Dual Mass Flywheel Torque Control via Software

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current vehicle control systems provide inadequate protection for dual mass flywheels under various driving conditions, leading to potential damage from torque variations and vibrations.

Innovation Solution

A dual mass flywheel protection system that includes a torque reduction module to limit engine torque based on operational gear and engine speed, an engine shut-off module with multiple options for preventing engine start or shutdown during critical conditions, and a gradient limitation module to manage torque gradients after engine shutdown.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If basic engine shut-off protection is implemented during elongated cranking, then engine protection is improved, but protection under other driving conditions deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveengine protectionVSAvoidprotection coverage
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The control system is designed to perform multiple protection functions: it monitors cranking duration, detects emergency braking events, tracks low engine speed conditions across different gears, and implements torque limitation strategies. This multi-functional approach ensures comprehensive protection under all driving conditions, not just elongated cranking scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The protection system dynamically adapts its behavior based on current operating conditions. It adjusts torque limitation thresholds, monitors gear-specific engine speed ranges, and activates different protection strategies depending on whether the vehicle is braking, accelerating, or idle. This dynamic adaptation ensures optimal protection across diverse driving scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If engine torque is limited during low rpm conditions, then dual mass flywheel protection is improved, but vehicle performance deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedual mass flywheel protectionVSAvoidvehicle performance
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system applies preliminary protective action by limiting engine torque when detecting conditions that could damage the dual mass flywheel, such as prolonged low rpm operation or emergency braking events. By proactively restricting torque in these specific scenarios, the system prevents flywheel damage while maintaining full performance capability during normal operating conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

Solution Approach 2:

The control system dynamically changes torque parameters based on operating conditions. During protective modes, it limits torque to predetermined thresholds, but during normal operation, it allows full torque output. This parameter switching enables the system to balance protection needs with performance requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If multiple torque limitation options are implemented, then comprehensive protection is improved, but system complexity deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomprehensive protectionVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The protection system is segmented into distinct functional modules: a cranking monitor that detects elongated starting events, an emergency braking detector that identifies ABS activation, a low speed monitor that tracks engine rpm across different gears, and a torque limitation controller that implements protective strategies. This segmentation allows each module to handle specific protection aspects independently, simplifying the overall control logic while providing comprehensive protection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 reduces engine torque variations, prevents damage to the dual mass flywheel by limiting torque during emergency braking and other critical conditions, and allows safe engine operation and shutdown to protect the drivetrain components.

Implementation Method 1

Vibration reduction is achieved by accumulating stored energy in the two flywheel half masses over a period of time using a series of springs and releasing this stored energy

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring energy storage: Spring

Implementation Method 2

accumulating stored energy in the two flywheel half masses over a period of time using a series of springs and releasing this stored energy

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectEnergy accumulation and release: Mechanical Accumulator

Data Source

PatentUS10315632B2Dual mass flywheel protection by software
Publication Date: 2019.06.11 GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
  • US10315632B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A dual mass flywheel protection system includes an engine coupled to a transmission using a dual mass flywheel defining a drive train. A gear determiner identifies a present operational gear. A filtered engine speed is available. A torque reduction module applies the present operational gear and filtered engine speed producing signals limiting an engine torque to reduce engine torque variations. A first torque limitation option limits engine torque when the drivetrain is coupled, dependent on an engine rpm, which is related to an actual gear selected. A second torque limitation option determines an engine torque reduction during an emergency braking maneuver while an anti-lock brake (ABS) system is active. An engine shut-off module produces an output signal shutting off the engine upon initiation of one of multiple engine shut-off module outputs, and is active when an engine torque limitation due to a low engine rpm is not present.