Control Mechanism Patents (Class 74/335)
  • Patent number: 8565985
    Abstract: A transmission control device includes a load increase rate computation portion and a transmission control portion. The load increase rate computation portion is configured to compute an increase rate of a load acting on the work vehicle. The transmission control portion is configured to shift a high-speed gear down to a low-speed gear with producing a lock-up state in which a lock-up clutch is engaged when the load increase rate is less than a load increase rate threshold in shifting the high-speed gear down to the low-speed gear, and producing a torque converter state in which the lock-up clutch is disengaged when the load increase rate is equal to or greater than the load increase rate threshold in shifting the high-speed gear down to the low-speed gear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.
    Inventors: Tomohiro Nakagawa, Shigeru Yamamoto, Kenjiro Shimada
  • Publication number: 20130269461
    Abstract: A power drill having percussion drilling function, drilling function and screwing function has a gearing for transmitting the drive motion of a drive unit to a tool spindle. Furthermore, two latching elements are provided which, in the percussion drilling function, are in latching engagement and in the drilling or screwing position are in the disengaged state. A mode setting device has a rotatable supporting ring and a thrust ring, coupled to the supporting ring in a torsionally fixed manner which, in the screwing position is held on the gear housing in an axially displaceable manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2011
    Publication date: October 17, 2013
    Inventors: Joachim Hecht, Martin Kraus
  • Patent number: 8555739
    Abstract: A shift control device in a saddle-ride-type vehicle includes a lost motion mechanism and a locking mechanism. The lost motion mechanism is disposed between a shift spindle and a shift drum and engages a shifter-side rotary member on a shift spindle side and a drum-side rotary member on a shift drum side, in a relatively rotatable manner while accumulating a force. The locking mechanism is engaged with the shifter-side rotary member and the drum-side rotary member, respectively, so as to restrict the rotation of the shifter-side rotary member and the rotation of the drum-side rotary member, individually.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Yoshihisa Ieda, Akihiko Tomoda, Osamu Emizu
  • Patent number: 8560188
    Abstract: A sport running estimated value LEVELSP obtained by searching a value on a map prepared in advance based on an average values AGYAVE of lateral accelerations GY of a vehicle and on average values of vehicle speed changes is calculated, and a vehicle speed on a shift map is searched based on the sport running estimated value LEVELSP and an estimated value DA of a vehicle gradient, whereby a downshift vehicle speed VA at which a downshift is implemented is calculated. Then, the downshift is implemented in a case where actuation of a brake is detected, deceleration of the vehicle is a predetermined value or more, and a current vehicle speed is a downshift vehicle speed VA or more. In such a way, running on a meandering road, for which the downshift and a subsequent shift hold should be implemented, is sensed appropriately.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yutaka Ishikawa, Hiroshi Saito, Yasuhiro Gokan
  • Publication number: 20130263683
    Abstract: A system for controlling a transmission of a vehicle includes an engine control module that generates a command, while the vehicle is rolling in either a forward or reverse direction, to change a transmission of the vehicle from a reverse drive gear to a forward drive gear. The transmission includes a first clutch, a second clutch, a third clutch, and a fourth clutch. A transmission control module, in response to the command, maintains a first clutch in an engaged state, releases a second clutch and a fourth clutch, with the first clutch in the engaged state and the second clutch and the fourth clutch released, applies a third clutch with a synchronizer to engage the third clutch, and, after the third clutch is engaged, reapplies the fourth clutch to engage the fourth clutch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2012
    Publication date: October 10, 2013
    Applicant: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Vijay A. Neelakantan, Kevin Michael Dougan
  • Publication number: 20130255415
    Abstract: A vehicle transmission wherein a single shift spindle is provided with a master arm to operate the transmission via an accumulation mechanism and a clutch lever to operate a clutch, capable of more reliably realizing disconnection of the clutch after the completion of accumulation necessary for a shift operation. A vehicle transmission includes a master arm provided on a shift spindle for transmitting a rotational force to a shift drum of a transmission to rotate and operate the shift drum with a clutch lever provided on the shift spindle, to operate the clutch. An accumulation mechanism is capable of accumulating the rotational force transmitted from the shift spindle to the master arm. The master arm and the clutch lever are interlocked with each other. A delay mechanism is provided that delays the clutch disconnection operation with the clutch lever before accumulation is completed between the shift spindle and the clutch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2013
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Jun ADACHI, Jun MIYAZAKI, Masaki NAKAGAWARA, Yoshiaki TSUKADA, Takashi OZEKI, Hiroshi TAKAMOTO
  • Patent number: 8544354
    Abstract: Monitoring means 46, 47 are provided to monitor working hydraulic pressure of the hydraulic engagement elements for the high gear range of a vehicle automatic transmission 2. Characteristic changing means 5 is provided to change, to a high vehicle speed side, a gear shifting characteristic when shifting from the middle gear position to the low gear position. According thereto, it is possible to quickly shift from a middle gear position to a low gear position without reducing the durability of hydraulic engagement elements for a high gear range, thereby, to achieve sufficient acceleration performance during climbing a slope, which improves driveability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Ryo Iitaka, Shiro Godai, Kohsaku Matsuo
