Dual-Clutch Output Torque Calculation From Single Clutch Measurement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Determining the output torque in a dual clutch transmission of a vehicle that meets automotive safety standards is complex and requires either direct measurement or estimation of torque on both clutches, which is inefficient and costly.

Innovation Solution

Measure the torque transmitted by one clutch and infer the distribution of torque across both clutches, using the measured torque and known gear ratios to calculate the output torque at the wheel or axle, thereby eliminating the need for a second torque measurement and reducing computational effort.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If torque is measured on both clutches of the dual clutch, then reliability of torque determination is improved, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetorque determination reliabilityVSAvoidmeasurement system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the torque measurement function from both clutches and implements it only on one clutch (the active clutch). The control unit calculates the torque distribution between clutches based on the single measurement and drive unit characteristics, eliminating the need for dual torque sensors while maintaining determination reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses the drive unit's own characteristics (torque output, rotational speed) and the measured torque from one clutch to self-determine the torque distribution and output torque. The control unit performs calculations using available data without requiring additional external measurement systems

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Loss of information

If torque is estimated using complex software models, then torque determination completeness is improved, but computational effort and processing time increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetorque information completenessVSAvoidcomputational processing time
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of implementing full complex software models for torque estimation on both clutches, the patent applies partial action by using a simplified calculation approach based on one torque measurement and drive unit characteristics. This provides sufficient torque information for control purposes without the excessive computational burden of complete modeling

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Solution Approach 2:

The control unit uses preliminary data from the drive unit (torque output and rotational speed) combined with the single clutch torque measurement to directly calculate the output torque. This preliminary information approach eliminates the need for time-consuming iterative software modeling

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS11703095B2Method for determining an output torque in a drive system capable of being power shifted in a vehicle
Publication Date: 2023.07.18 SCHAEFFLER TECHNOLOGIES AG & CO KG
  • US11703095B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for determining an output torque in a drive system capable of being power shifted in a vehicle includes providing the drive system having a drive unit for transmitting the drive torque, a dual clutch having a first clutch and a second clutch, and a power shift transmission. The power shift transmission has a first gear with a first gear ratio and a second gear with a second gear ratio. The method also includes measuring a first torque transmitted by the first clutch, calculating a distribution of the drive torque to the first clutch and the second clutch using the first torque, and determining the output torque from the distribution of the drive torque.