Characterized By Control Of Gearing (e.g., Control Of Transmission Ratio) (epo) Patents (Class 903/945)
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Publication number: 20130030627Abstract: A mode selection control system and method for controlling an electrically variable transmission. The system and method calculate respective costs for operating the vehicle in a plurality of operating modes based on a battery discharge penalty and the costs associated with operating the electrical and mechanical portions of the transmission. The method selects an operating mode having the lowest calculated cost.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 25, 2012Publication date: January 31, 2013Applicant: Chrysler Group LLCInventors: Ashish Krupadanam, Nadirsh Patel, Goro Tamai
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Publication number: 20130030625Abstract: A control method for a powertrain of a hybrid vehicle executing a compound split mode where a first carrier and a second ring gear are selectively connected. More specifically, a controller, determines a target torque of the second motor/generator based on a gear ratio of the first sun gear and the first ring gear, a gear ratio of the second sun gear and the second ring gear, a demand torque of the powertrain, and an output torque of the first motor/generator; determines a compensation value based on a target speed of the engine and a current speed of the engine; and determines a final torque of the second motor/generator based on the target torque of the second motor/generator and the compensation value, and controlling the second motor/generator according to the final torque of the second motor/generator.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 19, 2012Publication date: January 31, 2013Applicants: KIA MOTORS CORPORATION, HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANYInventors: JOONYOUNG PARK, SANG JOON KIM, SUNGDEOK KIM
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Publication number: 20130030626Abstract: A system and method of controlling first and second electric motors of a vehicle having an electrically variable transmission during an engine start/stop operation. The system and method determine a type of shift being performed, determine if a first clutch is being applied or released during the shift, determine if a second clutch is being applied or released during the shift, determine an acceleration limit based on the shift being performed and which clutch is being applied and/or released, determine acceleration and speed profiles based on the shift being performed, which clutch is being applied and/or released and the acceleration limit, determine a first electric motor torque and a second electric motor torque based on the acceleration and speed profiles, and set the torques of the first and second electric motors to the determined first and second electric motor torques.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 25, 2012Publication date: January 31, 2013Applicant: CHRYSLER GROUP LLCInventors: Nadirsh Patel, Ashish Krupadanam, Goro Tamai, Mengyang Zhang
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Patent number: 8352139Abstract: An apparatus comprises a changeover mechanism which is able to change a connection state of an electric motor output shaft to any one of “an IN-Connection State” in which a power transmission path is provided between a transmission input shaft and the electric motor output shaft, “an OUT-Connection State” in which a power transmission path is provided between the transmission output shaft and the electric motor output shaft, and “a neutral state” in which no transmission path therebetween is provided. When a kick-down-condition is satisfied, a changeover operation for changing an electric motor connection state to the OUT-Connection State is firstly performed. Thereafter, a gear position shifting operation for increasing a transmission reduction ratio is performed. After the kick-down-condition satisfied, an E/G side output torque Te and a M/G side output torque Tm is adjusted in such a manner that a sum Ts of Te and Tm continues to increase.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 2010Date of Patent: January 8, 2013Assignee: Aisin AI Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hiroki Hatori, Takeshige Miyazaki, Kan Sasaki, Toshio Tanba, Yousuke Hayashi
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Publication number: 20120303201Abstract: A hybrid vehicle is equipped with a required driving force acquiring element 22 which obtains a required driving force necessary to be output, and an electric motor driving force acquiring element 23 which acquires a maximum electric motor driving force Tm capable of being output by the force output from an electric motor MG according to each speed stage, taking into consideration a remaining capacity of an electric storage device BATT. When the required driving force Tq is equal to or smaller than the maximum electric motor driving force Tm, a highest speed stage in which the electric motor MG is capable of outputting the required driving force Tq is determined, an automatic transmission 1 is controlled so that the determined speed stage is set, and the vehicle is made to travel only by the force of the electric motor MG.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 30, 2011Publication date: November 29, 2012Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTDInventors: Junya Tsuneishi, Atsushi Izumiura, Masahiro Takeuchi
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Publication number: 20120290163Abstract: A vehicle transmission device includes an input member coupled to a combustion engine and a rotary electric machine; an output member coupled to wheels; a speed change mechanism with a plurality of friction engagement elements and that provides a plurality of shift speeds; and a control device that controls the speed change mechanism. When a during-regeneration downshift is performed while the rotary electric machine is outputting regenerative torque, the control device sets a target increase capacity, which is a target value of a transfer torque capacity of an engagement-side element to be engaged after an increase, increases the transfer torque capacity of the engagement-side element to the target increase capacity over a predetermined torque capacity increase period, and decreases a transfer torque capacity of a disengagement-side element, which is to be disengaged, over a predetermined torque capacity decrease period that at least partially overlaps the torque capacity increase period.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 28, 2011Publication date: November 15, 2012Applicant: AISIN AW CO., LTD.Inventors: Nobuaki Inagaki, Hiroya Ueno, Shigekazu Hase, Nobuhiro Iwai, Hiroshi Tsutsui
