Patent application number | Description | Published |
20100261578 | Friction Element Load Sensing in an Automatic Transmission - A load sensor assembly for measuring an amount of torque transmitted through a torque establishing element includes a core mounted on a transmission housing and a load sensor mounted on the core. The load sensor is positioned against a portion of the torque establishing element whereby a portion of the amount of torque transmitted through the torque establishing element travels through the load sensor and is measured. A cable is connected to the load sensor for transmitting a signal representative of the amount of torque to a transmission controller. | 10-14-2010 |
20100262344 | Closed-Loop Torque Phase Control for Shifting Automatic Transmission Gear Ratios Based on Friction Element Load Sensing - A closed loop shift control apparatus and method based on friction element load controls a torque transfer phase when shifting from a low gear configuration to a high gear configuration for an automatic transmission system. When pressure actuated friction elements are selectively engaged and released to establish torque flow paths in the transmission, measurements or estimates of torsional load exerted on the off-going friction element are used to predict the optimal off-going friction element release timing for achieving a consistent shift feel. The ideal timing to release the off-going friction element is uniquely defined when torque load exerted onto the off-going friction element becomes substantially zero. An on-coming clutch engagement process is controlled by a closed loop control based on measurements or estimates of on-coming clutch torque capacity for a constant shift feel under dynamically changing conditions. | 10-14-2010 |
20100318269 | Closed-Loop Torque Phase Control for Shifting Automatic Transmission Gear Ratios Based on Friction Element Load Estimation - A closed loop shift control apparatus and method based on estimated torque in friction elements controls a torque transfer phase when shifting from a low gear configuration to a high gear configuration for an automatic transmission system. When pressure actuated friction elements are selectively engaged and released to establish torque flow paths in the transmission, estimates of torsional load exerted on the off-going friction element are used to predict the optimal off-going friction element release timing for achieving a consistent shift feel. The estimated torque is preferably calculated by using estimated torque signals generated as a function of speed measurements represented either the engine speed and turbine output speed or transmission output speed and wheel speed under dynamically changing conditions. | 12-16-2010 |
20110039657 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR ASSISTED DIRECT START CONTROL - Systems and methods are provided for controlling a vehicle system including an engine that is selectively shut-down during engine idle-stop conditions, the system further including a hydraulic circuit comprising a hydraulically actuated transmission component, an accumulator, and an auxiliary transmission fluid pump. One example method comprises, during a first idle-stop engine shut-down condition, where the accumulator pressure is above a threshold, delivering pressurized transmission fluid to the hydraulic circuit from the accumulator, while disabling the auxiliary pump. The method further comprises, during a second idle-stop engine shut-down condition, where the accumulator pressure is below the threshold, operating the auxiliary pump and delivering at least some pressurized transmission fluid to the hydraulic circuit from the operating pump without travelling through the accumulator. | 02-17-2011 |
20110130245 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR ASSISTED DIRECT START CONTROL - Methods and systems are provided for controlling a vehicle system including a selectively shut-down engine, a torque converter and a torque converter lock-up clutch. One example method comprises, during an idle-stop engine shut-down, restricting flow of transmission fluid out of the torque converter, and adjusting engagement of the torque converter lock-up clutch to adjust a drag torque on the engine to stop the engine. | 06-02-2011 |
20110135498 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR ASSISTED DIRECT START CONTROL - Methods and systems are provided for pressurizing a transmission hydraulic circuit including a transmission mechanical pump coupled to an engine though a gearbox. One example method comprises, during an engine start, adjusting a speed ratio between the transmission pump and the engine between a first speed ratio and a second speed ratio, the pump rotating faster relative to the engine at the first speed ratio as compared with the second speed ratio. | 06-09-2011 |
