Transfer Case Control via Torque and Inclination Signals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern vehicle transmission control systems face challenges in optimizing driving comfort due to insufficient sensor information, particularly in activating differential locks, which can lead to inadequate force distribution and jerky movements during terrain changes.
Innovation Solution
A method and control device that activate a transfer case and/or differential lock based on torque and inclination signals, ensuring engagement only when sufficient torque is available and the vehicle is on a predetermined incline, thereby optimizing power transmission and preventing sudden load changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the transfer case and/or differential lock are activated based on traditional sensor signals, then the transmission control can be simplified, but the driving comfort deteriorates due to insufficient information for optimally adjusting the transmission
Solution Approach 1:
The control device acts as an intermediary that integrates multiple sensor signals (torque signal from engine torque sensor, inclination signal from inclination sensor, speed signal from speed sensor) to make informed decisions about activating the transfer case and/or differential lock. This mediator approach allows the system to consider multiple factors before activation, improving driving comfort without requiring complete redesign of the transmission control system.
Solution Approach 2:
The control device performs multiple functions: it reads and evaluates torque signals, inclination signals, and speed signals; it determines optimal activation timing; and it controls the transfer case and/or differential lock. By consolidating these functions in a single control device, the system achieves better driving comfort without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
2Speed
If the transfer case and/or differential lock are activated without considering torque and inclination signals, then the system response is faster, but jerky movements occur due to sudden load changes
Solution Approach 1:
The control device continuously reads and evaluates torque signals and inclination signals before activation is needed. This preliminary evaluation allows the system to determine the optimal activation timing in advance, ensuring that activation occurs at the most appropriate moment rather than reacting suddenly to wheel slip or other conditions, thereby preventing jerky movements.
Solution Approach 2:
The control device uses feedback from multiple sensors (torque sensor, inclination sensor, speed sensor) to continuously monitor vehicle conditions and adjust activation timing accordingly. This feedback mechanism ensures that activation occurs only when conditions are optimal, preventing premature or inappropriate activation that would cause jerky movements while maintaining fast response when needed.
3Ease of operation
If additional sensors are added to improve transmission control, then driving comfort improves, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control device is designed to handle multiple sensor inputs (torque sensor, inclination sensor, speed sensor) and perform multiple evaluation functions within a single integrated unit. This multi-functional approach allows the system to achieve improved driving comfort through comprehensive sensor integration without proportionally increasing overall system complexity, as the control device consolidates rather than multiplies the complexity burden.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
The method involves reading a torque signal (175) and a slant signal (185), where the torque signal represents rotational torque delivered by a motor (120), and the slant signal represents slant area in which the vehicle (100) is currently located. The gear box element (160) in the vehicle is activated in response to the torque signal and slant signal. Independent claims are included for the following: (1) a control device for controlling gear box element of vehicle; and (2) a computer program for controlling gear box element of vehicle.