Modeling and simulation study of a novel electromechanical clutch actuation system

A novel motor-driven clutch actuator with force-aided lever has been recently developed. A unique spring is used to assist apply of the clutch that can effectively reduce the motor power requirement, and the actuation system can save power consumption during clutch operations with faster response and higher control precision. In this article, a mathematical model of the conceptual clutch actuation system is developed to study the dynamic behavior of the actuator system via computer simulation. The actuator model is further integrated into a dual-clutch transmission and driveline system to demonstrate the effectiveness of the concept in shifting control. The simulation result demonstrates the smooth and fast clutch-to-clutch gear shift and hence validates the feasibility of this new force-aided lever actuation system.