Friction Clutch Torque Control via Temperature-Adaptive Characteristic Curves
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing clutch unit control methods fail to accurately adjust clutch torque due to temperature-induced changes in the coefficient of friction, leading to deviations between target and actual torque values, which can cause stress on components and reduce control accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A method that involves ascertaining the temperature of the friction clutch, adapting the characteristic curve of the clutch torque dependence on the actuator control variable, and controlling the clutch unit accordingly, using temperature sensors and heat flow models to compensate for temperature-induced deviations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the clutch unit uses a fixed characteristic curve for torque control, then the control system is simple, but the torque control accuracy deteriorates due to temperature-induced friction changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from a static fixed characteristic curve to a dynamic adaptive characteristic curve that changes with temperature. The control unit continuously adjusts the characteristic curve based on real-time temperature measurements from the friction clutch, allowing the system to adapt to varying operating conditions while maintaining torque control accuracy without excessive complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the characteristic curve parameters based on temperature. The control unit receives temperature data from sensors in the friction clutch and adjusts the torque-control relationship parameters accordingly, enabling accurate torque control across different temperature conditions while managing system complexity through parameter adaptation rather than complete system redesign
2Adaptability or versatility
If the clutch unit operates with temperature-induced friction variations, then the system can handle varying operating conditions, but the torque transmission reliability deteriorates due to deviations from target torque
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring the temperature of the friction clutch through sensors and using this information to adjust the characteristic curve in real-time. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures that torque transmission remains reliable across varying operating conditions by compensating for temperature-induced friction variations, maintaining the relationship between target and actual torque
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by proactively adjusting the characteristic curve based on temperature changes before they significantly impact torque transmission. The control unit continuously adapts the torque-control relationship in advance, preventing torque deviations rather than correcting them after they occur, thereby maintaining reliable torque transmission across different operating conditions
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
This approach dynamically adapts clutch control to temperature changes, improving the accuracy of torque adjustment and reducing stress on components by compensating for temperature-induced deviations, thereby enhancing the precision of clutch unit control.
Implementation Method 1
ascertaining the temperature in the friction clutch
Implementation Method 2
oil for cooling the friction clutch... an oil pump continuously pumps oil during the operation of the clutch and drips it on the friction surfaces
Implementation Method 3
The temperature of the oil can also be calculated on the basis of a heat flow model
Data Source
AI summary
A method for controlling a clutch unit for a drive train of a motor vehicle wherein the temperature in the friction clutch is ascertained and a characteristic curve of the friction clutch is adapted as a function of the ascertained temperature.