Control Of Transmission Torque Patents (Class 701/87)
  • Patent number: 8239122
    Abstract: A method is described for operating an engine of a vehicle, the engine having a combustion chamber. The method may include controlling a stability of the vehicle in response to a vehicle acceleration; and adjusting spark timing in the combustion chamber of the engine in response to a knock indication, and further adjusting spark timing in response to the vehicle acceleration to reduce surge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Thomas G. Leone, Ralph Wayne Cunningham, Eric Tseng, Davor David Hrovat, Mrdjan J. Jankovic, Diana Yanakiev
  • Patent number: 8229639
    Abstract: A system and method for stability control of a vehicle. The system and method can receive current vehicle operating data or signals as well as data or a signal from a traction control subsystem. Based on the received current vehicle operating data or signals data or a signal from a traction control subsystem, the system and method define one of a brake-based stability control subsystem and a torque management-based stability control subsystem as the dominant stability control system. Based on the stability control subsystem defined as the dominant stability control system, the system and method provide stability control for the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventors: William C Craig, Richard S Stevens, Thomas D'Onofrio, David Shivy, Charles Disaverio
  • Patent number: 8224537
    Abstract: A clutch temperature prediction module for a dual clutch transmission (DCT) includes at least one clutch slip power module that determines a first clutch slip power of a first clutch and a second clutch slip power of a second clutch. A temperature calculation module receives the first clutch slip power, the second clutch slip power, an ambient air temperature, an engine oil temperature, and a transmission oil temperature, and calculates at least one clutch plate temperature and a clutch housing temperature based on the first clutch slip power, the second clutch slip power, the ambient air temperature, the engine oil temperature, and the transmission oil temperature using a linear time-invariant (LTI) model.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Inventors: Markus Olsson, Ulf Gimbergsson
  • Patent number: 8214114
    Abstract: An internal combustion engine is mechanically coupled to a hybrid transmission to transmit mechanical power to an output member. A method for controlling the internal combustion engine includes determining an accelerator output torque request based upon an operator input to the accelerator pedal, and determining an axle torque response type. A preferred input torque from the engine to the hybrid transmission is determined based upon the accelerator output torque request. An allowable range of input torque from the engine which can be reacted with the hybrid transmission is determined based upon the accelerator output torque request and the axle torque response type. The engine is controlled to meet the preferred input torque when the preferred input torque is within the allowable range of input torque from the engine. The engine is controlled within the allowable range of input torque from the engine when the preferred input torque is outside the allowable range of input torques from the engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignees: GM Global Technology Operations LLC, Daimler AG, Chrysler Group LLC, Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Anthony H. Heap, Wilfried Brunssen
  • Patent number: 8204669
    Abstract: The present device relates to a method for regulating the driving dynamics of a vehicle, in which at least one wheel of the vehicle is acted upon by a torque on the basis of control of a clutch transmitting a torque to the wheel and/or on the basis of control of a differential distributing torque to the wheel and at least to one other wheel. The method is characterized in that a value of the torque is determined as a function of a first and a second value of a yaw moment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Assignee: Continental Teves AG & Co. OHG
    Inventors: Ulrich Lüders, Rainer Oehler, Thomas Raste, Hubertus Raitz von Frentz
  • Patent number: 8200404
    Abstract: A method for controlling wheel-hop in a vehicle driveline includes detecting that a wheel-hop condition occurs upon determining an amplitude and frequency of speed oscillations of a component that transmits power to wheels of the driveline, engaging a transmission friction clutch that transmits torque in the driveline between an engine and the wheels, and modulating requested engine torque.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Jianping Zhang, Joseph F. Kucharski, Charles W. Suter, Daniel T. Lin, David M. Dillon, Michael J. O'Day, Nicholas J. Witte
  • Patent number: 8200408
    Abstract: A method for active traction control of a vehicle can be performed to optimize corner exiting performance of a vehicle that is operating in a high performance or racing environment. The method estimates a real-time tire traction value during operation of the vehicle, computes a remaining tire traction value based upon a comparison of the estimated real-time tire traction value to a total available tire traction value, and calculates a traction system torque limit from the remaining tire traction value. The calculated torque limit can then be used to limit the actual traction system torque of the vehicle as needed in a real-time manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Michael P. Turski, Charles M. Tomlinson
  • Patent number: 8180549