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Publication number: 20120270690Abstract: A hydrostatically power-splitting transmission (10), particularly for agricultural and construction equipment, comprises at least two hydrostats (H2), which are hydraulically connected to each other and operate as pumps or as motors, wherein at least one of the hydrostats (H2) can be adjusted or pivoted by means of a controller (16, 20, 21; SK1, . . . SK4), mechanical coupling means (K1, K2; Z1, . . . , Z12), which couple the hydrostats (H1, H2) to an inner drive shaft (W1) and an inner driven shaft (W7), a housing (14, 31) comprising a cover (14) and a housing bottom part (31), wherein the hydrostats (H1, H2), the inner drive and driven shafts (W1, W7), and the mechanical coupling means (Z7, Z9) are disposed and attached on the bottom of the cover (14), and in the lower housing part an outer drive shaft accessible from the outside and a driven shaft are supported, which are operatively connected to the inner drive shaft or driven shaft when the housing is assembled.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 21, 2009Publication date: October 25, 2012Applicant: MALI Holding AGInventors: Josef Häglsperger, Peter Dziuba, Markus Liebherr, Katharina Liebherr, Josef Bauer
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Patent number: 8294392Abstract: An arrangement for supplying power to a system includes a first electric drive unit constructed to supply mechanical power to or receive mechanical power from a first coupled system of machines and a second electric drive unit constructed to supply mechanical power to or receive mechanical power from a second coupled system of machines. The first and second coupled system of machines are constructed to receive mechanical power or mechanical energy or to supply mechanical power or mechanical energy. The arrangement further includes a first kinetic energy storage device having a first electrical energy exchange machine which is electrically connected to the first electric drive unit, and a second kinetic energy storage device having a second electrical energy exchange machine which is electrically connected to the second electric drive unit. The first kinetic energy storage device is coupled to the second kinetic energy storage device.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2010Date of Patent: October 23, 2012Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Jürgen Krejtschi, Elmar Schäfers
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Patent number: 8296002Abstract: A control apparatus for controlling a vehicle, the vehicle provided with: a rotating electrical machine capable of inputting or outputting a torque with respect to an input shaft; and a transmission, which is disposed between the input shaft and an output shaft coupled with an axle, which is provided with a plurality of engaging apparatuses, which transmits a torque between the input shaft and the output shaft, and which can establish a plurality of gear stages having mutually different transmission gear ratios in accordance with engagement states of the plurality of engaging apparatuses, the transmission gear ratio being a ratio between a rotational speed of the input shaft and a rotational speed of the output shaft, the vehicle control apparatus provided with: a detecting device for detecting a braking operation amount of a driver; and an input shaft torque controlling device for controlling a torque of the input shaft such that in cases where the detected braking operation amount changes in a reducing direType: GrantFiled: August 31, 2010Date of Patent: October 23, 2012Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Kenta Kumazaki, Tooru Matsubara, Atsushi Tabata
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Patent number: 8290654Abstract: A method is provided for interrupting the force flux in the drive train of a vehicle in the event of a crash. The method includes disconnecting an electric machine, which is provided in the drive train, from a driven axle. In the event of a crash an automatic transmission (G) that is arranged in the drive train between the electric machine (EM) and a driven axle (A) is shifted into a neutral position.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2010Date of Patent: October 16, 2012Assignee: Dr. Ing h.c.F. Porsche AktiengesellschaftInventors: Joerg Becker, Ralf Keller, Jurgen Metzler
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Patent number: 8249768Abstract: A method and an apparatus for controlling the hybrid drive of a motor vehicle having the following components: internal combustion engine (VKM), manual transmission (SG), at least one electrical machine (Emi), at least one clutch (Kj) and an energy storage device (ES), and at least one driven axle (HA; VA) are intended to provide maximum efficiency and service life of the components. To this end, a decision is made about which operating modes (AMK) are possible on the basis of a driver input (FW) and operating state, a division is made about which gears (Gj) are available for the possible operating modes (AMK), so that a larger number of modes (AMGK) are available for selection, operating points which correspond to the driver input are determined for all these modes (AMGK), taking into account the operating state and system state (SZA), the modes (AMGK) are assessed and the mode (AMGK*) which is assessed as being most expedient is selected.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2007Date of Patent: August 21, 2012Assignee: Magna Steyr Fahrzeugtechnik AG & Co. KGInventors: Peter Mori, Theodor Schöberl, Helmut Martin, Florian Kramer, Clemens Burow, Jan-Erik Hein, Manfred Posch
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Publication number: 20120149518Abstract: A vehicle drive system including a transmission is provided. The system includes a compound planetary gear set including first, second, third and fourth elements. The second element connects with an output shaft of the transmission. The system further includes a transmission housing. The system still further includes an electric motor which has an output shaft connecting with the first and fourth elements for driving the first and fourth elements in response to an electrical signal to obtain a desired transmission ratio. The system further includes a non-friction controllable clutch assembly which is non-hydraulically controlled to change between a coupling state for coupling the fourth element to the motor output shaft and an uncoupling state for uncoupling the fourth element from the motor output shaft.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 26, 2011Publication date: June 14, 2012Applicant: MEANS INDUSTRIES, INC.Inventor: John W. Kimes