20110136620 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR ASSISTED DIRECT START CONTROL - Methods and systems are provided for controlling a vehicle engine coupled to a stepped-gear-ratio transmission. One example method comprises, in response to a first vehicle moving condition, shutting down the engine and at least partially disengaging the transmission while the vehicle is moving; and during a subsequent restart, while the vehicle is moving, starting the engine using starter motor assistance and adjusting a degree of engagement of a transmission clutch to adjust a torque transmitted to a wheel of the vehicle. | 06-09-2011 |
20110136621 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR ASSISTED DIRECT START CONTROL - Methods and systems are provided for reducing driveline unwinding during successive engine shutdown and restart operations. In one example, during an engine shutdown, torsion is maintained in a transmission gear-train until an engine restart is requested by engaging one or more transmission clutches while applying wheel brakes. | 06-09-2011 |
20110184612 | Ratio Shift Control System and Method for a Multiple-Ratio Automatic Transmission - A control system and method for controlling a multiple gear ratio automatic transmission in a powertrain for an automatic transmission having pressure activated friction torque elements to effect gear ratio upshifts. The friction torque elements are synchronously engaged and released during a torque phase of an upshift event as torque from a torque source is increased while allowing the off-going friction elements to slip, followed by an inertia phase during which torque from a torque source is modulated. A perceptible transmission output torque reduction during an upshift is avoided. | 07-28-2011 |
20110184613 | MULTIPLE-RATIO AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION CONTROL METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR RATIO UPSHIFTS - A speed ratio shaft control for multiple ratio vehicle transmission has controlled release of an off-going transmission clutch and controlled engagement of an on-coming transmission clutch during a speed ratio upshift, at least one clutch being a friction torque establishing clutch. A controller, using shift-timing software strategy, actively manages in real time a clutch torque level for each clutch so that transient torque disturbances in a transmission torque output shaft are mitigated. | 07-28-2011 |
20120130608 | Synchronous Automatic Transmission Up-Shift Control Utilizing Input Torque Signal - A synchronous automatic transmission up-shift control utilizes input torque measurements. The input torque is measured during an up-shift having preparatory, torque, and inertia phases. Target input torque profiles for the torque and inertia phases are determined based on the input torque during the preparatory phase. During the torque phase, an engine torque is controlled to cause the input torque to achieve the target profile for the torque phase. During the inertia phase, an on-coming clutch is controlled to cause the input torque to achieve the target profile for the inertia phase. | 05-24-2012 |
20120130610 | Non-Synchronous Automatic Transmission Up-Shift Control Utilzing Input Torque Signal - A non-synchronous automatic transmission up-shift control utilizes input torque measurements. The input torque is measured during an up-shift having preparatory, torque, and inertia phases. Target input torque profiles for the torque and inertia phases are determined based on the input torque during the preparatory phase. During the torque phase, an engine torque is controlled to cause the input torque to achieve the target profile for the torque phase. During the inertia phase, the on-coming clutch is controlled to cause the input torque to achieve the target profile for the inertia phase. | 05-24-2012 |
20120158260 | Automatic Transmission and Method of Control for Rejecting Erroneous Torque Measurements - A method for an automatic transmission includes measuring torque of a component of the transmission using a torque sensor in communication with the component. The torque of the component is estimated from information other than the measured torque. The measured torque is rejected from being used in a control operation of the transmission if the difference between the measured torque and the estimated torque is greater than a selected threshold. | 06-21-2012 |
20120238405 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR ASSISTED DIRECT START CONTROL - Methods and systems are provided for controlling a vehicle engine coupled to a stepped-gear-ratio transmission. One example method comprises, in response to a first vehicle moving condition, shutting down the engine and at least partially disengaging the transmission while the vehicle is moving; and during a subsequent restart, while the vehicle is moving, starting the engine using starter motor assistance and adjusting a degree of engagement of a transmission clutch to adjust a torque transmitted to a wheel of the vehicle. | 09-20-2012 |