    Abstract: A method of controlling a clutch in a motor vehicle and a motor vehicle adapted to perform this method are suggested, in particular resulting in a good starting phase action for supercharged diesel motors. The method comprises the method steps of: setting a clutch torque that is transmitted by a clutch by a plurality of clutch characteristics; determining by a respective clutch characteristic the clutch torque for a particular motor load depending on the rotational speed of the motor; dividing the clutch characteristics into a low speed range and into a full load range; increasing within the low speed range at a constant rotational speed of the motor the transmitted clutch torque with increasing the motor load; and transmitting in the full load range in comparison to the low speed range lower clutch torques at the same rotational speed of the motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Getrag Ford Transmissions GmbH
    Inventors: Martin Leibbrandt, Harald Schmitz
  • Patent number: 8180536
    Abstract: During control of a shift of a first friction engagement element from an engaged state into a disengaged state and a shift of a second friction engagement element from a disengaged state into an engaged state for a gear shift to a first target gear from a second target gear, a desired torque capacity of the first friction engagement element is set based on an actual transmission gear ratio by interpolation from values of the desired torque capacity corresponding to at least first and second reference transmission gear ratios, wherein the first reference transmission gear ratio is a transmission gear ratio at start of an inertia phase of the shift control. When the first reference transmission gear ratio is between the actual transmission gear ratio and the second reference transmission gear ratio, the desired torque capacity is set to the value corresponding to the first reference transmission gear ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Jatco Ltd
    Inventors: Masami Suzuki, Goh Endo
  • Patent number: 8165772
    Abstract: A method of managing slip in a transmission that is driven by a prime mover includes determining whether a slip condition of the transmission is present based on a slip value and reducing a torque output of the prime mover based on a torque reduction value when the slip condition is present. The method further includes storing the torque reduction value in an array if the slip condition is resolved as a result of the step of reducing and identifying a faulty component within the transmission based on the array.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Inventor: Todd J. Thor
  • Patent number: 8150589
    Abstract: A dynamic model that is configured to produce a lockup clutch command as a function of a plurality of torque converter operating parameters is continually solved and the lockup clutch command is asserted to control engagement of the lockup clutch. A profile of one of the plurality of torque converter operating parameters is selected and is configured, when inserted into the model in place of an actual value thereof, to result in an intersection of rotational speeds of the pump and the turbine over time. Deceleration of the pump is monitored after asserting the lockup clutch command and a maximum deceleration of the pump is determined therefrom. The selected profile is temporarily held constant if the monitored deceleration of the pump rises at least a threshold value above the maximum deceleration of the pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: Allison Transmission, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey K. Runde
  • Patent number: 8131441
    Abstract: In at least one embodiment, a device for controlling an amount of torque generated by a powertrain in a vehicle is provided. The controller is configured to receive a driver status signal indicative of the status of the driver, a driver condition signal indicative of the driving conditions of the vehicle, and a driver mode signal indicative of the driving mode of the vehicle. The controller is further configured to control the powertrain to adjust the amount of torque that is generated based on the driver status signal, the driver condition signal, and the driver mode signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Venkatapathi Raju Nallapa, Fazal Urrahman Syed, Ming Lang Kuang, Anthony Mark Phillips
  • Patent number: 8121765
    Abstract: A method to control an electro-mechanical transmission mechanically-operatively coupled to an internal combustion engine and first and second electric machines to transmit power to an output member includes determining motor torque constraints and battery power constraints. A preferred output torque to an output member is determined that is achievable within the motor torque constraints and is achievable within a range for a first torque input and is achievable within a range for a second torque input and is based upon the battery power constraints.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Assignees: GM Global Technology Operations LLC, Daimler AG, Chrysler LLC, Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Tung-Ming Hsieh, Anthony H. Heap
  • Patent number: 8116951
    Abstract: A transmission has an input member and an output member, first and second intermediate shafts having substantially identical gear sets with gears concentric with and selectively connectable for rotation with the first and second intermediate shafts, respectively. Output gears are concentric with and rotatable with the output member and mesh with the substantially identical gear sets. First and second torque-transmitting devices are operable for transmitting torque from the input member to the first and second intermediate shafts, respectively. Torque-transmitting mechanisms are mounted concentric with, rotatable about and selectively engagable with the gears mounted on the intermediate shafts. A controller is operatively connected to the torque-transmitting mechanisms and to at least one of the torque-transmitting devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventor: Alan G. Holmes
