Title of Invention

METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A POWERTRAIN

Abstract A method for controlling a powertrain includes monitoring a desired synchronous transmission shift during deceleration of an output member including a desired operating range state, monitoring an output speed, predicting output deceleration through the desired synchronous transmission shift, determining a penalty cost associated with the desired synchronous transmission shift based upon an input speed profile resulting from the predicted output deceleration and from the desired synchronous transmission shift, and executing the synchronous transmission shift based upon the penalty cost.
Full Text METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DEVELOPING A DECELERATION-
BASED SYNCHRONOUS SHIFT SCHEDULE
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application
No. 60/984,980 filed on November 2, 2007 which is hereby incorporated
herein by reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] This disclosure pertains to control systems for electro-mechanical
transmissions.
BACKGROUND
[0003] The statements in this section merely provide background
information related to the present disclosure and may not constitute prior art.
[0004] Known powertrain architectures include torque-generative devices,
including internal combustion engines and electric machines, which transmit
torque through a transmission device to an output member. One exemplary
powertrain includes a two-mode, compound-split, electro-mechanical
transmission which utilizes an input member for receiving motive torque from
a prime mover power source, preferably an internal combustion engine, and an
output member. The output member can be operatively connected to a
driveline for a motor vehicle for transmitting tractive torque thereto. Electric
machines, operative as motors or generators, generate an input torque to the

transmission, independently of an input torque from the internal combustion
engine. The electric machines may transform vehicle kinetic energy,
transmitted through the vehicle driveline, to electrical energy that is storable in
an electrical energy storage device. A control system monitors various inputs
from the vehicle and the operator and provides operational control of the
powertrain, including controlling transmission operating range state and gear
shifting, controlling the torque-generative devices, and regulating the electrical
power interchange among the electrical energy storage device and the electric
machines to manage outputs of the transmission, including torque and
rotational speed.
[0005] Transmissions within a hybrid powertrain, as described above, serve
a number of functions by transmitting and manipulating torque in order to
provide torque to an output member. In order to serve the particular function
required, the transmission selects between a number of operating range states
or configurations internal to the transmission defining the transfer of torque
through the transmission. Known transmissions utilize operating range states
including fixed gear states or states with a defined gear ratio. For example, a
transmission can utilize four sequentially arranged fixed gear states and allow
selection between the four gear states in order to provide output torque
through a wide range of output member speeds. Additively or alternatively,
known transmissions also allow for continuously variable operating range
states or mode states, enabled for instance through the use of a planetary gear
set, wherein the gear ratio provided by the transmission can be varied across a
range in order to modulate the output speed and output torque provided by a
particular set of inputs. Additionally, transmissions can operate in a neutral

state, ceasing all torque from being transmitted through the transmission.
Additionally, transmissions can operate in a reverse mode, accepting input
torque in a particular rotational direction used for normal forward operation
and reversing the direction of rotation of the output member. Through
selection of different operating range states, transmissions can provide a range
of outputs for a given input.
[0006] Operation of the above devices within a hybrid powertrain vehicle
require management of numerous torque bearing shafts or devices
representing connections to the above mentioned engine, electrical machines,
and driveline. Input torque from the engine and input torque from the electric
machine or electric machines can be applied individually or cooperatively to
provide output torque. However, changes in output torque required from the
transmission, for instance, due to a change in operator pedal position or due to
an operating range state shift, must be handled smoothly. Particularly difficult
to manage are input torques, applied simultaneously to a transmission, with
different reaction times to a control input. Based upon a single control input,
the various devices can change respective input torques at different times,
causing increased abrupt changes to the overall torque applied through the
transmission. Abrupt or uncoordinated changes to the various input torques
applied to a transmission can cause a perceptible change in acceleration or jerk
in the vehicle, which can adversely affect vehicle drivability.
[0007] Various control schemes and operational connections between the
various aforementioned components of the hybrid drive system are known,
and the control system must be able to engage to and disengage the various
components from the transmission in order to perform the functions of the

hybrid powertrain system. Engagement and disengagement are known to be
accomplished within the transmission by employing selectively operable
clutches. Clutches are devices well known in the art for engaging and
disengaging shafts including the management of rotational velocity and torque
differences between the shafts. Engagement or locking, disengagement or
unlocking, operation while engaged or locked operation, and operation while
disengaged or unlocked operation are all clutch states that must be managed in
order for the vehicle to operate properly and smoothly.
[0008] Clutches are known in a variety of designs and control methods. One
known type of clutch is a mechanical clutch operating by separating or joining
two connective surfaces, for instance, clutch plates, operating, when joined, to
apply frictional torque to each other. One control method for operating such a
mechanical clutch includes applying a hydraulic control system implementing
fluidic pressures transmitted through hydraulic lines to exert or release
clamping force between the two connective surfaces. Operated thusly, the
clutch is not operated in a binary manner, but rather is capable of a range of
engagement states, from fully disengaged, to synchronized but not engaged, to
engaged but with only minimal clamping force, to engaged with some
maximum clamping force. Clamping force applied to the clutch determines
how much reactive torque the clutch can carry before the clutch slips.
Variable control of clutches through modulation of clamping force allows for
transition between locked and unlocked states and further allows for managing
slip in a locked transmission. In addition, the maximum clamping force
capable of being applied by the hydraulic lines can also vary with vehicle
operating states and can be modulated based upon control strategies.