20120264567 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR ASSISTED DIRECT START CONTROL - Methods and systems are provided for pressurizing a transmission hydraulic circuit including a transmission mechanical pump coupled to an engine though a gearbox. One example method comprises, during an engine start, adjusting a speed ratio between the transmission pump and the engine between a first speed ratio and a second speed ratio, the pump rotating faster relative to the engine at the first speed ratio as compared with the second speed ratio. In this way, the pump may be driven at different speed ratios relative to the engine to provide better pressurization in the transmission. | 10-18-2012 |
20120297895 | Magnetic Torque Sensor Packaging for Automatic Transmissions - Designs to package a magneto-elastic torque sensor in an automotive transmission, such as front wheel drive (FWD) automatic transmissions, for volume production applications are provided. | 11-29-2012 |
20120316738 | Clutch Torque Trajectory Correction to Provide Torque Hole Filling During a Ratio Upshift - A control system and method for controlling a multiple gear ratio automatic transmission in a powertrain for an automatic transmission having pressure activated friction torque elements to effect gear ratio upshifts. The friction torque elements are synchronously engaged and released during a torque phase of an upshift event as torque from a torque source is increased while allowing the off-going friction elements to slip, followed by an inertia phase during which torque from a torque source is modulated. A perceptible transmission output torque reduction during an upshift is avoided. Measured torque values are used during a torque phase of the upshift to correct an estimated oncoming friction element target torque so that transient torque disturbances at an oncoming clutch are avoided and torque transients at the output shaft are reduced. | 12-13-2012 |
20130085034 | Ratio Shift Control System And Method For A Multiple-Ratio Automatic Transmission - A control system and method for controlling a multiple gear ratio automatic transmission in a powertrain for an automatic transmission having pressure activated friction torque elements to effect gear ratio upshifts. The friction torque elements are synchronously engaged and released during a torque phase of an upshift event as torque from a powertrain source is increased while allowing the off-going friction elements to slip, followed by an inertia phase during which torque from a powertrain source is modulated. A perceptible transmission output torque reduction during an upshift is avoided. | 04-04-2013 |
20130090818 | Multiple-Ratio Automatic Transmission Control Method And System For Ratio Upshifts - A speed ratio shaft control for multiple ratio vehicle transmission has controlled release of an off-going transmission clutch and controlled engagement of an on-coming transmission clutch during a speed ratio upshift, at least one clutch being a friction torque establishing clutch. A controller, using shift-timing software strategy, actively manages in real time a clutch torque level for each clutch so that transient torque disturbances in a transmission torque output shaft are mitigated. | 04-11-2013 |
20130116090 | Friction Element Load Sensing in an Automatic Transmission - A load sensor assembly for measuring an amount of torque transmitted through a torque establishing element includes a core mounted on a transmission housing and a load sensor mounted on the core. The load sensor is positioned against a portion of the torque establishing element whereby a portion of the amount of torque transmitted through the torque establishing element travels through the load sensor and is measured. A cable is connected to the load sensor for transmitting a signal representative of the amount of torque to a transmission controller. | 05-09-2013 |
20130153353 | CLUTCH TORQUE TRAJECTORY CORRECTION TO PROVIDE TORQUE HOLE FILLING DURING A RATIO UPSHIFT - A multiple ratio transmission having an input shaft, an output shaft and oncoming clutch and off-going clutch for effecting ratio upshifts is provided. The transmission also includes a transmission controller configured for controlling shifts. During the torque phase of a ratio upshift, the controller increases input torque. Next, the controller estimates an oncoming clutch target torque. The controller controls a torque input to ensure the off-going clutch remains locked. The controller measures an actual transmission value for a torque transmitting element of the transmission and corrects the oncoming clutch target torque using the actual transmission value whereby an increasing torque for the oncoming friction element is achieved with minimal torque transients along the output shaft during the upshift. | 06-20-2013 |