  • Publication number: 20120022761
    Abstract: A traction control system in vehicle comprises a detector for detecting a monitored value which changes according to a degree of a drive wheel slip; a condition determiner for determining whether or not the monitored value meets a control start condition and whether or not the monitored value meets a control termination condition; and a controller for executing traction control to reduce a driving power of the drive wheel during a period of time from when the condition determiner determines that the monitored value meets the control start condition until the condition determiner determines that the monitored value meets the control termination condition; the condition determiner being configured to set at least the control start condition variably based on a slip determination factor which changes according to a vehicle state and such that the control start condition changes more greatly according to the vehicle state than the control termination condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2011
    Publication date: January 26, 2012
    Applicant: KAWASAKI JUKOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Yoshimoto Matsuda
  • Patent number: 8099220
    Abstract: A powertrain control includes monitoring map preview information, determining a road gradient factor based upon the map preview information, and adapting a transmission shift schedule based upon the road gradient factor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Daekyun Kim, Kumaraswamy V. Hebbale, Chunhao J. Lee
  • Patent number: 8078338
    Abstract: System and method for behavior based control of an autonomous vehicle. Actuators (e.g., linkages) manipulate input devices (e.g., articulation controls and drive controls, such as a throttle lever, steering gear, tie rods, throttle, brake, accelerator, or transmission shifter) to direct the operation of the vehicle. Behaviors that characterize the operational mode of the vehicle are associated with the actuators. The behaviors include action sets ranked by priority, and the action sets include alternative actions that the vehicle can take to accomplish its task. The alternative actions are ranked by preference, and an arbiter selects the action to be performed and, optionally, modified.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: iRobot Corporation
    Inventors: Robert Todd Pack, James Allard, David S. Barrett, Misha Filippov, Selma Svendsen
  • Patent number: 8073602
    Abstract: A method for controlling an electro-mechanical transmission mechanically coupled to first and second electric machines to transmit power to an output member includes determining motor torque constraints and battery power constraints. A preferred output torque to an output member is determined that is achievable within the motor torque constraints, within a range for an additional torque input and based upon the battery power constraints.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignees: GM Global Technology Operations LLC, Daimler AG, Chrysler LLC, Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Tung-Ming Hsieh, Anthony H. Heap
  • Publication number: 20110295481
    Abstract: In a method for setting a wheel torque in a vehicle, a setpoint value for a slip-adhesion coefficient gradient for one wheel of one vehicle axle is ascertained, and the wheel torque is set in such a way that the actual value of the gradient is approximated to the setpoint value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2011
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Inventors: Ralph Boeker, Adrian Thomys, Oliver Wagner, Tobias Strauss
  • Patent number: 8058834
    Abstract: A control device for an automatic transmission includes a current detecting unit for detecting motor current. The current detecting unit has a counter for counting variation number of a rotational position signal output from a rotational position detecting unit for detecting the rotational position of a motor, and an electrical angle 180° judging unit for judging rotation of electrical angle 180° of the motor. A voltage occurring in a current detecting resistor is sampled at a timing of each integral multiple of the electrical angle of 180° judged in the electrical angle 180° judging unit, and rotation of the motor is controlled in accordance with the difference between motor target current calculated in the motor target current calculating unit and motor current.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
    Inventors: Takeru Okabe, Shiro Yonezawa, Nozomu Kamioka, Tomohisa Shoda, Masaki Horii, Yasufumi Ogawa, Osamu Ishikawa
  • Patent number: 7987035
    Abstract: An engine management system and a method of operating the same within a vehicle. The system uses a plurality of software modules one of which communicates with the vehicle engine to communicate information and additionally communicates with at least one other software module that provides information regarding auxiliary device operations and parameters such that the first software module produces an input torque curve signal for the vehicle engine. Additionally, secondary software modules are able to provide reduced power requirements signals to a plurality of auxiliary devices in order to ensure optimum fuel economy and noise reduction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2011
    Assignee: Sauer-Danfoss Inc.