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Patent number: 8197385Abstract: This invention relates to a control device for a vehicular power transmitting device. The control device has shifting-point altering means 108 operative such that when a second electric motor M2 is operated with priority to obtain a charging efficiency and/or electric power generating efficiency, a shifting point for a vehicle to run under a decelerating state (during a coast running state) is altered to a point on a higher vehicle speed than that at which a shifting point for a running-performance-conscious state is set. Therefore, when the second electric motor M2 is operated with priority for generating electric power, a downshift is initiated at a high vehicle speed than that at which the downshift is initiated at a shifting point for a running-performance-conscious state. This increases a rotation speed NM2 of the second electric motor M2, resulting in an increase in regeneration amount (electric power generation amount) of the second electric motor M2.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 2008Date of Patent: June 12, 2012Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Tooru Matsubara, Hiroyuki Shibata, Kenta Kumazaki, Atsushi Tabata
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Patent number: 8200382Abstract: The invention is directed to a method and a system for controlling a drive torque of a hybrid drive unit (10) of an automobile after a start. The hybrid drive unit (10) includes a first drive source (12), in particular an internal combustion engine, includes at least one electric machine (14), which can be operated either in motor-mode or in generator-mode, wherein the electric machine (14) provides in motor operation an electromotive torque (M_EM), which in conjunction with a torque (M_VM) of the first drive source (12) represents a total drive torque of the drive unit (10), and supplies in generator-mode electric power.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2007Date of Patent: June 12, 2012Assignee: VOLKSWAGEN AktiengesellschaftInventor: Hermann Hahn
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Publication number: 20120135836Abstract: An operation method of a hybrid vehicle having an automatic manual transmission system adapted to use at least two energy sources is provided with the following steps. Engaging an engine with a starter generator motor such that the engine and the starter generator motor rotate synchronously. Performing a speed changing by using a control unit assembly through controlling rotation speed of the traction motor and a rotation speed of the starter generator motor to a desired rotation speed for the speed changing according to a running state of the vehicle, such that the engine and the traction motor nearly rotate synchronously with the automatic manual transmission system to perform a gear ratio shifting process thereby to perform the speed changing. Controlling an automatic-switching clutch to engage or disengage the engine and the traction motor to achieve a plurality of driving mode for the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 9, 2012Publication date: May 31, 2012Applicant: INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY RESEARCH INSTITUTEInventors: Tseng-Teh Wei, Huan-Lung Gu, Yee-Ren Chen, E-In Wu, Shih-Ming Lo, Su-Fa Cheng
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Patent number: 8177005Abstract: When a gear of a transmission for transmitting torque of a motor to a drive shaft is shifted while an accelerator is off or an accelerator pedal is slightly stepped on, an upper limit rotation speed is set using a fluctuation rate of a value smaller than a value when the gear is not shifted, a target rotation speed of an engine is set using this upper limit rotation speed, and control is carried out so that an engine is operated at the target rotation speed. By this arrangement, when the accelerator pedal is stepped on and a large torque demand is demanded, rise of the engine rotation speed is restricted, a portion used for raising the rotation speed in power outputted from the engine is made smaller, and a larger power can be outputted to the drive shaft.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2007Date of Patent: May 15, 2012Assignees: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha, Aisin AW Co., Ltd.Inventors: Akihiro Yamanaka, Kensuke Kamichi, Hideaki Goda, Masaya Yamamoto, Yoichi Tajima, Takeshi Aoki, Kazuomi Okasaka
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Publication number: 20120083958Abstract: An embodiment of a method for simulating manual transmission operation in a vehicle having an automatic transmission includes receiving a selection of a transmission model profile which includes a simulated manual transmission model. The method further includes receiving a gear position user input signal indicative of a position of a user gear selection of the vehicle, receiving a throttle position user input signal indicative of a position of user throttle control of the vehicle, and receiving a clutch position user input signal indicative of a position of a user clutch control of the vehicle. The method still further includes determining a simulated manual transmission response using the selected transmission model profile and at least one of the gear position user input signal, the throttle position user input signal, and the clutch position user input signal, and outputting at least one vehicle control signal corresponding to the simulated transmission response.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 29, 2011Publication date: April 5, 2012Applicant: POTENS IP HOLDINGS LLCInventor: CLAUDIO R. BALLARD
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Patent number: 8133151Abstract: Operation of an electro-mechanical transmission includes determining motor torque constraints and battery power constraints. An additional constraint on the electro-mechanical transmission is determined. A preferred output torque is determined that is achievable within the motor torque constraints and based upon the additional constraint and the battery power constraints.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2008Date of Patent: March 13, 2012Assignees: GM Global Technology Operations LLC, Daimler AG, Chrysler LLC, Bayerische Motoren Werke AktiengesellschaftInventors: Tung-Ming Hsieh, Anthony H. Heap
