Condition Responsive Control Patents (Class 477/174)
  • Publication number: 20100114440
    Abstract: A machine control system for use with a machine having a power source and a transmission is disclosed. The machine control system may have a clutch configured to connect an output of the power source with an input of the transmission. The machine control system may also have a sensors configured to generate signals indicative of machine operations, and a controller in communication with the clutch and the sensors. The controller may be configured to determine the current machine application based on the signals, and vary an actuating force of the clutch based on the type of machine application.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2008
    Publication date: May 6, 2010
    Inventors: Hong-Chin Lin, Rami Nabil Nasrallah
  • Patent number: 7699750
    Abstract: A method for controlling a partially unsynchronized manual transmission, which realizes the increase of a rotational speed of a transmission part to be synchronized during a gear change procedure by connecting one element of the transmission, via a shiftable clutch, to a drive motor and by making available to this drive motor the required rotational speed as well as the necessary torque at its output shaft. It is also provided that when the rotational speed and/or the torque made available by the drive motor is not sufficient to ensure the synchronization of the manual transmission within a fixed time period, a shifting strategy is pursued, which prevents an unintentional holding of the manual transmission in its neutral position or idle position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Reinhard Mertinkat, Rainer Petzold, Andreas Wolf, Gerd Sauermann, Klaus Hensinger, Wolfgang Gröner, Ulrich Reith
  • Patent number: 7699749
    Abstract: A powertrain control apparatus that controls a powertrain including a lock-up clutch, which connects an engine, in which fuel supply may be cut off, directly to an automatic transmission. The control apparatus includes an output unit, a control unit, and a setting unit. The output unit outputs an instruction to lower engagement pressure for the lock-up clutch from a value at which the lock-up clutch is engaged to a value at which the lock-up clutch is disengaged. The control unit resumes the fuel supply to the engine when a predetermined lag time has elapsed since the instruction is output. The setting unit sets the lag time so that the lag time is shorter when a temperature of a combustion chamber of the engine is a first temperature than when the temperature of the combustion chamber of the engine is a second temperature which is higher than the first temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Tadashi Tamura, Akira Hino, Takashi Yumoto
  • Patent number: 7698041
    Abstract: A drive unit includes an engine and a transmission having a variable transmission ratio. An instantaneous setpoint power output quantity of the drive unit is determined from an intended power output. The setpoint power output quantity is a function of the instantaneous transmission ratio of the transmission at least for a given intended power output.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventor: Martin Streib
  • Patent number: 7691029
    Abstract: A method for operation of a drive train having a drive machine and an automatic, unsynchronized gearwheel variable-speed transmission, which can be connected to the drive machine by using an automatic clutch is described. A control device carries out a selection process as a function of vehicle parameters and/or operating variables of the motor vehicle to determine whether a gear change of the unsynchronized gearwheel variable-speed transmission will be carried out with the clutch engaged or disengaged. To ensure reliable operation of the motor vehicle, a gear change is carried out with the clutch disengaged in a time interval after initial starting up of the drive train and/or after starting of the drive machine and/or when a malfunction is identified in a component in the drive train.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: Daimler AG
    Inventors: Manfred Guggolz, Werner Hillenbrand, Xiayoi Liu, Detlef Schnitzer, Markus Veit
  • Publication number: 20100075804
    Abstract: Method for protecting a clutch of a vehicle, said vehicle being provided with an engine, drive wheels and an automated manual transmission for transmitting drive power from said engine to said drive wheels. A controller can execute the steps of: sensing a power demand from the driver which results in a clutch control where the clutch is partly engaged and clutch slip occurs, measuring travelling distance(s) of the vehicle during a predetermined first time interval, initiating a first warning measure, in order to alert the driver of excessive clutch slip, if the vehicle has traveled less than a predetermined distance during said predetermined first time interval.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2007
    Publication date: March 25, 2010
    Applicant: VOLVO LASTVAGNAR AB
    Inventors: Henrik Ryberg, Erik Lauri, Svante Karlsson, Lars Karlsson
  • Patent number: 7678020
    Abstract: A vehicle clutch has a pushing member that is energized against a friction plane and transfers power from a driving power source when it touches the friction plane. The location of the pushing member can be retained even when power is shut off. After a signal from the key switch ends, the control apparatus stops the driving power source and the vehicle, engages the friction transfer mechanism, and then stops the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Tetsuo Matsumura, Yoshiyuki Yoshida, Kinya Fujimoto, Kentaro Shishido
