Responsive To Transmission Output Condition Patents (Class 477/110)
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Patent number: 8133153Abstract: A multi-mode internal combustion engine is described. As one example, the engine may be transitioned between a two stroke mode and a four stroke mode in coordination with a transmission shift by adjusting a number of strokes performed by the engine per combustion cycle while shifting the transmission between different gear ratios.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2008Date of Patent: March 13, 2012Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Gopichandra Surnilla, David Karl Bidner
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Method for selection of optimal mode and gear and input speed for preselect or tap up/down operation
Patent number: 8126624Abstract: A powertrain system includes an engine mechanically coupled to an electro-mechanical transmission at an input thereto selectively operative in one of a plurality of transmission operating range states and one of a plurality of engine states. A method for controlling the powertrain system includes combining sets of preferability factors inputted from engine sensors in a microprocessor or computer with other preferability factors generated during engine and vehicle operation to provide an output for a transmission control module, which may execute an operating range or engine state change.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2008Date of Patent: February 28, 2012Assignees: GM Global Technology Operations LLC, Daimler AG, Chrysler LLC, Bayerische Motoren Werke AktiengesellschaftInventors: Anthony H. Heap, Kee Yong Kim -
Patent number: 8118903Abstract: A method for controlling a hybrid powertrain system selectively operative in one of a plurality of operating range states including an engine includes monitoring an operator torque request and a rotational speed of the output member, determining inertial effects of the transmissions, determining motor torque outputs from the electrical machines and an engine based upon the inertial effects, and selecting a preferred operating range state and a preferred input speed from the engine to the transmission based upon the operator torque request and the inertial effects.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2008Date of Patent: February 21, 2012Assignees: GM Global Technology Operations LLC, Daimler AG, Chrysler LLC, Bayerische Motoren Werke AktiengesellschaftInventors: Anthony H. Heap, Kee Yong Kim
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Patent number: 8121768Abstract: A powertrain system includes an engine coupled to an electro-mechanical transmission to transfer power between the engine and a plurality of torque generating machines and an output member. The transmission is operative in one of a plurality of operating range states through selective application of torque transfer clutches and the engine is operatively coupled to a main hydraulic pump to supply pressurized fluid to a hydraulic circuit operative to apply the torque transfer clutches. A method for controlling the powertrain system includes determining an output torque request to the output member, determining a pressure output of the main hydraulic pump based upon an engine input speed, calculating a clutch reactive torque capacity for each applied torque transfer clutch based upon the pressure output of the main hydraulic pump, and determining a preferred engine input speed to achieve the clutch reactive torque capacity to meet the output torque request to the output member.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2008Date of Patent: February 21, 2012Assignees: GM Global Technology Operations LLC, Daimler AG, Chrysler LLC, Bayerische Motoren Werke AktiengesellschaftInventors: Anthony H. Heap, Jy-Jen F. Sah
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Publication number: 20120035019Abstract: A vehicular powertrain includes an electro-mechanical transmission mechanically-operatively coupled to an internal combustion engine. A method for operating the powertrain includes monitoring operator inputs, monitoring a transmission output, and terminating an engine operating mode when a time-rate change in the transmission output exceeds a threshold absent a change in the monitored operator inputs.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 21, 2011Publication date: February 9, 2012Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLCInventors: Ryan D. MARTINI, Charles J. VAN HORN, Peter E. WU, Andrew M. ZETTEL, Sam ALMASRI, Jy-Jen F. SAH
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Patent number: 8108108Abstract: There is described a method of controlling a continuously variable ratio transmission of the type comprising a continuously variable ratio unit (“variator”) which has rotary input and output members though which the variator is coupled between an engine and a driven component, the variator receiving a primary control signal and being constructed and arranged such as to exert upon its input and output members torques which, for a given variator drive ratio, correspond directly to the control signal, the method comprising: determining a target engine acceleration, determining settings of the variator's primary control signal and of an engine torque control for providing the required engine acceleration and adjusting the control signal and/or the engine torque control based on these settings, predicting a consequent engine speed change, allowing for engine and/or transmission characteristics, and correcting the settings of the control signal and engine torque based on a comparison of actual and predicted engineType: GrantFiled: March 29, 2004Date of Patent: January 31, 2012Assignee: Torotrak (Development) LimitedInventors: Matthew Gibson Field, Stephen William Murray, Matthew Piers Burke