[0009] Clutches are known to be operated asynchronously, designed to
accommodate some level of slip in transitions between locked and unlocked
states. Other clutches are known to be operated synchronously, designed to
match speeds of connective surfaces or synchronize before the connective
surfaces are clamped together. This disclosure deals primarily with
synchronous clutches.
[0010] Slip, or relative rotational movement between the connective surfaces
of the clutch when the clutch connective surfaces are intended to be
synchronized and locked, occurs whenever reactive torque applied to the
clutch exceeds actual torque capacity created by applied clamping force. Slip
in a transmission results in unintended loss of torque control within the
transmission, results in loss of engine speed control and electric machine
speed control caused by a sudden change in back-torque from the
transmission, and results in sudden changes to vehicle acceleration, creating
adverse affects to drivability.
[0011] Transmissions can operate with a single clutch transmitting reactive
torque between inputs and an output. Transmission can operate with a
plurality of clutches transmitting reactive torque between inputs and an output.
Selection of operating range state depends upon the selective engagement of
clutches, with different allowable combinations resulting in different operating
range states.
[0012] Transition from one operating state range to another operating state
range involves transitioning at least one clutch state. An exemplary transition
from one fixed gear state to another involves unloading a first clutch,
transitioning through a freewheeling, wherein no clutches remain engaged, or

inertia speed phase state, wherein at least one clutch remains engaged, and
subsequently loading a second clutch. A driveline connected to a locked and
synchronized clutch, prior to being unloaded, is acted upon by an output
torque resulting through the transmission as a result of input torques and
reduction factors present in the transmission. In such a torque transmitting
state, the transmission so configured during a shift is said to be in a torque
phase. In a torque phase, vehicle speed and vehicle acceleration are functions
of the output torque and other forces acting upon the vehicle. Unloading a
clutch removes all input torque from a previously locked and synchronized
clutch. As a result, any propelling force previously applied to the output
torque through that clutch is quickly reduced to zero. In one exemplary
configuration, another clutch remains engaged and transmitting torque to the
output while the transmission synchronizes the second clutch. In such a
configuration, the transmission is in an inertia speed phase. As the second
clutch to be loaded is synchronized and loaded, the transmission again enters a
torque phase, wherein vehicle speed and vehicle acceleration are functions of
the output torque and other forces acting upon the vehicle. While output
torque changes or interruptions due to clutch unloading and loading are a
normal part of transmission operating range state shifts, orderly management
of the output torque changes reduces the impact of the shifts to drivability.
[0013] As described above, changes in transmission operating range states
involve transitioning clutches. In synchronous operation, it is important to
match speeds across the clutch connective surfaces before clamping the
connective surface together. However, engine operation and torque output
may not be accommodative to the changes in operating range states requiring

particular changes in input speed. Engines are known to preferably operate in
a certain speed range, and attempted operation of the engine outside that range
can cause the engine to stall, incur fuel economy penalties associated with
changing engine settings and operating the engine in non-ideal speeds, and
adversely affect drivability. A method to control a powertrain through
transmission shifts accounting for costs associated with synchronous clutch
operation would be beneficial.
SUMMARY
[0014] A powertrain includes an electro-mechanical transmission
mechanically-operatively coupled to an internal combustion engine and an
electric machine adapted to selectively transmit mechanical power to an output
member. A method for controlling the powertrain includes monitoring a
desired synchronous transmission shift during deceleration of the output
member including a desired operating range state, monitoring an output speed,
predicting output deceleration through the desired synchronous transmission
shift, determining a penalty cost associated with the desired synchronous
transmission shift based upon an input speed profile resulting from the
predicted output deceleration and from the desired synchronous transmission
shift, and executing the synchronous transmission shift based upon the penalty
cost.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] One or more embodiments will now be described, by way of
example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0016] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary powertrain
comprising a two-mode, compound-split, electro-mechanical hybrid
transmission operatively connected to an engine and first and second electric
machines, in accordance with the present disclosure;
[0017] FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of an exemplary distributed
control module system, in accordance with the present disclosure;
[0018] FIG. 3 graphically depicts reaction times of exemplary hybrid
powertrain components to changes in torque request, in accordance with the
present disclosure;
[0019] FIG. 4 demonstrates gear transition relationships for an exemplary
hybrid powertrain transmission, in particular as described in the exemplary
embodiment of FIG. 1 and Table 1, in accordance with the present disclosure;
[0020] FIGS. 5-7 depict exemplary processes combining to accomplish an
exemplary transmission shift, in accordance with the present disclosure;
[0021] FIG. 5 is a graphical representation of torque terms associated with a
clutch through an exemplary transitional unlocking state, in accordance with
the present disclosure;
[0022] FIG. 6 is a graphical representation of torque terms associated with a
clutch through an exemplary transitional locking state, in accordance with the
present disclosure;
[0023] FIG. 7 is a graphical representation of terms describing an exemplary
inertia speed phase of a transmission, in accordance with the present
disclosure;
[0024] FIG. 8 is a graphical representation of an instance where a systemic
restraint is imposed upon an immediate control signal, temporarily overriding

