Patent ID: 6309325
Filing Date: 2001-10-30
Classification: B60W,F16D,Y10T

Abstract:
An apparatus for controlling an approach rate of a 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 an operating condition of the engine;a sensor for generating a signal which is representative of the approach rate of the clutch;a controller for generating control signal which is representative of an approach rate of the clutch, said controller being responsive to a predetermined change in said engine operating condition sensor signal for determining a kiss point during the engagement of the clutch only when the signal representative of the approach rate of the clutch is greater than a predetermined value; anda clutch actuator for controlling the approach rate of the clutch in response to said control signal.