Method of operating a torque converter clutch
US8652002B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 9, 2012 |
| Grant date | Feb 18, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 17, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16H2312/14
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method of operating a torque converter clutch in an engine start-stop vehicle improves launch after an auto stop event. During the autostop event, hydraulic fluid is supplied to the torque converter clutch operator through one or more solenoid valves by an auxiliary electric pump. When the prime mover is started at the conclusion of the autostop event, the torque converter clutch is thus locked, assuring rapid and sufficient torque transfer through the torque converter to the transmission and improved acceleration during vehicle launch. As the vehicle accelerates, the hydraulic pressure in the clutch operator is reduced and slip through the clutch increased to achieve a smooth launch and return to conventional torque converter operation.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.