max\min values set by the control signal, in accordance with the present
disclosure;
[0025] FIG. 9 shows an exemplary control system architecture for
controlling and managing torque and power flow in a powertrain system
having multiple torque generative devices and residing in control modules in
the form of executable algorithms and calibrations, in accordance with the
present disclosure;
[0026] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram exemplifying data flow through a
shift execution, describing more detail exemplary execution of the control
system architecture of FIG. 9 in greater detail, in accordance with the present
disclosure;
[0027] FIG. 11 schematically illustrates an exemplary hybrid powertrain
configuration including power loss terms useful in calculating various
powertrain settings, in accordance with the present disclosure;
[0028] FIG. 12 graphically illustrates exemplary powertrain operation
through a transmission shift, including terms descriptive of costs associated
with powertrain operation through the shift and at the desired operating range
state, in accordance with the present disclosure;
[0029] FIG. 13 graphically illustrates two different deceleration events, one a
light deceleration maneuver and a second an aggressive deceleration
maneuver, and the impacts upon N1 through the potential shifts, in accordance
with the present disclosure;
[0030] FIG. 14 illustrates in tabular form use of an exemplary 2D look-up
table to determine inertia speed phase times, in accordance with the present
disclosure;

[0031] FIG. 15 graphically illustrates exemplary powertrain operation
through a transmission shift, including illustration of time spans relative to
defining costs through the shift, in accordance with the present disclosure;
[0032] FIG. 16 graphically illustrates exemplary powertrain operation
through an additional transmission shift, including illustration of a time span
relative to defining costs through the shift, in accordance with the present
disclosure;
[0033] FIG. 17 graphically illustrates an exemplary relationship between
predicted input speeds at the destination operating range state achieved and
penalty costs that can be assigned to the potential transmission shift, in
accordance with the present disclosure;
[0034] FIG. 18 illustrates use of exemplary 1D look-up tables to determine
penalty cost values associated with potential destination operating range states,
in accordance with the present disclosure; and
[0035] FIG. 19 illustrates an exemplary process whereby penalty costs for
potential operating range state during a deceleration can be determined, in
accordance with the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0036] Referring now to the drawings, wherein the showings are for the
purpose of illustrating certain exemplary embodiments only and not for the
purpose of limiting the same, FIGS. 1 and 2 depict an exemplary electro-
mechanical hybrid powertrain. The exemplary electro-mechanical hybrid
powertrain in accordance with the present disclosure is depicted in FIG. 1,
comprising a two-mode, compound-split, electro-mechanical hybrid

transmission 10 operatively connected to an engine 14 and first and second
electric machines ('MG-A') 56 and ('MG-B') 72. The engine 14 and first and
second electric machines 56 and 72 each generate power which can be
transmitted to the transmission 10. The power generated by the engine 14 and
the first and second electric machines 56 and 72 and transmitted to the
transmission 10 is described in terms of input torques, referred to herein as T|,
TA, and TB respectively, and speed, referred to herein as N1, NA, and NB,
respectively.
[0037] The exemplary engine 14 comprises a multi-cylinder internal
combustion engine selectively operative in several states to transmit torque to
the transmission 10 via an input shaft 12, and can be either a spark-ignition or
a compression-ignition engine. The engine 14 includes a crankshaft (not
shown) operatively coupled to the input shaft 12 of the transmission 10. A
rotational speed sensor 11 monitors rotational speed of the input shaft 12.
Power output from the engine 14, comprising rotational speed and output
torque, can differ from the input speed, N1, and the input torque, T|, to the
transmission 10 due to placement of torque-consuming components on the
input shaft 12 between the engine 14 and the transmission 10, e.g., a hydraulic
pump (not shown) and/or a torque management device (not shown).
[0038] The exemplary transmission 10 comprises three planetary-gear sets
24, 26 and 28, and four selectively engageable torque-transmitting devices,
i.e., clutches C1 70, C2 62, C3 73, and C4 75. As used herein, clutches refer
to any type of friction torque transfer device including single or compound
plate clutches or packs, band clutches, and brakes, for example. A hydraulic
control circuit 42, preferably controlled by a transmission control module

(hereafter 'TCM') 17, is operative to control clutch states. Clutches C2 62 and
C4 75 preferably comprise hydraulically-applied rotating friction clutches.
Clutches C1 70 and C3 73 preferably comprise hydraulically-controlled
stationary devices that can be selectively grounded to a transmission case 68.
Each of the clutches C1 70, C2 62, C3 73, and C4 75 is preferably
hydraulically applied, selectively receiving pressurized hydraulic fluid via the
hydraulic control circuit 42.
[0039] The first and second electric machines 56 and 72 preferably comprise
three-phase AC machines, each including a stator (not shown) and a rotor (not
shown), and respective resolvers 80 and 82. The motor stator for each
machine is grounded to an outer portion of the transmission case 68, and
includes a stator core with coiled electrical windings extending therefrom.
The rotor for the first electric machine 56 is supported on a hub plate gear that
is operatively attached to shaft 60 via the second planetary gear set 26. The
rotor for the second electric machine 72 is fixedly attached to a sleeve shaft
hub 66.
[0040] Each of the resolvers 80 and 82 preferably comprises a variable
reluctance device including a resolver stator (not shown) and a resolver rotor
(not shown). The resolvers 80 and 82 are appropriately positioned and
assembled on respective ones of the first and second electric machines 56 and
72. Stators of respective ones of the resolvers 80 and 82 are operatively
connected to one of the stators for the first and second electric machines 56
and 72. The resolver rotors are operatively connected to the rotor for the
corresponding first and second electric machines 56 and 72. Each of the
resolvers 80 and 82 is signally and operatively connected to a transmission