  • Publication number: 20130253786
    Abstract: A control apparatus for a vehicular automatic transmission configured to selectively establish a plurality of shift positions by respective combinations of frictional coupling devices of a plurality of frictional coupling devices in an engaged state thereof, with output hydraulic pressures of respective ones of a plurality of solenoid valves provided in a hydraulic control circuit, includes a fail-safe control portion configured to perform a predetermined fail-safe function when shifting direction values requiring a shifting control of said vehicular automatic transmission and shifting output values respectively generated according to said shifting direction values are not coincident with each other, said shifting output values being represented by respective electric signals for driving said plurality of solenoid valves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2010
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Hidenori Saito, Toshio Sugimura
  • Publication number: 20130239717
    Abstract: A gear shifting device for shifting gears of a transmission includes: at least one guide rail each extending in a longitudinal axis; a plurality of shift effecting members configured to move a plurality of corresponding sliding sleeves coupled to the guide rail for shifting gears, the shift effecting members each having a terminal end portion with a finger receiving opening formed therein, the finger receiving opening extending in a direction generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the guide rail; and a shift shaft extending in a direction generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the guide rail, the shift shaft having a shift finger coupled thereto. The shift shaft is rotatable to pivotally position the shift finger at locations aligned with the finger receiving openings of the shift effecting members, and is also displaceable in the longitudinal direction in the finger receiving openings to move the shift effecting members to effect a gear shifting operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2013
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Applicant: HYUNDAI WIA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Thomas Bowen, Nam Huh
  • Publication number: 20130239716
    Abstract: A transmission includes an input shaft which rotates synchronously with a crankshaft, an output shaft, which rotates synchronously with a driving wheel, a shift drum of a rotary type which engages with a shift fork to drive at least one slide gear, and a rotary stopper mechanism including a friction spring frictionally engaged in a circumferential recessed groove provided in an outer periphery of the output shaft, a rocker arm biased by the friction spring toward the shift drum in accordance with rotation of the output shaft, and an engagement recessed portion provided in an outer periphery of the shift drum to restrict rotation of the shift drum through engagement with the rocker arm. Accordingly, cost is reduced as compared to a conventional transmission, and heat generation of the friction spring is minimized.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2012
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Applicant: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Kenta WATANABE, Akira MURAOKA, Takuya HANANO
  • Publication number: 20130237371
    Abstract: An automated manual transmission apparatus for a vehicle, may include a shifting unit having a plurality of stages between an input shaft and an output shaft and selectively cutting power to the input shaft and the output shaft when shifting between the stages, and a continuous transmission mechanism that may be disposed between the output shaft and a power supply that supplies the power to the input shaft of the shifting unit, wherein the continuous transmission mechanism selectively transmits the power from the power supply to the output shaft with a continuous transmission gear ratio.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2012
    Publication date: September 12, 2013
    Applicant: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventors: Soon Ki Eo, Dong Soo Lee, Jong Yun Park
  • Patent number: 8522635
    Abstract: A hybrid propulsion system for a motor vehicle includes a gearbox having a gear control device and first and second shafts. The gear control device includes a first drum control device associated with the first shaft, a second drum control device associated with the second shaft and an actuation unit arranged to bring about rotation of the first and second drum control devices in a synchronized manner. The actuation unit includes a motor device, a first gear associated with the first drum control device, a second gear associated with the second drum control device, and an intermediate gear. Either of the first and second gears meshes with an output pinion of the motor device, while the intermediate gear meshes both with the first gear and with the second gear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: C.R.F. Societa' Consortile per Azioni
    Inventors: Valter Pastorello, Marco Garabello, Gianluigi Pregnolato, Andrea Piazza, Fabio Pesola
  • Patent number: 8527170
    Abstract: A method of operating a double clutch that is actuated by a hydrostatic actuating system having two clutch actuators assigned to two individual clutches and each clutch actuator including a pressure sensor for sensing the operating pressure of the respective clutch actuator, the method having the step of limiting a total actuating force of the double clutch in the event of a fault using the pressure values sensed by the pressure sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Schaeffler Technologies AG & Co. KG
    Inventor: Juergen Gerhart
  • Patent number: 8521380
