Patents by Inventor Yuji Fujii

Yuji Fujii has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION SHIFT CONTROL BASED ON TORQUE PHASE DETECTION USING MEASURED TRANSMISSION INPUT TORQUE
    Publication number: 20140274556
    Abstract: A system and method for controlling a vehicle powertrain having a transmission to improve shift quality to detect the start of a torque phase of the shift based on a measured transmission input shaft torque. A torque sensor provides a signal to a controller that monitors initial rise time of the measured transmission input shaft torque. The torque sensor may be implemented by a strain gauge, a piezoelectric load cell, or a magneto-elastic torque sensor. The system may include a vehicle powertrain having an engine, a transmission coupled to the engine via a torque converter and a controller configured to initiate torque phase control when the slope of the transmission input shaft torque exceeds a predetermined threshold after initiation of the shift preparatory phase.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Yuji Fujii, Alexander O'Connor Gibson, Bradley Dean Riedle, Seung-Hoon Lee, Gregory Michael Pietron, Diana Yanakiev, Joseph F. Kucharski, Nimrod Kapas
  • Transmission and method of controlling clutch during ratio change
    Patent number: 8827060
    Abstract: A transmission and control method are disclosed which ensure proper stroke pressure and minimize torque transients during a shift event. The transmission includes a clutch having a torque capacity based on a fluid pressure, a torque sensor adapted to measure a torque value that varies in relationship to the torque capacity, and a controller. The method includes varying the fluid pressure around a predetermined value, measuring a resulting torque difference with the torque sensor, and adjusting a clutch control parameter if the resulting torque difference is less than a threshold value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Gregory Michael Pietron, Yuji Fujii, Joseph F. Kucharski, Nicholas Joseph Witte, Stephen Michael Cicala, Bradley Dean Riedle, Diana Yanakiev, Nimrod Kapas, Davorin David Hrovat
  • Vehicle Mass Computation
    Publication number: 20140244120
    Abstract: A vehicle having a drivetrain is controlled based on a difference between a torque transmitted by the drivetrain when the vehicle has constant non-zero speed and the torque transmitted by the drivetrain when the vehicle is accelerating. The drivetrain torque may be measured by a drivetrain torque sensor. The effective vehicle mass is computed from the torque difference. The computed mass of the vehicle is used to adjust the activation of a collision warning system or a collision avoidance system. A method of operating a vehicle where the activation of a collision avoidance system is adjusted based on a difference between a torque transmitted by a drivetrain when the vehicle has constant non-zero speed and the torque transmitted by the drivetrain when the vehicle is accelerating is disclosed. The torque difference is used to compute a vehicle mass that is used to adjust a collision warning distance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2013
    Publication date: August 28, 2014
    Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Yuji Fujii, Nimrod Kapas, Joseph F. Kucharski, Diana Yanakiev, Eric Hongtei Tseng, Jianbo Lu, Gregory Michael Pietron
  • Methods and systems for a vehicle driveline power take off
    Patent number: 8813881
    Abstract: Systems and methods for improving operation of a power take off are presented. In one example, the power take off may be rotated in two different directions. The approaches may improve operation of a power take off device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Alex O'Connor Gibson, Gregory Michael Pietron, Yuji Fujii, Jeffrey Allen Doering, James William Loch McCallum
  • Magnetic Sensor Packaging for Transmissions
    Publication number: 20140230570
    Abstract: Designs to package a magneto-elastic torque sensor in an automotive transmission for volume production applications are provided. One transmission includes an output shaft and a magnetic torque sensor. The output shaft has a magnetized region. The sensor, for detecting torque of the output shaft, is mounted on friction reduction members such as bushings supporting the output shaft. In another transmission, the sensor is alternatively mounted to a transmission case.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2013
    Publication date: August 21, 2014
    Applicant: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Nimrod Kapas, Joseph F. Kucharski, Gregory Michael Pietron, Diana Yanakiev, Mark Richard Dobson, Yuji Fujii
  • METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR ASSISTED DIRECT START CONTROL
    Publication number: 20140224205
    Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for pressurizing a transmission hydraulic circuit including a transmission mechanical pump coupled to an engine though a gearbox. One example method comprises, during an engine start, adjusting a speed ratio between the transmission pump and the engine between a first speed ratio and a second speed ratio, the pump rotating faster relative to the engine at the first speed ratio as compared with the second speed ratio. In this way, the pump may be driven at different speed ratios relative to the engine to provide better pressurization in the transmission.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2014
    Publication date: August 14, 2014
    Applicant: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Alex O'Connor Gibson, Joseph Norman Ulrey, Gregory Michael Pietron, Seung-Hoon Lee, Yuji Fujii
  • Automatic transmission and method of control for rejecting erroneous torque measurements
    Patent number: 8798889
    Abstract: A method for an automatic transmission includes measuring torque of a component of the transmission using a torque sensor in communication with the component. The torque of the component is estimated from information other than the measured torque. The measured torque is rejected from being used in a control operation of the transmission if the difference between the measured torque and the estimated torque is greater than a selected threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Yuji Fujii, Bradley Dean Riedle, Gregory Michael Pietron, Joseph F. Kucharski, Diana Yanakiev, Richard Reynolds Hathaway