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Patent number: 8099179Abstract: A dual-redundant propulsion-by-wire control architecture with robust monitoring is presented to increase system availability without compromising safety. The dual-redundant controllers are able to cross-monitor and self-monitor. Self monitoring is effected at the application level and built-in system tests are performed. The monitor functions are set as high priority tasks. The first controller controls operation of a first propulsion system, monitors operation of a second controller, and, self-monitors. The second controller controls operation of a second propulsion system, monitors operation of the first controller, and, self-monitors. Each controller is operable to identify faults occurring in the first and the second controller, and implement an alternate operating control scheme for the respective propulsion system when a fault is identified. The first controller is signally connected to the second controller by substantially redundant communications buses.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 2005Date of Patent: January 17, 2012Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Sanjeev M. Naik, Pradyumna K. Mishra, Soila M. Pertet
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Patent number: 8066616Abstract: A control apparatus for a vehicular automatic transmission, which permits effective reduction of deterioration of vehicle drivability upon operation of a brake operating member, and which is configured to increase a sweeping rate in a sweep control of the torque capacity of a coupling element of an automatic transmission portion 20 to be engaged to perform a shifting action when a regenerative braking command is generated according to the operation of the brake operating member during an inertia phase of the shifting action, so that the coupling element is rapidly engaged for the purpose of generating an engine braking force when the regenerative braking command is generated according to the operation of the brake operating member during the inertia phase of the shifting action. Accordingly, the braking force generated during the shifting action is equal to the braking force generated in the normal state (in the absence of the shifting action).Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2008Date of Patent: November 29, 2011Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Koki Minamikawa
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Publication number: 20110231043Abstract: A hybrid vehicle control apparatus (1) provided with: an internal combustion engine (200); a rotating electrical machine (MG2); and a power transmission mechanism (300) which is provided with a plurality of rotational elements each having a play in its rotational direction and which can transmit a torque between a drive shaft coupled with an axle and the internal combustion engine or the rotating electrical machine, the hybrid vehicle control apparatus including: a judging device (100) for judging whether or not an input/output torque of the rotating electrical machine to the drive shaft crosses an avoidance area, which is set as generating a rattle caused by the play in the power transmission mechanism in a process that the input/output torque converges to a target torque; and a reducing device (100) for reducing a crossover time as a time required for the input/output torque crossing the avoidance area in a case where the input/output torque is judged to cross the avoidance area, with respect to a referenceType: ApplicationFiled: November 30, 2009Publication date: September 22, 2011Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Hiroaki Ebuchi, Hideaki Komada, Michinobu Suzuki, Tomohito Ono, Hirotatsu Kitabatake, Kensei Hata
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Patent number: 8006790Abstract: In response to a driver's braking request operation, for example, the driver's depression of a brake pedal 85, a hybrid vehicle 20 sets a fraction of a regenerative braking torque by a motor MG2 and a fraction of a braking torque by a brake unit 90 relative to a preset braking torque demand Tr* according to the setting of a speed change ratio in a transmission 60 (steps S280, S290, S310, S320, S390, and S400). The hybrid vehicle 20 controls the motor MG2 to output the regenerative braking torque based on the preset braking torque demand Tr* and the set fraction of the regenerative braking torque, while controlling the brake unit 90 to enable the braking torque based on the preset braking force demand Tr* and the regenerative braking torque by the motor MG2 to be applied in a distributive manner at a preset front-rear braking torque distribution ratio ‘d’ to front wheels 39a and 39b and to rear wheels 39c and 39d.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2008Date of Patent: August 30, 2011Assignees: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha, Aisin Aw Co., Ltd.Inventors: Akihiro Kimura, Kiyoshiro Ueoka, Yoichi Tajima, Takeshi Aoki
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Patent number: 7977896Abstract: A method to determine a limit torque associated with an electro-mechanical transmission includes determining electric motor torque constraints and battery power constraints. A limit torque function and a standard form of the limit torque function are determined. The limit torque function and the motor torque constraints and the battery power constraints are transposed to the standard form to determine a limit torque.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2008Date of Patent: July 12, 2011Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Anthony H. Heap, Tung-Ming Hsieh
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Publication number: 20110165982Abstract: A drive system includes a pulley, an engine, a variator including an input and an output, for varying a ratio of output speed and input speed, and a gearset driveably interconnecting the input, the output, the engine and pulley.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 22, 2010Publication date: July 7, 2011Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLCInventors: Donald E. Hoffman, David A. Janson
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Publication number: 20110153129Abstract: In a series hybrid vehicle, a system for determining a shift schedule for shifting a multi-gear transmission connected to a drive means is disclosed. A vehicle operator selects among a plurality of shift styles respectively representing a plurality of shift schedules variously optimized for performance or fuel economy. A performance-based shift schedule favors providing maximum power to the road by starting at the first (lowest) gear when accelerating from a stop and utilizing all available gears of the transmission. An economy based shift schedule favors energy efficiency by skipping the first gear and optionally one or more higher-numbered gears in order to bias operation of the drive means toward lower speeds and higher torque output while reducing shift frequency.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 17, 2009Publication date: June 23, 2011Inventor: Charles L. Gray, JR.
