Vehicle Transmission Shift Timing for Smooth Clutch Torque Transfer

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing vehicle transmission systems face challenges in smoothly transmitting power and torque during gear shifts, particularly due to varying factors like transmission fluid type, load, road conditions, and clutch wear, which affect the accuracy and efficiency of gear shifting and the prediction of clutch wear.

Innovation Solution

A method for determining shift parameters in a vehicle transmission system, involving the use of a transmission controller that disengages one clutch and engages another, allowing for accurate determination of shift times and parameters based on rotational speeds, slip speeds, pressure, and torque, enabling more precise gear shifts and prediction of clutch wear.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional gear shift control methods are used, then the transmission system can operate with simple control logic, but the accuracy of shift timing and clutch engagement is insufficient leading to rough shifts and power flow interruptions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveshift parameter determination accuracyVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback control by continuously monitoring actual shift parameters (clutch engagement timing, torque transfer, rotational speeds) and comparing them with target values. The controller adjusts control parameters in real-time based on deviations detected during the shift process, enabling precise control of clutch engagement and disengagement timing to achieve smooth power flow transition.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical shift control with an electronically controlled system that uses sensors to detect shift parameters and an electronic controller to process this data and actuate clutch devices. This substitution enables precise measurement and control of shift timing and parameters, transforming rough mechanical shifts into smooth, precisely controlled transitions.

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If fixed shift parameters are used, then the control system is simple, but the system cannot adapt to varying factors such as transmission fluid type, load conditions, and clutch wear

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptation to varying operating conditionsVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic adaptation by continuously adjusting shift parameters based on real-time operating conditions. The controller monitors factors such as transmission fluid temperature, load conditions, clutch wear indicators, and rotational speeds, then dynamically modifies engagement timing, pressure profiles, and torque transfer characteristics to optimize shift performance under varying conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes control parameters adaptively based on detected operating conditions. When variations in fluid type, temperature, load, or clutch wear are detected, the system modifies shift parameters such as engagement timing, pressure levels, and duration to maintain optimal shift quality across different operating scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If clutch wear is not monitored, then the system operates with fewer sensors and simpler control, but wear and aging of clutches cannot be indicated or predicted

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveclutch wear prediction capabilityVSAvoidmonitoring system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback monitoring by continuously measuring clutch-related parameters such as engagement timing deviations, torque transfer characteristics, temperature, and vibration during shift operations. These measurements provide feedback on clutch condition and wear, enabling the system to detect degradation trends and predict remaining clutch life.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enables the transmission system to self-diagnose clutch wear by analyzing its own operational parameters during normal shift operations. The controller processes data from existing sensors to detect wear patterns and predict clutch failure, eliminating the need for separate diagnostic systems or manual inspection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

4Ease of operation

If shift parameters are not accurately determined, then the control process is simpler, but power and torque cannot be transmitted smoothly through the driveline during gear shifts

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesmooth power flow during shiftingVSAvoidshift parameter determination accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces imprecise mechanical shift control with an electronically controlled system that uses sensors to accurately detect shift parameters and an electronic controller to process this data and actuate clutch devices. This substitution enables precise measurement and control of shift timing and parameters, transforming rough mechanical shifts into smooth, precisely controlled transitions.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary determination of target shift parameters before actual clutch engagement. The controller calculates optimal engagement timing, pressure profiles, and torque transfer characteristics in advance based on current operating conditions, then executes these pre-planned actions to ensure smooth power flow transition during the shift.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS11448314B2Method of determining at least one shift parameter of a vehicle transmission
Publication Date: 2022.09.20 DANA AUTOMOTIVE SYST GRP LLC
  • US11448314B2 patent drawing
  • US11448314B2 patent drawing
  • US11448314B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to a method for determining at least one shift parameter of a vehicle transmission (3), the vehicle transmission (3) comprising a first clutching device (8a) and a first speed ratio (9a); a second clutching device (8b) and a second speed ratio (9b); an input; and an output, wherein the input and the output of the transmission are connectable by the engaging first clutching device (8a) or the second clutching device (8b). The method comprises the steps:performing a shift by disengaging the first clutching device (8a) and/or engaging the second clutching device (8b), wherein the first clutching device (8a) stops transferring torque through the transmission at a first time point, wherein the second clutching device (8b) starts transferring torque through the transmission at a second time point, anddetermining the shift parameter at the first time point and/or at the second time point.