20130263654 | Transmissions with Electronics Interface Assembly for Torque Sensor - A transmission includes sensors positioned adjacent respective pairs of magnetized bands on a shaft of the transmission for detecting magnetic flux emanating from the bands in response to torque on the shaft. The transmission further includes an electronics interface assembly configured to respectively provide drive signals to the sensors and to receive from the sensors, in response to the drive signals, output signals indicative of the torque on the shaft as detected by the sensors. | 10-10-2013 |
20130291830 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR ENGINE STARTING DURING A SHIFT - Systems and methods for improving operation of a hybrid vehicle are presented. In one example, torque demand of a driveline after a shift is forecast to determine if it is desirable to start the engine early so that engine torque is available after the shift. The approach may improve vehicle torque response. | 11-07-2013 |
20130292195 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR A VEHICLE DRIVELINE POWER TAKE OFF - Systems and methods for improving operation of a power take off are presented. In one example, the power take off may be rotated in two different directions. The approaches may improve operation of a power take off device. | 11-07-2013 |
20130296098 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR A VEHICLE DRIVELINE CONTROL DURING VARYING DRIVING CONDITIONS - Systems and methods for improving operation of a hybrid vehicle are presented. In one example, driveline operating modes may be adjusted in response to driving surface conditions. The approaches may improve vehicle drivability and reduce driveline degradation. | 11-07-2013 |
20130296101 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR A FOUR WHEEL DRIVE VEHICLE DRIVELINE - Systems and methods for improving operation of a hybrid vehicle are presented. In one example, driveline operation may be adjusted in response to operating the hybrid vehicle in a four wheel drivel low gear range. The approaches may improve vehicle drivability and reduce driveline degradation. | 11-07-2013 |
20130296118 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR A VEHICLE DRIVELINE - Systems and methods for improving operation of a hybrid vehicle are presented. In one example, driveline operating modes may be manually selected to improve hybrid driveline operation during off road conditions. The approaches may improve vehicle drivability and reduce driveline degradation. | 11-07-2013 |
20130296123 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR ADAPTING A DRIVELINE DISCONNECT CLUTCH TRANSFER FUNCTION - Systems and methods for improving operation of a hybrid vehicle are presented. In one example, a transfer function of a driveline disconnect clutch is adapted. | 11-07-2013 |
20130296124 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR A DRIVELINE DUAL MASS FLYWHEEL - Systems and methods for improving operation of a hybrid vehicle are presented. In one example, compensation is provided for a dual mass flywheel positioned in a vehicle driveline. The approaches may reduce driveline torque disturbances. | 11-07-2013 |
20130296125 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR OPERATING A DRIVELINE CLUTCH - Systems and methods for improving operation of a hybrid vehicle are presented. In one example, operation of a driveline disconnect clutch is adjusted to compensate for clutch wear and manufacturing tolerances. | 11-07-2013 |
20130296132 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR ADJUSTING DRIVELINE DISCONNECT CLUTCH OPERATION - Systems and methods for improving operation of a hybrid vehicle are presented. In one example, torque transferred via a driveline disconnect clutch is estimated based on characteristics of a torque converter to improve driveline operation. | 11-07-2013 |
20130296136 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR A VEHICLE DRIVELINE - Systems and methods for improving operation of a hybrid vehicle are presented. In one example, driveline disconnect clutch operation is adjusted in response to vehicle mass so that the vehicle may operate similarly at lower and higher vehicle masses. | 11-07-2013 |
20130297115 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR OPERATING A DRIVELINE DISCONNECT CLUTCH RESPONSIVE TO ENGINE OPERATING CONDITIONS - Systems and methods for improving operation of a hybrid vehicle are presented. In one example, a driveline disconnect clutch transfer function may be adapted in response to engine operating conditions during closing of the driveline disconnect clutch. | 11-07-2013 |
20130297117 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS PROVIDING DRIVELINE BRAKING - Systems and methods for improving operation of a hybrid vehicle are presented. In one example, driveline braking may transition from regenerative braking to engine braking to reduce the possibility of battery degradation. | 11-07-2013 |
20130297120 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR PROVIDING UNIFORM DRIVELINE BRAKING - Systems and methods for improving operation of a hybrid vehicle are presented. In one example, negative torque of an electric machine is adjusted to mimic negative torque of an engine during engine braking so that the vehicle may transition from regenerative braking to engine braking in a seamless manner. | 11-07-2013 |
