Friction Clutch Actuator Position Detection via Test Force
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Solution Overview
Problem
Pull-type friction clutches in vehicles face issues during assembly and normal operation due to the risk of the blocking device being left in the blocking position, which can lead to improper use and potential damage to the clutch.
Innovation Solution
A method is introduced to control the friction clutch by applying a test force smaller than the actuation force to determine the position of the movable actuator part, ensuring the blocking device is not in the blocking position, thereby preventing damage and ensuring proper operation. This method involves using the existing clutch control system to apply the test force and determine the actuator part's position, allowing or warning against further use if the clutch is not ready for normal operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a blocking device is used to prevent movement of the movable actuator part during assembly, then assembly is assisted and made easier, but the risk of damage increases if the blocking device is left in position during normal operation
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking device is used during assembly to prevent movement of the movable actuator part, ensuring proper positioning. After assembly, the blocking device is removed to enable normal operation. This preliminary protective action during assembly eliminates the harmful effect during normal use.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system determines the position of the movable actuator part and provides feedback about whether the blocking device is in place. Based on this feedback, the system either allows or prevents actuation, thereby avoiding damage while maintaining assembly assistance benefits.
2Ease of operation
If the full actuation force is applied to disengage the clutch, then the clutch can be fully disengaged, but the risk of damage increases if the blocking device is in position
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of applying the full actuation force that would be needed for complete disengagement, the system applies only a reduced test force. This partial action is sufficient to detect whether the blocking device is in place (by checking if the actuator part moves), but not excessive enough to cause damage if the blocking device prevents proper movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuation force parameter is changed from the full operating force to a reduced test force. This parameter change allows the system to safely check for the blocking device's presence without applying enough force to cause damage, while still enabling detection of the blockage condition.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a test force smaller than actuation force is applied to check clutch readiness, then damage is prevented, but additional control steps are required
Solution Approach 1:
The existing clutch control system is made multi-functional by using it for both normal clutch actuation and for testing/checking readiness. The same actuator and control electronics perform both the reduced test force application and the full actuation force application, eliminating the need for separate testing hardware and reducing overall system complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The method effectively prevents damage by ensuring the clutch is in a safe operational state, allowing normal use only when the blocking device is removed, and alerts the operator if the clutch is not ready, thus ensuring correct operation and reducing the risk of damage.
Implementation Method 1
a spring element which is adapted to bias the second friction part into engagement with the first friction part to connect the first and second axles
Implementation Method 2
subjecting the movable actuator part to a test force urging the movable actuator part towards the disengagement position
Implementation Method 3
Upon engagement, torque can be transferred between engine and transmission via friction between the first friction part and the second and third friction parts
Data Source
AI summary
A method is provided for controlling a friction clutch for connecting first and second rotatable axles in a vehicle, where the clutch includes a first friction part which is connected to the first axle, a second friction part which is connected to the second axle, a spring element which is adapted to bias the second friction part into engagement with the first friction part to connect the first and second axles, and an actuator including a movable actuator part which is engageable with the spring element, and adapted to move, upon being subjected to an actuation force from an actuator control system, towards a disengagement position, thereby deforming the spring element to disengage the second friction part from the first friction part to disconnect the first and second axles. The method includes subjecting the movable actuator part to a test force urging the movable actuator part towards the disengagement position, the test force being smaller than the actuation force, and subsequently or simultaneously to subjecting the movable actuator part to the test force, determining a position of the movable actuator part.