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Patent number: 8099204Abstract: A powertrain system includes an engine coupled to an input member of a transmission operative to transmit power between the input member, a torque machine and an output member. The torque machine is connected to an energy storage device. The engine is selectively operative in engine states comprising an engine-on state and an engine-off state. A method for controlling a powertrain system includes determining a first power range for output power of the energy storage device, commanding the engine to transition from a first engine state to a second engine state, and expanding the first power range of the energy storage device and controlling the torque machine based upon the expanded power range of the energy storage device during the transition from the first engine state to the second engine state.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2008Date of Patent: January 17, 2012Assignees: GM Global Technology Operatons LLC, Daimler AG, Chrysler LLC, Bayerische Motoren Werke AktiengesellschaftInventors: Bryan R. Snyder, Anthony H. Heap, Jason J McConnell, Goro Tamai
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Patent number: 8090511Abstract: A parameter having an accelerator pedal position and a drive force as components is set according to information representing driver's operations such as the accelerator pedal position and a stroke amount of a brake pedal. Similarly to the information representing the driver's operation, a parameter having the accelerator pedal position and the drive force as the components is set according to information representing running environment of a vehicle such as a gradient of a road surface, a curvature of the road surface, a friction coefficient ? of the road surface, a type of a road and a length of traffic jam. One parameter ?(OUT) is set by mediating a parameter ?(1) obtained from the information representing the driver's operation and a parameter ?(2) obtained from the information representing the running environment of the vehicle. The gear corresponding to the parameter ?(OUT) is set.Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 2008Date of Patent: January 3, 2012Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Seiji Kuwahara
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Patent number: 8075447Abstract: A vehicle control system including a range selector having a shift lever operated by a driver of a vehicle, a shift control device for controlling the switching of a shift range of an automatic transmission of the vehicle in accordance with the range selecting operation of the shift lever, and an engine control device for controlling the switching of ON/OFF of an internal combustion engine of the vehicle in accordance with an engine switch operation of the shift lever.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2008Date of Patent: December 13, 2011Assignees: Denso Corporation, Nippon Soken, Inc.Inventors: Masashi Hori, Shinji Takeuchi
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Patent number: 8066615Abstract: A method for operating the powertrain includes monitoring operator inputs, monitoring a transmission output, and terminating an engine operating mode when a time-rate change in the transmission output exceeds a threshold absent a change in the monitored operator inputs.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2007Date of Patent: November 29, 2011Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Ryan D. Martini, Charles J. Van Horn, Peter E. Wu, Andrew M. Zettel, Sam Almasri, Jy-Jen F. Sah
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Publication number: 20110237392Abstract: A pressure accumulation system for an internal combustion engine can prevent exhaust pressure from excessively increasing when pressurized gas is contained in a pressure accumulation container. A pressure accumulation system is applied for an internal combustion engine provided with an exhaust shut-off valve mounted in an exhaust path. The pressure accumulation system has a pressure accumulation tank into which gas can be introduced from that portion of an exhaust path. The pressure accumulation system also has a sensor for detecting the exhaust pressure, and an EGR valve is controlled based on the detection value from the exhaust gas sensor such that the pressure in that portion of the exhaust path which is on the upstream of the exhaust shut-off valve is limited below a predetermined exhaust gas upper limit value (Pmax) when gas is contained in the pressure accumulation tank.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 11, 2008Publication date: September 29, 2011Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Kichiro Kato, Keiji Yoeda
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Publication number: 20110237391Abstract: A vehicle engine shutdown prevention system with a position determination module and a blocking unit. The module is adapted to be connected to the transmission for determining if it is engaged in a position included in a first or a second group of positions, the second group including at least one position for which the vehicle remains stationary when the engine is shut down, and the first group including the remaining positions. The module emits a block signal when the transmission is engaged in one of the first group of positions. The blocking unit is adapted to define the only path through which a stop engine signal may circulate from the switch to the engine control unit. The blocking unit blocks the path between the switch and the engine control unit when it receives the block signal.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 23, 2010Publication date: September 29, 2011Inventor: Radu Ioan Burdeti
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Patent number: 8016723Abstract: A vehicle engine control apparatus provides rotational speed synchronization control during a shift operation. A shift operation detecting component detects a shift position resulting from a manual shift operation of a manual transmission connected to an engine. A vehicle speed detecting component detects a vehicle speed. The computing component computes an input side transmission rotational speed value based on the vehicle speed and a gear ratio. A driving intent determining component determines a driver's driving intention.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2008Date of Patent: September 13, 2011Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Masami Murayama, Masahiro Iriyama
