CVT Operational Modes for Terrain-Adaptive Ratio and Clutch Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current continuously variable transmissions (CVT) lack operational modes that can dynamically adjust gear ratios based on specific driving conditions, leading to suboptimal performance in various terrains and driving scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle with a CVT system that includes a motor, actuator, sensor, memory, and controller, allowing for the selection and implementation of operational modes such as adjustable descent control, descent mode cruise control, and automatic differential lock, which modify the transmission ratio and clutch behavior to optimize performance based on sensor inputs and pre-defined maps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional CVT without operational modes is used, then the structure remains simple, but the vehicle performance is suboptimal in various terrains and driving scenarios
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements operational modes that dynamically adjust CVT behavior based on driving conditions. The controller switches between different operational modes (e.g., fuel economy mode, performance mode, off-road mode) that modify gear ratio selection, clutch engagement strategies, and torque management. This dynamic adaptation allows the CVT to optimize performance for specific terrains and driving scenarios without requiring multiple physical transmission systems.
2Use of energy by moving object
If operational modes with pre-defined maps are implemented, then fuel efficiency improves, but the control system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs pre-defined operational mode maps that are programmed into the controller before vehicle operation. These maps contain optimized gear ratio selections, clutch engagement parameters, and torque management strategies for various driving conditions. By preparing these control strategies in advance, the system can quickly switch to optimal fuel-efficient operation without requiring complex real-time calculations during vehicle operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The operational mode system incorporates sensors that continuously monitor driving conditions (vehicle speed, engine load, throttle position, terrain type) and feed this information to the controller. The controller uses this feedback to automatically select and adjust the appropriate operational mode, optimizing fuel efficiency based on actual driving conditions. This closed-loop feedback mechanism allows the system to adapt to changing conditions while maintaining fuel efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle with continuously variable transmission operational modes is provided. The vehicle includes a motor to provide engine torque; a driveline; a continuously variable transmission (CVT), an actuator, a memory and a controller. The CVT is configured to couple torque between the motor and the driveline. The actuator is in operational communication with the CVT to selectively set operating characteristics of the CVT. The memory stores operating instructions including operational mode. The controller is in communication with the memory and the actuator. The controller configured to control the actuator based on one or more of the operational modes.