power inverter control module (hereafter 'TPIM') 19, and each senses and
monitors rotational position of the resolver rotor relative to the resolver stator,
thus monitoring rotational position of respective ones of first and second
electric machines 56 and 72. Additionally, the signals output from the
resolvers 80 and 82 are interpreted to provide the rotational speeds for first
and second electric machines 56 and 72, i.e., NAand NB, respectively.
[0041] The transmission 10 includes an output member 64, e.g. a shaft,
which is operably connected to a driveline 90 for a vehicle (not shown), to
provide output power, e.g., to vehicle wheels 93, one of which is shown in
FIG. 1. The output power is characterized in terms of an output rotational
speed, NO and an output torque, TO. A transmission output speed sensor 84
monitors rotational speed and rotational direction of the output member 64.
Each of the vehicle wheels 93, is preferably equipped with a sensor 94 adapted
to monitor wheel speed, VSS-WHL, the output of which is monitored by a
control module of a distributed control module system described with respect
to Fig. B, to determine vehicle speed, and absolute and relative wheel speeds
for braking control, traction control, and vehicle acceleration management.
[0042] The input torques from the engine 14 and the first and second electric
machines 56 and 72 (T1, TA, and TB respectively) are generated as a result of
energy conversion from fuel or electrical potential stored in an electrical
energy storage device (hereafter 'ESD') 74. The ESD 74 is high voltage DC-
coupled to the TPIM 19 via DC transfer conductors 27. The transfer
conductors 27 include a contactor switch 38. When the contactor switch 38 is
closed, under normal operation, electric current can flow between the ESD 74
and the TPIM 19. When the contactor switch 38 is opened electric current

flow between the ESD 74 and the TPIM 19 is interrupted. The TPIM 19
transmits electrical power to and from the first electric machine 56 by transfer
conductors 29, and the TPIM 19 similarly transmits electrical power to and
from the second electric machine 72 by transfer conductors 31, in response to
torque requests to the first and second electric machines 56 and 72 to achieve
the input torques TA and TB. Electrical current is transmitted to and from the
ESD 74 in accordance with whether the ESD 74 is being charged or
discharged.
[0043] The TPIM 19 includes the pair of power inverters (not shown) and
respective motor control modules (not shown) configured to receive the torque
commands and control inverter states therefrom for providing motor drive or
regeneration functionality to meet the commanded motor torques TA and TB.
The power inverters comprise known complementary three-phase power
electronics devices, and each includes a plurality of insulated gate bipolar
transistors (not shown) for converting DC power from the ESD 74 to AC
power for powering respective ones of the first and second electric machines
56 and 72, by switching at high frequencies. The insulated gate bipolar
transistors form a switch mode power supply configured to receive control
commands. There is typically one pair of insulated gate bipolar transistors for
each phase of each of the three-phase electric machines. States of the
insulated gate bipolar transistors are controlled to provide motor drive
mechanical power generation or electric power regeneration functionality.
The three-phase inverters receive or supply DC electric power via DC transfer
conductors 27 and transform it to or from three-phase AC power, which is
conducted to or from the first and second electric machines 56 and 72 for

operation as motors or generators via transfer conductors 29 and 31
respectively.
[0044] FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of the distributed control module
system. The elements described hereinafter comprise a subset of an overall
vehicle control architecture, and provide coordinated system control of the
exemplary powertrain described in FIG. 1. The distributed control module
system synthesizes pertinent information and inputs, and executes algorithms
to control various actuators to achieve control objectives, including objectives
related to fuel economy, emissions, performance, drivability, and protection of
hardware, including batteries of ESD 74 and the first and second electric
machines 56 and 72. The distributed control module system includes an
engine control module (hereafter 'ECM') 23, the TCM 17, a battery pack
control module (hereafter 'BPCM') 21, and the TPIM 19. A hybrid control
module (hereafter 'HCP') 5 provides supervisory control and coordination of
the ECM 23, the TCM 17, the BPCM 21, and the TPIM 19. A user interface
('UI') 13 is operatively connected to a plurality of devices through which a
vehicle operator controls or directs operation of the electro-mechanical hybrid
powertrain. The devices include an accelerator pedal 113 ('AP') from which
an operator torque request is determined, an operator brake pedal 112 ('BP'), a
transmission gear selector 114 ('PRNDL'), and a vehicle speed cruise control
(not shown). The transmission gear selector 114 may have a discrete number
of operator-selectable positions, including the rotational direction of the output
member 64 to enable one of a forward and a reverse direction.
[0045] The aforementioned control modules communicate with other control
modules, sensors, and actuators via a local area network (hereafter 'LAN') bus

