With Brake Control Patents (Class 477/40)
  • Patent number: 10400885
    Abstract: A speed change ECU for a CVT sets a target input rotational speed (Nin*) such that the speed ratio of the CVT is varied stepwise a plurality of times consecutively to the downshift side in response to an operation to depress a brake pedal by a driver, and sets the target input rotational speed (Nin*) such that the time interval between consecutive downshifts becomes longer as the number of times of execution of downshifts is increased on the basis of intershifting times (tint(1)), (tint(2)), . . . while downshifts in which the speed ratio is varied stepwise are executed consecutively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2019
    Assignee: AISIN AW CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Masachika Kato, Akihiro Kikkawa, Kiyoshi Kurita
  • Patent number: 9073540
    Abstract: A system for decelerating a hybrid vehicle, the system includes a continuously variable transmission (CVT), a brake pedal, an accelerator pedal, a sensor for detecting a vehicle deceleration, a memory for storing a target deceleration corresponding to a coasting deceleration of the vehicle, and a processor. When the brake pedal and the accelerator pedal are released, the vehicle coasts. If the vehicle deceleration does not match the target deceleration, the processor adjusts the torque output by the CVT so that the vehicle deceleration substantially matches the target deceleration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2015
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Craig A. Cauthen
  • Publication number: 20140378274
    Abstract: A speed change system for work vehicle having a continuously variable transmission device selects a first change gear ratio which is set larger than a smallest change gear ratio, when an engine rotational speed is a first set rotational speed which is set equal or close to an idling rotational speed of an engine; retains the change gear ratio of the continuously variable transmission device at the smallest change gear ratio, when the engine rotational speed is equal to or above a second set rotational speed set on a high-speed side relative to the first set rotational speed; and makes the change gear ratio of the continuously variable transmission device larger between the first change gear ratio and the smallest change gear ratio, as the engine rotational speed at that moment becomes lower, when the engine rotational speed is between the first and second set rotational speeds.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2014
    Publication date: December 25, 2014
    Inventors: Susumu Umemoto, Hisao Mukai, Nobushige Ichikawa, Takuya Inamori, Yushi Matsuzaki
  • Publication number: 20140287871
    Abstract: A vehicle speed operating device for a work vehicle has a shift pedal that is disposed on a first lateral surface side of a body frame and is linked to an operating shaft of a continuously variable transmission via a first mechanical linkage mechanism, and a brake pedal, a speed maintenance mechanism and a second mechanical linkage mechanism are arranged on a second lateral surface side of the body frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2014
    Publication date: September 25, 2014
    Applicant: Kubota Corporation
    Inventor: Koji Masumoto
  • Patent number: 8812201
    Abstract: A hydraulic control system for an automatic transmission. The hydraulic control system is applied to an automatic transmission adapted to vary a torque capacity of a transmission member by an actuator. The hydraulic control system includes: a discharging device configured to discharge compressible gas entrained in the hydraulic fluid in the actuator; an interrupting device that interrupts power transmission; and a controller configured to determine an entrainment of the compressible gas in the hydraulic fluid, disconnect the power transmission via the interrupting device in a case that an entrained compressible gas is determined, and cause the entrained compressible gas to be removed from the hydraulic fluid by rotating the actuator while interrupting the power transmission.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Kenta Kimura, Yuji Hattori, Tomokazu Inagawa, Takafumi Inagaki
  • Patent number: 8781674
    Abstract: A control apparatus for a vehicular power transmitting apparatus includes a first valve that controls the supply of hydraulic fluid to a running clutch in connection with the switching of the operating state of a first solenoid valve; a second valve that controls the supply of hydraulic fluid to a lockup clutch in connection with the switching of the operating state of a second solenoid valve; and a linear solenoid valve that selectively controls the apply force of the running clutch and the lockup clutch according to the supply of control pressure to the first valve and the second valve. The control apparatus detects a failure state of a part related to the operation of the power transmitting apparatus by the operating state of the running clutch and the operating state of the lockup clutch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Taira Iraha, Kunio Hattori
  • Publication number: 20140100078
