摘要 |
A method of controlling engine 10 torque during a gear shift comprises applying a load generated by an electric machine 100, eg a starter/alternator to the engine, so that torque transmitted through a clutch 14 is matched to the torque transmitted by the clutch 14, thereby avoiding engine flare. To provide a smooth take up of drive, the torque applied to the engine 10 by the starter/alternator 100 is varied in accordance with the difference between the engine speed and the speed of the clutch 14 driven plate or, for example, an input shaft of a transmission 12. The starter/alternator 100 is controlled by a closed loop feedback circuit which varies a field winding current of the starter/alternator 100. Gears 104, 106 may be used to connect the starter/alternator 100 to a crankshaft 102 of the engine 10, alternatively a belt or chain (114, fig 2b) may be employed. In another embodiment a rotor (202) of the starter/alternator 100 is mounted directly on a drive shaft (204) and it may be a hybrid electrical drive. |