  • Downshift controls using measured output torque
    Patent number: 8788166
    Abstract: A downshift control method during a coasting drive condition includes computing changes in output torque and input speed from initial output torque and initial input speed; reducing offgoing element pressure, provided a change in input speed exceeds a reference input speed change; using closed loop control based on output torque and a change in measured output torque to adjust oncoming element pressure such that output torque remains between predetermined maximum and minimum torques; and fully engaging the oncoming element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Joseph F. Kucharski, Nimrod Kapas, Yuji Fujii, Gregory Michael Pietron, Diana Yanakiev
  • Clutch torque trajectory correction to provide torque hole filling during a ratio upshift
    Patent number: 8775044
    Abstract: A control system and method for controlling a multiple gear ratio automatic transmission in a powertrain for an automatic transmission having pressure activated friction torque elements to effect gear ratio upshifts. The friction torque elements are synchronously engaged and released during a torque phase of an upshift event as torque from a torque source is increased while allowing the off-going friction elements to slip, followed by an inertia phase during which torque from a torque source is modulated. A perceptible transmission output torque reduction during an upshift is avoided. Measured torque values are used during a torque phase of the upshift to correct an estimated oncoming friction element target torque so that transient torque disturbances at an oncoming clutch are avoided and torque transients at the output shaft are reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Christopher John Teslak, Gregory Michael Pietron, Hongtei Eric Tseng, Yuji Fujii, Michael Glenn Fodor, Diana Yanakiev, Seung Hoon Lee
  • Methods and systems for assisted direct start control
    Patent number: 8764411
    Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for pressurizing a transmission hydraulic circuit including a transmission mechanical pump coupled to an engine though a gearbox. One example method comprises, during an engine start, adjusting a speed ratio between the transmission pump and the engine between a first speed ratio and a second speed ratio, the pump rotating faster relative to the engine at the first speed ratio as compared with the second speed ratio. In this way, the pump may be driven at different speed ratios relative to the engine to provide better pressurization in the transmission.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Alex O'Connor Gibson, Joseph Norman Ulrey, Gregory Michael Pietron, Seung-Hoon Lee, Yuji Fujii
  • Adjusting Clutch Slip Based on Sensed Parameter of Transmission Shaft to Control NVH Level in Vehicle Powertrain
    Publication number: 20140148304
    Abstract: A vehicle powertrain includes a transmission and a clutch. The slip of the clutch is adjusted to a target where a magnitude of a sensed parameter of a shaft of the transmission corresponds to a desired noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) level in the powertrain. The sensed parameter of the transmission shaft may be one of acceleration, speed, and torque of the transmission shaft. The transmission shaft may be one of the input shaft and output shaft of the transmission.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2012
    Publication date: May 29, 2014
    Applicant: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Gregory Michael Pietron, Yuji Fujii, Diana Yanakiev, Joseph F. Kucharski, Nimrod Kapas, Alexander O'Connor Gibson, Seung-Hoon Lee
  • Synchronous automatic transmission up-shift control utilizing input torque signal
    Patent number: 8738249
    Abstract: A synchronous automatic transmission up-shift control utilizes input torque measurements. The input torque is measured during an up-shift having preparatory, torque, and inertia phases. Target input torque profiles for the torque and inertia phases are determined based on the input torque during the preparatory phase. During the torque phase, an engine torque is controlled to cause the input torque to achieve the target profile for the torque phase. During the inertia phase, an on-coming clutch is controlled to cause the input torque to achieve the target profile for the inertia phase.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Yuji Fujii, Bradley Dean Riedle, Seung Hoon Lee, Gregory Michael Pietron, Diana Yanakiev, Joseph F. Kucharski, Nimrod Kapas, Hongtei Eric Tseng
  • Non-synchronous automatic transmission up-shift control utilzing input torque signal
    Patent number: 8738254
    Abstract: A non-synchronous automatic transmission up-shift control utilizes input torque measurements. The input torque is measured during an up-shift having preparatory, torque, and inertia phases. Target input torque profiles for the torque and inertia phases are determined based on the input torque during the preparatory phase. During the torque phase, an engine torque is controlled to cause the input torque to achieve the target profile for the torque phase. During the inertia phase, the on-coming clutch is controlled to cause the input torque to achieve the target profile for the inertia phase.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Seung Hoon Lee, Yuji Fujii, Bradley Dean Riedle, Gregory Michael Pietron, Diana Yanakiev, Joseph F. Kucharski, Hongtei Eric Tseng
  • Lash crossing detection using a shaft torque sensor
    Patent number: 8733183
    Abstract: A method for detecting backlash and adjusting driveline variables, includes measuring torque transmitted between components across a torsional discontinuity, measuring driveline twist across the discontinuity, using a ratio of driveline twist divided by torque and an inverse of driveline stiffness to determine whether the driveline is entering, exiting or in a backlash zone, and using measured driveline twist and torque at the backlash zone to adjust reference values of driveline twist and torque.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Diana Yanakiev, Eric H. Tseng, Gregory M. Pietron, Yuji Fujii