    Abstract: A brake system is provided for a vehicle equipped with a continuously variable belt transmission (hereafter a “CVT”) having a CVT input shaft and a CVT output shaft. The CVT functions as a clutch-disengagement action for isolating rotation of the CVT output shaft from the CVT input shaft when a rotary speed of the CVT input shaft is reduced to a certain, level. The vehicle is equipped with a prime mover driving the CVT input shaft so that an output rotary speed of the prime mover defines the rotary speed of the CVT input shaft. The vehicle includes an accelerator manipulator for controlling the output rotary speed of the prime mover. The brake system can cause a resistance against the rotation of the CVT output shaft using the accelerator manipulator to reduce, the output rotary speed of the prime mover to make the CVT function as the clutch-disengagement action.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2013
    Publication date: April 10, 2014
    Applicant: Kanzaki Kokyukoki Mfg. Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Michio Tsukamoto, Masaru Iida
  • Patent number: 8571774
    Abstract: One disclosed embodiment relates to a propulsion system for a machine. The propulsion system may include a prime mover operatively connected through a continuously variable transmission to a propulsion device. The propulsion system may also include propulsion-system controls that control an operating parameter of the continuously variable transmission, which may include adjusting the operating parameter based on operator input. Controlling the operating parameter may also include determining an adjustment limit for the operating parameter based on one or more operating conditions and applying the adjustment limit to the operating parameter to modify at least one of acceleration and jerk of the machine based on the one or more operating conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Kristofor Lee Dahl, Brian Douglas Hoff, Richard George Ingram, Michael Anthony Spielman, Jr., Benjamin B. Schmuck, Alberto Martinez, Jr., Yaang Zhao
  • Patent number: 8565994
    Abstract: A hill start assistance method for a vehicle held in a stationary position by a braking system supplying a braking pressure, the braking system connected to a master cylinder controlled by a pressure transmitted by a user via a brake pedal. The method includes, upon detection of the release of pressure from the brake pedal by a pressure sensor: triggering a time-out; calculating a minimum pressure for holding the vehicle in a stationary position; and adjusting the braking pressure using the braking system such as to reduce the braking pressure in the braking system progressively. The system acts as a pressure regulator, and at the end of the time-out at the latest, the braking pressure is equal to a target pressure that is at least equal to the minimum pressure for holding the vehicle stationary.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Renault s.a.s.
    Inventor: Mickael Mallet
  • Patent number: 8545368
    Abstract: A method regulates a machine having a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and service brakes in a manner to reduce power transmission through the applied brakes. The method utilizes an unaltered torque-to-speed curve that relates the torque output to the speed output of the CVT. An under-run curve may be applied to the torque-to-speed curve and that corresponds to a target speed. The method may receive an operator input signal indicative of a braking event. In response, the method may shift the torque-to-speed curve to limit the output torque available. The method may also adjust the under-run curve in a manner that maintains correspondence with the target speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin Davis, Adam Nackers
  • Patent number: 8483945
    Abstract: A system for a vehicle that executes a method to reduce the energy absorbed by the vehicle due to a collision, the method including actively decelerating the vehicle when it is determined that a collision with an object is possible, terminating active deceleration to allow the vehicle to move forward when it is determined that a collision with the object is inevitable just before the collision, and allowing the vehicle to make contact with the object and move generally in an opposite direction after the vehicle makes contact with the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Inventor: Richie Herink
  • Patent number: 8321105
    Abstract: One disclosed embodiment relates to a propulsion system for a machine. The propulsion system may include a prime mover operatively connected through a continuously variable transmission to a propulsion device. The propulsion system may also include propulsion-system controls that control an operating parameter of the continuously variable transmission, which may include adjusting the operating parameter based on operator input. Controlling the operating parameter may also include determining an adjustment limit for the operating parameter based on one or more operating conditions and applying the adjustment limit to the operating parameter to modify at least one of acceleration and jerk of the machine based on the one or more operating conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Kristofor Lee Dahl, Brian Douglas Hoff, Richard George Ingram, Michael Anthony Spielman, Jr., Benjamin B. Schmuck, Alberto Martinez, Jr., Yaang Zhao
  • Publication number: 20120264566
    Abstract: A vehicle and a method for controlling the vehicle are capable of preventing slip of a belt of a continuously variable transmission at an appropriate timing. A control unit included in the vehicle includes a state information obtaining unit that obtains information indicating a state of a torque damping mechanism provided on a torque transmission path between a second pulley of a continuously variable transmission and a drive wheel, and a clamping force changing processing unit that changes the clamping forces of the first pulley of the continuously variable transmission and the second pulley, based on the state of the torque damping mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2010