  • Patent number: 7678019
    Abstract: An ECT_ECU executes a program including the step of prohibiting a lockup clutch from engaging if the lockup clutch is disengaged and a number of revolutions or speed NE of an input shaft of a torque converter minus a number of revolutions or speed NT of an output shaft of the torque converter is smaller than a threshold value ?N (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Daisuke Inoue, Tadashi Tamura, Hiroji Taniguchi
  • Patent number: 7670257
    Abstract: A method of operating a motor vehicle drive train having a hybrid drive including an internal combustion engine, an electric motor and an automatic transmission. A clutch is located between the internal combustion engine and the electric motor, and a clutch or a torque converter is located between the electric motor and the automatic transmission such that, when the drive train is powered exclusively by the electric motor, the internal combustion engine can be started by engagement of the clutch located between the internal combustion engine and the electric motor. The clutch, arranged between the internal combustion engine and the electric motor, is engaged during the process of downshifting when the internal combustion engine is started.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Christian Popp, Bernd Allgaier
  • Publication number: 20100048355
    Abstract: The present invention provides a power transmission device that can reliably prevent engine stall from occurring. The power transmission device includes a transmission clutch 3 interposed between an engine E and a transmission T/M, and control means 22 for controlling connection and disconnection of the transmission clutch 3. The power transmission device also includes first engine stall risk determination means 22 for determining based on an engine operation state whether there is an engine stall risk when the transmission clutch 3 is connected. The control means 22 disconnects the transmission clutch 3 and controls the engine E to a predetermined rotation speed for a predetermined time when the determination by the first engine stall risk determination means 22 is affirmed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2007
    Publication date: February 25, 2010
    Applicant: Isuzu Motors Limited
    Inventors: Tatsuhiko Ebara, Hidetoshi Uji
  • Patent number: 7666117
    Abstract: In a power-transmission control mechanism for controlling transmission of power from an internal combustion engine of a lawn mower to mowing blades, a controller for an electromagnetic clutch periodically repeats: reading detected engine rotational speed during a predetermined time, when an operating switch is turned on; comparing present engine rotational speed read in the present cycle with previous engine rotational speed read in the previous cycle; engaging the electromagnetic clutch when the present engine rotational speed is equal to or higher than the previous engine rotational speed; and disengaging the electromagnetic clutch when the present engine rotational speed N is lower than the previous engine rotational speed. Thus, the power of the engine is reliably transmitted to the mowing blades without occurrence of engine stall and without being influenced by the load following characteristic of the engine, the clutch, and load fluctuation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Toshiaki Kawakami, Hiroshi Kobayashi
  • Patent number: 7637842
    Abstract: A method and system to capture energy during regenerative braking while managing driveline disturbances by controlling locking and unlocking of a torque-converter clutch based upon operator input, typically throttle position or accelerator pedal position, vehicle speed, and engine load is offered. The exemplary vehicle has an engine, a torque converter with a clutch, and a transmission device. Vehicle kinetic energy is transmittable to an electrical machine using the transmission device and the torque converter. It includes monitoring an operator demand for power, engine operating speed, and, engine load; and, actuating the locking clutch for the torque converter based upon the operator demand for power, the engine operating speed, and, the engine load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Goro Tamai, Daniel P. Laurent, Birendra P. Bhattarai, James L. Worthing
  • Patent number: 7632215
    Abstract: An automatic transmission for a vehicle includes a main box controlled using a series of clutches, and an underdrive assembly controlled using a series of clutches and at least one overrunning clutch. In achieving a double-swap downshift from a first transmission “gear” employing a first main box clutch and a first underdrive assembly clutch, to a second transmission “gear” employing a second main box clutch and a second underdrive assembly clutch, a controller delays release of the first main box clutch until after the second underdrive assembly clutch has been prefilled, and fully applies the second underdrive assembly clutch only after slip has been detected in both the main box and the underdrive assembly. Additionally, the controller fully applies the second main box clutch only after the second underdrive assembly clutch has itself been fully applied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Assignee: Chrysler Group LLC
    Inventors: Hussein Dourra, Javed A. Dada, Teddy Siy, Ali Mourtada
