Transfer Case Control System for Dynamic Range Shifting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transfer case systems in vehicles require manual neutralization and often necessitate stopping the vehicle for range changes between high and low gear settings, especially when equipped without synchronizers, limiting dynamic shifting capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle control system that employs selection means to choose between first and second control strategies for transfer case range changes based on activation time, allowing for concurrent or deferred range changes, and includes features like differential lock functionality, enabling dynamic range changes and reducing the number of vehicle controls required.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual neutralization and vehicle stopping are required for range changes, then the transfer case structure is simpler, but the dynamic shifting capability is limited and operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system pre-conditions the transfer case for range changes by automatically managing neutralization and synchronization processes before the actual shift occurs. This preliminary preparation enables dynamic shifting without requiring manual intervention during critical transition phases.
Solution Approach 2:
The transfer case control system performs self-service by automatically executing the range change sequence including neutralization, synchronization, and gear engagement without driver intervention. The system monitors its own state and executes control algorithms to complete the shift autonomously.
2Ease of operation
If multiple separate controls are used for range changes, then the control precision is higher, but the number of controls required increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple control functions including range selection, neutralization timing, synchronization management, and gear engagement are merged into a single integrated control system. This consolidation reduces the number of separate controls while maintaining precise control through coordinated execution of all functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system performs multiple functions through a single control interface: selecting range, managing neutralization, controlling synchronization, and executing the shift. This multi-functional approach reduces control complexity while maintaining precision through systematic coordination of all operations.
3Productivity
If vehicle stopping is required for range changes, then the shifting process is safer, but the time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary synchronization of gear speeds and pre-conditions the transfer case for range changes while the vehicle is moving. This preliminary preparation ensures that when the actual shift occurs, all parameters are optimized for safe and rapid transition without requiring vehicle stopping.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system dynamically adjusts shift parameters including timing, synchronization rates, and engagement forces based on real-time vehicle conditions. This dynamic control enables safe range changes during motion by continuously adapting to changing operational parameters rather than requiring static vehicle stopping.
Data Source
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AI summary
Aspects of the present invention relates to a vehicle control system (1) for controlling a vehicle transfer case (3). The transfer case (3) is operable in a high range and a low range. The vehicle control system (1) includes a selection means (21) for selecting first and second control strategies for the transfer case. The first and second control strategies are based on an activation time of the selection means (21). A further aspect of the present invention relates to a vehicle control system (1) for implementing a deferred transfer case range change. The present invention also relates to a vehicle (5) and a related method of operating a vehicle control system (1).