    Publication date: October 18, 2012
    Applicant: YAMAHA HATSUDOKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Hideyuki Fujita
  • Patent number: 8249785
    Abstract: A control apparatus for a vehicular automatic transmission which has a plurality of coupling elements selectively released and engaged to perform shifting actions, the control apparatus including a shift control portion configured to control at least one specially controlled coupling element which is included in the coupling elements provided to perform the shifting actions of the automatic transmission and which is placed in a fully released state prior and subsequent to the shifting action performed according to a presently generated shifting command, the shift control portion controlling each specially controlled coupling element so as to enable the specially controlled coupling element to have a torque capacity during the shifting action performed according to the presently generated shifting command.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Takaaki Tokura, Hideaki Otsubo
  • Patent number: 8226528
    Abstract: A shift controller for an automatic transmission mechanism is configured such that when the engine is in a driven state in which the engine is driven by a travel inertia force or the like and an accumulated pressure amount of the accumulator is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, the excessive engine brake force, which is generated due to the accumulation of at least a portion of the hydraulic pressure generated from the mechanical hydraulic pump in the accumulator, is inhibited or reduced by conducting upshifting that relatively decreases the gear ratio of the automatic transmission mechanism. Therefore, the generation of the excessive engine brake force can be inhibited or reduced even when the engine is in the driven state and pressure accumulation is performed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Takahiro Yokokawa, Yuji Hattori, Shinya Fujimura, Takaho Kawakami
  • Patent number: 8060283
    Abstract: A leader location-determining receiver determines a leader location of a lead vehicle. A follower location-determining receiver determines a follower location of a follower vehicle, which has a container for storing a material. A data processor or position module calculates an observed relative position between the lead vehicle and the follower vehicle. Target relative positions are established between the lead vehicle and the follower vehicle. A data processor or selector selects a preferential one of the established target positions. A data processor or adjuster adjusts the observed relative position of the follower vehicle to achieve the selected preferential one of the established target positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Cameron Ray Mott, Andrew Karl Wilhem Rekow
  • Patent number: 7862470
    Abstract: A speed change control device carries out speed change control of a stepless speed change mechanism in accordance with the vehicle speed. The speed change control device includes: first vehicle speed selection means for comparing a first vehicle speed obtained from the rotation speed of an output member 26 of the stepless speed change mechanism and a second vehicle speed obtained from the rotation speed of the wheels and for selecting the lower of the first and second vehicle speeds as the substitute vehicle speed; and second vehicle speed selection means for comparing the third vehicle speed obtained from the output side rotation speed of a clutch mechanism and the substitute vehicle speed, and for selecting the higher of the third vehicle speed and the substitute vehicle speed as the control vehicle speed. The control vehicle speed is used as the vehicle speed V for carrying out speed change control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takahiro Eguchi, Takeshi Kurata, Yuichiro Takemori, Yasuhiro Hara
  • Publication number: 20100210413
    Abstract: A shift controller for an automatic transmission mechanism is configured such that when the engine is in a driven state in which the engine is driven by a travel inertia force or the like and an accumulated pressure amount of the accumulator is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, the excessive engine brake force, which is generated due to the accumulation of at least a portion of the hydraulic pressure generated from the mechanical hydraulic pump in the accumulator, is inhibited or reduced by conducting upshifting that relatively decreases the gear ratio of the automatic transmission mechanism. Therefore, the generation of the excessive engine brake force can be inhibited or reduced even when the engine is in the driven state and pressure accumulation is performed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2010
    Publication date: August 19, 2010
    Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Takahiro YOKOKAWA, Yuji Hattori, Shinya Fujimura, Takaho Kawakami
  • Publication number: 20100087993