  • Patent number: 7632214
    Abstract: A controlling method and system for a damper clutch of an automatic transmission control a damper clutch release condition according to a direct connection status of a damper clutch. The controlling method includes: determining whether the damper clutch is in a direct connection status in a power-on state or a direct connection status in a power-off state; detecting information of a vehicle if the damper clutch is in the direct connection status of the power-on or power-off state; determining whether a release condition of the damper clutch is satisfied; and releasing the damper clutch if the release condition of the damper clutch is satisfied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventor: Min Gyu Jung
  • Patent number: 7630812
    Abstract: In a motor vehicle driveline including a transfer case whose output is continually connected to a first output, a clutch, operating partially engaged, responds to a control signal to change the degree of clutch engagement, whereby a second output is connected driveably to the first output. A digital computer continually calculates a change in clutch temperature at frequent intervals and updates a running sum of clutch temperature changes. The control causes the clutch to more fully engage if the current calculated clutch temperature exceeds a predetermined reference clutch temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Hong Jiang, Bal Sankpal, Steven Thomas, Timothy Allen
  • Publication number: 20090287386
    Abstract: The clutch control system includes a motor in a liquid pressure modulator for engagement/disengagement of a clutch, a clutch control unit for controlling the operation of the motor, vehicle condition detection means which detects at least that an engine is in working and which detects the running speed of the vehicle, and neutral detection means for detecting the neutral state of a transmission. As controlled states of the clutch, there are set a first control state in which the clutch is in a partially engaged state or an engaged state, and a second control state in which the clutch is disengaged. When the engine being working and the vehicle speed being in excess of a predetermined value is detected and the neutral state is detected, in the first control state, transition to the second control state is effected and the clutch is disengaged.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2009
    Publication date: November 19, 2009
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Akihiko TOMODA
  • Publication number: 20090287387
    Abstract: When a predetermined time has passed without detection of engine stall and without detection of the neutral state and without detection of a vehicle starting operation, in a first control state in which a clutch is in a disengaged state, a clutch control system effects transition to a second control state in which transition to a third control state is permitted. When a vehicle starting operation is detected in the second control state B in which the clutch is in the disengaged state, a liquid pressure modulator is driven to effect transition to the third control state in which the clutch is put in the engaged state or a partially engaged state. When an engine stall or the neutral state is detected in the second control state, transition to the first control state A is effected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2009
    Publication date: November 19, 2009
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Akihiko Tomoda
  • Patent number: 7611441
    Abstract: A torque transfer mechanism includes a multi-plate clutch assembly that is operably disposed between a first rotary and a second rotary member. A control system determines a desired quantity of torque to deliver to the second rotary member and controls the clutch to produce the desired torque.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: Magna Powertrain USA, Inc.
    Inventor: Brent A. Cring
  • Publication number: 20090253552
    Abstract: The present invention provides advanced hardware diagnostic detection for the clutch control components in a hydraulic control module of a multi-mode hybrid transmission. The detection scheme of the present invention utilizes pressure switch sensors to detect the position of each of the valves associated with the clutch control mechanization. The mechanization of these sensors with the valves provides the ability to clearly define the position of each of the valves, while also enabling the transmission electro-hydraulic control module (TEHCM) to diagnose the state of health of each pressure switch. This will allow the diagnostics to differentiate between a failed switch and a failed (e.g., “stuck” or “out of position”) valve. The present invention offers the ability to safely diagnose the clutch control components in a power transmission, while preventing unexpected and undesired shift sequencing within the transmission.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2008
    Publication date: October 8, 2009
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventor: Michael D. Foster
  • Publication number: 20090239707
    Abstract: A system comprises a slip module and a gas temperature module. The slip module adjusts slipping of a clutch of a torque converter based on a first slip value before a cylinder of an engine is deactivated. The gas temperature module determines a temperature of a gas within the cylinder after the cylinder is deactivated. The slip module determines a second slip value based on the temperature of the gas and adjusts the slipping of the clutch based on the second slip value, wherein the second slip value is less than the first slip value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2008