    Inventors: Donald P. Nelson, Jeremy E. Nack
  • Patent number: 7973500
    Abstract: A normal revolution number calculation unit calculates a normal revolution number of a driving motor generator in every control period, based on a signal from a rotational position sensor. A moving average calculation unit calculates a moving average revolution number of the normal revolution number given in every control period. A predicted revolution number calculation unit determines whether or not the revolution number of the motor generator is in an increasing state, from the locus of the moving average revolution number. Determining that the revolution number of the motor generator is in the increasing state, the predicted revolution number calculation unit calculates a predicted revolution number based on respective moving average revolution numbers in the present and preceding control periods. The calculated predicted revolution number is set to be used as a control revolution number and output to a motor control unit and a torque command calculation unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaishi
    Inventors: Kenji Yamada, Hideaki Saida, Takuo Watanabe
  • Patent number: 7966116
    Abstract: A method for controlling dual clutch transmission with at least two partial drive trains, each arranged to be coupled with an engine by means of a clutch, in that, a first clutch of an actively operated partial drive train currently transmitting torque is opened, whereas a second clutch of the partial drive train not actively operated is closed in the already engaged gear and determining a reduction of a maximum possible lateral guiding force of at least one drive wheel and determining torque transmitted by the clutches, wherein, in the case of reduction of the maximally possible lateral guiding force below a default value and in the case that torque is transmitted by both clutches, the torque of one of the clutches is reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Assignees: LuK Lamellen und Kupplungsbau Beteiligungs KG, Getrag Getriebe-und Zahnradfabrik Hermann Hagenmeyer GmbH & Cie KG
    Inventors: Heiko Priller, Thomas Weber, Juergen Eich, Tobias Kalisch, Ralf Hettich, Marc Kramer, Martin Seufert
  • Patent number: 7957881
    Abstract: The occurrence or non-occurrence of a certain slip of a drive wheel is detected based on only a motor torque used for driving a vehicle, a brake torque, and a rotation speed of a motor computed from an output of a rotational position detection sensor. In response to detection of the occurrence of the certain slip, drive restriction of the motor is activated for slip control. The slip control is attainable by a brake system and the drive restriction of the motor. Even in the event of any failure or abnormality arising in the brake system or in the event of prohibiting traction control of the brake system in response to the driver's operation of a TRC off switch, the drive restriction of the motor accomplishes the slip control. This arrangement desirably prevents slip-induced unstable driving of the vehicle and damages of devices involved in slip control for the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Takao Itoh
  • Patent number: 7957873
    Abstract: A control method is provided including detecting transmission output speed and a forward and reverse shift request, and executing inhibit limits when the detected speed exceeds a predetermined threshold speed. The inhibit limits slow the output speed to zero upon detection of a shift request at output speeds above the threshold, with a pedal progression map executed upon reaching zero output speed. The limits approach zero output torque as vehicle speed increases, reaching zero at a relatively high speed and simulating a neutral transmission upon a detected shift request at high speed. A vehicle is also provided having a transmission, a sensor for detecting transmission output speed, a sensor for detecting a shift request, and a PCM having an algorithm and a threshold transmission output speed. The algorithm inhibits a shift event in the direction opposite that of vehicle travel upon detection when vehicle speed is greater than the threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: William R. Cawthorne, Leonard G. Wozniak
  • Patent number: 7953534
    Abstract: The invention relates to a vehicle integrated-control apparatus and method that sets a final control target by coordinating a control target primarily set based on an input of a driver with instruction values from the control systems; and that causes a drive control system to control a drive source and a stepped automatic transmission to achieve the final control target. With this apparatus and method, at least one of the control systems, which provide instruction values to be coordinated with the primarily set control target, is notified of a range of control targets that can be achieved at a current shift speed; a range of control targets that can be achieved by changing the current shift speed to a currently achievable shift speed; and a range of control targets that can be achieved without changing the current shift speed to another shift speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Seiji Kuwahara, Masato Kaigawa
  • Patent number: 7937201
    Abstract: A device delivers a torque setpoint signal applicable to the vehicle wheels of a motor vehicle including an automatic transmission. The torque setpoint signal has static and dynamic components that are set according to input data supplied by an input unit and based on a recorded list of parameters representing the driver's will, the motor vehicle state, and the environment thereof. The device includes a first unit for computing the dynamic component of a gross torque, a second unit for computing the static component of a gross torque, the second unit being connected to the output of the first unit, and a unit for adaptation to a brake situation producing the static component of the torque adapted to the braking situation according to the list of parameters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Assignee: Renault s.a.s.