    Abstract: A number N of position sensors, each associated with one of N shift rails in a shift rail transmission system, wherein the set of N sensors is divided into subsets and each subset is provided a common reference from a control module; and a processing component that determines from data from each sensor whether the shift rail associated with that sensor is in a position of engagement of a first gear, a position of engagement of a second gear, or in a neutral position. Further, providing a first common reference to a first set of shift rail position sensors; providing a second common reference to a second set of shift rail position sensors; receiving sensor data from each position sensor; determining that the data from the first set of position sensors is unreliable; and operating a transmission using only the gears related to the position sensors in the second set.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Kerfegar Khurshed Katrak, Naresh Kumar Kodela, Richard Earl Zuppann, Christopher Pollack, John Manyala, Todd William Fritz, Ken R. Anderson, Ian Daniel McKenzie
  • Publication number: 20130213165
    Abstract: A dual clutch transmission for a motor vehicle which comprises at least two transmission parts and each transmission part comprise at least one input shaft. Drive is outputted from the transmission parts via a common output shaft. The at least one input shaft is arranged on a main axis and the output shaft is arranged on the main axis or a parallel secondary axis. An intermediate transmission has at least one countershaft that is arranged on the secondary axis. At least one of the input shafts can be connected to the output shaft via at least two gear planes and/or at least one shifting element. At least three shifting mechanisms are provided and at least one shifting mechanism is arranged on each of the main and the secondary axes such that one of the at least two gear planes is arranged between two of the at least three shifting mechanisms.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2013
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Applicant: ZF FRIEDRICHSHAFEN AG
    Inventor: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
  • Patent number: 8505403
    Abstract: A gear shifting device for shifting gears of a transmission comprises: at least one guide rail each extending in a longitudinal axis thereof; a plurality of shift effecting members (e.g., shift forks or the like) configured to move a plurality of corresponding sliding sleeves coupled to the guide rail for shifting gears upon actuation of a shift actuator, the shift effecting members each having a terminal end portion with a finger receiving opening formed therein, the finger receiving opening extending in a direction generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the guide rail; and a shift shaft extending in a direction generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the guide rail, the shift shaft having a shift finger coupled thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Hyundai Wia Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas Bowen, Nam Huh
  • Patent number: 8510004
    Abstract: An exemplary system includes at least one valve configured to control fluid flow in a dual-clutch transmission system. A solenoid is operably connected to the at least one valve and configured to move the valve to a plurality of positions. A primary processing unit is in communication with the solenoid and configured to determine an intended position of the valve. A controller is configured to receive the intended position of the valve from the primary processing unit and generate a primary control signal associated with the intended position of the valve. The solenoid is configured to move the valve to the intended position based on the primary control signal. A secondary processing unit is configured to receive information from the primary processing unit and prevent the primary control signal from controlling the solenoid if the primary processing unit is unable to control the solenoid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Kerfegar Khurshed Katrak, Jeffrey Philip Hawarden, Steven Harvey Lapointe, Eric Allen Metheny, Todd William Fritz, John Kimmel Vandervoort
  • Publication number: 20130186222
    Abstract: A motor-driven cutting saw in which the motor has the capability of operating at two or more speeds and a multi-speed gear box that may additionally include a neutral setting that would allow the motor to disengage from the saw blade while running.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2013
    Publication date: July 25, 2013
    Applicant: Merit Engineering & Equipment Company
    Inventor: Merit Engineering & Equipment Company
  • Patent number: 8479903
    Abstract: A hydraulic control device for a transmission is provided. The hydraulic control device regulates hydraulic pressure from an oil pressure source to generate line pressure, and selectively applies the generated line pressure to at least two kinds of controlled objects. The hydraulic control device includes: linear solenoid valves each controlling hydraulic pressure to the line pressure in accordance with electromagnetic force of a solenoid; and switching valves each selectively switching at least two kinds of controlled objects to apply the hydraulic pressure applied from the corresponding linear solenoid valve to the switched controlled object. The hydraulic control device further includes a feedback oil passage provided for each of the switching valves. The feedback oil passage is branched from one of a plurality of output oil passages of the corresponding switching valve. The feedback oil passage is connected to a feedback port of the linear solenoid valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd
    Inventor: Noriyuki Yagi
  • Publication number: 20130167677
    Abstract: Aspects of the present invention relate to system and apparatus for shifting gears within a gearbox of a drill head, which can be attached to a drill rig for various drilling operations. In particular, the present disclosure relates to engaging various gears within the gearbox and maintaining the gears in the engaged position such that to prevent the gears from disengaging in response to movements and/or vibrations within the gearbox, the drill head, and/or the drill rig.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 31, 2012
    Publication date: July 4, 2013
    Applicant: Longyear TM, Inc.