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Publication number: 20110136608Abstract: The present invention provides a hydraulic control system of a power train for a hybrid vehicle that allows the power train of a hybrid vehicle to implement all of two or more EV modes, two or more power split modes, and at least three or more fixed-stage modes, with a relatively simple configuration, and achieves satisfactory power performance of the power train and fuel efficiency and reduce the cost of the valve body, remove possibility of malfunction, and implements a limp home function when a controller is broken.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 14, 2010Publication date: June 9, 2011Applicants: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors CorporationInventors: Youngchul Kim, Gwangseob Shin, Jonghyun Kim, Yeonho Kim, Jaeshin Yi
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Patent number: 7957856Abstract: An ECU calculates a drive torque request value Td0 (S102) when a creep torque generation condition is satisfied (YES in S100), calculates a creep torque reflection rate Kcrp using a gear rattle prevention map instead of an ordinary map (S110) when a vehicle speed V is substantially zero and an engine is in a load drive state (YES in S106 and NO in S108) while a forward drive range is being selected (YES in S104), and calculates a product of Td0 and Kcrp as a creep torque request value Tp (S114). The ordinary map is a map decreasing Kcrp to 0 with increase in brake torque, and the gear rattle prevention map is a map decreasing Kcrp to a predetermined value larger than 0 with increase in brake torque.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2009Date of Patent: June 7, 2011Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Takao Itoh
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Publication number: 20110098152Abstract: A method of clutch control includes engaging a first holding clutch to place the transmission in a first neutral mode and predicting a first EVT mode. The method begins tracking a first output clutch and predicts a second EVT mode. Tracking the first output clutch ends and tracking a second holding clutch begins. The method engages the second holding clutch to place the transmission in a second neutral mode, ending tracking of the second holding clutch. The first holding clutch is disengaged to place the transmission in a third neutral mode and the method begins tracking a second output clutch. Engaging the second output clutch places the transmission in the second EVT mode and ends tracking of the second output clutch. The engine may be placed into a speed control mode and the transmission placed into a full hydraulic neutral mode.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 23, 2009Publication date: April 28, 2011Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.Inventors: Jy-Jen F. Sah, Lawrence A. Kaminsky
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Publication number: 20110009237Abstract: The present invention provides a method which controls the hydraulic pressure of a clutch (an engine clutch) disposed between an engine and a drive motor, thus reducing gear shifting shock and vibration. The method comprises a slip preparation step of determining that gear shifting is required and reducing the hydraulic pressure of the clutch to a preset target hydraulic pressure from a point in time at which the gear shifting is required. The method further comprises a slip maintaining step of feedback-controlling the hydraulic pressure of the clutch such that a slip rate of the clutch is maintained constant after the hydraulic pressure of the clutch reaches the target hydraulic pressure; and a clutch lock-up completing step of increasing the hydraulic pressure of the clutch, from a point in time at which the gear shifting is completed, to a maximum hydraulic pressure for making a lock-up state of the clutch.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 24, 2009Publication date: January 13, 2011Applicant: HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANYInventors: Sang Joon Kim, Sang Hee Shin
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Patent number: 7846061Abstract: A method for operating a drivetrain of a motor vehicle having in the force flow direction and in the following order an internal combustion engine, a clutch, an electric motor, a transmission and an axle gearset, or an internal combustion engine, a clutch, an electric motor, a transmission input shaft, a transmission and an axle gearset. The electric motor is used for pre-lubricating and warming the transmission such that, with the vehicle clutch disengaged, the lubricant pump of the transmission is driven by the electric motor so bearings are supplied with lubricant before the engine is started, and the heat, produced by splashing the lubricant, additionally warms the transmission.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2006Date of Patent: December 7, 2010Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AGInventors: Mario Steinborn, Ulrich Reith
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Publication number: 20100304912Abstract: A transmission configured for receiving power from an engine is provided with a normally-closed clutch in order to permit operation in modes requiring closure of the clutch even when hydraulic power from a pump powered by the engine or by rotation of a transmission member is not available, or is not of a sufficient pressure.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 29, 2009Publication date: December 2, 2010Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.Inventor: Karl Andrew Sime