    Publication date: September 24, 2009
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: William C. Albertson, Thomas E. Bolander, Joseph R. Dulzo
  • Patent number: 7591756
    Abstract: A method of regulating operation of an automatic transmission includes identifying a tie-up condition of the automatic transmission, adjusting a pressure of a transmission element in response to the tie-up condition and determining whether a first gear ratio of the automatic transmission holds. The pressure is set to zero if the gear ratio does not hold and a faulty transmission element is identified as one associated with a second gear ratio that is lower than said first gear ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2009
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventor: Todd J. Thor
  • Patent number: 7581612
    Abstract: An IG-off-timer measures the time t_off from when an engine is stopped, or an ignition is turned off. An ECU sequentially memorizes an estimated temperature of each of heat generating portions as a memorized temperature. Immediately after the engine is re-started, the ECU sets an initial value of the estimated temperature of each heat generating portion in such a manner that the initial value reflects a temperature drop of the heat generating portion in the deactivation period of the engine. The temperature of the heat generating portion is thus accurately estimated even after re-starting of the engine. The heat generating portions are thus appropriately protected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2009
    Assignees: JTEKT Corporation, Mitsubishi Jidosha Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Ryouhei Shigeta, Tomoaki Kato, Akihiro Ohno, Tsuyoshi Murakami, Yasushi Yamada, Tadashi Yoshioka, Shunzo Tanaka
  • Publication number: 20090209392
    Abstract: A method for activating a clutch of a vehicle drive train. A controller of an electronic control unit generates an electrical desired-value signal corresponding to a desired pressure with which the clutch is to be acted upon. The control unit receives from a sensor an electrical actual-value signal which is to correspond to an actual pressure with which the clutch is acted upon. The sensor measures the pressure at a measurement location which is connected via a transfer link to an action location at which the clutch is acted upon with a clutch pressure. The actual-value signal passes through a transfer element having a delay property before it is delivered to the controller.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2009
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Inventors: Thorsten Stepper, Joerg Meissner, Ralf Trutschel
  • Patent number: 7563200
    Abstract: A transmission system having a plurality of gear ratios, a selector assembly for selectively engaging the gear ratios, and a control system arranged to measure the amount of deformation caused by torque in the transmission system in at least one static component or assembly that is deformed due to torque in the transmission system, wherein the control system is arranged to measure deformation and to adjust the torque in the transmission system according to the measured deformation and a known relationship between the gear ratios, wherein the transmission system is arranged such that selection of a new gear ratio occurs almost instantaneously without substantial power interruption.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Assignee: Zeroshift Limited
    Inventor: William Wesley Martin
  • Patent number: 7556587
    Abstract: A vehicle hill hold may be accomplished, for a vehicle having an automated clutch between the engine output and the transmission input, while protecting the clutch from potential excess wear due to overheating. A hill hold may be accomplished by increasing an accelerator pedal position sensitivity and switching the clutch between fully engaged and fully disengaged based on changes in the pedal position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2009
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Hong Jiang, Ron Cowan
  • Publication number: 20090170659
    Abstract: A method for operating an automated friction clutch in which a clutch load, corresponding to an energy input, is determined and the operation of the clutch is controlled as a function of the clutch load determined. Glazing of the clutch lining that results from too low an energy input, in relation to the slipping operation time of the clutch, is compensated by a specific increase of the clutch load, while premature wear is prevented by a specific reduction of the clutch load.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2007
    Publication date: July 2, 2009
    Applicant: ZF FRIEDRICHSHAFEN AG
    Inventors: Rainer Petzold, Peter Herter, Franz Bitzer
  • Patent number: 7553257
    Abstract: An ECU estimates the temperatures of the heat generating portions provided in a drive force transmission system, or a transaxle, a rear differential, and a torque coupling, in correspondence with not only the rotational speed (the differential rotational speed) of each heat generating portion and the torque transmission rate of the torque coupling but also the outside temperature detected by an outside temperature sensor. If the estimated temperature of any of the heat generating portions exceeds a respective predetermined temperature, the ECU controls operation of the torque coupling to suppress overheating of the heat generating portion. That is, the temperature of each heat generating portion is accurately detected through a simplified structure and overheating of the heat generating portion is effectively suppressed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2009