  • Clutch Torque Trajectory Correction To Provide Torque Hole Filling During A Ratio Upshift
    Publication number: 20140121059
    Abstract: A multiple ratio transmission having an input shaft, an output shaft and oncoming clutch and off-going clutch for effecting ratio upshifts is provided. The transmission also includes a transmission controller configured for controlling shifts. During the torque phase of a ratio upshift, the controller increases input torque. Next, the controller estimates an oncoming clutch target torque. The controller controls a torque input to ensure the off-going clutch remains locked. The controller measures an actual transmission value for a torque transmitting element of the transmission and corrects the oncoming clutch target torque using the actual transmission value whereby an increasing torque for the oncoming friction element is achieved with minimal torque transients along the output shaft during the upshift.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2014
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Applicant: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Christopher John Teslak, Gregory Michael Pietron, Hongtei Eric Tseng, Yuji Fujii, Michael Glenn Fodor, Diana Yanakiev, Seung-Hoon Lee
  • Closed-loop torque phase control for shifting automatic transmission gear ratios based on friction element load estimation
    Patent number: 8706369
    Abstract: A closed loop shift control apparatus and method based on estimated torque in friction elements controls a torque transfer phase when shifting from a low gear configuration to a high gear configuration for an automatic transmission system. When pressure actuated friction elements are selectively engaged and released to establish torque flow paths in the transmission, estimates of torsional load exerted on the off-going friction element are used to predict the optimal off-going friction element release timing for achieving a consistent shift feel. The estimated torque is preferably calculated by using estimated torque signals generated as a function of speed measurements represented either the engine speed and turbine output speed or transmission output speed and wheel speed under dynamically changing conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Diana Yanakiev, Yuji Fujii, Eric Tseng, Gregory Michael Pietron, Joseph F Kucharski
  • METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR ASSISTED DIRECT START CONTROL
    Publication number: 20140094343
    Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for controlling a vehicle system including a selectively shut-down engine, a torque converter and a torque converter lock-up clutch. One example method comprises, during an idle-stop engine shut-down, restricting flow of transmission fluid out of the torque converter, and adjusting engagement of the torque converter lock-up clutch to adjust a drag torque on the engine to stop the engine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2013
    Publication date: April 3, 2014
    Applicant: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Gregory Michael Pietron, Seung-Hoon Lee, Alex O'Connor Gibson, Yuji Fujii, Roger Lyle Huffmaster, Peter John Grutter
  • Friction element load sensing in an automatic transmission
    Patent number: 8683876
    Abstract: A load sensor assembly for measuring an amount of torque transmitted through a torque establishing element includes a core mounted on a transmission housing and a load sensor mounted on the core. The load sensor is positioned against a portion of the torque establishing element whereby a portion of the amount of torque transmitted through the torque establishing element travels through the load sensor and is measured. A cable is connected to the load sensor for transmitting a signal representative of the amount of torque to a transmission controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Yuji Fujii, Ted D. Snyder, Gregory Michael Pietron, James William Loch McCallum, Mohamed Redissi, David Popejoy, Jau-wen Tseng, Seung-hoon Lee
  • Line Pressure Control with Input Shaft Torque Measurement
    Publication number: 20140081541
    Abstract: A method of controlling a line pressure in a transmission is provided. Line pressure in a transmission is set to a pressure value including a first term that is proportional to an input torque value. The first term has a coefficient of proportionality that is increased in response to a signal indicating clutch slippage. The input torque value is a measured input torque value in a steady-state condition. The input torque value may be a maximum of the measured input torque value and a driver demand torque value in a transient condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Diana Yanakiev, Gregory Michael Pietron, Yuji Fujii, Stefano Di Cairano, Joseph F. Kucharski, Bradley Dean Riedle
  • Ultrasonic flow meter unit
    Patent number: 8671774
    Abstract: The present invention provides an ultrasonic flow meter unit which can eliminate design factors associated with measuring performance, and improve general versatility and diversity. An ultrasonic flow meter unit of the present invention comprises a measurement fluid passage through which a fluid flows; a pair of ultrasonic transducers provided on the measurement fluid passage; and a measuring circuit board which measures a propagation time of an ultrasonic signal transmitted and received between the ultrasonic transducers, and calculates a fluid flow, lead pins bent with a predetermined angle are connected to terminals of the ultrasonic transducers, and the measuring circuit board is on-board mounted to the measurement fluid passage, and then the lead pins are connected to the measuring circuit board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: Panasonic Corporation
    Inventors: Hirokuni Murakami, Yuji Fujii, Masato Satou