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Automated Manual Transmission
1
Introduction:
The design of the robotised control system
for C510 gearboxes is directed towards im-
proving the performance of the components
of the manual mechanical transmission. This
system is designed to automate the controls
for the clutch and gear lever of a convention-
al mechanical gearbox using electro hydraulic
actuation unit.
This system:
Improves the performance of the manual
mechanical transmission components.
Stops the driver having to control the
clutch pedal and conventional gear lever.
Improves driving safety by means of the
control that prevents driver errors and im-
pedes incorrect manoeuvres on the
transmission system.
Offers the driver a more advanced car in-
terface.
It is a hydraulic power assisted system for
transmission and clutch, which allows all
the qualities of a dry clutch and manual
gearbox to be retained (loads, strength and
reliability, low energy consumption).
Simplifies use and reduces fatigue when
driving especially in towns.
Ensures comfortable or sporty gear chang-
es thanks to the advanced logics of TCU
(Transmission Control Unit).
There is no clutch pedal in the passenger
compartment and the gear shift lever is re-
placed by controls:
Neutral/Reverse/First gear and A/M from
gear shift lever.
The transmission may be automatically
managed in "AUTO" / “SPORT" and "AUTO"
/"NORMAL" mode.
The robotised gearbox has two operating
modes:
SEMI-AUTOMATIC MODE (MANUAL): The
driver manages gears shifts using the lever
located on the tunnel.
AUTOMATIC (AUTO) MODE: The electronic
system manages the decision to change
gear in accordance with two strategies, the
first dictated by driving comfort (NORMAL)
and the second for performance (SPORT).
The AMT unit consists of a hydroelectric unit
(2) mounted directly on the gearbox casing,
which has the purpose of managing clutch
opening and operating the gear control shaft
(selection and engagement).
An electric pump and an accumulator (1)
provide the hydraulic power required by the
solenoid valves which operate the electro
hydraulic unit.
Having identified the driver's requests from
GSL (Gear Shifter Lever), an electronic control
unit manages the gear change independent-
ly, controlling the clutch, gearbox and engine
torque directly. During gear change, the en-
gine control is assisted by the gear control.
The interface between the gearbox and the
engine improves the performance of the sys-
tem considerably and frees the driver from
any need to synchronies clutch-accelerator
movements during gear changes which can
be carried out with the accelerator fully de-
pressed (it is advisable not to release it).
The system inhibits incorrect gear change
requests and avoids unwanted engine shut
down.
In terms of driving assistance it also ensures
the immediate availability of first gear when
the vehicle stops and automatic downshifting
in the event of hard deceleration.
The gear indication is displayed on an inte-
grated display on the instrument panel, as
are the indications of faults of critical driving