    Inventor: Longyear TM, Inc.
  • Patent number: 8474344
    Abstract: A controllable composite clutch device limited torque while in a released state includes a clutch capable of being controlled for performing engaging/releasing function and a limited torque device having relatively smaller torque installed between an input/output shaft and an output shaft, or radially installed between an input shaft and a cylindrical outputting rotation part, so that when the clutch is controlled to be in an engaged state, the rotary kinetic energy between the input shaft and the output shaft is transferred through the clutch, and so that when the clutch is controlled to be in a released state, the limited torque device performs limited torque coupling and the rotary kinetic energy between the input shaft and the output shaft can continue to be transferred, or a slip rotational speed differential is generated due to over-torque.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Inventor: Tai-Her Yang
  • Patent number: 8468907
    Abstract: A shift arrangement for a motor vehicle transmission has a multiplicity of gear stages. The shift arrangement has a shift shaft which is aligned in an axial direction and has a multiplicity of shift members which are designed to engage on shift sleeves which can be displaced axially in order to shift the gear stages. The shift shaft is mounted so as to be rotatable in order to select in each case one of the shift sleeves and so as to be axially displaceable in order to shift the gear stages. The shift members have in each case one driver device for coupling to the shift shaft. The shift shaft has a coupling arrangement which is designed to engage, depending on the rotational position of the shift shaft, in each case with a driver device of one of the shift members in order to couple that shift member axially to the shift shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: GETRAG Getriebe- und Zahnradfabrik Hermann Hagenmeyer GmbH & Cie KG
    Inventors: Benjamin Wild, Tobias Lenz, Heiko Imholz, Thomas Marx
  • Patent number: 8464602
    Abstract: A shifting rocker (2) for a transmission comprises two arms (4, 6), between which a mount for a sliding sleeve is provided. The shifting rocker (2) is mounted in a transmission housing at two bearing points (20, 22) such that it can pivot. Further, a lever arm (16) is positioned on the shifting rocker (2), via which force is applied to the shifting rocker (2) for the purpose of pivoting the shifting rocker (2) about the bearing points (20, 22). The lever arm (16) is positioned on the shifting rocker (2) in the area (24) between the two bearing points (20, 22).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen
    Inventors: Uwe Beer, Michael Drabek
  • Patent number: 8448740
    Abstract: A transmission driving mechanism of a transmission in an internal combustion engine is provided in which where a separate transmission driving mechanism for manual operation is not required in addition to an automatic transmission driving mechanism, whereby the number of parts is reduced, the structure is simple, no maintenance is required and the cost is reduced. The transmission transmits the rotation of a crankshaft to an output shaft at a modified speed, and includes a transmission driving mechanism which rotates a shift spindle using a shift actuator in order to automatically shift gears within the transmission and change the outputted speed of the engine. One end of the shift spindle extends through an engine case cover, and protrudes outside, and a turning tool is fitted onto a fitting portion formed at the protruding end of the shift spindle, whereby manual shifting of the transmission gears can also be achieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroatsu Inui, Dai Arai, Kenji Matsuo
  • Patent number: 8448536
    Abstract: An actuating device for selecting fixed gear ratios of a gear shifting transmission. The actuating device comprises a shift lever movable between at least three gear positions, and a lockout mechanism for limiting the range of motion of the shift lever. The lockout mechanism comprises a locking assembly including at least one locking chamber disposed in at least one locking roller, and the shift lever includes at least one locking cam. The locking cam can be inserted into the locking chamber to limit the range of motion of the shift lever. It is thus possible to implement actuating and locking tasks in the field of shift-by-wire transmissions, in a simple way and with minimal construction space requirements. The actuating device produces minimal noise and has short shifting times, and makes it shift-by-wire-controlled H shift patterns possible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Andreas Giefer, Ludger Rake, Sascha Rosentreter
  • Patent number: 8447478
    Abstract: The control apparatus comprises, in its version intended for a double-clutch transmission, first, second and third shift forks each movable between first and second engagement positions to engage a respective gear, of which the first shift fork is able to engage at least the first gear and the second shift fork is able to engage at least the second gear, first, second and third double-acting hydraulic actuators arranged to control each the movement of a respective shift fork between the first and second engagement position, of which the first hydraulic actuator is associated to the first shift fork and the second hydraulic actuator is associated to the second shift fork, a slide valve selectively movable into one of at least three operating positions in each of which the slide valve selects a respective hydraulic actuator, and first and second gear shift solenoid valves for controlling the supply of fluid to the hydraulic actuator each time selected by the slide valve or the connection of that actuator to a t