6. The LAN bus 6 allows for structured communication of states of operating
parameters and actuator command signals between the various control
modules. The specific communication protocol utilized is application-specific.
The LAN bus 6 and appropriate protocols provide for robust messaging and
multi-control module interfacing between the aforementioned control
modules, and other control modules providing functionality such as antilock
braking, traction control, and vehicle stability. Multiple communications
buses may be used to improve communications speed and provide some level
of signal redundancy and integrity. Communication between individual
control modules can also be effected using a direct link, e.g., a serial
peripheral interface ('SPI') bus (not shown).
[0046] The HCP 5 provides supervisory control of the powertrain, serving to
coordinate operation of the ECM 23, TCM 17, TPIM 19, and BPCM 21.
Based upon various input signals from the user interface 13 and the
powertrain, including the ESD 74, the HCP 5 generates various commands,
including: the operator torque request ('TO_REQ'), a commanded output torque
('TCMD') to the driveline 90, an engine input torque request, clutch torques for
the torque-transfer clutches C1 70, C2 62, C3 73, C4 75 of the transmission
10; and the torque requests for the first and second electric machines 56 and
72, respectively. The TCM 17 is operatively connected to the hydraulic
control circuit 42 and provides various functions including monitoring various
pressure sensing devices (not shown) and generating and communicating
control signals to various solenoids (not shown) thereby controlling pressure
switches and control valves contained within the hydraulic control circuit 42.

[0047] The ECM 23 is operatively connected to the engine 14, and functions
to acquire data from sensors and control actuators of the engine 14 over a
plurality of discrete lines, shown for simplicity as an aggregate bi-directional
interface cable 35. The ECM 23 receives the engine input torque request from
the HCP 5. The ECM 23 determines the actual engine input torque, T|,
provided to the transmission 10 at that point in time based upon monitored
engine speed and load, which is communicated to the HCP 5. The ECM 23
monitors input from the rotational speed sensor 11 to determine the engine
input speed to the input shaft 12, which translates to the transmission input
speed, N1. The ECM 23 monitors inputs from sensors (not shown) to
determine states of other engine operating parameters including, e.g., a
manifold pressure, engine coolant temperature, ambient air temperature, and
ambient pressure. The engine load can be determined, for example, from the
manifold pressure, or alternatively, from monitoring operator input to the
accelerator pedal 113. The ECM 23 generates and communicates command
signals to control engine actuators, including, e.g., fuel injectors, ignition
modules, and throttle control modules, none of which are shown.
[0048] The TCM 17 is operatively connected to the transmission 10 and
monitors inputs from sensors (not shown) to determine states of transmission
operating parameters. The TCM 17 generates and communicates command
signals to control the transmission 10, including controlling the hydraulic
circuit 42. Inputs from the TCM 17 to the HCP 5 include estimated clutch
torques for each of the clutches, i.e., C1 70, C2 62, C3 73, and C4 75, and
rotational output speed, No, of the output member 64. Other actuators and
sensors may be used to provide additional information from the TCM 17 to the

HCP 5 for control purposes. The TCM 17 monitors inputs from pressure
switches (not shown) and selectively actuates pressure control solenoids (not
shown) and shift solenoids (not shown) of the hydraulic circuit 42 to
selectively actuate the various clutches C1 70, C2 62, C3 73, and C4 75 to
achieve various transmission operating range states, as described hereinbelow.
[0049] The BPCM 21 is signally connected to sensors (not shown) to
monitor the ESD 74, including states of electrical current and voltage
parameters, to provide information indicative of parametric states of the
batteries of the ESD 74 to the HCP 5. The parametric states of the batteries
preferably include battery state-of-charge, battery voltage, battery temperature,
and available battery power, referred to as a range PBAT^MIN to PBAT MAX-
[0050] Each of the control modules ECM 23, TCM 17, TPIM 19 and BPCM
21 is preferably a general-purpose digital computer comprising a
microprocessor or central processing unit, storage mediums comprising read
only memory ('ROM'), random access memory ('RAM'), electrically
programmable read only memory ('EPROM'), a high speed clock, analog to
digital ('A/D') and digital to analog ('D/A') circuitry, and input/output
circuitry and devices ('I/O') and appropriate signal conditioning and buffer
circuitry. Each of the control modules has a set of control algorithms,
comprising resident program instructions and calibrations stored in one of the
storage mediums and executed to provide the respective functions of each
computer. Information transfer between the control modules is preferably
accomplished using the LAN bus 6 and serial peripheral interface buses. The
control algorithms are executed during preset loop cycles such that each
algorithm is executed at least once each loop cycle. Algorithms stored in the

non-volatile memory devices are executed by one of the central processing
units to monitor inputs from the sensing devices and execute control and
diagnostic routines to control operation of the actuators, using preset
calibrations. Loop cycles are executed at regular intervals, for example each
3.125, 6.25, 12.5, 25 and 100 milliseconds during ongoing operation of the
powertrain. Alternatively, algorithms may be executed in response to the
occurrence of an event.
[0051] The exemplary powertrain selectively operates in one of several
operating range states that can be described in terms of an engine state
comprising one of an engine on state ('ON') and an engine off state ('OFF'),
and a transmission state comprising a plurality of fixed gears and continuously
variable operating modes, described with reference to Table 1, below.