    Abstract: A vehicle is described having a continuously variable transmission by means of which torque is transmitted from an engine to drive wheels of the vehicle, a braking system for applying a braking force to the drive wheels and a controller for setting the transmission ratio of the transmission in such a manner as to maintain a desired speed of the drive wheels or of the engine. In the invention means are provided for applying to the controller a signal indicative of the engine applied torque, and means for supplying to the controller a signal to indicate application of wheel brakes. The controller is operative when the brakes are applied to discontinue setting the transmission ratio in dependence upon the speed of the drive wheels and to set the transmission ratio instead in such a manner as to minimise the absolute value of the engine output torque or the torque transmitted through the transmission or to follow a desired torque setpoint.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2009
    Publication date: April 8, 2010
    Inventors: Francesco Roli, Eugenio Sereni, Riccardo Morselli
  • Publication number: 20090239706
    Abstract: A work vehicle includes a hydraulic stepless speed changing apparatus and a gear type speed changing apparatus operable to receive output from the hydraulic stepless speed changing apparatus to convert it into a plurality of stages of speed. A return oil passage connected to a high-pressure side circuit of the hydraulic stepless speed changing apparatus is connected to a hydraulic tank. The return oil passage incorporates an unload valve and a throttle valve, between which an operably coupling mechanism is provided. This operably coupling mechanism switches over the unload valve to an unload condition in response to an operational displacement of a brake operating member for operating a brake to its braking side.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2008
    Publication date: September 24, 2009
    Applicant: KUBOTA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yuuki Ishida, Hiroshi Shimada, Koji Nada, Masaru Nakaji, Hiroki Bessho, Masatake Murakawa, Yasunobu Nakatani
  • Patent number: 7563194
    Abstract: There is described a controller for motor vehicle drive train comprising an engine and a continuously variable ratio transmission providing geared neutral, the controller serving to set demands for wheel torque and engine speed in dependence upon a driver input, characterised in that the controller is adapted to respond to input from the driver indicative of a requirement for an engine speed increase prior to vehicle launch by raising engine speed while implementing a reduced wheel torque strategy, and to subsequently raise wheel torque following input from the vehicle driver by which launch is initiated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Assignee: Torotak (Development) Limited
    Inventor: Stephen William Murray
  • Publication number: 20090143190
    Abstract: A transmission system includes a power transmission mechanism mounted on a chassis of an all-terrain van and front and rear wheel mechanism mounted on the chassis of the all-terrain van. The power transmission mechanism includes an engine mounted on the chassis in a transverse direction of the chassis. The engine includes a continuously variable transmission system and an output shaft extending toward the rear wheel mechanism. The power transmission mechanism further includes a transmission shaft extending between the engine and the rear wheel mechanism. The transmission shaft includes a first end in direct coupling with the output shaft of the engine and a second end coupled with a gearbox of the rear wheel mechanism such that output of the engine drives the output shaft, the transmission shaft, and the rear wheel mechanism. Thus, the transmission loss is reduced, and the transmission efficiency is enhanced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2007
    Publication date: June 4, 2009
    Inventor: Yin-Hsin Chen
  • Patent number: 7540825
    Abstract: A drive system of a working vehicle including a main engine drivingly connected to a hydraulic pump. The hydraulic pump is connected to first and second hydraulic motors. When an undesirable operating condition is detected, a control device shifts an actuator associated with at least one of the wheels, to reduce the displacement volume of the hydraulic motors driving that wheel. In addition, shifts are made in the actuator of the respective other hydraulic motor and/or in the actuator of the hydraulic pump, in order to maintain a constant speed of travel. The control device shifts the actuator of the hydraulic motor of the other wheel toward greater displacement, and if that shift is insufficient to compensate for the undesirable operating condition, the control device will shift the actuator of the hydraulic pump in the direction of reduced displacement volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2009
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventor: Jürgen Hofer
  • Publication number: 20090133951
    Abstract: A hydrostatically driven vehicle has an engine operating a variable displacement propel pump, a displacement of which can vary based on an angle of a rotating swashplate, such that a fluid flow impelled by the pump transfers power to at least one propel motor rotating a wheel of the vehicle. An electronic controller of the vehicle senses an operating parameter of the system, for example, the angle of the rotating swashplate or the direction and speed of rotation of the propel motor with a sensor to yield an actual signal, and relays the actual signal to an electronic controller. The controller determines a desired angle for the rotating swashplate based on the control signal, and compares it to the actual signal from the sensor. Motion of the vehicle is stalled when the angle signal differs from the desired angle by a predetermined extent and for a predetermined period.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2007
    Publication date: May 28, 2009
    Applicant: CATERPILLAR PAVING PRODUCTS INC.