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Publication number: 20110218075Abstract: A method is provided for controlling a prime mover adapted to drive at least one ground engaging element of a working machine. The method includes receiving an operator control input indicative of the control of the prime mover and determining at least one operation signal in response to the operator control input, which operation signal is sent for controlling the prime mover. The method also includes receiving a operating state input indicative of an operating state of the machine and selecting a control mode from at least one speed control mode in which the determined operational signal comprises a desired speed of the prime mover and at least one torque control mode in which the determined operational signal comprises a desired torque of the prime mover in response to the operating state input.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 21, 2008Publication date: September 8, 2011Applicant: VOLVO CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT ABInventors: Bobbie Frank, Reno Filla
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Patent number: 8000877Abstract: A fuel economy method and system consists of using a signal control unit connected to a throttle of a vehicle and to a mass sensor for sensing a mass of a load carried by the vehicle. When the sensor senses that the mass is within a predetermined mass range below a pre-determined load mass value, the signal control unit reduces the range of power output of the engine. The unmodified engine power output range and modified engine power output range extend from a minimum engine power output to, respectively, an unmodified maximum engine power output and to a modified maximum engine power output lower than the unmodified engine power output and thereby requiring less fuel. Accordingly, the range of engine power output, and notably the maximum engine power output available, is reduced when the mass is in the pre-determined mass range, thus reducing fuel consumption compared to the unmodified engine power output range.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2007Date of Patent: August 16, 2011Inventor: Jean-François Aussillou
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Patent number: 7993242Abstract: A method is provided for operating a power system. The method includes receiving an operator request for a propulsion direction change. The method also includes selecting a power boost map in response to the propulsion direction change request. The power boost map increases the power rating of a power source of the power system. In addition, the method includes directing power into the power source. The method further includes regulating the power system and accelerating a power source speed according to the power boost map when the power is no longer being directed into the power source.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2008Date of Patent: August 9, 2011Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventors: Robert Paul Bertsch, Bruce Henry Hein, Jeremy Joe Wilson, Timothy Allen Goldammer
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Patent number: 7988596Abstract: A vehicle includes a first detecting means for detecting an engine speed, a second detecting means for detecting a rotational speed of a rotating member, an engine speed changing means for changing the engine speed, and a control unit. The control unit is electrically connected to the first detecting means, the second detecting means, and the engine speed changing means and controls the engine speed changing means when the rotational speed of the rotating member detected by the second detecting means is lower than a set rotational speed previously set in a range from zero to a rotational speed of the rotating member during rotation of the engine in a range between a speed more than an idle rotational speed and a speed less than a predetermined maximum limit rotational speed.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2008Date of Patent: August 2, 2011Assignee: Kawasaki Jukogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Akio Miguchi
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Patent number: 7967725Abstract: A method for controlling a power assisted propulsion system in a motor vehicle so as to perform a transition from a lower gear to a higher gear without interrupting a driving torque applied to driving wheels; the propulsion system displays an internal combustion engine provided with a drive shaft and a power assisted transmission including: a power assisted mechanical gearbox provided with a primary shaft connectable to the drive shaft and a secondary shaft coupled to a transmission shaft which transmits motion to the driving wheels; a power assisted clutch interposed between the drive shaft and the primary shaft of the gearbox to couple and decouple the drive shaft to the primary shaft of the gearbox; a power assisted brake; and an epicycloidal gear having three rotating elements: a first rotating element coupled to the drive shaft, a second rotating element coupled to the secondary shaft of the gearbox, and a third rotating element coupled to the brake.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2007Date of Patent: June 28, 2011Assignee: Magneti Marelli Powertrain S.p.A.Inventors: Fabrizio Amisano, Aldo Sorniotti, Mauro Velardocchia
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Patent number: 7967726Abstract: A method of controlling an automatic transmission includes determining whether a coast-down control condition is met, and performing coast-down control if the condition is met. The coast-down control includes selectively downshifting, such that engine speed is maintained above a fuel-cut threshold speed. The coast-down control condition may include a throttle opening being below a threshold opening, a shift-speed being higher than or equal to a threshold shift-speed, and a road slope being smaller than a predetermined slope. The method may also include determining whether a deceleration lock-up control condition is met, and performing deceleration lock-up control, including engaging a lock-up clutch, if the condition is met. The deceleration lock-up control condition may include a throttle opening being below a threshold opening, a shift-speed being below a threshold shift-speed, a brake not being operated, and a difference between an engine speed and a turbine speed being smaller than a reference value.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2007Date of Patent: June 28, 2011Assignee: Hyundai Motor CompanyInventor: Hoegab Kim