20130297123 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR REDUCING GEAR LASH NOISE - Systems and methods for improving operation of a hybrid vehicle are presented. In one example, driveline gear lash gear tooth to gear tooth impact may be reduce via adjusting operation of an electric machine. | 11-07-2013 |
20130297157 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR IMPROVING TRANSMISSION SHIFTING - Systems and methods for improving operation of a hybrid vehicle are presented. In one example, an engine is couple to a transmission in response to a transmission upshift to reduce transmission output shaft torque disturbances. | 11-07-2013 |
20130311057 | Closed-Loop Torque Phase Control for Shifting Automatic Transmission Gear Ratios Based on Friction Element Load Estimation - A closed loop shift control apparatus and method based on estimated torque in friction elements controls a torque transfer phase when shifting from a low gear configuration to a high gear configuration for an automatic transmission system. When pressure actuated friction elements are selectively engaged and released to establish torque flow paths in the transmission, estimates of torsional load exerted on the off-going friction element are used to predict the optimal off-going friction element release timing for achieving a consistent shift feel. The estimated torque is preferably calculated by using estimated torque signals generated as a function of speed measurements represented either the engine speed and turbine output speed or transmission output speed and wheel speed under dynamically changing conditions. | 11-21-2013 |
20130345022 | CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR A VEHICLE TRANSMISSION - A control system for a vehicle transmission includes a controller configured to output a first torque estimate defined in terms of one nonlinear function of a transmission parameter for a particular value of the transmission parameter. The controller also receives a measured torque of the transmission at the particular value of the transmission parameter, and outputs a modified torque estimate for the particular value of the transmission parameter based on the measured torque. | 12-26-2013 |
20140046529 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR OPERATING A DRIVELINE DISCONNECT CLUTCH - Systems and methods for improving operation of a hybrid vehicle are presented. In one example, application of a driveline disconnect clutch to start an engine is described. The approach applies the driveline disconnect clutch to rotate an engine and at least partially disengages the driveline disconnect clutch to reduce the possibility of a reduction in torque applied to vehicle wheels. | 02-13-2014 |
20140046557 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A VEHICLE POWERTRAIN - A system and method for controlling a vehicle powertrain includes a controller that is operative to automatically control at least one powertrain function other than engine torque based on a measured torque and a predetermined torque range. The predetermined torque range is based on a first engine torque estimate. The measured torque is related to actual engine torque, and can be measured directly at the engine crankshaft, or in another location in the powertrain and then transferred to the engine space. | 02-13-2014 |
20140057754 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR ASSISTED DIRECT START CONTROL - Methods and systems are provided for controlling a vehicle engine coupled to a stepped-gear-ratio transmission. One example method comprises, in response to a first vehicle moving condition, shutting down the engine and at least partially disengaging the transmission while the vehicle is moving; and during a subsequent restart, while the vehicle is moving, starting the engine using starter motor assistance and adjusting a degree of engagement of a transmission clutch to adjust a torque transmitted to a wheel of the vehicle. | 02-27-2014 |
20140069759 | Transmission and Method of Controlling Clutch During Ratio Change - A transmission and control method are disclosed which ensure proper stroke pressure and minimize torque transients during a shift event. The transmission includes a clutch having a torque capacity based on a fluid pressure, a torque sensor adapted to measure a torque value that varies in relationship to the torque capacity, and a controller. The method includes varying the fluid pressure around a predetermined value, measuring a resulting torque difference with the torque sensor, and adjusting a clutch control parameter if the resulting torque difference is less than a threshold value. | 03-13-2014 |
