Parallel Clutch Torque Distribution for Power Dissipation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Tractors with discrete gear transmissions experience significant power dissipation in clutches, leading to larger, more costly transmission packages and increased parasitic losses due to clutch drag, as existing clutches dissipate power as they engage and increase in size.
Innovation Solution
A transmission control system that utilizes two clutches in parallel torque paths, with a controller determining torque percentages based on speed ratios to distribute power dissipation equally between the clutches, allowing for smaller clutch sizes and reduced peak power dissipation by transitioning from slipping to locking one clutch and releasing the other.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If the clutch size is increased to dissipate more power, then the power dissipation capacity is improved, but the transmission package size and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single clutch into two separate clutches (first clutch and second clutch) that operate in parallel. Each clutch handles a portion of the power dissipation, allowing the system to manage high power loads without requiring a single oversized clutch. This segmentation enables smaller individual clutch sizes while maintaining adequate power dissipation capacity.
2Loss of energy
If the clutch size is increased to dissipate more power, then the power dissipation capacity is improved, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single clutch into two separate clutches (first clutch and second clutch) that operate in parallel. Each clutch handles a portion of the power dissipation, allowing the system to manage high power loads without requiring a single oversized clutch. This segmentation enables smaller individual clutch sizes while maintaining adequate power dissipation capacity.
3Loss of energy
If two clutches are used in parallel to reduce power dissipation, then the peak power dissipation is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the control of two clutches under a single integrated controller that manages both clutches simultaneously. The controller coordinates torque distribution, engagement timing, and disengagement sequences to simplify the overall control architecture. This merging of control functions reduces the complexity that would otherwise arise from managing two independent clutch systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller acts as an intermediary between the engine, transmission, and the two-clutch system. It processes input signals, determines optimal torque distribution, and sends control commands to both clutches. This intermediary role coordinates the complex interactions between the two clutches and the rest of the powertrain, managing system complexity through centralized intelligence.
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
This approach reduces peak power dissipation, enables a more streamlined transmission package, and increases torque capacity by controlling torque delivery between the main and helper clutches, achieving balanced power distribution and minimizing clutch drag.
Implementation Method 1
As the clutch engages, two or more elements of the clutch come into contact with one another. Initially, the two or more elements may slip and dissipate power.
Data Source
AI summary
A method includes determining, via a processor, a speed ratio of a transmission system including a transmission based at least in part on an output speed of the transmission system and an input speed of the transmission system; determining, via the processor, a first torque percentage for a first clutch coupled to the transmission based at least in part on the speed ratio; determining, via the processor, a second torque percentage for a second clutch coupled to the transmission based at least in part on the speed ratio; outputting, via the processor, a signal indicative of a first torque command to a clutch assembly based at least in part on the first torque percentage; and outputting, via the processor, a signal indicative of a second torque command to the clutch assembly based at least in part on the second torque percentage.