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: C.R.F. Societa Consortile per Azioni
    Inventors: Marco Garabello, Giancarlo Osella, Attilio Porta, Gianluigi Pregnolato, Sara Sottano
  • Patent number: 8443688
    Abstract: A method of learning an initial capacity point of a clutch in a dual clutch transmission includes identifying when the dual clutch transmission is operating in a steady state gear condition with a first clutch continuously transmitting torque to a first shaft. When the dual clutch transmission is operating in a steady state gear condition, a second clutch is sequentially positioned in each of a plurality of application positions (Pn, Pn+1, Pn+2, . . . , Pn+i). The second clutch is configured to transmit torque to a second shaft. The second shaft is positioned in a geared state in each of the plurality of application positions. The first application position (Pn+i) in the sequence of application positions in which the second shaft is not successfully positioned in the geared state is defined as the initial capacity point of the second clutch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Matthew D. Whitton, Brandon E. Hancock
  • Patent number: 8447481
    Abstract: A transmission, such as an automated manual transmission for a motor vehicle, with at least one shift group, such that the shift group or each shift group comprises a shift rail which actuates a shift fork that co-operates with a shift sleeve of the shift group concerned. Associated with the shift rail of the shift group or of each shift group there is a sensor that moves together with the respective shift rail relative to a corresponding measurement receiver such that in the area of at least one shift group, a first relative position between the measurement receiver and the sensor in the actuation direction and a second relative position between the measurement receiver and the sensor perpendicular to the actuation direction of the shift rail concerned can be detected, and from the second relative position, an evaluation device deduces system conditions of the shift group concerned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Ulrich Reith, Mario Steinborn
  • Patent number: 8443687
    Abstract: A hydraulic control system for a dual clutch transmission includes a source of pressurized hydraulic fluid, first and second actuator control devices in downstream fluid communication with the source of pressurized hydraulic fluid, and first and second clutch control devices in downstream fluid communication with the source of pressurized hydraulic fluid. A valve is in downstream fluid communication with the first and second actuator control devices. Selective activation of combinations of the control devices allows for a pressurized fluid to engage the dual clutch and an actuator in order to shift the transmission into a desired gear ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventor: Steven P. Moorman
  • Patent number: 8442733
    Abstract: A skip shift device performance detecting method used to more accurately enable skip shift diagnostic execution in a manual transmission equipped vehicle where a skip shift has been requested and a transmission clutch remains engaged. Where a skip shift request ceases during clutch engagement, a timed loop is used to monitor if clutch disengagement occurs before the loop times out. Where clutch disengagement occurs before the loop times out, skip shift diagnostic execution is enabled. Where the loop times out before disengagement, skip shift diagnostic execution is disabled. Where the skip shift is requested and the clutch remains engaged, the skip shift request is monitored to determine whether it is withdrawn before clutch disengagement. If it is withdrawn before clutch disengagement, the aforementioned timed monitoring loop is executed. If it is not withdrawn before clutch disengagement, execution of the skip shift diagnostic is enabled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: Chrysler Group LLC
    Inventors: Richard A. Kulas, Steve Wante, Joel D. Ball, Gregory L. Ohl
  • Patent number: 8434603
    Abstract: A hydraulic control system for a dual clutch transmission includes a source of pressurized hydraulic fluid, first and second actuator control devices in downstream fluid communication with the source of pressurized hydraulic fluid, and first and second clutch control devices in downstream fluid communication with the source of pressurized hydraulic fluid. A first valve is in downstream fluid communication with the first and second actuator control devices. A second valve is in downstream fluid communication with the first valve, the first clutch control device and the second clutch control device, and the second valve is moveable between two positions by the first and second clutch control devices. Selective activation of combinations of the control devices allows for a pressurized fluid to engage the dual clutch and an actuator in order to shift the transmission into a desired gear ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Philip C. Lundberg, Bret M. Olson, Robert L. Moses, Kevin Michael Dougan
  • Patent number: 8430220
