Power transfer system for vehicle with power-Interrupt auto-manual transmission, alternate means for providing torque to driveline, and engine throttle controls

摘要

A power transfer system for a vehicle having a power source and a driveline, the power transfer system including a power-interrupt auto-manual transmission, an electronic control unit and electronic throttle controls. In the preferred embodiment, the power transfer system includes an epicyclic gearset for providing a level of drive torque to the driveline during the shifting of the transmission so as to eliminate the undesirable sensations experienced by the vehicle operator during the shifting of the transmission. The electronic throttle controls allow the rotational speed of the engine to be maintained at a desired level while the shift is being performed so as to improve fuel economy and reduce emissions. Alternate embodiments of the present invention utilize a secondary power source powered by a source of stored energy to provide the driveline with drive torque during a shift.