    Inventors: Frédéric Roudeau, Jean Bretheau, Vincent Vermuse
  • Patent number: 7917275
    Abstract: A vehicle control method for a vehicle having an internal combustion engine coupled to a torque converter is described. In one embodiment, the engine air flow and spark are adjusted to control torque converter operation. The method can improve vehicle response to driver accelerator commands.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Jeff Doering, Brad Riedle, Rob Ciarrocchi, Scott Redmon, Hank Kwong, William Eckenrode, Frederick Page
  • Patent number: 7894969
    Abstract: A control apparatus includes a torque-boost control portion that boosts torque output from the engine, and corrects the operation amount of an adjustment mechanism that adjusts the amount of air taken into the engine to increase the amount of air during a torque phase when the automatic transmission upshifts; and an inertia-phase determination portion that determines whether an inertia phase has started. The torque-boost control portion includes a torque-boost end control portion that executes a torque-boost end control that gradually decreases a correction amount, by which the operation amount is corrected, to zero when the inertia-phase determination portion determines that the inertia phase has started.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Tomohiro Asami, Toshio Sugimura, Takaaki Tokura, Nobufusa Kobayashi
  • Patent number: 7877185
    Abstract: A device for controlling an automated transmission of a motor vehicle engine-transmission unit adapted to deliver a torque setpoint signal to be applied to wheels of the motor vehicle including two static and dynamic components produced based on input data delivered by an input unit. The input data includes a recorded list of parameters representing the driver's wishes, the motor vehicle state, and the motor vehicle surroundings. The device includes a first unit capable of calculating a dynamic torque component not adapted to a slope and/or load situation; a second unit for adaptation to the slope and/or load situation delivering a dynamic torque component adapted to the slope and/or load situation; a third unit capable of calculating a static torque component not adapted to the slope and/or load situation; and a fourth unit for adaptation to the slope and/or load situation delivering a static torque component adapted to the slope and/or load situation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: Renault S.A.S.
    Inventors: Frederic Roudeau, Jean Bretheau, Vincent Vermuse
  • Patent number: 7853386
    Abstract: There is provided a control system for a powertrain system including an electro-mechanical transmission that is selectively operative in a plurality of fixed gear modes and continuously variable modes. The control system is adapted to execute the following steps, comprising determining a range of permissible engine input speeds and a range of permissible engine input torques, and determining motor input torques for the first and second electrical machines based upon the range of permissible engine input speeds and the range of permissible engine input torques. A cost is determined for each of the motor input torques. A preferred engine input speed and a preferred engine input torque are identified based upon the costs for the motor input torques.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventor: Anthony H. Heap
  • Patent number: 7822524
    Abstract: Vehicular drive system which is small-sized and/or improved in its fuel economy. A power distributing mechanism 16, which is provided with a differential-state switching device in the form of a switching clutch C0 and a switching brake B0, is switchable by the switching device between a differential state (continuously-variable shifting state) in which the mechanism is operable as an electrically controlled continuously variable transmission, and a fixed-speed-ratio shifting state in which the mechanism is operable as a transmission having a fixed speed ratio or ratios. The power distributing mechanism 16 is placed in the fixed-speed-ratio shifting state during a high-speed running of the vehicle or a high-speed operation of engine 8, so that the output of the engine 8 is transmitted to drive wheels 38 primarily through a mechanical power transmitting path, whereby fuel economy of the vehicle is improved owing to reduction of a loss of conversion of a mechanical energy into an electric energy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Atsushi Tabata, Yutaka Taga
  • Patent number: 7813858
    Abstract: A method for controlling the slip of a vehicle clutch, wherein in the method the difference between a speed signal of the drive-end input shaft of the clutch and a filtered speed signal of a transmission-end clutch output shaft are maintained at a desired value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: LuK Lamellen und Kupplungsbau Beteiligungs KG
    Inventors: Rainer Praus, Olaf Werner
  • Patent number: 7809485
    Abstract: A shift control apparatus of a CVT installed in a non-ABS equipped vehicle is arranged to estimate a condition of a transmission ratio of the CVT, to prohibit a shift operation of varying the transmission ratio to a high-speed-side transmission ratio relative to a first predetermined transmission ratio when the driving-wheel acceleration is greater than or equal to a predetermined acceleration, and to cancel the prohibition of the shift operation when the transmission ratio is in a high speed side relative to a second transmission ratio under a condition that the driving-wheel acceleration becomes greater than or equal to the predetermined acceleration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Assignee: JATCO Ltd
    Inventors: Atsufumi Kobayashi, Tatsuo Ochiai, Takuro Kawasumi
  • Patent number: 7806790
