Method and apparatus for operating a clutch in an automated mechanical transmission

摘要

An apparatus and method for controlling the rate of engagement of a clutch in response to an indication provided by the driver, such as the depression of an accelerator pedal of the vehicle. The apparatus includes an electronic controller which initially determines a start rate as the minimum duty cycle which is required to modulate an engage valve in order to cause movement of a release bearing of the clutch in the engagement direction. Following the receipt of a signal from the operator of the vehicle to initiate the engagement of the clutch, the electronic controller calculates an initial transition rate of movement of the release bearing from a disengaged position to a transition point. The transition rate is determined as a function of the start rate and a position error signal. The position error signal can be calculated as the difference between the actual position of the release bearing and the transition point. When the release bearing reaches the transition point, the electronic controller re-sets the engagement rate to an approach rate for movement of the release bearing from the transition point to a kiss point. The approach rate is determined as a function of the start rate and an accelerator pedal position signal.