20140080668 | DECELERATION FUEL SHUT OFF SCHEDULING BASED ON VEHICLE PARAMETERS - A method for enacting DFSO in a motor vehicle having an engine and a transmission. The method includes, during a condition of normal engine-braking efficiency, disabling the DFSO below a higher gear of the transmission. During a condition of reduced engine-braking efficiency, by contrast, the DFSO is disabled below a lower gear of the transmission. | 03-20-2014 |
20140081541 | Line Pressure Control with Input Shaft Torque Measurement - A method of controlling a line pressure in a transmission is provided. Line pressure in a transmission is set to a pressure value including a first term that is proportional to an input torque value. The first term has a coefficient of proportionality that is increased in response to a signal indicating clutch slippage. The input torque value is a measured input torque value in a steady-state condition. The input torque value may be a maximum of the measured input torque value and a driver demand torque value in a transient condition. | 03-20-2014 |
20140094343 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR ASSISTED DIRECT START CONTROL - Methods and systems are provided for controlling a vehicle system including a selectively shut-down engine, a torque converter and a torque converter lock-up clutch. One example method comprises, during an idle-stop engine shut-down, restricting flow of transmission fluid out of the torque converter, and adjusting engagement of the torque converter lock-up clutch to adjust a drag torque on the engine to stop the engine. | 04-03-2014 |
20140100727 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR OPERATING A HYBRID POWERTRAIN - A method and a system for improving operation of a hybrid vehicle are presented. In one example, operation of a hybrid driveline is adjusted in response to driving conditions that may cause wheel slip or a stuck vehicle. The approach may reduce driveline wear and improve vehicle drivability. | 04-10-2014 |
20140102248 | BALANCING A PENDULUM-ABSORBER CRANKSHAFT - A method of balancing a crankshaft includes connecting a torsion-absorbing pendulum to a cheek of the crankshaft, which is coupled to a crankpin. As the pendulum connected to the cheek has insufficient mass to balance the crankshaft, a lightening bore is formed through a bisection plane of the cheek. In forming the lightening bore, enough material is removed from the cheek so that the mass of the pendulum becomes sufficient to balance the crankshaft. | 04-17-2014 |
20140121059 | Clutch Torque Trajectory Correction To Provide Torque Hole Filling During A Ratio Upshift - A multiple ratio transmission having an input shaft, an output shaft and oncoming clutch and off-going clutch for effecting ratio upshifts is provided. The transmission also includes a transmission controller configured for controlling shifts. During the torque phase of a ratio upshift, the controller increases input torque. Next, the controller estimates an oncoming clutch target torque. The controller controls a torque input to ensure the off-going clutch remains locked. The controller measures an actual transmission value for a torque transmitting element of the transmission and corrects the oncoming clutch target torque using the actual transmission value whereby an increasing torque for the oncoming friction element is achieved with minimal torque transients along the output shaft during the upshift. | 05-01-2014 |
20140148304 | Adjusting Clutch Slip Based on Sensed Parameter of Transmission Shaft to Control NVH Level in Vehicle Powertrain - A vehicle powertrain includes a transmission and a clutch. The slip of the clutch is adjusted to a target where a magnitude of a sensed parameter of a shaft of the transmission corresponds to a desired noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) level in the powertrain. The sensed parameter of the transmission shaft may be one of acceleration, speed, and torque of the transmission shaft. The transmission shaft may be one of the input shaft and output shaft of the transmission. | 05-29-2014 |
20140163788 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR IMPROVING HYBRID VEHICLE SHIFTING - A method and a system for improving operation of a hybrid vehicle are presented. In one example, torque converter impeller torque from beginning to end of transmission shifting is adjusted in response to variable driveline inertia. The approach may improve transmission shifting and reduce driveline torque disturbances. | 06-12-2014 |
20140196568 | PENDULUM-ABSORBER BRAKE - A crankshaft comprising a cheek, a torsion-absorbing pendulum pivotally coupled to the cheek, and a rotational speed actuated brake to oppose motion of the pendulum relative to the cheek. The brake is configured to provide greater opposition to the motion at lower rotational speeds than at higher rotational speeds. | 07-17-2014 |
20140200789 | DRIVER FEEDBACK FOR VEHICLE OPERATION - The following description relates to systems and methods for adjusting vehicle response parameters in response to indications of vehicle operator preferences. In one example approach, a method comprises, during a cruise control mode of operation, adjusting a vehicle response parameter from a default set-point based on an indication of vehicle operator preference. | 07-17-2014 |
