behavior before actual failure occurs. The controller compares actual engine power output against expected values calculated from throttle position and cooling requirements, identifying potential clutch issues early in the failure progression.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by establishing a closed-loop diagnostic system where the controller continuously monitors clutch performance, compares actual versus expected engine power output, and generates failure warnings when deviations exceed thresholds. This real-time feedback mechanism enables timely detection of clutch degradation and failure without requiring complex external diagnostic equipment.
3Reliability
If the clutch fails to intermediate output, then the clutch system reliability deteriorates, but the fuel consumption increases due to full-on operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the clutch system to self-diagnose and self-report failures through the integrated controller. The controller continuously monitors clutch performance parameters, compares actual engine power output against expected values, and automatically generates failure warnings when deviations indicate clutch issues, eliminating the need for external diagnostic intervention.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for auxiliary clutch failure detection determines a difference between a first output power of a powered system when a clutch system is controlled to engage and drive a load at a first output of the load and a second output power of the powered system when the clutch system is controlled to drive the load at a larger, second output. A control signal indicative of clutch failure is generated responsive to the difference being less than a designated threshold. The control signal may be used to implement one or more remedial actions.