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Publication number: 20100299033Abstract: A method of controlling a pump for a hybrid transmission includes commanding a first line pressure of the transmission and deriving a first torque value—an open-loop torque value—from the first line pressure command, and commanding the pump to operate at the first torque value. The method monitors actual speed of the pump and derives a second torque value—a closed-loop torque value—therefrom. A third torque value is derived from the first and second torque values, and the pump commanded to operate at the third torque value. A first speed value may be derived from the first line pressure command, and the second torque value derived from the difference between the monitored and the first speed values. Deriving the third torque value may include a substantially-linear combination of the first and second torque values.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 19, 2009Publication date: November 25, 2010Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.Inventor: Jy-Jen F. Sah
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Patent number: 7832514Abstract: A drive unit for a hybrid electric motor vehicle includes an engine, an electric motor/generator, a layshaft supporting a first coupler and a second coupler, a first drive path including the layshaft and the first coupler for driveably connecting and disconnecting the engine and the motor/generator, and a second drive path including the layshaft and the second coupler for driveably connecting and disconnecting the engine and an output of the drive unit, the first coupler and the second coupler being operative to connect concurrently the engine, the motor/generator and said output.Type: GrantFiled: February 5, 2008Date of Patent: November 16, 2010Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventor: David A. Janson
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Publication number: 20100263952Abstract: A method for operating a hybrid vehicle, which has a first and a second drive unit, in which the second drive unit is started by at least a portion of the operating energy generated by the first drive unit. In order to improve the driving comfort of the hybrid vehicle during the startup of the second drive unit while driving, the second drive unit, which is at rest, is started using kinetic energy obtained from a driving movement of the hybrid vehicle, while the hybrid vehicle is driven by the first drive unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 22, 2010Publication date: October 21, 2010Inventors: Boyke Richter, Michael Lehner, Herbert Prickarz, Torsten Heidrich
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Publication number: 20100262323Abstract: An apparatus, applied to a vehicle having an internal combustion engine and an electric motor as power sources, comprises a changeover mechanism which is able to change a connection state of an electric motor output shaft to any one of “an IN-Connection State” in which a power transmission path is provided between a transmission input shaft and the electric motor output shaft, “an OUT-Connection State” in which a power transmission path is provided between the transmission output shaft and the electric motor output shaft, and “a neutral state” in which no transmission path therebetween is provided. When a changeover condition is satisfied, a period is provided in which a sum Ts of an internal-combustion-engine-side-output-torque Te and an electric-motor-side-output-torque Tm coincides with a required driving torque Tr, and an electric motor torque continues to be zero.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 6, 2010Publication date: October 14, 2010Applicant: Aisin Al Co., Ltd.Inventors: Toshio Tanba, Kan Sasaki, Takeshige Miyazaki, Yousuke Hayashi, Hiroki Hatori
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Publication number: 20100262324Abstract: An apparatus comprises a changeover mechanism which is able to change a connection state of an electric motor output shaft to any one of “an IN-Connection State” in which a power transmission path is provided between a transmission input shaft and the electric motor output shaft, “an OUT-Connection State” in which a power transmission path is provided between the transmission output shaft and the electric motor output shaft, and “a neutral state” in which no transmission path therebetween is provided. When a kick-down-condition is satisfied, a changeover operation for changing an electric motor connection state to the OUT-Connection State is firstly performed. Thereafter, a gear position shifting operation for increasing a transmission reduction ratio is performed. After the kick-down-condition satisfied, an E/G side output torque Te and a M/G side output torque Tm is adjusted in such a manner that a sum Ts of Te and Tm continues to increase.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 6, 2010Publication date: October 14, 2010Applicant: Aisin Al Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hiroki HATORI, Takeshige Miyazaki, Kan Sasaki, Toshio Tanba, Yousuke Hayashi
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Publication number: 20100261565Abstract: The current invention discloses a dual-mode electro-mechanical variable speed transmission. Said transmission includes an input shaft, an output shaft system, a planetary gear system having at least three co-axial rotating members, two electric machines along with the associated controllers for the electric machines, and at least a clutch. Said planetary gear system has at least three branches; each branch corresponds to a co-axial rotating member. The first branch couples to the first electric machine with a fixed speed ratio; another branch couples to the input shaft with a fixed speed ratio; and yet anther branch couples to the output shaft system with a fixed speed ratio; the second electric machine couples selectively to two of the branches in the planetary gear system with different speed ratios. Said two branches are not the first branch and one of the said two branches is connected to the output shaft system.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 28, 2008Publication date: October 14, 2010Inventors: Xiaolin Ai, Rui Xue, Zhonghe Xue, Xiaozhi Ai