20140230570 | Magnetic Sensor Packaging for Transmissions - Designs to package a magneto-elastic torque sensor in an automotive transmission for volume production applications are provided. One transmission includes an output shaft and a magnetic torque sensor. The output shaft has a magnetized region. The sensor, for detecting torque of the output shaft, is mounted on friction reduction members such as bushings supporting the output shaft. In another transmission, the sensor is alternatively mounted to a transmission case. | 08-21-2014 |
20140244120 | Vehicle Mass Computation - A vehicle having a drivetrain is controlled based on a difference between a torque transmitted by the drivetrain when the vehicle has constant non-zero speed and the torque transmitted by the drivetrain when the vehicle is accelerating. The drivetrain torque may be measured by a drivetrain torque sensor. The effective vehicle mass is computed from the torque difference. The computed mass of the vehicle is used to adjust the activation of a collision warning system or a collision avoidance system. A method of operating a vehicle where the activation of a collision avoidance system is adjusted based on a difference between a torque transmitted by a drivetrain when the vehicle has constant non-zero speed and the torque transmitted by the drivetrain when the vehicle is accelerating is disclosed. The torque difference is used to compute a vehicle mass that is used to adjust a collision warning distance. | 08-28-2014 |
20140274555 | AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION SHIFT CONTROL BASED ON TRANSMISSION INPUT SHAFT TORQUE SIGNAL - A system and method for minimizing torque disturbances during a shift event for an automatic transmission control actual transmission input shaft torque using a transmission input shaft signal produced by an input shaft torque sensor. The torque sensor provides a signal to a controller that monitors the measured transmission input torque. The torque sensor may be implemented by a strain gauge, a piezoelectric load cell, or a magneto-elastic torque sensor. The system may include a vehicle powertrain having an engine, a transmission coupled to the engine via a torque converter, an input torque sensor coupled to the input shaft of the transmission and a controller configured to control engine torque to cause the measured transmission input shaft torque to achieve a target transmission input shaft torque during the shift event. | 09-18-2014 |
20140274556 | AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION SHIFT CONTROL BASED ON TORQUE PHASE DETECTION USING MEASURED TRANSMISSION INPUT TORQUE - A system and method for controlling a vehicle powertrain having a transmission to improve shift quality to detect the start of a torque phase of the shift based on a measured transmission input shaft torque. A torque sensor provides a signal to a controller that monitors initial rise time of the measured transmission input shaft torque. The torque sensor may be implemented by a strain gauge, a piezoelectric load cell, or a magneto-elastic torque sensor. The system may include a vehicle powertrain having an engine, a transmission coupled to the engine via a torque converter and a controller configured to initiate torque phase control when the slope of the transmission input shaft torque exceeds a predetermined threshold after initiation of the shift preparatory phase. | 09-18-2014 |
20140277984 | COORDINATED BRAKE CONTROL OF WHEELS ON A COMMON DIFFERENTIAL - A hybrid vehicle includes an internal combustion engine and an electric motor for powering two wheels. The wheels are separated by a common differential. A controller is provided to execute certain commands related to the braking of the vehicle. During braking of the two wheels, one wheel exceeds its slip limit, causing the wheel speed of that wheel to drop and pull-down as the wheel catches the ground. In response to the one wheel pulling-down, the controller commands a reduction of brake actuation force on the pulled-down wheel, and also commands a reduction of a rate of increase of the brake actuation force on the non-pulled-down wheel. Simultaneous pull-down or pull-up of the wheels is thereby inhibited as brake actuation forces on each wheel are continued to be controlled in response to the other wheel's activity. | 09-18-2014 |