    Inventors: Eric J. Schultz, John Marsolek, Corwin E. Storer
  • Publication number: 20090131216
    Abstract: A vehicle drive unit control system. The vehicle includes a prime mover arranged on a power transmission route from a continuously variable transmission to a wheel, a clutch mechanism arranged on a first route from the prime mover to the wheel, and a shift range or shift position can be shifted selectively between a drive range or drive position where a power can be transmitted through the first route and a non-drive range or non-drive position where a power cannot be transmitted through the first route. The control system includes a vehicle speed control demand judging mechanism judging a vehicle speed control demand in case of shifting the shift range or shift position from the non-drive range or non-drive position to the drive range or drive position; and a prime mover controller controlling torque of the prime mover based on the judged vehicle speed control demand.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2006
    Publication date: May 21, 2009
    Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Tooru Matsubara, Takashi Ohta, Hideaki Komada, Yukihiko Ideshio, Hiroyuki Shibata
  • Patent number: 7469178
    Abstract: A deceleration control apparatus and method for a vehicle, which performs deceleration control on the vehicle by an operation of a brake system which applies a braking force to the vehicle and a shift operation which shifts a transmission of the vehicle into a relatively low speed or speed ratio, performs the shift operation and the operation of the brake system such that a target deceleration set based on a curvature or curvature radius of a curve in a road ahead of the vehicle, a distance to the curve, and a vehicle speed, acts on the vehicle. As a result, a desired deceleration according to the distance to the curve is able to be applied to the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2008
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Kazuyuki Shiiba, Kunihiro Iwatsuki
  • Publication number: 20080295507
    Abstract: The invention relates to a drive with an energy recovery and retarder function. The drive (1) comprises a hydrostatic piston engine (12) which is connected to an accumulator (16) for storing pressure energy and to a pressure limiting valve (19) for generating a braking action. Arranged downstream of the pressure limiting valve (19) is a cooler (45). The drive (1) also comprises a hydraulic motor (35) for driving a cooler fan (33), wherein the hydraulic motor (35) is acted on with a pressure medium which is delivered by the hydrostatic piston engine (12).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2006
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Applicant: BOSCH REXROTH AG
    Inventors: Matthias Mueller, Steffen Mutschler, Martin Behm
  • Patent number: 7400964
    Abstract: In a deceleration control method for a vehicle, by which deceleration control of the vehicle is performed based on a distance between the vehicle had an obstacle including a preceding vehicle ahead of the vehicle, a target deceleration at which the vehicle is to be decelerated is obtained based on the distance; a speed or speed ratio that will apply a deceleration equal to, or less than, the target deceleration to the vehicle is selected as the speed or speed ratio of a transmission of the vehicle during a shift operation; and the deceleration control is executed by an operation of a brake system which applies a braking force to the vehicle and a shift operation which shifts the transmission of the vehicle into a relatively low speed or speed ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2008
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Kazuyuki Shiiba, Kunihiro Iwatsuki
  • Patent number: 7035727
    Abstract: The present invention provides in one embodiment a method for controlling vehicle creep control. Measurements are received from a brake pedal sensor, where the measurements are indicative of a brake pedal travel. A target creep speed value is derived based on the measurements of creep speed and the brake pedal travel. A request for wheel torque is derived based on the target creep speed. There is a determination of the difference between a measurement of vehicle creep speed and the target creep speed value. The request for wheel torque is adjusted, if the target creep speed is not equivalent to the vehicle creep speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Assignee: Visteon Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen De La Salle, Mathew Breton, Rongjun Zhang, Michael Larsen
  • Patent number: 6929579
    Abstract: A motor vehicle drive arrangement including a motor and a stepless automatic transmission for driving drive wheels has a normal operating mode for normal driving operation and a brake engagement operating mode for a situation of excessive slip of a drive wheel. During the brake engagement operating mode, strong fluctuations of the transmission ratio could arise, or the vehicle might drive with a low motor torque but a high drive rotational speed, which are uncomfortable for the driver. To increase driving comfort, a normal motor torque value is prescribed in the normal operating mode, and in the brake engagement operating mode the motor torque is reduced to an actual motor torque value. A difference torque is determined between the normal and actual motor torque values. A maximum desired nominal drive rotational speed is varied dependent on the difference torque.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2005
    Assignee: Conti Temic microelectronic GmbH
    Inventors: Oswin Roeder, Horst Wild
  • Patent number: 6842684