[0052] Each of the transmission operating range states is described in the
table and indicates which of the specific clutches C1 70, C2 62, C3 73, and C4
75 are applied for each of the operating range states. A first continuously

variable mode, i.e., EVT Mode 1, or Ml, is selected by applying clutch C1 70
only in order to "ground" the outer gear member of the third planetary gear set
28. The engine state can be one of ON ('MI_Eng_On') or OFF
('M1_Eng_Off). A second continuously variable mode, i.e., EVT Mode 2, or
M2, is selected by applying clutch C2 62 only to connect the shaft 60 to the
carrier of the third planetary gear set 28. The engine state can be one of ON
('M2_Eng_On') or OFF ('M2_Eng_Off). For purposes of this description,
when the engine state is OFF, the engine input speed is equal to zero
revolutions per minute ('RPM'), i.e., the engine crankshaft is not rotating. A
fixed gear operation provides a fixed ratio operation of input-to-output speed
of the transmission 10, i.e., NI/NO, is achieved. A first fixed gear operation
('G1') is selected by applying clutches C1 70 and C4 75. A second fixed gear
operation ('G2') is selected by applying clutches C1 70 and C2 62. A third
fixed gear operation ('G3') is selected by applying clutches C2 62 and C4 75.
A fourth fixed gear operation ('G4') is selected by applying clutches C2 62
and C3 73. The fixed ratio operation of input-to-output speed increases with
increased fixed gear operation due to decreased gear ratios in the planetary
gears 24, 26, and 28. The rotational speeds of the first and second electric
machines 56 and 72, NA and NB respectively, are dependent on internal
rotation of the mechanism as defined by the clutching and are proportional to
the input speed measured at the input shaft 12.
[0053] In response to operator input via the accelerator pedal 113 and brake
pedal 112 as captured by the user interface 13, the HCP 5 and one or more of
the other control modules determine the commanded output torque, TCMD,
intended to meet the operator torque request, TO_REQ, to be executed at the

output member 64 and transmitted to the driveline 90. Final vehicle
acceleration is affected by other factors including, e.g., road load, road grade,
and vehicle mass. The operating range state is determined for the transmission
10 based upon a variety of operating characteristics of the powertrain. This
includes the operator torque request, communicated through the accelerator
pedal 113 and brake pedal 112 to the user interface 13 as previously described.
The operating range state may be predicated on a powertrain torque demand
caused by a command to operate the first and second electric machines 56 and
72 in an electrical energy generating mode or in a torque generating mode.
The operating range state can be determined by an optimization algorithm or
routine, initiated for example within a hybrid strategic control module of the
HCP 5, which determines optimum system efficiency based upon operator
demand for power, battery state of charge, and energy efficiencies of the
engine 14 and the first and second electric machines 56 and 72. The control
system manages torque inputs from the engine 14 and the first and second
electric machines 56 and 72 based upon an outcome of the executed
optimization routine, and system efficiencies are optimized thereby, to manage
fuel economy and battery charging. Furthermore, operation can be determined
based upon a fault in a component or system. The HCP 5 monitors the torque-
generative devices, and determines the power output from the transmission 10
required to achieve the desired output torque to meet the operator torque
request. As should be apparent from the description above, the ESD 74 and
the first and second electric machines 56 and 72 are.electrically-operatively
coupled for power flow therebetween. Furthermore, the engine 14, the first
and second electric machines 56 and 72, and the electro-mechanical

transmission 10 are mechanically-operatively coupled to transmit power
therebetween to generate a power flow to the output member 64.
[0054] As discussed above, managing output torque in order to maintain
drivability is a priority in controlling a hybrid powertrain. Any change in
torque in response to a change in output torque request applied through the
transmission results in a change to the output torque applied to the driveline,
thereby resulting in a change in propelling force to the vehicle and a change in
vehicle acceleration. The change in torque request can come from operator
input, such a pedal position relating an operator torque request, automatic
control changes in the vehicle, such as cruise control or other control strategy,
or engine changes in response to environmental conditions, such as a vehicle
experiencing an uphill or downhill grade. By controlling changes to various
input torques applied to a transmission within a hybrid powertrain, abrupt
changes in vehicle acceleration can be controlled and minimized in order to
reduce adverse effects to drivability.
[0055] As is known by one having ordinary skill in the art, any control
system includes a reaction time. Changes to a powertrain operating point,
comprising the speeds and torques of the various components to the
powertrain required to achieve the desired vehicle operation, are driven by
changes in control signals. These control signal changes act upon the various
components to the powertrain and create reactions in each according to their
respective reaction times. Applied to a hybrid powertrain, any change in
control signals indicating a new torque request, for instance, as driven by a
change in operator torque request or as required to execute a transmission
shift, creates reactions in each affected torque generating device in order to