    Abstract: A slippage detection system for a continuously variable transmission capable of continuously changing a ratio between a speed of rotation of an input member and a speed of rotation of an output member is provided. The slippage detection system calculates a correlation coefficient relating to the input rotation speed and the output rotation speed, based on a plurality of measurement values of the input rotation speed and a plurality of measurement values of the output rotation speed, and determines slippage of the torque transmitting member in the continuously variable transmission based on the calculated correlation coefficient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Kunihiro Iwatsuki, Kazumi Hoshiya, Yasuhiro Oshiumi, Yasunori Nakawaki, Masataka Osawa, Hiroyuki Nishizawa, Hiroyuki Yamaguchi, Hideyuki Suzuki
  • Patent number: 7801657
    Abstract: A control system for a vehicle having first and second wheels is provided that includes a differential apparatus adapted to distribute torque between the first and second wheels and a traction controller for controlling operation of the differential apparatus from vehicle launch up to a predetermined vehicle speed. The traction controller is configured to engage the differential apparatus in a first operating state according to at least one vehicle operating parameter indicative of a low traction operating condition and to further control engagement of the differential apparatus in a second vehicle operating state during the low traction operating condition according to a difference between an actual vehicle yaw rate and a predetermined target vehicle yaw rate. The control system also includes a stability controller for controlling engagement of the differential apparatus at or above the predetermined vehicle speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Damrongrit Piyabongkarn, Jae Y. Lew, John A. Grogg, Robert J. Kyle
  • Patent number: 7769520
    Abstract: A method of controlling tractive force of a vehicle comprising determining a tractive force request of a driver of the vehicle, determining an actual tractive force of the vehicle, and modifying the actual tractive force of the vehicle to be equal to the tractive force request.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Jan Ryderstam, Soren Eriksson
  • Patent number: 7765050
    Abstract: In one example, a traction control system for a vehicle is shown. The system adjusts a relationship between powertrain output and pedal actuation in response to at least one of road grade and direction of wheel spin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2010
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Davor Hrovat, Michael Fodor, Mitch McConnell
  • Patent number: 7747371
    Abstract: A motor-driven vehicle includes at least an engine, control devices arranged to control a transmission driven by the engine, a first sensor that is arranged to communicate with the control devices, and a second sensor that is arranged to communicate with the control devices, with the control devices being arranged to receive a first signal sent from the first sensor that includes information about the gradient of the surface on which the vehicle is being driven, and with the control devices being arranged to receive a second signal sent from the second sensor that includes information about torque. The control devices are arranged to correct the first signal in response to the second signal, and to control the transmission in response to the corrected first signal, and thereby compensate for the effect of the torque on the first sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignee: Volvo Lastvagnar AB
    Inventors: Anders Eriksson, Marcus Steen, Magnus Blanckenfjell, Anders Lindgren
  • Publication number: 20100161194
    Abstract: A method for active traction control of a vehicle can be performed to optimize corner exiting performance of a vehicle that is operating in a high performance or racing environment. The method estimates a real-time tire traction value during operation of the vehicle, computes a remaining tire traction value based upon a comparison of the estimated real-time tire traction value to a total available tire traction value, and calculates a traction system torque limit from the remaining tire traction value. The calculated torque limit can then be used to limit the actual traction system torque of the vehicle as needed in a real-time manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2008
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: MICHAEL P. TURSKI, CHARLES M. TOMLINSON
  • Patent number: 7739013
    Abstract: A vehicular electronic control apparatus includes a vehicle control section and a unit control section. The vehicle control section controls a function dependent on a vehicle equipment. The unit control section that controls a function of a unit provided in a vehicle. The vehicle control section and the unit control section are disposed in independent hardwares and software platforms, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Assignee: Fujitsu Ten Limited
    Inventors: Masato Ishio, Junji Takahashi, Takuhiro Tarumoto, Yasuhiro Shirota, Tsuyoshi Takatori, Kaoru Noumi, Hiroshi Arita, Koji Uchihashi, Koichi Oogaki, Shinichiro Takatomi, Masatoshi Hagiwara, Takehito Iwanaga
  • Patent number: 7702444
    Abstract: A process for operating a power train of a vehicle, during an activated internal combustion engine (2) start/stop function. The power train includes the engine (2), which is started with torque from a starter (3), an output (5), and a non-positive shifting element (6A), having a continuously variable transmission, and a starting device (6) arranged between the engine (2) and the output (5). A portion of the torque from the engine (2) and/or the starter (3), depending on a set shifting element (6A) transmission capacity, is directed by starting device (6) toward the output (5). When there is a demand for starting the engine (2), the shifting element (6A) transmission capacity is adjusted to an amount at which at least a portion of the torque, generated by the starter (3), exceeding the needed torque to start the engine (2) during the startup procedure, is directed to the output (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventor: Peter Schiele