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Patent number: 7946956Abstract: A braking/driving force control device for changing output torque by controlling torque or a rotation number of a power source includes a unit for setting a plurality of ranges by a plurality of parameters including an output rotation number, a range judging unit that judges that a range corresponds to any of the plurality of ranges based on the parameter while driving, and a control unit that controls the torque or the rotation number of the power source based on a driving environment and a range judgment result by the range judging unit. This enables driving regulation control by, for example, a driving environment other than intentional shifting operation by a driver, in a vehicle of a type without a transmission.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 2007Date of Patent: May 24, 2011Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Yoshio Ito
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Patent number: 7917283Abstract: A predicted boat speed value generator, in accordance with one or more embodiments, receives an engine rotation signal, an intake pressure value, and other detection signals including shift position, and provides a predicted boat speed value. A control signal generator determines the fuel injection amount, the amount of air, and the ignition timing based on the predicted boat speed to provide respective control signals. The predicted boat speed value generator includes a predicted boat speed mapped value extraction process to search through the predicted boat speed value map during the constant speed operation and acceleration, based on the rotational speed and the intake pressure, to extract the predicted boat speed mapped value “d” for output. A predicted decelerating boat speed value output process establishes the initial predicted boat speed value to provide the attenuated predicted boat speed value in every cycle.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 2008Date of Patent: March 29, 2011Assignee: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Takuya Kado
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Patent number: 7909732Abstract: A selectable drivetrain control for a vehicle includes a controller configured to receive input signals and issue predetermined output command signals corresponding to the status of the input signals. A first sensor is configured to provide an input signal to the controller relating to the actuation status of a brake pedal. A second sensor is configured to provide an input signal to the controller relating to the actuation status of an accelerator pedal. A stability control selector is configured to provide an input signal to the controller relating to the engagement status of a stability control system of the vehicle. A drivetrain is configured to receive output command signals from the controller. The controller issues output command signals to the drivetrain to control the operational characteristics of the drivetrain, responsive to the engagement status of the stability control system while the brake and accelerator pedals are simultaneously actuated.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2010Date of Patent: March 22, 2011Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Joshua Sigmund
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Patent number: 7905813Abstract: An apparatus for controlling the power output of an unthrottled engine has a variable gear ratio transmission connected between a mechanical load and the engine, and it has a controller for controlling the torque load on the engine, according to the power output required. The controller measures the torque output of the unthrottled engine at the power output required, and sets the gear ratio of the transmission to produce a torque load on the engine equal to the torque output of the engine. This means the unthrottled engine will reach an equilibrium with the mechanical load at the required power output. Controlling the unthrottled engine in this way involves receiving a signal describing the power output requirement, varying a gear ratio of the transmission, and establishing a torque equilibrium between the load and the engine.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2004Date of Patent: March 15, 2011Assignee: Borealis Technical LimitedInventors: Jonathan Sidney Edelson, Rochel Geller
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Patent number: 7900739Abstract: The control system 10 of the first preferred embodiment includes a user interface 12 with a first control 14 that designates a maximum bound of a sub-range of engine speeds and a second control 16 that designates a minimum bound of a sub-range of engine speeds. The control system 10 of the first preferred embodiment also includes a processor 18 connected to the engine and to the user interface 12 that functions to, based on the required power output of the vehicle system, select a discrete engine speed from the sub-range of engine speeds. The control system 10 of the first preferred embodiment was designed for controlling engine speed of a vehicle system having an engine and a required power output, but may be used in any suitable environment.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2006Date of Patent: March 8, 2011Assignee: CNH America LLCInventor: Garth H. Bulgrien
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Patent number: 7892143Abstract: An ECU executes a program that includes the steps of performing neutral shift control, clutch release control, and engine torque control when a shift is required, the ste of moving a shift selector shaft in a selecting direction when a gear is disengaged and a shift position is neutral even if a drive torque TQ is greater than ? and a clutch stroke C is less than ?, the step of performing synchro control, the step of performing clutch engagement control, and the step of performing gear engagement control.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 2006Date of Patent: February 22, 2011Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Masayuki Kato, Tatsuhiro Miyake, Daisuke Ido