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Publication number: 20100248892Abstract: A method for regulating operation of a hybrid transmission selectively connectable to an engine includes deactivating an offgoing clutch to place the transmission in a first EVT mode. The transmission is then placed in an ETC mode and an oncoming clutch is actuated to place the transmission in a second EVT mode. An engine-on state is maintained during deactivation of the offgoing clutch and actuation of the oncoming clutch. Transitioning from the first to second EVT mode may be characterized by lack of a transition through a fixed-gear mode. The transmission may be configured to continuously produce output torque during the transition from the first to second EVT mode. The oncoming clutch may be synchronized to zero clutch slip prior to actuating the oncoming clutch. Engine speed may be varied while the offgoing clutch is disengaged and prior to actuating the oncoming clutch.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 31, 2009Publication date: September 30, 2010Inventor: Jy-Jen F. Sah
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Publication number: 20100234171Abstract: An apparatus comprises a changeover mechanism which is able to change a connection state of an electric motor output shaft to any one of states including, “an IN-Connection State” in which a power transmission path is provided between a transmission input shaft and the electric motor output shaft, “an OUT-Connection State” in which a power transmission path is provided between the transmission output shaft and the electric motor output shaft, and “a neutral state” in which no transmission path therebetween is provided. The changeover is carried out based on a combination of a vehicle speed V and a required driving torque T. When the vehicle starts to drive, “the IN-Connection State” is selected. After the start of the vehicle and while the vehicle speed V is increasing, the changeovers to “the OUT-Connection State”, “the IN-Connection State”, and “the neutral state” are sequentially carried out.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 10, 2010Publication date: September 16, 2010Applicant: Aisin Al Co., Ltd.Inventors: Toshio TANBA, Kan SASAKI, Takeshige MIYAZAKI, Yousuke HAYASHI
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Publication number: 20100234172Abstract: An apparatus comprises a changeover mechanism which is able to change a connection state to any one of three states, i.e., “an IN-Connection State” in which a power transmission path is provided between a transmission input shaft and the electric motor output shaft, “an OUT-Connection State” in which a power transmission path is provided between a transmission output shaft and the electric motor output shaft, and “a neutral connection state” in which no transmission path therebetween is provided. At a timing (time t1) at which a both-neutral-state is required during the vehicle is running, both “an operation for a changeover of the state-of-connecting of the clutch mechanism (C/T 30) from a connection-state to a shut-off-state” and “an operation for a changeover of said connection state of the changeover mechanism 50 from either one of the IN-Connection State and the OUT-Connection State to the non-connection state” are simultaneously started.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 10, 2010Publication date: September 16, 2010Applicant: Aisin Al Co., Ltd.Inventors: Takeshige MIYAZAKI, Hiroki Hatori
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Publication number: 20100235029Abstract: A method is provided for interrupting the force flux in the drive train of a vehicle in the event of a crash. The method includes disconnecting an electric machine, which is provided in the drive train, from a driven axle. In the event of a crash an automatic transmission (G) that is arranged in the drive train between the electric machine (EM) and a driven axle (A) is shifted into a neutral position.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 23, 2010Publication date: September 16, 2010Applicant: DR. ING. H.C.F. PORSCHE AKTIENGESELLSCHAFTInventors: Joerg Becker, Ralf Keller, Jürgen Metzler
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Publication number: 20100234173Abstract: An apparatus comprises a changeover mechanism which is able to change a connection state of an electric motor output shaft to any one of states including, “an IN-Connection State” in which a power transmission path is provided between a transmission input shaft and the electric motor output shaft, “an OUT-Connection State” in which a power transmission path is provided between the transmission output shaft and the electric motor output shaft, and “a neutral connection state” in which no transmission path therebetween is provided. The changeover is carried out based on a combination (area) of a vehicle speed V and a required driving torque T. As for the changeover, an IN-connection area, in which an electric-motor-driving-wheels-maximum-torque is larger than in an OUT-Connection State and in a neutral connection area, is enlarged.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 10, 2010Publication date: September 16, 2010Applicant: Aisin AI Co., Ltd.Inventors: Takeshige Miyazaki, Hiroki Hatori, Kan Sasaki, Toshio Tanba, Yousuke Hayashi
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Publication number: 20100227722Abstract: An electrically-variable transmission for use with an engine includes an input member configured for operative interconnection with the engine, an output member, and a stationary member. First and second motor/generators, a first and a second planetary gear set each having respective first, second, and third members are included. A first, a second, and a third selectively engagable torque-transmitting mechanism are included. The input member is connectable for common rotation with the first member of the first planetary gear set either continuously or selectively by engagement of the third torque-transmitting mechanism. The output member is connected for common rotation with the first member of the second planetary gear set. The motor/generators are controllable and the torque-transmitting mechanisms are selectively engagable to establish at least one electric-only mode, a series mode, an output-split mode, and at least one neutral mode.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 4, 2009Publication date: September 9, 2010Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.Inventor: Brendan M. Conlon
