Patent ID: 6364813
Filing Date: 2002-04-02
Classification: B60W,F16D,Y10T

Abstract:
An apparatus for controlling an approach rate of a clutch release bearing from a transition point to a kiss point, the clutch having an input member and an output member for selectively connecting an engine to a transmission in a vehicle having an accelerator pedal, the apparatus comprising:a sensor for generating a signal which is representative of the position of the accelerator pedal; a controller for generating a control signal which is representative of an approach rate of the clutch release bearing, said controller being responsive to said accelerator pedal sensor signal for adjusting the magnitude of said control signal in response thereto, said controller being farther responsive to said accelerator pedal sensor signal in excess of a predetermined magnitude for comparing an actual time duration of movement of the clutch release bearing with a predetermined desired time duration and for adjusting the magnitude of said control signal in response thereto; and a clutch actuator for controlling the approach rate of the clutch release bearing in response to said control signal.