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Patent number: 7883443Abstract: A method of controlling an engine for a vehicle including increasing an amount of air taken into the engine to an amount larger than an idling air amount corresponding an idling engine speed, when an engine speed of the engine is predetermined value or more, a throttle valve for controlling the amount of air taken into the engine has not been operated to be opened, and a clutch is in an off-state not to permit transmission of a drive force from the engine to a running drive element of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 2006Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: Kawasaki Jukogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Naoki Kawamura, Satoru Watabe
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Patent number: 7881846Abstract: A driveline clunk control system for a vehicle having an engine that drives a driveline through a transmission includes a transmission output shaft speed (TOSS) sensor that generates a TOSS signal and a first module that receives the TOSS signal and that determines a secondary parameter (?TOSS) based on the TOSS signal. A second module detects onset of a clunk condition based on the ?TOSS and a third module regulates operation of the vehicle to inhibit the clunk condition when the onset of the clunk condition is detected.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2006Date of Patent: February 1, 2011Inventors: Paul E. Reinke, Roger Joseph Rademacher
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Patent number: 7867134Abstract: The present invention provides a control method for a hybrid electric vehicle According to a control method of the present invention, the fuel efficiency is improved by extending a fuel cut operation in a wider transmission range and the impact caused by the extended fuel cut operation is reduced by reaction control of a motor operating in the opposite direction to engine torque.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 2007Date of Patent: January 11, 2011Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors CorporationInventor: Yong Kak Choi
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Publication number: 20100304920Abstract: An improved hybrid powertrain incorporating a flywheel which provides a mechanical power path and an electrical power path wherein the flywheel can be accelerated or decelerated with or without generating a torque on the output shaft. The design is not only suitable for high energy flywheels, but also for low energy flywheels sized to handle transient power requirements (acceleration and deceleration), thus lowering the power requirement for the prime energy source. As such, the system is ideal for electric vehicles, fuel cell vehicles, and series hybrid vehicles as the prime power source is fractionally sized.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 28, 2009Publication date: December 2, 2010Inventor: Bernard Joseph Simon
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Patent number: 7784441Abstract: A vehicle includes a direct start engine, an automatic transmission having a threshold fluid pressure sufficient for enabling operation of the transmission when the engine is off, a controller, and a fuel delivery system. The controller determines the presence of predetermined engine states, and optimizes a stop-and-go functionality of the engine. The fuel delivery system includes a motor and an integrated pump assembly having a secondary high-pressure (HP) fuel pump which is selectively connectable to a rotatable shaft of the motor, and a secondary low-pressure (LP) fluid pump which is continuously connected to the shaft. The motor continuously energizes the secondary LP fluid pump via the rotatable shaft to thereby maintain the threshold fluid pressure during a first or second engine state, and selectively energizes the secondary HP fuel pump via the rotatable shaft to maintain the threshold fuel pressure during the second engine state.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2009Date of Patent: August 31, 2010Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.Inventors: Qi Ma, Hsu-Chiang Miao, Kenneth J. Shoemaker, Thomas R. Brown
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Patent number: 7771312Abstract: A selectable drivetrain control for a vehicle includes a controller configured to receive input signals and issue predetermined output command signals corresponding to the status of the input signals. A first sensor is configured to provide an input signal to the controller relating to the actuation status of a brake pedal. A second sensor is configured to provide an input signal to the controller relating to the actuation status of an accelerator pedal. A stability control selector is configured to provide an input signal to the controller relating to the engagement status of a stability control system of the vehicle. A drivetrain is configured to receive output command signals from the controller. The controller issues output command signals to the drivetrain to control the operational characteristics of the drivetrain, responsive to the engagement status of the stability control system while the brake and accelerator pedals are simultaneously actuated.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2007Date of Patent: August 10, 2010Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Joshua Sigmund
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Patent number: 7771314Abstract: A control apparatus for a tractor or wheel loader includes a speed change sensor that detects the step-on amount of a speed change pedal, an actuator that regulates a swash plate angle of a hydraulic pump based on the detection value of the speed change sensor, a transmission output unit rotation sensor that detects the revolution speed of an output shalt, and a control unit. When the speed change pedal is not stepped on, a braking force is applied to travel wheels and both of a forward drive clutch and a reverse drive clutch are disengaged. When a transmission drive output detected with the transmission output unit rotation sensor is not more than a fixed forward or reverse drive switching speed, either the forward drive clutch or the reverse drive clutch is engaged as the speed change pedal is stepped on.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 2005Date of Patent: August 10, 2010Assignee: Yanmar Co., Ltd.Inventors: Shingo Eguchi, Shuji Shiozaki, Takeshi Ouchida, Takafumi Yamada, Shigemi Hidaka