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Publication number: 20100227735Abstract: A multi-mode, electrically variable, hybrid transmission and improved shift control methods for controlling the same are provided herein. The hybrid transmission configuration and shift control methodology presented herein allow for shifting between different EVT modes when the engine is off, while maintaining propulsion capability and minimum time delay for engine autostart. The shift control maneuver is able to maintain zero engine speed while producing continuous output torque throughout the shift by eliminating transition through a fixed gear mode or neutral state. Optional oncoming clutch pre-fill strategies and mid-point abort logic minimize the time to complete shift, and reduce the engine start delay if an intermittent autostart operation is initiated.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 6, 2009Publication date: September 9, 2010Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.Inventors: Jy-Jen F. Sah, Brendan M. Conlon
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Publication number: 20100210413Abstract: A shift controller for an automatic transmission mechanism is configured such that when the engine is in a driven state in which the engine is driven by a travel inertia force or the like and an accumulated pressure amount of the accumulator is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, the excessive engine brake force, which is generated due to the accumulation of at least a portion of the hydraulic pressure generated from the mechanical hydraulic pump in the accumulator, is inhibited or reduced by conducting upshifting that relatively decreases the gear ratio of the automatic transmission mechanism. Therefore, the generation of the excessive engine brake force can be inhibited or reduced even when the engine is in the driven state and pressure accumulation is performed.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 12, 2010Publication date: August 19, 2010Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Takahiro YOKOKAWA, Yuji Hattori, Shinya Fujimura, Takaho Kawakami
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Publication number: 20100203996Abstract: To provide a control system capable of setting a various kinds of driving mode, and shifting the driving mode regardless of the rotational speed of the engine.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 17, 2008Publication date: August 12, 2010Applicant: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Takashi Kawai, Takeshi Kotani, Junya Mizuno
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Publication number: 20100203995Abstract: A full hybrid electric vehicle comprises a heat engine, a one-way-clutch connected to the engine shaft, an electric motor, a planetary gear unit, a clutch with limited torque, and a transmission. The planetary gear unit includes at least a sun gear (an input element), a ring gear (an input element) and a pinion carrier (an output element). The torque-limited clutch seats between two of the planetary gear elements. The engine is connected to and applies torque on one of the input elements. The electric motor is connected to and applies torque on the other input element. While the vehicle is running, the engine can be started smoothly by engaging the torque-limited clutch and controlling the motor torque, and a shock on the vehicle similar to a rough shift can be avoided.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 6, 2010Publication date: August 12, 2010Inventors: Lingling Zhang, Zhihui Duan
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Patent number: 7771310Abstract: A drive state shift control apparatus for a hybrid vehicle and a control method for a hybrid vehicle smoothly perform a shift in drive state in accordance with an operating state by a mode shift and a gear shift. When an accelerator operation causes a mode shift request and a gear shift request at substantially the same time, vehicle information including at least one of the vehicle speed and the engine load is used to determine the sequence of the shifts based on the competing interests of shock control and responsiveness.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2007Date of Patent: August 10, 2010Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Kaori Tanishima
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Publication number: 20100193268Abstract: A drive system is provided for a hybrid vehicle that has an engine with a crankshaft and a motor/generator having a shaft member. The drive system includes a starter sprocket connected for rotation with the shaft member and a crankshaft sprocket connected for rotation with the crankshaft. A chain is engaged with the starter sprocket and the crankshaft sprocket. A planetary gear set is configured to multiply torque of the motor/generator, with the multiplied torque being provided to the engine crankshaft via the sprockets and the chain to start the engine.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 5, 2009Publication date: August 5, 2010Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.Inventor: Gary E. McGee
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Publication number: 20100175944Abstract: A control device for a power transmitting device for four-wheel drive hybrid-vehicle is provided capable of preventing the occurrence of negative torque resulting from power generation control of a second electric motor MG2. Drive-force control means 72 executes a control such that rear-wheel output torque Tpr of rear wheels 40 falls in a positive torque when first and second electric motors MG1 and MG2 execute power generation controls, thereby preventing torques of front and rear wheels 34 and 40 from orienting in different directions. Accordingly, the front and rear wheels 34 and 40 have torques oriented in the same direction, thereby favorably preventing discomfort feeling during a vehicle running.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 17, 2009Publication date: July 15, 2010Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventor: Kenichiro HAYASHI