Friction Clutch Torque Estimation via Angular Speed Feedback

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for estimating the torque transmitted by a friction clutch in motor vehicles are not precise, fast, or robust against data uncertainties and noise, which hinders the ability to maintain performance and driving comfort by updating the transmissibility map of the actuator over time due to wear and changing conditions.

Innovation Solution

A procedure involving the measurement of engine shaft angular speed and torque, calculation of speed differences, and using an electronic controller to estimate clutch torque based on a mathematical model, while accounting for rotational inertia and transmissibility characteristics, to provide a precise, rapid, and noise-resistant estimation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional estimation methods are used for clutch torque, then the estimation can be obtained, but the precision is insufficient and the estimation is slow

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetorque estimation precisionVSAvoidestimation speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism by continuously comparing the measured engine shaft angular speed with the estimated angular speed from the mathematical model, using the speed difference to iteratively refine and update the clutch torque estimation, thereby achieving both high precision and rapid convergence

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces direct mechanical measurement of clutch torque with an indirect estimation approach using a mathematical model that relates engine shaft dynamics to clutch torque, substituting complex mechanical sensing with computational estimation based on measurable parameters

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If conventional estimation methods are used for clutch torque, then the estimation can be obtained, but the robustness against data uncertainties and noise is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverobustness against uncertainties and noiseVSAvoidtorque estimation precision
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The feedback loop continuously corrects the torque estimation by comparing model predictions with actual measurements, filtering out noise and compensating for uncertainties through iterative refinement

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent dynamically adjusts estimation parameters based on operating conditions, adapting the mathematical model to changing system characteristics and maintaining robustness across different工况

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If the transmissibility map is not updated, then the control algorithms can operate with existing data, but the performance and driving comfort deteriorate over time due to wear and changing conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveperformance maintenanceVSAvoidadaptability to changing conditions
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The estimated clutch torque from the mathematical model provides feedback for updating the transmissibility map, enabling the control system to adapt to wear and changing conditions while maintaining optimal performance

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary estimation of clutch torque using the mathematical model before actual control actions are taken, allowing the transmissibility map to be proactively updated to prevent performance degradation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS8095334B2Procedure for estimating the torque transmitted by a friction clutch controlled by an actuator
Publication Date: 2012.01.10 CENTRO RICERCHE FIAT SCPA
  • US8095334B2 patent drawing
  • US8095334B2 patent drawing
  • US8095334B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A process that estimates the torque transmitted by a friction clutch coupled to the shaft of a motor vehicle engine. The process includes determining the angular speed of the engine shaft and the torque developed by this shaft; calculating the difference between the measured value of the engine shaft's angular speed and an estimated value of the angular speed; and determining an estimated value of the torque transmitted by the clutch, corresponding to the calculated value of the difference or error in the engine shaft angular speed. The estimated value of the torque is used, along with the value measured or otherwise determined of the torque developed by the engine shaft, to obtain the estimated value of the angular speed of the engine shaft on the basis of a predetermined mathematical model.