Clutch Actuator Control Using Driver Force Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clutch control systems in saddle riding vehicles can cause discomfort to drivers when the clutch actuator assists in clutch connection and disconnection without considering the driver's operation, leading to potential engine stall issues.
Innovation Solution
A clutch control device that includes a clutch actuator, a control unit, an operating force transmission mechanism, and an operating force sensor to detect the driver's input force, allowing the clutch actuator to assist only when necessary and minimizing discomfort by coordinating with the driver's operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the clutch actuator automatically connects and disconnects the clutch without considering driver operation, then engine stall can be avoided, but driver discomfort increases
Solution Approach 1:
The operating force sensor provides real-time feedback on driver's clutch operation force to the control unit. The control unit uses this feedback to determine whether automatic clutch actuation should be activated, allowing the system to adapt to driver intent and avoid uncomfortable automatic intervention while still preventing engine stall when necessary
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts its control strategy based on real-time detection of driver operating force. When the driver applies sufficient force indicating intentional operation, automatic actuation is suppressed. When driver force is insufficient or absent, automatic actuation is enabled to prevent engine stall, creating a dynamic adaptation to operational conditions
2Manufacturing precision
If the clutch actuator operates continuously to assist clutch operation, then clutch control precision is improved, but electric power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuous operation, the clutch actuator operates periodically only when the control unit detects specific conditions requiring assistance (insufficient driver operating force or engine stall risk). This periodic activation maintains necessary control precision while dramatically reducing electric power consumption compared to continuous operation
3Device complexity
If the clutch actuator assists clutch operation without detecting driver input, then system complexity is reduced, but clutch control accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical force transmission and detection mechanisms with an electrical sensing system. The operating force sensor electrically detects driver input force, and the control unit electronically processes this information to determine actuator activation, achieving high control accuracy with reduced mechanical 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 system effectively suppresses discomfort during clutch assistance, preventing engine stall while reducing electric power consumption and control load by operating the clutch actuator only when required.
Implementation Method 1
the operating force sensor may be a non-contact type magnetostrictive sensor
Data Source
AI summary
This clutch control device includes a clutch apparatus configured to connect and disconnect power transmission between a prime mover and an output target, a clutch actuator configured to output a driving force for actuating the clutch apparatus, a control unit configured to drive the clutch actuator, and an operating force transmission mechanism configured to transmit an operating force of a driver with respect to a clutch operator to the clutch apparatus, an operating force sensor configured to detect the operating force of the driver is provided in the operating force transmission mechanism, and the control unit drives the clutch actuator according to a detection value of the operating force sensor.