execute the required changes to respective input torques. Changes to input
torque supplied from an engine are controlled by an engine torque request
setting the torque generated by the engine, as controlled, for example, through
an ECM. Reaction time within an engine to changes in torque request to an
engine is impacted by a number of factors well known in the art, and the
particulars of a change to engine operation depend heavily on the particulars
of the engine employed and the mode or modes of combustion being utilized.
In many circumstances, the reaction time of an engine to changes in torque
request will be the longest reaction time of the components to the hybrid drive
system. Reaction time within an electric machine to changes in torque request
include time to activate any necessary switches, relays, or other controls and
time to energize or de-energize the electric machine with the change in applied
electrical power.
[0056] FIG. 3 graphically depicts reaction times of exemplary hybrid
powertrain components to changes in torque request, in accordance with the
present disclosure. Components to an exemplary hybrid powertrain system
including an engine and two electric machines are exemplified. Torque
requests and resulting changes in input torque produced by each torque
generating device are illustrated. As described above, the data shows that
electric machines quickly respond to changes in torque requests, whereas the
engine follows changes in torque requests more slowly.
[0057] A method is disclosed wherein reactions times of the engine and of
the electric machine or machines within a hybrid powertrain are utilized to
control in parallel an lead immediate torque request, controlling the engine,
and an immediate torque request, controlling the electric machines, the torque

requests being coordinated by respective reaction times in order to
substantially effect simultaneous changes to input torque.
[0058] Because, as discussed above, changes to input torque from the engine
are known to involve consistently longer reactions times than changes to input
torque from an electric machine, an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed
method can implement changes in torque request to the engine and the electric
machine, acting in parallel as described above, including a lead period to the
more quickly reacting device, the electric motor. This lead period may be
developed experimentally, empirically, predictively, through modeling or
other techniques adequate to accurately predict engine and electric machine
operation, and a multitude of lead periods might be used by the same hybrid
powertrain, depending upon different engine settings, conditions, operating
and ranges and vehicle conditions. An exemplary equation that can be used in
conjunction with test data or estimates of device reaction times to calculate
lead period in accordance with the present disclosure includes the following:
T Lead + T Lead Reaction - T Immediate Reaction [ 1]
TLead equals the lead period for use in methods described herein. This equation
assumes that two torque producing devices are utilized. TLead Reaction represents
the reaction time of the device with the longer reaction time, and TImmediate
Reaction represents the reaction time of the device with the shorter reaction time.
If a different system is utilized, comprising for example, an engine with a long
lead period, a first electric machine with an intermediate lead period, and a
second electric machine with a short lead period, lead periods can be

developed comparing all of the torque generating devices. In this exemplary
system, if all three torque generating devices are involved, two lead periods,
one for the engine as compared to each of the electric machines, will be
utilized to synchronize the responses in each of the devices. The same system
at a different time might be operating with the engine off and disengaged from
the transmission, and a lead period comparing the first electric machine and
the second electric machine will be utilized to synchronize the responses in the
two electric machines. In this way, a lead period can be developed
coordinating reaction times between various torque generating devices can be
developed.
[0059] One exemplary method to utilize lead periods to implement parallel
torque requests to distinct torque generating devices in order to effect
substantially simultaneous changes to output torque in response to a change in
operator torque request includes issuing substantially immediately a change to
the engine torque immediate request, initiating within the engine a change to a
new engine output torque. This new engine output torque, in conjunction with
the electric motor operating state, is still managed by the HCP in order to
provide some portion of the total input torque to the transmission required to
propel the vehicle. From the point that the engine torque immediate request
changes, the lead period expires, described above taking into account the
differences in reaction times between the engine and the electric machine.
After the lead period, a change to torque requests issued to the electric
machine or machines, managed by the HCP in order to fulfill a portion of the
operator torque request, is executed, and the electric machine changes the
electric machine operating state, and as described above, the changes to the

input torques provided by the engine and the electric machine change
substantially simultaneously.
[0060] As described in the disclosed method above, engine torque immediate
requests and torque requests to an electric machine are disclosed for use in
parallel to control distinct torque generative devices with different reaction
times to reaction to changes in operator torque request. Changes in operator
torque request can include a simple change in desired output torque within a
particular transmission operating range state, or changes in operator torque
request can be required in conjunction with a transmission shift between
different operating range states. Changes to operator torque requests in
conjunction with a transmission shift are more complex than changes
contained within a single operating range state because torques and shaft
speeds of the various hybrid powertrain components must be managed in order
to transition torque applied from a first clutch and to a second previously not
applied clutch without the occurrence of slip, as described above.
[0061] Shifts within a transmission, such as the exemplary transmission of
FIG. 1, frequently involve unloading a first clutch, transitioning through an
inertia speed phase state, and subsequently loading a second clutch. Within
the transmission of a conventionally powered vehicle utilizing an engine only,
the change within a transmission from one fixed gear state to another fixed
gear state frequently includes unloading a first clutch, allowing the vehicle to
briefly coast, and then loading a second clutch. However, as described in
relation to FIG. 1 and Table 1, above, clutches within a hybrid powertrain
transmission are frequently applied in pairs or groups, and a shift within the
transmission can involve only unloading one of the applied clutches and