    Abstract: Pairs of variable feed solenoid valves provide fluid to a pair of input clutch actuators and a pair of inlet ports of a first or logic valve. The position of the first logic valve spool is controlled by a solenoid valve. A first pair of outlet ports of the first logic valve provide fluid to a first piston which selects two speed ratios. A second pair of outlet ports of the first logic valve provide fluid to a pair of inlet ports of a second logic valve. The position of the second logic valve spool is controlled by fluid from the input clutch circuits. A first pair of outlet ports of the second logic valve provide fluid to a second piston which selects two other speed ratios and a second pair of outlet ports of the second logic valve provide fluid to a third piston which selects two additional speed ratios.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Philip C. Lundberg, Bret M. Olson
  • Patent number: 8429993
    Abstract: The control apparatus comprises, in its version intended for a double-clutch transmission with six or seven forward gears and one reverse gear, a first shift fork for engaging the first gear or the third gear, respectively, a second shift fork for engaging the reverse gear or the fifth gear, respectively, a first hydraulic actuator arranged to control the movement of the first shift fork, a second hydraulic actuator arranged to control the movement of the second shift fork, a selection slide valve which can be moved into a first operating position in which the first hydraulic actuator is selected and a second operating position in which the second hydraulic actuator is selected, a pilot solenoid valve for controlling the movement of the slide valve between the first and second operating positions, and first and second gear shift solenoid valves for controlling the supply of fluid to the hydraulic actuator each time selected by the slide valve or the connection of said actuator with a tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: C.R.F. Societa Consortile Per Azioni
    Inventors: Marco Garabello, Giancarlo Osella, Attillio Porta, Gianluigi Pregnolato, Sara Sottano
  • Patent number: 8429994
    Abstract: Hydraulic control systems for a dual clutch transmission include a regulated source of pressurized hydraulic fluid including an electric pump, a filter and an accumulator, a pair of pressure control valves and a branching hydraulic circuit including pressure or flow control valves, spool or logic valves and two position valves which collectively supply and exhaust hydraulic fluid from a plurality of shift actuators. The actuators are connected to shift rails which include shift forks and are slidable to engage synchronizers and positive clutches associated with the various gear ratios.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Philip C. Lundberg, Bret M. Olson
  • Patent number: 8418575
    Abstract: Method for shifting a neutral state of an automatic multi-stage transmission of a motor vehicle, where, to engage and to disengage gear stages of the transmission, shift couplings, at least one of which is equipped with a synchronizing device, can be actuated by a transmission actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Hans-Jürgen Schneider, Thomas John, Mario Bühner
  • Patent number: 8413777
    Abstract: Pairs of variable feed solenoid valves provide fluid to a pair of input clutch actuators and a pair of inlet ports of a first logic valve. The position of the first logic valve spool is controlled by a solenoid valve. A first pair of outlet ports of the first logic valve provide hydraulic to a first piston which selects two speed ratio. A second pair of outlet ports of the first logic valve provide fluid to a pair of inlet ports of a second logic valve. The position of the second logic valve spool is controlled by fluid from the input clutch circuits. A first pair of outlet ports of the second logic valve provide fluid to a second piston which selects two other speed ratios and a second pair of outlet ports of the second logic valve provide fluid to a third piston which selects two additional speed ratios.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Philip C. Lundberg, Kevin Michael Dougan, Bret M. Olson
  • Publication number: 20130081492
    Abstract: A multi-clutch transmission for a motor vehicle is provided where a central synchronizing unit includes an axially movable synchronizing member that is arranged on and rotationally locked with a countershaft. In actuated states of the central synchronizing unit, the synchronizing member is displaced axially into engagement with mating portions of two gearwheels that are rotatably arranged on the countershaft. The synchronizing member includes an internal and an external cortical friction surface that axially overlap each other, and the mating portions on the two of the gearwheels are mating conical surfaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2010
    Publication date: April 4, 2013
    Applicant: VOLVO LASTVAGNAR AB
    Inventors: Anders Hedman, Klas Bergström
  • Patent number: 8408086
    Abstract: An automated shift control device suppresses overload of the shift motor and reduces the time from beginning to completion of a gear shifting operation. A transmission has a plurality of pairs of speed change gears and a gear selecting mechanism. A shift motor drives the gear selecting mechanism. A shift power transmission mechanism transmits power from the shift motor to the gear selecting mechanism. A torque limiter has a third reduction gear and a third shaft forming a part of the shift power transmission mechanism. The torque limiter transmits power from the shift motor as torque. When the transmitted torque is not more than a predetermined limit torque, the third reduction gear co-rotates with the third shaft. When the transmitted torque exceeds the predetermined limit torque, the third reduction gear rotates relative to the third shaft to limit the transmitted torque to the predetermined limit torque or less.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Yoshihiko Takeuchi