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Patent number: 7765050Abstract: In one example, a traction control system for a vehicle is shown. The system adjusts a relationship between powertrain output and pedal actuation in response to at least one of road grade and direction of wheel spin.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2005Date of Patent: July 27, 2010Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Davor Hrovat, Michael Fodor, Mitch McConnell
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Patent number: 7747372Abstract: Systems and methods for user control of vehicular transmission shift points. In one embodiment, a user may control a transmission shift point by adjusting a selector having non-discrete selectable positions. Such selector may generate a signal indicative of its position to a transmission controller. The transmission controller may receive the signal from the selector and determine at least one transmission shift point based upon the selector position. The transmission controller may thereby control the transmission to effectuate a gear change when the shift point is achieved. In some embodiments, the selector may comprise a rotary potentiometer, a rotary encoder, an inline potentiometer, an inline encoder or the like.Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 2007Date of Patent: June 29, 2010Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.Inventor: Kenneth Michael Mathis
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Patent number: 7727114Abstract: A drive assembly for an agricultural machine. A power take off (PTO) output shaft is connected to a driving motor for driving an attachment. A drive transmission is positioned between and interconnects the driving motor and the support wheels of the agricultural machine. An input device is connected to an electronic control unit. A sensor senses the torque transferred between an attachment and the PTO output shaft, and an actuator is configured to change the transmission ratio of the drive transmission, thereby setting the propulsion speed of the agricultural machine such that the torque transferred between the PTO output shaft and an attachment does not exceed a pre-determined value. The electronic control unit further receives data from the input device and calculates a pre-determined value based on the data received, and thereafter controls the actuator accordingly.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2005Date of Patent: June 1, 2010Assignee: Deere & CompanyInventors: Nicolai Tarasinski, Marco Reinards
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Patent number: 7704187Abstract: A shift control apparatus for an automatic transmission having an automatic shift mode for performing a shift operation by determining a gear position or gear ratio to be set according to a vehicle running condition and a manual shift mode for performing a shift operation instructed by a manual operation by an operator. The shift control apparatus includes a region determining unit for determining whether the present running condition is in a first region where downshift is performed at the present gear position or gear ratio in the automatic shift mode or in a second region higher in vehicle speed than the first region, and an upshift allowing unit for allowing upshift instructed by the manual operation by the operator in the manual shift mode when the region determining unit has determined that the present running condition is in the second region.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 2006Date of Patent: April 27, 2010Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yoshiharu Saito, Tatsuyuki Ohashi, Masahide Saito, Yoshiyuki Kokubo
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Publication number: 20100087994Abstract: A method and control system for a transmission in communication with an engine includes a pedal input interpreter module determining a power demand signal from a pedal position and a vehicle speed. The system also includes a real time gear selection module determining an engine speed of each gear in response to the vehicle speed and power demand signal, determining an engine torque of each gear in response to the vehicle speed and power demand signal, determining a transmission component speed of each gear in response to the vehicle speed and power demand signal and determining a gear selection for the transmission from the power demand signal, the engine speed, the engine torque, and the transmission component speed. The system may also use the cost signal of each gear and penalty signal of each gear for determining the gear selection.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 20, 2008Publication date: April 8, 2010Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.Inventor: Shushan Bai
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Patent number: 7690344Abstract: A vehicle includes a direct-start engine and a fuel rail with a threshold fuel pressure, a transmission having a threshold fluid pressure, and a fuel delivery system. The system has a controller, a motor having a shaft, and an integrated pump assembly including a high-pressure (HP) fuel pump and a low-pressure (LP) fluid pump each connected to the shaft. Threshold pressures are maintained during the predetermined engine state, which includes an engine idling and an engine cranking state. A method for providing stop-and-go functionality in a vehicle having a direct-start engine includes detecting a current engine state, rotating a motor shaft to energize a secondary HP fuel pump at a first threshold pressure during engine cranking, and rotating the shaft to energize an LP fluid pump at a second threshold pressure during engine idling and engine cranking. The secondary pumps can also be used when primary pumps are temporarily inoperable.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2008Date of Patent: April 6, 2010Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.Inventors: Qi Ma, Hsu-Chiang Miao, Kenneth J. Shoemaker, Thomas R. Brown
