Automated transmission systems

摘要

A transmission system comprises a multi ratio gearbox 12 with a gear engaging mechanism 25 and a main drive clutch 14 having clutch actuating means 38, 22, 20. The mechanism 25 and the clutch actuating means are controlled by an electronic controller 36. If an engine 10 will not start a sensor 26, after an ignition switch 54 has been turned on, provides a signal to the controller 36 to confirm that the engine 10 is stationary, the engine 10 may then be push/tow started. With gear lever 24 in neutral the vehicle is pushed/towed to a speed V, indicated by sensor 26, in excess of a minimum threshold value Vmin the gear lever is then moved to drive mode whereupon the controller 36 actuates the mechanism 25 to select a gear appropriate to the vehicle speed V and actuates the actuating means to engage the clutch 14. Upon starting the engine 10, or if the engine fails to start, the clutch 14 is disengaged by moving gear lever 24 back to the neutral position.