Automatic vehicle clutch control

US5704872A · kind A · utility

Assignee

• Mercedes-Benz Group AG · DE

Inventors

• Franz Kosik · Esslingen am Neckar, DE
• Gunter Worner · Weingarten, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Aug 19, 1996
• Grant date: Jan 6, 1998
• Expiry date: Aug 19, 2016

Classification

• Technology area (CPC F): Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
• CPC primary: F16D2500/70663
• WIPO field: Mechanical elements
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

In a method of controlling an automatic clutch arranged between an engine and a drive train of a vehicle in vehicle startup situations wherein the clutch is engaged to such a degree that only a small torque can be transmitted through the clutch and wherein the clutch is increasingly engaged when engine power output is increased, the clutch is immediately returned toward disengagement if, during vehicle startup, the engine power output requirements are suddenly reduced and, after a predetermined delay, the clutch is adjusted to the new situation that is to a standstill of the vehicle or to a renewed startup situation.