20140287872 | Clutch Torque Trajectory Correction to Provide Torque Hole Filling during a Ratio Upshift - A control system and method for controlling a multiple gear ratio automatic transmission in a powertrain for an automatic transmission having pressure activated friction torque elements to effect gear ratio upshifts. The friction torque elements are synchronously engaged and released during a torque phase of an upshift event as torque from a torque source is increased while allowing the off-going friction elements to slip, followed by an inertia phase during which torque from a torque source is modulated. A perceptible transmission output torque reduction during an upshift is avoided. Measured torque values are used during a torque phase of the upshift to correct an estimated oncoming friction element target torque so that transient torque disturbances at an oncoming clutch are avoided and torque transients at the output shaft are reduced. | 09-25-2014 |
20140318272 | Sensor Packaging at Output Side of Front Wheel Drive (FWD) Transmissions - Various packaging designs for placement of a magnetic torque sensor at the output shaft of a front wheel drive transmission are provided. One design provides for mounting a sensor on a chain drive sprocket or integrating a sensor into a modified sprocket bearing mount. Another design provides for mounting a sensor at the grounded ring gear of a final planetary drive. Another design provides for mounting a sensor at the differential housing. Another design provides for mounting a sensor at the output planetary carrier hub/park gear. Another design provides for mounting a sensor at a multi-piece transfer gear face. | 10-30-2014 |
20140350810 | Transmission and Method of Controlling Clutch During Ratio Change - A transmission and control method are disclosed which ensure proper stroke pressure and minimize torque transients during a shift event. The transmission includes a clutch having a torque capacity based on a fluid pressure, a torque sensor adapted to measure a torque value that varies in relationship to the torque capacity, and a controller. The method includes varying the fluid pressure around a predetermined value, measuring a resulting torque difference with the torque sensor, and adjusting a clutch control parameter if the resulting torque difference is less than a threshold value. | 11-27-2014 |
20140365085 | SKIP-SHIFT OPERATIONS FOR AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION SYSTEMS - Method and system providing manual skip-shift for operating the automatic transmission of a vehicle. The method includes accepting the input of gear states by operating a selector mechanism to select a value. The system accepts input of a selected sequence of gear states from a plurality of available gear states, the selected sequence including fewer gear states than the number of available gear states. The system then operates a selector mechanism to select the gear state from the selected sequence. The system also includes an electronic control module, a selector mechanism, and a power train control module. | 12-11-2014 |
20150024904 | Adjusting Clutch Slip Based on Sensed Parameter of Transmission Shaft to Control Vehicle NVH - A vehicle powertrain includes a transmission and a clutch. The slip of the clutch is adjusted to a predefined target where a sensed parameter of a shaft of the transmission corresponds to a specified noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) level in the powertrain. The sensed parameter of the transmission shaft may be one of acceleration, speed, and torque of the transmission shaft. The transmission shaft may be one of the input shaft and output shaft of the transmission. | 01-22-2015 |
20150065298 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR A VEHICLE DRIVELINE - Systems and methods for improving operation of a hybrid vehicle are presented. In one example, driveline disconnect clutch operation is adjusted in response to vehicle mass so that the vehicle may operate similarly at lower and higher vehicle masses. | 03-05-2015 |
20150066316 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR OPERATING A TRANSMISSION - Systems and methods for operating and interfacing to a transmission of a vehicle are presented. In one example, a human machine interface allows a driver to assign gear ratios or simulated gear ratios to gear position slots of a shifter. The assignment of gear ratios to gear position slots of a shifter may allow a driver to experience the feeling of driving a manually shifted transmission without having to operate a clutch. | 03-05-2015 |
20150073644 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR PROVIDING UNIFORM DRIVELINE BRAKING - Systems and methods for improving operation of a hybrid vehicle are presented. In one example, negative torque of an electric machine is adjusted to mimic negative torque of an engine during engine braking so that the vehicle may transition from regenerative braking to engine braking in a seamless manner. | 03-12-2015 |
20150081154 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR A VEHICLE DRIVELINE CONTROL DURING VARYING DRIVING CONDITIONS - Systems and methods for improving operation of a hybrid vehicle are presented. In one example, driveline operating modes may be adjusted in response to driving surface conditions. The approaches may improve vehicle drivability and reduce driveline degradation. | 03-19-2015 |