  • Patent number: 8403792
    Abstract: The present invention comprehends a plurality of embodiments of a hydraulic control system for various configurations of dual clutch transmissions. The hydraulic control systems all include a regulated source of pressurized hydraulic fluid including an electric pump, a filter and an accumulator, a pair of pressure control valves and a branching hydraulic circuit including pressure or flow control valves, spool or logic valves and two position valves which collectively supply and exhaust hydraulic fluid from a plurality of shift actuators. The actuators are connected to shift rails which include shift forks and are slidable to engage synchronizers and positive clutches associated with the various gear ratios.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Philip C. Lundberg, Bret M. Olson
  • Patent number: 8402855
    Abstract: Hydraulic control systems for a dual clutch transmission include a regulated source of pressurized hydraulic fluid including an electric pump, a filter and an accumulator, a pair of pressure control valves and a branching hydraulic circuit including pressure or flow control valves, spool or logic valves and two position valves which collectively supply and exhaust hydraulic fluid from a plurality of shift actuators. The actuators are connected to shift rails which include shift forks and are slidable to engage synchronizers and positive clutches associated with the various gear ratios.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Philip C. Lundberg, Bret M. Olson
  • Publication number: 20130068056
    Abstract: A vehicle drivetrain has a first driver, a first clutch to selectively couple the first driver with an engine, an energy storage device coupled to the first driver, a second driver coupled to the energy storage device and connected to a driveshaft, and a second clutch that selectively couples the first and second drivers. In one embodiment, the first clutch is opened and the second clutch is closed during a vehicle operating condition requiring high torque, the first clutch is closed and the second clutch is opened during a transient vehicle operating condition, and the first clutch and the second clutch are closed during a steady-state vehicle operating condition. Additional clutches may be included to reduce energy losses or provide multiple mechanical ratios. The drivers themselves may be pumps, motors, generators, combined pump/motors, or combined motor/generators, making the invention suitable for both hydraulic implementation and electric implementation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2011
    Publication date: March 21, 2013
    Inventors: Brian L. Van Batavia, Timothy I. Meehan, Michael W. Olson, David L. Makis, Michael J. Voigt, David S. Remba, Don R. Draper
  • Patent number: 8397598
    Abstract: The gearbox comprises an engagement sleeve movable between a neutral position and one engagement position for engagement of one given gear, and a shift fork operatively connected to the engagement sleeve for controlling the movement thereof between the neutral position and the engagement position. The shift fork is slidably mounted on a stationary support rod, which is provided with a pair of bushes defining a first axial abutment surface for stopping the movement of the shift fork in the direction from the neutral position to the engagement position and a second axial abutment surface for stopping the movement of the shift fork in the direction from the engagement position to the neutral position. The neutral position of the shift fork is axially spaced from the second axial abutment surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: C.R.F. Societa Consortile per Azioni
    Inventors: Marco Garabello, Giancarlo Osella, Attilio Porta, Gianluigi Pregnolato, Sara Sottano
  • Patent number: 8393241
    Abstract: A mechanical transmission gear shifting assembly connected to a transmission with multiple gear selectors that, when moved in a back and forth motion, selects different gear ratios via a cam with a cam follower for moving gear selectors, in response to the same active cam surfaces. The assembly additionally includes a retractable stop dog, and detents for moving, stopping and holding the cam at all times, such that the cam moves in increments corresponding to sequentially increasing or decreasing selected gear states of the transmission.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Inventors: Neil H. Akkerman, Daniel O. Dewey
  • Patent number: 8387477
    Abstract: A gear shift device is provided which changes speed by transmitting rotation of a shift spindle by gear shift operation input to rotation of a shift drum through an intermittent feed mechanism and a lost motion mechanism. An upstream rotation holding mechanism is provided to hold in a required rotational position an upstream rotating member of the lost motion mechanism which is rotated by gear shift operation input through the intermittent feed mechanism. When a required level of gear shift operation is done, the gear shift device changes speed adequately, without continuing gear shift operation, and thus improves operability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshihisa Ieda, Akihiko Tomoda, Osamu Emizu
  • Patent number: 8387476