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Publication number: 20100075803Abstract: An engine system includes a throttle actuator module and a torque control module. The throttle actuator module controls a throttle actuator based on a desired throttle area. The torque control module determines an actuator torque. The torque control module determines a rate limited torque, a maximum torque, and a minimum torque based on the actuator torque and a predetermined rate of change. The torque control module determines the desired throttle area based on the actuator torque when the rate limited torque is greater than the maximum torque. The torque control module determines the desired throttle area based on the actuator torque when the rate limited torque is less than the minimum torque.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 9, 2009Publication date: March 25, 2010Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.Inventors: Kevin T. Sharples, Mark H. Costin, Timothy J. Hartrey, Christopher E. Whitney, Bahram Younessi, Weixin Yan, Jeffrey M. Kaiser, Richard B. Jess, Joseph M. Stempnik, John A. Jacobs, Jinchun Peng, Leonard G. Wozniak, Vivek Mehta, Bruce A. Rogers
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Patent number: 7678015Abstract: A power train control system for a mobile machine is disclosed. The power train control system has a power source configured to produce a power output, a transmission device operatively connected to receive the power output and propel the mobile machine, and a control module. The control module is configured to receive an indication of a power demand, receive an indication of a current travel speed of the mobile machine, and reference the power demand and the current travel speed with a power train efficiency map to determine a desired power source speed. The power train control system is also configured to control operation of the transmission device to bring a speed of the power source within a predetermined amount of the desired power source speed.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 2006Date of Patent: March 16, 2010Assignees: Caterpillar Inc., Eaton CorporationInventors: Steven J. Funke, Jason K. Bloms, Thomas J. Crowell, Scott A. Leman, James R. Weber, Jeff Skorupski, Tom Genise, Rich Nellums, Daniel G. Smedley, Donald Speranza
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Publication number: 20100056332Abstract: When shifting an automatic transmission (3) into a higher gear, it is determined that an inertia phase has started when an input rotation speed of the automatic transmission (3) has started to decrease. Here, if throttle opening amount reduction control is being performed to reduce the output torque of the engine (2) when it is determined that the inertia phase has started, it is highly likely that that determination is erroneous because that control causes the input rotation speed of the automatic transmission (3) (i.e., the engine speed) to decrease. When it is highly likely that the determination that the inertia phase has started is erroneous in this way, learning of a hydraulic pressure command value (Pt) is prohibited. As a result, erroneous learning of the hydraulic pressure command value (Pt) can be prevented.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 1, 2008Publication date: March 4, 2010Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Nobufusa Kobayashi, Toshio Sugimura, Tomohiro Asami, Takaaki Tokura, Yoshio Hasegawa
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Patent number: 7637845Abstract: A system is provided for controlling the speed of a vehicle having a power plant and a transmission. A control unit is configured to receive a signal indicative of the speed of the vehicle. The control unit is further configured to determine a desired output speed of the power plant based on the signal indicative of the speed of the vehicle, a signal indicative of the gear ratio of the transmission, and a desired vehicle speed associated with the gear ratio. The control unit is also configured to send a signal to the power plant, such that power plant operates at an output speed that substantially maintains the desired vehicle speed in a manner substantially independent of a magnitude of load on the power plant.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 2006Date of Patent: December 29, 2009Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventors: Igor Strashny, Andrew O. Fonkalsrud
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Patent number: 7637846Abstract: A method and system to control transmission shifting in a motor vehicle having an automatic transmission is provided, wherein a command for a transmission up-shift is detected, and, inhibited, based upon operator input, engine speed, and vehicle operating conditions. A fuel cutoff event is immediately implemented, along with electrical energy regeneration using vehicle kinetic energy. Operator input includes monitoring accelerator pedal input, and inhibiting the command for the transmission up-shift when a tip-out event occurs. The command for inhibiting the transmission up-shift is discontinued when an accelerator pedal tip-in is detected, or accelerator pedal position is greater than a calibrated value, or when engine output torque exceeds a torque threshold, or when engine speed exceeds a speed threshold.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 2007Date of Patent: December 29, 2009Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.Inventors: Goro Tamai, Birendra P. Bhattarai, William L. Aldrich, III
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Publication number: 20090312147Abstract: A vehicle comprises a driving state detecting device configured to detect a driving state, a command signal output device configured to output a detected command signal indicating an engine driving power change command, an opening degree signal output device configured to output a detected opening degree signal, a valve drive device configured to drive a throttle valve; and a controller which is configured to set a target opening degree of the throttle valve based on the detected command signal and to control the valve drive device to cause an opening degree to match the target opening degree. The controller is configured to set, according to the driving state, the target opening degree to a smaller value than when the command signal and the opening degree signal are normal, when at least one of the command signal and the opening degree signal is abnormal.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 10, 2009Publication date: December 17, 2009Applicant: KAWASAKI JUKOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Takeru Oshima, Takuya Sakamoto
