Brake-Triggered Clutch Control for Working Machine Drivetrains
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing control processes for drive trains in work machines require manual operation of the clutch, which can be cumbersome and distracting for the driver, especially when braking, as it necessitates simultaneous operation of the brake and clutch pedals.
Innovation Solution
A control process that automatically controls the clutch of a work machine's drive train based on braking activity, allowing the driver to operate only the brake pedal, with the clutch being automatically managed to optimize performance and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual clutch operation is required during braking, then the driver has direct control over clutch engagement, but the operation becomes cumbersome and distracting
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the control functions of the brake pedal and clutch pedal into a single integrated system. The brake pedal is equipped with a travel sensor that detects pedal position, and this information is used by the control unit to automatically determine when clutch engagement is required. This merging eliminates the need for separate clutch pedal operation while maintaining proper clutch control during braking maneuvers.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables the brake pedal to perform dual functions: braking and automatic clutch control. When the driver presses the brake pedal, the travel sensor detects the pedal position and the control unit automatically engages or disengages the clutch based on the detected brake actuation. This self-service mechanism reduces driver workload by eliminating the need for manual clutch operation during braking.
2Ease of operation
If automatic clutch control is implemented based on brake actuation, then driver workload is reduced, but the control system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The brake pedal is designed to serve multiple functions: primary braking function and automatic clutch control function. The travel sensor on the brake pedal detects pedal position for both braking control and clutch actuation control. The control unit processes brake pedal travel information to automatically determine clutch engagement timing, making the brake system a multi-functional control element.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical clutch pedal actuation system with an electronic control system. Instead of requiring mechanical connection between the clutch pedal and clutch mechanism, the system uses a travel sensor to detect brake pedal position and sends electronic control signals to actuate the clutch. This substitution reduces mechanical complexity while enabling automatic control based on brake actuation.
3Ease of operation
If the clutch is automatically engaged during braking, then operation is simplified, but improper engagement can cause jerking, overloading, or reverse rolling
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates a travel sensor that continuously monitors brake pedal position and provides feedback to the control unit. Based on this real-time feedback about brake actuation magnitude and timing, the control unit dynamically adjusts clutch engagement timing and slip control. This feedback mechanism ensures the clutch is engaged at the optimal moment during brake release, preventing jerking and ensuring reliable control under varying driving conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The clutch control system is designed to be dynamic rather than static. The control unit adjusts clutch engagement characteristics based on real-time brake pedal travel detection. During different phases of brake application and release, the system dynamically modifies clutch slip control and engagement timing to match the current driving situation, preventing reverse rolling and overloading while maintaining smooth operation.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention describes a method for determining a control sequence of a drive train of a working machine, wherein a clutch (18) of the drive train is controlled as a function of a brake actuation operation using the control sequence. The method comprises a step of manoeuvring (60) with the working machine by an operator, detecting (62) respective clutch actuation characteristic variables of respective clutch actuation operations and respective brake actuation characteristic variables of respective brake actuation operations during the manoeuvring, and determining (64) at least one clutch control characteristic curve (110, 112, 114) as a function of the detected clutch actuation characteristic variables and detected brake actuation characteristic variables. A clutch actuation operation is automatically controlled as a function of a brake actuation operation by an operator using the control sequence by means of the respective clutch control characteristic curve (110, 112, 114). The invention also describes a working machine.