Torque Measuring System Calibration for Automatic Transmission

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for determining optimal automatic transmission shift points in self-propelled work machines, such as tractors, are inadequate due to reliance on static torque data and inability to account for dynamic variations in engine torque caused by factors like build quality, break-in, and operating conditions, leading to suboptimal shifting.

Innovation Solution

A dynamic method that uses a torque sensor to monitor actual engine torque and calculates a base torque value (BTV) representative of maximum available torque, which is updated in real time based on engine performance during operation, allowing for adaptive adjustment of shift points.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If static torque data from engine specifications is used to determine shift points, then the method is simple and reliable, but it cannot adapt to dynamic variations in engine torque caused by build quality differences, break-in periods, and changing operating conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to engine variationsVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system continuously monitors actual engine torque using a torque sensor and feeds this information back to the control system. The control system compares actual torque with the base torque value and automatically adjusts shift points accordingly. This closed-loop feedback mechanism enables the system to adapt to engine variations, break-in periods, and changing operating conditions without requiring complex manual reconfiguration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs self-calibration by automatically determining the base torque value (BTV) through monitoring engine torque during operation. The control system independently adjusts shift points based on actual engine performance without requiring external intervention or manual setup. This self-service capability simplifies the overall system while maintaining high adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Measurement precision

If a torque sensor is used to sense engine torque, then real-time torque information is obtained, but the torque sensor alone does not provide sufficient information for optimizing shift points under dynamic conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetorque measurement accuracyVSAvoidinsufficient torque information
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The control system serves multiple functions: it monitors actual torque from the torque sensor, determines the base torque value (BTV) representative of maximum available torque, calculates optimal shift points, and adjusts transmission control. This multi-functional approach ensures that the torque information is fully utilized to provide comprehensive shift point optimization under all dynamic conditions.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary determination of the base torque value (BTV) by monitoring engine torque during operation before using it for shift point calculations. This preliminary action establishes a reliable reference value that accounts for engine variations and conditions, ensuring accurate shift point optimization from the outset.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Device complexity

If throttle position is used as an indicator of engine torque in governor-controlled engines, then the control system is simple, but throttle position is not a good indicator of actual torque

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol system simplicityVSAvoidtorque indication accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system replaces the mechanical/throttle-based torque indication method with an electrical/sensor-based measurement system. A torque sensor directly measures actual engine torque, providing accurate real-time data to the control system. This substitution eliminates the inaccuracies of throttle position indication while maintaining control system simplicity through electronic control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 enables real-time optimization of automatic transmission shift points, ensuring they align with actual engine capabilities and adapt to changes over time, improving shifting efficiency and reducing the need for manual setup.

Implementation Method 1

A torque sensor operable for sensing actual torque output of the engine and outputting information representative thereof is provided

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectTorque sensing:

Data Source

PatentUS7846063B2Automatic calibration of a torque measuring system
Publication Date: 2010.12.07 BLUE LEAF I P INC
  • US7846063B2 patent drawing
  • US7846063B2 patent drawing
  • US7846063B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for real time determination of a base torque value, representative of maximum available torque of an engine at a specified engine rpm, as a function of engine torque during predetermined engine conditions. The base torque value is used to determine shift points for an automatic transmission of an self propelled work machine.