Lock-up Clutch Control via ABS State and Input Shaft Speed
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Solution Overview
Problem
In automatic transmissions, the engagement of the lock-up clutch during vehicle deceleration is limited by the need for fuel cut, which can restrict fuel efficiency as the number of gear ranges increases, making it difficult to maintain fuel cut in all ranges.
Innovation Solution
A control apparatus that determines the engagement of the lock-up clutch based on the operation state of the ABS device and the comparison between the input shaft rotation speed and a reference rotation speed, even when fuel cut is not performed, allowing for controlled engagement during deceleration states.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the number of gear ranges is increased, then the adaptability of the automatic transmission is improved, but the ability to maintain fuel cut during deceleration deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the control parameters for lock-up clutch engagement from solely fuel-cut-based to include ABS operation state and input shaft rotation speed relative to reference rotation speed. This allows the lock-up clutch to be engaged in deceleration states even when fuel cut is not performed, maintaining energy efficiency across a broader range of operating conditions despite having more gear ranges.
2Use of energy by moving object
If fuel cut is continuously performed during deceleration, then fuel efficiency is improved, but the reliability of engine operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces feedback from the ABS system and rotation speed sensors to the lock-up clutch control. By monitoring the ABS operation state and comparing input shaft rotation speed against reference values, the system dynamically adjusts lock-up clutch engagement to maintain fuel efficiency while ensuring engine operation remains within reliable parameters.
3Ease of operation
If the lock-up clutch is engaged during deceleration without fuel cut, then fuel efficiency deteriorates, but the ease of operation is improved
Solution Approach 1:
The invention makes the lock-up clutch control system multi-functional by integrating it with both the fuel management system and the ABS system. This allows the same control mechanism to serve multiple purposes: maintaining fuel efficiency through appropriate engagement timing and ensuring safe operation through ABS coordination, thereby improving ease of operation without sacrificing fuel efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
A control apparatus for an automatic transmission including a torque converter with a lock-up clutch capable of connecting the output shaft of an engine and the input shaft of the automatic transmission includes a state determination unit configured to determine, based on an operation signal from an ABS device, whether the ABS device of a vehicle is in a normally operating state or in a fail state, a rotation speed determination unit configured to determine whether the rotation speed of the input shaft is not less than a reference rotation speed, and an operation control unit configured to control engagement of the lock-up clutch based on the operation state of the ABS device and the result of comparison between the rotation speed of the input shaft and the reference rotation speed.