Hybrid DCT Clutch Control for Power Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hybrid vehicles with Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) face challenges in achieving high acceleration responsiveness while minimizing fuel efficiency and traveling distance reduction, as existing clutch control methods lead to unnecessary power consumption when maintaining the odd-numbered clutch engaged for acceleration.
Innovation Solution
A clutch control method that detects the shifting range, road gradient, and driver's stop requirement using sensors, and adjusts the operation current to the clutch actuator to minimize power consumption by disengaging the clutch when conditions allow, such as during flat-ground driving and driver's stop requirement, thereby reducing power consumption and enhancing fuel efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If the odd-numbered clutch is maintained engaged by continuously applying operation current to the clutch actuator, then high acceleration responsiveness is achieved, but fuel efficiency and traveling distance are reduced due to continuous power consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by controlling the clutch actuator to operate in alternating engagement and disengagement periods. During deceleration or coasting phases, the clutch is disengaged (operation current stopped) to save energy, while during acceleration phases, the clutch is re-engaged to provide power transmission. This periodic on-off control pattern resolves the contradiction by eliminating continuous power consumption while maintaining acceleration responsiveness when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by making the clutch engagement state variable rather than fixed. The control system dynamically adjusts the clutch actuator operation based on real-time driving conditions (acceleration requests, deceleration states, gear shifts). This dynamic control allows the system to optimize between engagement (for responsiveness) and disengagement (for energy saving) based on actual operational requirements, resolving the static contradiction.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the clutch is disengaged to minimize power consumption, then fuel efficiency is improved, but acceleration responsiveness may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by predicting when clutch engagement will be needed and preparing in advance. The control system monitors driving conditions and re-engages the clutch before actual acceleration demand occurs, ensuring responsiveness is maintained without prolonged disengagement. This anticipatory control allows the system to minimize power consumption during disengagement while guaranteeing acceleration responsiveness when required.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback control by continuously monitoring driving conditions (accelerator pedal position, brake pedal position, gear state) and adjusting clutch engagement accordingly. When acceleration is requested or the vehicle is in drive range, the system feedback-drivenly re-engages the clutch. This closed-loop control ensures fuel efficiency during coasting while maintaining acceleration responsiveness when needed, resolving the contradiction through adaptive decision-making.
3Reliability
If the operation current is continuously supplied to maintain clutch engagement, then the clutch remains ready for power transmission, but unnecessary power consumption occurs during deceleration or coasting
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by implementing intermittent clutch engagement based on driving phase detection. During deceleration, coasting, or neutral range operation, the clutch is disengaged (operation current stopped) to eliminate unnecessary power consumption. During drive range or acceleration phases, the clutch is re-engaged to ensure readiness for power transmission. This periodic engagement-disengagement cycle resolves the contradiction by eliminating wasteful continuous power supply while maintaining reliability when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the extraction principle by removing the operation current supply during periods when clutch engagement is not required. Instead of continuously supplying current, the system extracts (stops) the power supply during deceleration or coasting phases when the clutch can be disengaged without compromising overall system reliability. This selective removal of unnecessary power consumption resolves the contradiction between reliability and energy loss.
Data Source
AI summary
A clutch control method for a hybrid vehicle with a DCT is provided. The method includes determining an energy-saving possible period based on a selection state of shifting ranges, operation states of an accelerator pedal and a brake pedal, and the gradient of a road on which the vehicle is driven. An operation current is set for maintaining a clutch, which is configured to engage the first gear, engaged as 0 A in response to determining that a current state of the vehicle is in the energy-saving possible period.