    Assignees: Jtekt Corporation, Mitsubishi Jidosha Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Ryouhei Shigeta, Tomoaki Kato, Akihiro Ohno, Tsuyoshi Murakami, Tadashi Yoshioka, Shunzo Tanaka
  • Publication number: 20090149297
    Abstract: The invention concerns a method for controlling a motor vehicle (2) with an automatic transmission (6) and an automated clutch (8), with a control unit (20), a drive or accelerator pedal (32), an element (30) for determining the position of the drive or accelerator pedal, and an actuating device (28) for selecting an operating mode of the motor vehicle (2). According to the invention, when the actuating means (28) is operated the position of the drive or accelerator pedal (32) is noted or evaluated, and actuation of the clutch (8) is prevented until a change in the position of the drive or accelerator pedal is recognized.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2008
    Publication date: June 11, 2009
    Applicant: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Michael WALSER, Thomas Jager, Florian Shneider
  • Publication number: 20090127528
    Abstract: The present invention is a transmission used with a winch drum. The transmission includes a drive shaft, an output shaft, a hydraulic or pneumatic system, a cooling system, a gear coaxially mounted on the output shaft, and an electric motor for powering the gear. The drive shaft is adapted to drive the winch drum and includes a clutch disc extending generally radially outwards from the drive shaft. The clutch disc has a face. The output shaft coaxially surrounds at least a portion of the drive shaft and includes a friction surface extending generally radially inward. The friction surface has a face opposing the face of the clutch disc. The hydraulic or pneumatic system is adapted to bring the faces into contact, and the cooling system is adapted to remove heat from the friction surface via a fluid coolant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2009
    Publication date: May 21, 2009
    Inventors: Bruce A. Copp, Gary L. Veikley, Ryan M. Stanoch
  • Publication number: 20090131222
    Abstract: The temperature of a machine component is controlled by transferring heat generated by a torque converter under restricted conditions to the component. The machine includes a circulating fluid system configured to transfer heat from the torque converter to the remotely positioned machine component. A controller is configured to sense the temperature of the component, and to restrict motion of the torque converter turbine when the sensed temperature is below a desired temperature. Heat generated by the torque converter under the restricted condition is transferred through the circulating fluid system to the remote component, such as the machine power source, to control the temperature thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2007
    Publication date: May 21, 2009
    Applicant: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Dennis A. Barney, Charles W. Birchenough, James B. McKnight, Brian J. Oleson
  • Publication number: 20090124458
    Abstract: A dual-drive transmission, comprising a front shaft, a back shaft, a rear axle housing having a pair of half shafts, a central propeller shaft, a hub, and an electromagnetic splined clutch; a forestage gear is disposed on the central propeller shaft, a drive gear engaged with the forestage gear is disposed on the front shaft, a pair of one-way transmission gears is disposed one on each end of the central propeller shaft, a final drive gear is disposed on the hub, a driven gear engaged with the forestage gear is disposed on one end of the back shaft, and the electromagnetic splined clutch is axially connected to the back shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2009
    Publication date: May 14, 2009
    Inventor: Zhanguo YANG
  • Patent number: 7507182
    Abstract: A controller, control method, and control system for a motor vehicle gear-type transmission enable a friction transmission unit to be controlled to an optimum position according to a particular motor vehicle state or the like. A transmission control unit changes, via at least one parameter that indicates a state of the gear-type transmission or of the vehicle, a position or pressure load at which the pressure member is caused to stand by while the driving shaft of the vehicle is in a stopped state or during changeover of the mesh unit that connects to one of the gear pairs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2009
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Tetsuo Matsumura, Yoshiyuki Yoshida, Kentaro Shishido, Tatsuya Ochi
  • Publication number: 20090062071
    Abstract: A torque transfer mechanism includes a multi-plate clutch assembly that is operably disposed between a first rotary and a second rotary member. A control system determines a desired quantity of torque to deliver to the second rotary member and controls the clutch to produce the desired torque.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2008
    Publication date: March 5, 2009
    Applicant: Magna Powertrain USA, Inc.