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for controlling a braking system of a vehicle that is moving toward an object. The apparatus includes a vehicle speed (VS) sensor, a steering direction (SD) sensor, at least one sensor configured to provide a distance to the object (DTO) and a processor in operable communication with the braking system and configured to receive the VS, the SD and DTO. The processor is further configured to determine a projected vehicle path (PVP) and a minimum stopping distance (MSD) for the vehicle based at least in part on the VS and the SD, determine whether the object is in the PVP and whether the DTO is less than or equal a threshold distance (TD), determine a required deceleration (RD) for the braking system to substantially reduce the vehicle speed if the object is in the PVP and the DTO is less than or equal the threshold distance (TD), and communicate the RD to the braking system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Alexander Kade, William J. Chundrlik, Jr., Richard K. Deering, Osman D. Altan
  • Patent number: 6666793
    Abstract: A controller calculates a target speed ratio of a continuously variable transmission incorporated into an infinitely variable transmission for a vehicle and a target vehicle speed according to a vehicle running state. When a predetermined creep torque limiting condition holds, the controller limits the target vehicle speed such that the difference between the target vehicle speed and the real vehicle speed is within a predetermined range. By controlling the speed ratio of the continuously variable transmission such that this difference diminishes, the infinitely variable transmission generates a creep torque consistent with the intention of the driver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2003
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yasushi Narita, Yoshinori Iwasaki, Tatsuya Nagato
  • Publication number: 20030224904
    Abstract: A power transmission device which interrupts torque transmission when the torque exceeds a predetermined torque. A torque limiter includes projections formed on a center hub and a pulley. The center hub includes bridges that transmit torque by a pulling force. When a preset torque limit is reached, the projections on the center hub make contact with and move along slanted faces so as to move the center hub in an axial direction relative to the pulley. The bridges are thereby subjected to a bending moment in addition to the pulling force when the torque exceeds the preset torque level, so that the bridges break precisely above the preset torque level due to the reduced fatigue limit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2003
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventors: Michiyasu Nosaka, Kiyoshi Kurohata
  • Patent number: 6612965
    Abstract: When an engine control unit (70) controls an engine rotation speed Ne to an idle rotation speed, and a select range is changed over from a non-travel range to a travel range, a speed change control unit (80) commands an increase of engine torque supplied to the engine control unit (70), and increases the transmission torque of a continuously variable transmission (2) according to the increase amount of the engine torque.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masayuki Yasuoka, Hiromasa Sakai
  • Patent number: 6609994
    Abstract: In braking/driving force controlling apparatus and method for an automotive vehicle, a state discriminating section discriminates between a parking state in which a manipulation for the vehicle to be parked is carried out and a non-parking state in which no manipulation for the vehicle to be parked is carried out, a controller detects a manipulated variable of a manual input section, generates a constant target vehicle speed corresponding to the detected manipulated variable in a case where the state discriminating section discriminates the parking state, calculates a vehicular braking/driving force for a present vehicle speed to become the target vehicle speed, and controls the vehicular braking/driving force on the basis of the calculated braking/driving force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2003
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Itsuro Muramoto
  • Patent number: 6604039
    Abstract: The trunnion (23) of a vehicle toroidal continuously variable transmission is displaced by a step motor (52) via a control valve (56) and oil pressure servo cylinder (50) in order to vary a speed ratio of the transmission. A controller (80) calculates a target value (z*) of a control variable (z) based on an accelerator pedal depression amount (APS) and output disk rotation speed (&ohgr;co) (S5). Further, a time-variant coefficient (f) showing the relation between the trunnion displacement (y) and variation rate ({dot over (&phgr;)}) of the gyration angle (&phgr;) of the power roller, is calculated (S10). The error between the speed change response of the transmission and a target linear characteristic can be decreased by determining a command value (u) to the step motor (52) under a control gain determined based on a time differential ({dot over (f)}) of the coefficient (f) (S20).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2003
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shinichiro Joe, Taketoshi Kawabe, Itsuro Muramoto
  • Publication number: 20030130088
    Abstract: A control system for a transmission comprising a torque converter or a hydrodynamic clutch in a motor vehicle, at least one torque-conducting clutch or brake in the starting operation of the motor vehicle. It is proposed to regulate the starting power of the motor vehicle as function of a driver's wish, via a slip clutch or brake mounted in the transmission, taking into account parameters of the torque converter and/or the hydrodynamic clutch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2002
    Publication date: July 10, 2003
    Inventor: Peter Schiele
  • Publication number: 20020115529
