Clutch Control System with Driver Interface for Automated Engagement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual transmissions with electronically controlled clutches face challenges in automating clutch control, especially when the gear position is unknown, and conventional methods are limited by insufficient clutch pedal information, leading to a need for increased automation levels.
Innovation Solution
A clutch control system with a driver interface that can switch between active and inactive states, allowing the clutch control unit to control clutch engagement or disengagement based on driver input, enabling direct driver control of automated clutch operations without relying on gear position information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If conventional electronically controlled clutches are applied with manual transmission, then clutch control automation is achieved, but the cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows the driver to self-select the automation mode through a simple interface, eliminating the need for complex automatic detection systems. The clutch control unit automatically activates only when the driver selects the automated mode, providing automation on demand without permanent system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between manual and automated control modes based on driver selection. The clutch control unit can operate in different modes (manual follow-up, automated control) depending on the driver interface state, allowing the system to adapt its complexity level to the current operational requirement.
2Reliability
If automated clutch control is implemented, then clutch engagement improvement is achieved, but gear position information is required which is not available in manual transmissions
Solution Approach 1:
The control approach is segmented into two independent paths: manual control path where the driver directly controls clutch engagement, and automated control path where the control unit manages engagement. The system segments the information requirements so that automated control only needs basic vehicle state data, not detailed gear position information.
Solution Approach 2:
The driver interface acts as an intermediary between the driver's intent and the clutch control unit. When the driver selects automated mode, the interface mediates the transfer of control authority, allowing the clutch control unit to operate with limited information while the driver retains overall system awareness and control.
3Ease of operation
If the clutch pedal provides limited information, then manual control simplicity is maintained, but automated control decision-making becomes insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch control unit is designed with multi-functionality to handle both manual and automated control modes. The same control unit processes clutch pedal information for manual operation and automatically decides engagement timing when in automated mode, using a universal control architecture that adapts to different operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback loops where the clutch control unit continuously monitors vehicle state variables (engine speed, accelerator position) and compares them against predefined criteria to determine optimal clutch engagement timing. This feedback mechanism enables automated decision-making without requiring complex gear position information.
Data Source
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AI summary
A clutch control system for a vehicle with a clutch 10 and a manual transmission 20 comprises a driver interface 110 and a clutch control unit 120. The driver interface 110 is configured to switch between an active state and an inactive state, wherein the driver interface 110 is operable by a driver of the vehicle. The clutch control unit 120 is configured to receive an indication of a switching operation of the driver interface 110. The clutch control unit 120 is further operable to control the clutch 10 to engage or to disengage in response to the received indication and to control the clutch as long as the driver interface 110 is in the active state.