    Inventor: Brent Cring
  • Patent number: 7491152
    Abstract: A control system and method is provided for controlling engagement of a vehicle master clutch (16) in response to a throttle operating parameter. The method includes the steps of determining a throttle operating parameter value and setting an operating mode of the clutch based on the throttle operating parameter value. The method may include the steps of comparing the throttle operating parameter value to a threshold value and setting the operating mode of the clutch based on the comparison step. The control system includes a microprocessor for receiving signals corresponding to a throttle operating parameter value. The microprocessor sets an operating mode of the clutch based on the throttle operating parameter value or, optionally, the comparison of the throttle operating parameter value to a threshold value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Paul Martin Fowler, Robert Stanley Wheeler, Jon A. Steeby, Anthony Stasik, Jeffrey P. Hawarden
  • Publication number: 20090036269
    Abstract: The present invention provides a limp home mode driving method for a hybrid electric vehicle and an engine clutch control hydraulic system for driving in the limp home mode. At a hydraulic circuit for supplying hydraulic fluid to an engine clutch mounted between an engine and a driving motor, an engine clutch control hydraulic system is installed and includes an engine clutch control solenoid valve which controls the supply of hydraulic fluid to the engine clutch. As the engine clutch control solenoid valve, a normal high type solenoid valve is used which always keeps an internal passage open for engine clutch hydraulic fluid so that the engine clutch control pressure is at its maximum when power is cut off. Thus, when engine clutch control solenoid valve power goes off due to a failure, hydraulic fluid is supplied to the engine clutch through the internal passage and the engine clutch is closed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2007
    Publication date: February 5, 2009
    Applicants: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Yeon Ho Kim
  • Patent number: 7476179
    Abstract: A gear change control device is provided for a straddle-type vehicle having a clutch and a transmission. The device includes a clutch actuator configured to engage and disengage the clutch. A transmission actuator is configured to change a gear of the transmission. At least one sensor is configured to sense an operational condition of the straddle type vehicle. At least one switch is configured to generate a gear change command. A controller is operatively connected to the clutch actuator, the transmission actuator, the at least one sensor, and the at least one switch. The controller is configured to change gears in response to the gear change command and during the gear change reengage the clutch under either a first control routine or second, different control routine based upon the operational condition of the straddle-type vehicle determined by the at least one sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2009
    Assignee: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Toru Zenno
  • Patent number: 7473209
    Abstract: A method for controlling operation of a transfer case clutch in a motor vehicle driveline controlled by an engine throttle having a variable position. The transfer case transmits rotating power to a primary power path and to a secondary power path in response to an electric current duty cycle applied to a coil that actuates the clutch. The method includes the steps of determining that a current vehicle speed is less than a reference vehicle speed; determining that the engine throttle position is in a reference throttle position range; determining that a change in vehicle speed is greater than a reference change in vehicle speed; using a current magnitude of torque in the driveline to determine a desired duty cycle for the coil; and applying a duty cycle of the desired magnitude to the coil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2009
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Matt Todd, John A. Glab, Ashok Rodrigues
  • Publication number: 20080305931
    Abstract: A method for checking the plausibility of an actuation position of a clutch of a double-clutch transmission operated by an actuator, including the following steps: disengaging the clutch assigned to the currently active old subtransmission and simultaneously engaging the clutch assigned to the other subtransmission to shift from the gear selected in the old subtransmission to a gear selected in the other, new subtransmission; deselecting the gear selected in the old subtransmission still during the overlapping operation of the clutches or immediately thereafter; detecting the difference between the speed of rotation of a drive shaft of the double-clutch transmission driven by a drive motor and the speed of rotation of the input shaft of the old subtransmission; and evaluating the state of the clutch assigned to the old subtransmission as disengaged when the difference in speeds of rotation exceeds a predetermined value within a predetermined time after deselection of the gear.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2008
    Publication date: December 11, 2008
    Applicant: LUK LAMELLEN UND KUPPLUNGSBAU BETEILIGUNGS KG
    Inventors: Juergen Eich, Ekkehard Reibold, Minh Nam Nguyen, Matthias Panzer
  • Publication number: 20080300107
