Patent ID: 8721498

Claim:
A method of controlling engine crankshaft torque on a vehicle comprising: comparing a first threshold torque level to an estimated minimum crankshaft torque expected during a commanded shift of a transmission; wherein the first threshold torque level is the sum of: (A) a predetermined minimum crankshaft torque during the shift with torque reduction via a spark torque actuator; and (B) a first predetermined offset; requesting crankshaft torque modification by an air torque actuator in addition to the spark torque actuator only if the estimated minimum torque expected during the commanded shift is less than the first threshold torque level; comparing a second threshold torque level to torque requested during the commanded shift by a clutch control algorithm; and requesting crankshaft torque modification by a fuel torque actuator in addition to the spark torque actuator only if torque requested during the commanded shift by the clutch control algorithm is less than the second threshold torque level; wherein the second threshold torque level is the predetermined minimum crankshaft torque during the shift with torque reduction via the spark torque actuator less a second predetermined offset.