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Patent number: 7632212Abstract: In the case of the on setting of an eco switch signal ESW, when a torque demand Tr* is less than a good fuel consumption-assuring minimum torque Temin, the hybrid vehicle of the invention stops the operation of an engine and controls a motor MG2 to output a required torque for constant speed drive. When the torque demand Tr* is not less than the good fuel consumption-assuring minimum torque Temin, on the other hand, the engine is driven at a drive point in a good fuel consumption range among drive points on an optimum fuel consumption operation curve to ensure output of the required torque for the constant speed drive. Such control enhances the fuel efficiency for the constant speed drive.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2006Date of Patent: December 15, 2009Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Akihiro Yamanaka, Yukio Onishi, Takeshi Yasuda, Hideo Itano
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Patent number: 7625312Abstract: An ECT-ECU executes a program including the steps of: executing an oil cooler abnormality determination process; if the oil cooler is abnormal and an oil temperature TH is at least an other-component-abnormality-incurring temperature where the oil cooler is abnormal, executing an engine speed limit process where the oil cooler is abnormal; if the oil cooler is not abnormal and the oil temperature TH is at least an other-component-abnormality-incurring temperature where the oil cooler is normal, executing an engine speed limit process where the oil cooler is normal.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2006Date of Patent: December 1, 2009Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Daisuke Ido
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Publication number: 20090291801Abstract: A control system for a drive unit of a vehicle, in which a power distribution mechanism is arranged on a route from a prime mover to a wheel, and a transmission is arranged on an output side of the power distribution mechanism. The control system includes a revolution frequency controller that restrains a variation in a revolution frequency of the prime mover by controlling a revolution frequency of the reaction force establishing device until a predetermined time elapses since a commencement of a shifting operation of the transmission. The control system is capable of restraining a variation in an output torque, in case of carrying out a shifting operation of a transmission arranged on an output side of a prime mover.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 26, 2006Publication date: November 26, 2009Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Tooru Matsubara, Takashi Ohta, Hideaki Komada, Yukihiko Ideshio, Hiroyuki Shibata
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Vehicle Propulsion Systems Using Motor/ Generator In Transmission For Powering Electric Supercharger
Publication number: 20090291803Abstract: An automotive propulsion system includes an internal combustion engine (6) with an inlet air duct (66) and an output shaft (10), which is connected to the input shaft of a transmission system (58) of continuously variable transmission ratio. The transmission system comprises a differential gearset comprising at least three shafts (10, 12), two of which constitute the input shaft and output shaft, respectively and all of which carry at least one gear wheel in mesh with at least one gear wheel carried by one of the other shafts. The transmission system also includes two electric motor/generators (42, 46; 50, 52), the rotors (42, 50) of which are connected to respective shafts and the electrical connections (43, 45) of which are connected to a controller (62) arranged to control the flow of electrical power between them. The propulsion system also includes an electrically driven supercharger (60) communicating with the inlet duct (66) and connected to the controller (62).Type: ApplicationFiled: June 7, 2006Publication date: November 26, 2009Applicant: NEXXTDRIVE LIMITEDInventor: Frank Moeller -
Patent number: 7614977Abstract: A vehicle power train control apparatus is provided that basically comprises an output characteristics changing section, an operation mode determining section and a control section. The output characteristics changing section changes engine output characteristics of a vehicle with respect to an operation of an accelerator pedal. The operation mode determining section determines an operation mode of the vehicle among a plurality of operation modes including at least a reacceleration response mode based on driving information of the vehicle. The control section controls the output characteristics changing section to change the engine output characteristics under a reduced accelerator position state during the reacceleration response mode to increase a driving force upon reacceleration of the vehicle when an accelerator position is increased after the vehicle was decelerated.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2007Date of Patent: November 10, 2009Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Takeshi Fujii, Keizo Ishida, Kenichiro Murakami, Yoshinori Yamamoto
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Patent number: 7606649Abstract: A vehicle control system for automotive vehicles which is designed to optimize an output torque of a power train at all times. A power train control unit determines an allowable torque range within which the power train is allowed to output torque and provides it to a manager control unit. The manager control unit determines a target output torque of the power train based on an operating maneuver of a vehicle driver. When the target output torque is out of the allowable torque range, the manager control unit corrects it to lie within the allowable torque range, thereby optimizing an output of the power train.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2005Date of Patent: October 20, 2009Assignee: Denso CorporationInventor: Masahiro Sato