    Abstract: A method for controlling clutch disengagement in a vehicle having an automated manual transmission including an electronically controlled clutch includes 1. sensing at least two brake pedal positions separated in time, 2. performing a differentiation of the sensed brake pedal positions, 3. comparing the result of the differentiation to a first predetermined threshold value, and 4. controlling the clutch to disengage if the result of the differentiation represents a faster brake pedal application than a predetermined threshold value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2006
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Applicant: Volvo Lastvagnar AB
    Inventors: Svante Karlsson, Erik Lauri
  • Publication number: 20080287259
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an electronic control fuel saving clutch device for a vehicle, comprising: an electronic control clutch (7), a brake switch (8), an accelerator sensor (9) and an electromagnetic fuel line throttle valve (G) for opening and closing the accelerated fuel supply; the electronic control clutch and the electromagnetic fuel line throttle valve are controlled by the brake switch and signals emitted by the accelerator sensor, wherein when the brake switch is switched on, the electronic clutch is engaged, and the electromagnetic fuel line throttle valve is closed, and the engine is supplied only with the idle fuel supply; when the brake switch is switched off, if the accelerator sensor detects that the accelerator pedal (P) goes forward or keeps in a certain forward position, the electronic control clutch is engaged and the electromagnetic fuel line throttle valve is open, then the accelerating fuel supply is switched on, and the engine is supplied with the accelerating fuel supply; if
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2005
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventors: Waikei Huen, Yun Li
  • Patent number: 7445581
    Abstract: A torque transfer mechanism includes a multi-plate clutch assembly that is operably disposed between a first rotary and a second rotary member. A control system determines a desired quantity of torque to deliver to the second rotary member and controls the clutch to produce the desired torque.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2008
    Assignee: Magna Powertrain USA, Inc.
    Inventor: Brent A. Cring
  • Publication number: 20080223681
    Abstract: A controllable selectable one-way clutch is provided for use within a hybrid transmission. The clutch comprises an outer and inner race, and a first and second selector plate. A transmission motor controller synchronizes the speeds of the races to facilitate application and release of the clutch, and a transmission controller communicates a signal to the clutch for re-positioning of the plates to apply and release the clutch. The clutch has three operational modes, including freewheeling and holding torque in one direction or both directions. A method is also provided for applying a selectable one-way clutch in a vehicle having a hybrid transmission with a motor controller and a transmission controller, including synchronizing the clutch speed using the motor controller, detecting the direction of the race speed difference, communicating the race speed difference to the transmission controller, and selecting between the clutch operational modes in response to the detected speed difference.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2007
    Publication date: September 18, 2008
    Inventors: Paul D. Stevenson, Paula J. Armstrong, Scott H. Wittkopp
  • Publication number: 20080227601
    Abstract: A method for controlling a partially unsynchronized manual transmission, which realizes the increase of a rotational speed of a transmission part to be synchronized during a gear change procedure by connecting one element of the transmission, via a shiftable clutch, to a drive motor and by making available to this drive motor the required rotational speed as well as the necessary torque at its output shaft. It is also provided that when the rotational speed and/or the torque made available by the drive motor is not sufficient to ensure the synchronization of the manual transmission within a fixed time period, a shifting strategy is pursued, which prevents an unintentional holding of the manual transmission in its neutral position or idle position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2005
    Publication date: September 18, 2008
    Applicant: ZF FRIEDRICHSHAFEN AG
    Inventors: Reinhard Mertinkat, Rainer Petzold, Andreas Wolf, Gerd Sauermann, Klaus Hensinger, Wolfgang Groner, Ulrich Reith
  • Patent number: 7419456
    Abstract: A known device for increasing the functional reliability for a hydraulic circuit of a hydraulic clutch having a pressure reservoir (25) and a release cylinder (5) which comprises a primary piston (14) and a secondary piston (16). A compensation volume is developed in the sense that when the vehicle is at a standstill and the parking brake released, an unintentional release of the clutch is prevented. A pressure-monitoring/pressure-supply device (28) is used for determining a reference operating pressure and establishes a static pressure which, in case of any system error, only allows displacement of the secondary piston (16) such that the contact pressure of the clutch discs, against one another, is still sufficient to maintain the vehicle at a standstill.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2008
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Thomas Knoblauch, Christoph Rüchardt, Otto Ebner, Klaus Schweiger, Matthias Winkel, Andreas Schwenger, Marcus Gansohr