    Abstract: A controller (80) calculates a target speed ratio of a continuously variable transmission (2) incorporated into an infinitely variable transmission for a vehicle and a target vehicle speed according to a vehicle running state. When a predetermined creep torque limiting condition holds (S90-S93, S101), the controller (80) limit the target vehicle speed such that the difference between the target vehicle speed and the real vehicle speed is within a predetermined range. By controlling the speed ratio of the continuously variable transmission (2) such that this difference diminishes (S138, S139, S180-S186), the infinitely variable transmission generates a creep torque consistent with the intention of the driver.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2002
    Publication date: August 22, 2002
    Applicant: NISSAN MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yasushi Narita, Yoshinori Iwasaki, Tatsuya Nagato
  • Patent number: 6418369
    Abstract: A road surface friction coefficient estimating apparatus is provided for estimating a road surface friction coefficient of a vehicle that is traveling at a steady state. The road surface friction coefficient estimating apparatus basically has a driving/braking force controller, a driving force controller, a braking force controller (brake fluid pressure controller), a plurality of wheel velocity sensors, a wheel load sensor and a control unit. The driving/braking force controller sets a pre-selected force to be generated and calculates the road surface friction coefficient. The driving force controller generates a driving force in accordance with the pre-selected force. The braking force controller generates a braking force in accordance with the pre-selected force. The wheel velocity sensors produce a wheel velocity signal indicative of a wheel velocity. The wheel load detecting sensor produces a wheel load signal indicative of a wheel load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2002
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shinji Matsumoto, Takeshi Kimura, Taku Takahama, Hiromitsu Toyota
  • Patent number: 6408239
    Abstract: The proposal is for a process for controlling a CVT of the bevel-pulley-belt type in which, on the occurrence of a wheel-locking drive situation, a converter bridging clutch is disengaged and at the same time a forward or reverse drive clutch is disengaged. The pressure level of the secondary pulley (3) is hereby raised and the transmission ratio of the CVT is changed in accordance with a predeterminable transmission ratio change and a predeterminable gradient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2002
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Holger Bacher, Dirk Clausen
  • Patent number: 6349253
    Abstract: A system for controlling downhill vehicle operation includes an electronically actuatable engine compression brake unit associated with an internal combustion engine, an electronically controllable turbocharger boost pressure adjustment device, electronically actuatable service brakes and a transmission including a number of automatically selectable gear ratios, wherein each of these components are coupled to a control computer. In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, the control computer is operable to detect a potential runaway vehicle condition and control any one or combination of engine compression brake activity, turbocharger boost pressure, service brake activity and automatic transmission shifting to thereby provide for a controlled descent down a negative grade and thereby prevent a runaway vehicle condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2002
    Assignee: Cummins Engine, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven M. Bellinger
  • Publication number: 20010041644
    Abstract: When an engine control unit (70) controls an engine rotation speed Ne to an idle rotation speed, and a select range is changed over from a non-travel range to a travel range, a speed change control unit (80) commands an increase of engine torque supplied to the engine control unit (70), and increases the transmission torque of a continuously variable transmission (2) according to the increase amount of the engine torque.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventors: Masayuki Yasuoka, Hiromasa Sakai
  • Patent number: 6282954
    Abstract: The invention is based on a system for changing a signal representing rotational motion in a motor vehicle with first means for generating a first signal representing the rotational motion and a second means for generating at least one second signal representing additional information (direction of rotation, air gap, and/or brake lining wear). In addition, a third means is provided, by means of which the first signal (rotational speed signal) can be changed as a function of the second signal (direction of rotation, air gap, and/or brake lining wear). The essence of the invention is that the first means is designed in such a way that the first signal (rotational speed signal) assumes at least two first current values and/or two first voltage values.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Karl Ott, Michael Lehner, Michael Walther, Thomas Schneider
  • Patent number: 6177773
    Abstract: A regeneration control device for a hybrid vehicle includes an internal combustion engine, driving wheels drivable by the internal combustion engine, a motor for additionally supplying electric power for driving the driving wheels, a transmission between the engine, motor and driving wheels and an accumulator for supplying electric power to the motor, which causes the motor to work, while braking the vehicle, as a generator whose output is returned to the accumulator which in turn stores electric energy regenerated depending upon the deceleration degree.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2001
