Estimation of torque transmitted by clutch during shifting process for dry dual clutch transmission

• Published in: Mechanical systems and signal processing Vol. 75; pp. 413 - 433
• Main Authors: Zhao, Zhiguo, He, Lu, Yang, Yunyun, Wu, Chaochun, Li, Xueyan, Karl Hedrick, J.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 15.06.2016
• Subjects: Algorithms; Clutches; Construction; Dual clutch transmission; Engines; Estimation of torque transmitted by clutch; Mathematical models; Real vehicle test; Shifting process control; Three dimensional models; Torque; Transmissions (automotive); Unscented Kalman filter; Shifting process control; Dual clutch transmission; Unscented Kalman filter; Estimation of torque transmitted by clutch; Real vehicle test
• ISSN: 0888-3270; 1096-1216
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ymssp.2015.12.027

The key toward realizing no-impact gear shifting for dual clutch transmission (DCT) lies in the coordination control between the engine and dual clutches, as well as the accurate closed-loop control of torque transmitted by each clutch and the output torque of the engine. However, the implementation and control precision of closed-loop control are completely dependent on the effective measurement or estimation of the instant transmission torque of the clutch. This study analyzes the DCT shifting process, and builds a three-dimensional (3D) clutch model and mathematical model of a DCT vehicle powertrain system. The torque transmitted by a twin clutch during the upshifting process is estimated by applying the unscented Kalman filter (UKF) algorithm. Then, the torque estimation algorithm is verified using a DCT prototype vehicle installed with a torque sensor on the drive half-shaft. The experimental results show that the designed UKF torque estimation algorithm can estimate the transmission torques of two clutches in real time; further, it can be directly used for DCT shift control and improving the shifting quality. •Three-dimensional model of dual clutch module and co-simulation platform for five-speed dry dual clutch transmission (DCT) have been built up, and effectiveness of the shift control strategy is validated.•Transmitted torques of twin clutches during the upshifting process are estimated through simulation by applying the Unscented Kalman Filter (UKF) algorithm.•Installed with non-contact torque sensor on the drive half-shaft, the designed UKF torque estimation algorithm is verified on the DCT prototype vehicle. Results show that the actual transmitted torque of the two clutches can be effectively estimated, and the maximum estimation error is within 9.5%.