    Abstract: A control system is provided for a multiple clutch transmission (10) having at least three synchronizers (74, 76, 78, 80) with opposed acting alpha and beta pressure chambers (106, 104) to selectively synchronize alpha or beta gears with a rotating shaft. The control system includes a pressure source (124), a sump (120), a first multiplex valve (160) having a first position allowing fluid communication of alpha and beta chambers for two synchronizers (74, 76) with the pressure source (122) and diverting alpha and beta pressure chambers (106, 104) of remaining synchronizers (80, 78) to sump (120). The first multiplex valve (160) has a second position reversing the above action. A second multiplex valve (164) connected with the first multiplex valve (160) having a first position connecting alpha and beta chambers (106, 104) of a given synchronizer with the pressure source (122) and alpha and beta chambers (106, 104) of the other synchronizer with the sump (120).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: BorgWarner Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Buchanan, Melissa Koenig, Christophe Laurent
  • Patent number: 8392076
    Abstract: In a control of a vehicular automatic transmission, an engaging device provided in a power transmission path between an engine and driving wheels is brought into a slipping state or a release state when a certain neutral control condition is satisfied while a shift lever is placed in a running position, the engaging device is engaged so as to increase a torque transmission capacity thereof when a certain neutral control cancellation condition is satisfied during neutral control under which the engaging device is in the slipping state or the release state, and an engaging pressure of the engaging device is held at a constant pressure level for a given period of time when an accelerator pedal is depressed while the engaging device is engaged so as to increase the torque transmission capacity thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Nobufusa Kobayashi, Yoshio Hasegawa, Naoto Komeno, Norihiro Tsukamoto
  • Patent number: 8387478
    Abstract: An electronic shifting apparatus for a vehicle may include an operator movable along at least two or more straight paths, a shift lock assembly controlling a movement of the operator, a sensor detecting changes in position of the operator, a P-switch for selecting a P-range, a safety switch receiving an input from a driver, a controller outputting a shifting signal for controlling a transmission, wherein one of the straight paths sequentially have an R-temporary point for selecting a R-range, an NR-fixing point and an ND-fixing point for selecting an N-range, and a D-temporary point for selecting a D-range, wherein the ND-fixing point is connected with another straight path connecting an M-fixing point for selecting a neutral state in an manual mode, and both sides of the M-fixing point are connected with a (+)-temporary point (+) and a (?)-temporary point (?) through another straight line to operate the manual mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Hangil Park, Namsik Baek
  • Patent number: 8364356
    Abstract: A method of altering a drive parameter of a machine having a drive system that is configured to operate a left side of the machine independently of the right side of the machine. The method includes entering, by a user, a drive parameter alteration mode by actuating a first input, and actuating a second input to alter one or more parameters associated with a controller of the machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: Clark Equipment Company
    Inventors: Christopher L. Young, Jason L. Magnuson, Spencer L. Mindeman
  • Patent number: 8359940
    Abstract: In a twin-clutch transmission, when a third shift valve (for example) goes out of order and the shift change accordingly becomes incapable of being carried out, the hydraulic pressure outputted from the third shift valve is controlled by a fourth shift valve operated by a first shift solenoid for a first shift valve. Accordingly, the hydraulic pressure outputted by a second linear solenoid is supplied to one of second hydraulic actuators, thereby enabling one of second predetermined transmission gear stages to be pre-shifted by use of a second power transmission path. When the first shift valve is used as a fail-safe, it is possible for the vehicle to make a minimum necessary run by setting up one of the second predetermined transmission gear stages. Furthermore, the fourth shift valve is driven by use of the existing first shift solenoid, thus minimizing the number of parts and cost.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Takao Sato
  • Patent number: 8364364
    Abstract: A control system for a vehicle having a dry dual clutch transmission (DCT) includes a launch condition detection module, a vehicle stop module, and a vehicle launch module. The launch condition detection module detects a launch condition based on whether (i) the vehicle is on an uphill grade and (ii) a driver of the vehicle has requested power via an accelerator. The vehicle stop module stops the vehicle when the launch condition is detected by (i) commanding an on-coming clutch of the dry DCT to a predetermined position and (ii) applying brakes of the vehicle. The vehicle launch module launches the vehicle after the vehicle is stopped by (i) fully engaging the on-coming clutch of the dry DCT and (ii) opening a throttle to a desired position corresponding to the power request.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Inventors: Xuefeng Tim Tao, John William Boughner, Ronald F. Lochocki, Jr., Jonathan P. Kish, Jayson S. Schwalm