Electronically Controlled Clutch Mode Switching for Torque Response
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing driver assistance systems for vehicles with electronically controlled clutches lack flexibility in adjusting clutch behavior and response, limiting driver control over vehicle behavior during driving operations.
Innovation Solution
An electronically controlled clutch system with an input unit allowing the driver to select between different control modes for clutch torque determination, enabling adjustment of clutch behavior from comfortable to responsive, and optional activation/deactivation of auxiliary functions like gliding detection, overheating protection, and starting monitor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the clutch system uses a fixed control mode preset at the factory, then the clutch response is comfortable and provides good starting ability without jerking, but the driver cannot adjust or customize the clutch behavior
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch control system transitions from a static, fixed control mode to a dynamic system that can switch between multiple control modes (first control mode for comfortable operation, second control mode for mechanically/hydraulically actuated behavior). The analysis unit dynamically selects and applies different characteristic curves based on driver input, enabling real-time adaptation of clutch behavior to different driving preferences and conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the control parameters by switching between different characteristic curves stored in the analysis unit. Each characteristic curve represents a different clutch torque determination algorithm, allowing the system to adjust clutch response characteristics (such as torque buildup rate, response sensitivity) by selecting appropriate parameters based on the active control mode.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the clutch system allows multiple control modes with different characteristic curves, then the driver can adjust clutch behavior, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The analysis unit serves multiple functions: it detects clutch pedal actuation, determines clutch torque based on selected characteristic curves, acts as a gliding detection unit for automatic gliding operation, and manages multiple control modes. This multi-functionality is achieved within a single control unit, avoiding the need for separate systems for each function and thereby limiting the increase in overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of implementing multiple physical clutch systems or separate control units for different clutch behaviors, the system uses software-based characteristic curves stored in the analysis unit. These digital representations (copies) of different clutch torque determination algorithms allow the system to simulate various clutch behaviors without duplicating physical components.
3Ease of operation
If the clutch torque determination is based on a first characteristic curve for comfortable operation, then jerking is reduced, but the torque buildup is slower and less responsive
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the torque buildup characteristics by switching between characteristic curves. The first characteristic curve provides gradual, smooth torque buildup for comfort, while the second characteristic curve enables faster, more aggressive torque buildup when needed. This dynamic switching allows the system to optimize between smoothness and speed based on real-time driver requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A driver assistance device for a motor vehicle with a drive assembly, which can be connected to a drivetrain via a clutch that can be activated by an actuator. The clutch being a component of an electronically controlled clutch system, in which a clutch pedal sensor detects an actuation of a clutch pedal on the driver's side and in which an analysis unit determines, in a first control mode on the basis of the detected clutch pedal actuation, a clutch torque and actuates the clutch with a corresponding clutch signal. For an adjustment of the clutch response on the driver's side, the analysis unit is associated with an input unit, for the actuation of which, on the driver's side, it is possible to shift between the first control mode and at least one second control mode.