  • Publication number: 20080207397
    Abstract: A clutch controller that transmits appropriate torque during engaging operation of a clutch and prevents excessive increase or decrease in engine speed. The clutch controller performs request follow-up control under which a clutch actuator is actuated based on a difference between actual transmission torque that is transmitted from a drive-side member to a driven-side member of a clutch, and request transmission torque that is determined based on a rider's accelerator operation, such that the actual transmission torque approximates the request transmission torque. In an operation range in which engine torque increases as engine speed increases, the clutch controller performs rotational speed induction control, in place of request follow-up control, under which the clutch actuator is actuated such that engine speed increases or decreases to a predetermined engine speed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2008
    Publication date: August 28, 2008
    Applicant: YAMAHA HATSUDOKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Kengo MINAMI
  • Patent number: 7416511
    Abstract: In a hybrid-drive electric vehicle, upon request of gear shifting of a transmission (2), a clutch (3) is first disconnected and the transmission (2) is set to a neutral position. The rotating electric generator 4 is then operated in a motor mode or a power generating mode so that a rotational speed of an input shaft of the transmission (2) reaches a region of a synchronizing rotational speed in accordance with a requested gear position. When the rotational speed of the input shaft of the transmission (2) reaches the region of the synchronizing rotational speed, the gear position of the transmission (2) is changed over from the neutral position to the requested gear position. Thus the rotation synchronizing time for the gear shifting in the transmission (2) is reduced, making it possible to perform the gear shifting for a short period of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2008
    Assignee: Nissan Diesel Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Mitsuhiro Nishina, Yuji Suzuki, Hideaki Gouda
  • Patent number: 7409885
    Abstract: The invention concerns a method of controlling a twin-clutch transmission (10). When the torque transmitted in a first transmission path (C1, E2, Z8, Z9, S2, Z3, Z4) reaches an upper limit given by the torque transmission capacity of that path further additional torque produced by an engine at the drive shaft (I) is transmitted by closure of the second clutch (C2) to the output shaft (O) in parallel relationship by way of a second transmission path (C2, E1, Z1, Z2, S1, Z3, Z4). That permits the output of the engine to be better utilised and makes it possible to achieve better travel characteristics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2008
    Assignee: Getrag Ford Transmissions GmbH
    Inventors: Christian Krauss, Michael Schwekutsch
  • Patent number: 7412316
    Abstract: In a method for setting the clutch torque of a clutch, especially a clutch disposed in a drive train of a motor vehicle, the clutch is adjusted using a clutch actuator. This clutch actuator has at least two actuator parts that may be positioned relative to each other at raster values of a position raster. A position setpoint corresponding to a clutch torque and disposed between the raster values of the position raster is calculated, and the actuator parts are positioned relative to each other at a raster value of the position raster that is adjacent to the position setpoint. In addition to the first position raster value, a second position raster value is calculated in such a manner that the position setpoint is disposed between the first position raster value and the second position raster value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2008
    Assignee: LuK Lamellen und Kupplungsbau Beteiligungs KG
    Inventors: Juergen Gerhart, Olaf Werner, Georg Goeppert
  • Patent number: 7407463
    Abstract: In a method and system for controlling a braking system, equipped with an electric parking brake, for a motor vehicle, the electric parking brake is released in response to an identification of a moving-off operation. A release instant of the electric parking brake is defined in dependence on at least one measured parameter of a clutch engagement operation. In comparison with a method and system in which, for example, the electric parking brake is released in dependence on the actuation of the accelerator by a driver, the method and system permit a more precise coordination of the deactivation of the electric parking brake with the clutch engagement operation, and thus with the moving-off operation of the vehicle, particularly in the case of a vehicle equipped with a manual transmission.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2008
    Assignee: Lucas Automotive GmbH
    Inventor: Ralf Kinder
  • Patent number: 7396314
    Abstract: A method and a device with which disturbing vibrations are diminished at least in the height of their amplitude. A control and regulating device (24) and suitable sensors (34, 36, 41) activate a device (7, 11, 15, 23, 29, 30) when previously established limiting values are exceeded with regard to procedure, with which components of the motor vehicle are influenced such that the disturbing vibrations are damped or compensated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2008
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Matthias Winkel, Thomas Jäger, Rupert Kramer, Horst Aepker