  • 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: 7680576
    Abstract: To maintain operating safety by driving force distribution control system when an abnormal state arises and to smoothly transition from a normal state to an abnormal state without sudden changes in vehicle behavior. The driving force distribution control part calculates the transfer torque for the transfer clutch for the center differential device and the torque movement for the hydraulic motor for the rear wheel final reduction gear. When the control state detection part detects an abnormal state, there is control of the hydraulic motor in the direction that torque movement is lost on the one hand, and the transfer torque for the transfer clutch is controlled in the direction of front and rear distribution; after a preset time and after this control is carried out, the transfer torque drops.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Assignee: Fuji Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Tatsunori Nagura, Takeshi Yoneda, Yoshinobu Yamazaki
  • Patent number: 7676315
    Abstract: A vehicle control method for transitioning through transmission lash regions is described using a variety of information, such as, for example, gear ratio, clutch slippage, etc. Further, different adjustment of spark and throttle angle is used to provide a rapid torque response while still reducing effects of the lash. Finally, transitions taking into account both slipping and non-slipping transmissions are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Jeff Doering, Brad Riedle, Rob Ciarrochi, Hank Kwong, John Rollinger, Frederick Page, Jeff Travis
  • Patent number: 7672770
    Abstract: A deceleration control apparatus to achieve the intended level of deceleration performance regardless of whether braking performance is changed by towing an object such as a trailer, and to reduce the possibility that a driver feels uncomfortable due to a change in the level of deceleration performance while the vehicle is running. Vehicle weight is calculated based on the actual running state of a vehicle, and it is determined whether the vehicle is towing an object based on the vehicle weight. When the vehicle is stationary, a deceleration pattern (the rate of change in a target deceleration) is changed based on whether the vehicle is towing an object. Therefore, it is possible to achieve the intended level of deceleration performance that matches the level of driver's request for deceleration, regardless of whether the vehicle weight is changed by towing an object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yuji Inoue, Atsushi Tabata, Atsushi Kamada
  • Patent number: 7584040
    Abstract: The following steps are performed in the control method: determining a mode of operation from amongst a permanent mode and a transient mode, as a function of a set of variables comprising said estimated values; correcting the value of the speed of rotation of the outlet shaft in such a manner that: if the mode has been determined as being the permanent mode, then the moving average (L?) of the gear ratio (L) over a period (T) of a plurality of unit time intervals lies between a first threshold value (S1) that is negative and a second threshold value (S2) that is positive; and if the mode has been determined as being the transient mode, then said moving average (L?) of the gear ratio (L) lies outside the range of values defined by the first and second threshold value (S1, S2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2009
    Assignee: Peugeot Citroen Automobiles SA
    Inventor: Stéphane Rimaux
  • Patent number: 7580784
    Abstract: A method and device for determining a longitudinal inclination variable representing the longitudinal inclination of a roadway, using a sensor “means” present in a motor vehicle, in which a first unbraked driving state of the vehicle and a second driving state of the motor vehicle in which at least one brake is actuated are considered; and as a function thereof the variable representing the longitudinal inclination of the roadway is determined.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2009
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Mario Schmidt, Joerg Grieser
  • Publication number: 20090203496
    Abstract: A control system is disclosed. The control system may have an electric motor and a traction device connected to an output of the motor. The control system may also have a decelerator and a controller. The controller may be in communication with the motor and the decelerator. The controller may be configured to determine a creep torque and apply the creep torque to the traction device when the decelerator is actuated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2008
    Publication date: August 13, 2009
    Inventors: Michael David Staub, William James Tate, Cameron T. Lane, Frederick Gaylord Beach, Douglas J. Lockhart
  • Publication number: 20090132141
    Abstract: A system for a vehicle, comprising of a traction control system for adjusting powertrain output to reduce wheel slip; an input device located in said vehicle configured to identify an environmental condition; and a powertrain controller to control powertrain output based on actuation of a pedal of the vehicle by the driver, where a relationship between powertrain output and pedal actuation is adjusted in response to said input device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2009
    Publication date: May 21, 2009
    Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Davor Hrovat, Michael Fodor, Mitch McConnell