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Kenji Nakano, Shigetaka Kuroda, Teruo Wakashiro
  • Patent number: 6095942
    Abstract: In a continuously variable transmission, a speed change control device includes a vehicle speed sensor, a brake sensor, a release vehicle speed memory which, when the brake is operated, renews and stores the brake release vehicle speed, and a gradient sensor for detecting a running road gradient. When, in an engine brake running state, the present vehicle speed is higher than the brake release vehicle speed stored in the release vehicle speed memory, a speed change target value is obtained according to the difference between the present vehicle speed and the brake release vehicle speed and to the road gradient. And, when, in the same state, the present vehicle speed is lower than the brake release vehicle speed, the speed change target value is obtained according to the road gradient. The speed change control is carried out so as to obtain the speed change target value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2000
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Masaaki Yamaguchi, Eiji Kitsutaka, Daihei Teshima, Hirotoshi Inoue
  • Patent number: 6063004
    Abstract: A control apparatus and control method for an engine powertrain of a vehicle including a CVT type automatic transmission and a lean burn engine. The control apparatus is designed to compute an engine torque in a stoichiometric area or a lean burn area, calculate an output torque from a present transmission ratio and a present torque ratio, calculate a transmission ratio change so that the output torque approximates a target torque, and vary the transmission ratio. With this configuration, shock due to steps in the output torque can be prevented to obtain a comfortable acceleration feeling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Assignees: Hitachi, Ltd., Hitachi Car Engineering Co.
    Inventors: Masahiko Ibamoto, Hiroshi Kuroiwa, Kazuhiko Sato, Toshimichi Minowa
  • Patent number: 5722500
    Abstract: An apparatus for controlling a continuously variable transmission for use with an automotive vehicle. The transmission is operable at a variable speed ratio for transmitting a drive from its input shaft to its output shaft. A target value for the speed of rotation of the input shaft of the transmission is calculated based on the sensed vehicle operating conditions including vehicle acceleration. A correction factor per predetermined unit time is calculated based on the sensed vehicle acceleration when the sensed vehicle acceleration exceeds a threshold value with the accelerator pedal released. The correction factor is added to the target input shaft speed value to correct the target input shaft speed value in an increasing direction at intervals of the predetermined unit time. The threshold value is decreased as the vehicle speed increases. The speed ratio is controlled to bring the input shaft speed into coincidence with the corrected target value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1998
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Nobusuke Toukura, Shojiro Sato, Takayoshi Nabeta, Tadayuki Akiyama
  • Patent number: 5646841
    Abstract: A control system for use with an electronically-controlled automatic transmission provides for accurate determination of a full stop of a vehicle. The control system includes a device for computing the vehicle speed on the basis of a signal from a vehicle speed sensor, a device for determining whether or not the brake pedal is depressed, a device for computing deceleration from a first predetermined vehicle speed to a second predetermined, extremely low vehicle speed when the brake has been determined to be depressed, and a device for determining an estimated vehicle stop time starting with detection of the extremely low vehicle speed and ending with full stop of the vehicle, the estimated vehicle stop time corresponding to the above-computed deceleration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 8, 1997
    Assignee: Aisin AW Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Suzuki, Shinichi Matsui, Takahiro Yamashita
  • Patent number: 5435795
    Abstract: A vehicle drivetrain control system reduces the torque of a clutch to a desired level determined as a function of the engine speed during a predetermined period of time initiated by depression of a foot brake. The function is representative of torque versus engine speed characteristic of the drivetrain during coasting operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 25, 1995
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Nobuaki Mochizuki, Hirofumi Okahara, Seiji Kaminaga
  • Patent number: RE37598
    Abstract: An apparatus for controlling a continuously variable transmission for use with an automotive vehicle. The transmission is operable at a variable speed ratio for transmitting a drive from its input shaft to its output shaft. A target value for the speed of rotation of the input shaft of the transmission is calculated based on the sensed vehicle operating conditions including vehicle acceleration. A correction factor per predetermined unit time is calculated based on the sensed vehicle acceleration when the sensed vehicle acceleration exceeds a threshold value with the accelerator pedal released. The correction factor is added to the target input shaft speed value to correct the target input shaft speed value in an increasing direction at intervals of the predetermined unit time. The threshold value is decreased as the vehicle speed increases. The speed ratio is controlled to bring the input shaft speed into coincidence with the corrected target value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2002
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Nobusuke Toukura, Shojiro Sato, Takayoshi Nabeta, Tadayuki Akiyama