subsequently loading another clutch while maintaining engagement of a third
clutch throughout the shift. FIG. 4 demonstrates gear transition relationships
for an exemplary hybrid powertrain transmission, in particular as described in
the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1 and Table 1, in accordance with the
present disclosure. NI is plotted against NO. At any fixed gear state, NO is
determined by the corresponding NI along the fixed gear state plots. Operation
in either EVT Mode 1 or EVT Mode 2, wherein a continuously variable gear
ratio is utilized to power from a fixed input speed can take place in the
respective zones illustrated on the graph. Clutch states, C1 - C4, as described
in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1, are described in Table 1. For
instance, operation in a second fixed gear state requires clutches C1 and C2 to
be applied or loaded and clutches C3 and C4 to be not applied or unloaded.
While FIG. 4 describes gear transitions possible in the exemplary powertrain
illustrated in FIG. 1, it will be appreciated by one having ordinary skill in the
art that such a description of gear transitions is possible for any transmission
of a hybrid powertrain, and the disclosure is not intended to be limited to the
particular embodiment described herein.
[0062] FIG. 4 can describe operation of an exemplary system in a fixed gear
state or EVT mode, as described above, and it can also be used to describe
shift transitions between the various transmission operating range states. The
areas and plots on the graph describe operation of the operating range states
through transitions. For example, transitions between fixed gear states within
an EVT mode region require transitory operation in the EVT mode between
the fixed gear states. Similarly, transition from EVT Mode 1 to EVT Mode 2

requires a transition through the second fixed gear state, located at the
boundary between the two modes.
[0063] In accordance with FIGS. 1 and 4 and Table 1, an exemplary
transmission shift from a third fixed gear state to a fourth fixed gear state is
further described. Referring to FIG. 4, both the beginning and the preferred
operating range states exist within the area of EVT Mode 2. Therefore, a
transition from the third gear state to the fourth gear state requires first a shift
from the third fixed gear state to EVT Mode 2 and then a shift from EVT
Mode 2 to the fourth fixed gear state. Referring to Table 1, a hybrid
powertrain transmission, beginning in a third fixed gear state, will have
clutches C2 and C4 applied. Table 1 further describes operation in EVT
Mode 2, the destination of the first shift, to include clutch C2 applied.
Therefore, a shift from the third fixed gear state to EVT Mode 2 requires
clutch C4 to be changed from an applied to a not applied state and requires
that clutch C2 remain applied. Additionally, Table 1 describes operation in
the fourth fixed gear mode, the destination of the second shift, wherein
clutches C2 and C3 are applied. Therefore, a shift from EVT Mode 2 to the
fourth fixed gear state requires clutch C3 to be applied and loaded and requires
that clutch C2 remain applied. Therefore, clutches C4 and C3 are transitioned
through the exemplary shift, while clutch C2 remains applied and transmitting
torque to the driveline throughout the shift event.
[0064] Applied to the methods disclosed herein, changes in input torque
through a transmission shift can be adjusted to reduce negative effects to
drivability by coordinating signal commands to various torque generative
devices based upon reaction times of the various components. As described

above, many transmission shifts can be broken down into three phases: a first
torque phase, during which an initially applied clutch is changed from a
torque-bearing, locked, and synchronized clutch state to an unlocked and
desynchronized clutch state; an inertia speed phase, during which affected
clutches are unlocked and in transitional states; and a second torque phase,
during which a second previously not applied clutch is changed from an
unlocked and desynchronized clutch state to a torque-bearing, locked, and
synchronized clutch state. As aforementioned, clutch slip is preferably
avoided throughout transmission shifts to avoid adverse effects on drivability,
and clutch slip is created when reactive torque applied across a clutch exceeds
the actual torque capacity of the clutch. Therefore, within a transmission shift
event, input torques must be managed in relation to the actual torque capacity
of the currently applied clutch, such that the transmission shift can be
accomplished without the occurrence of slip.
[0065] While a process can be utilized to perform necessary steps in a clutch
loading or unloading event in sequence, with the torque capacity of the clutch
being maintained in excess of reactive torques, time involved in an unlocking
transition is also important to drivability. Therefore, it is advantageous to
perform associated torque requests and clutch capacity commands in parallel
while still acting to prevent slip. Such parallel implementation of control
changes intending to effect clutch state changes associated with a transmission
shift preferably occur in as short of a time-span as possible. Therefore.
coordination of torque capacity within the clutches involved in the
transmission shift to the torque requests, both to the engine and to the electric
machine, as described in the exemplary embodiment above, is also important

to maintaining drivability through a transmission shift. FIGS. 5-7 depict
exemplary processes combining to accomplish an exemplary transmission
shift, in accordance with the present disclosure.
[0066] FIG. 5 is a graphical representation of torque terms associated with a
clutch through an exemplary transitional unlocking state, in accordance with
the present disclosure. Lines illustrated at the left extreme of the graph depict
clutch operation in a locked state. The graph depicts clutch command torque
by a clutch control system and a resulting estimated torque capacity. Clutch
torque capacity in a clutch resulting from a command torque is a result of
many factors, including available clamping pressure, design and conditional
factors of the clutch, reaction time in the clutch to changes in the clutch
control system. As demonstrated in the exemplary data of the graph in the
initial locked region, it is known to command a torque to a locked clutch in
excess of the clutch capacity and allow the other factors affecting the clutch to
determine the resulting clutch capacity. Also at the left extreme of the graph
depicting clutch operation in a locked state, estimated reactive torque applied
to the clutch as a result of input torque from the engine and electric machine
torques is depicted. At the time labeled "Initiate Unlocking State", logic
within the clutch control system or the TCM, having determined a need to
transition the clutch from locked to unlocked states, changes the command
torque to some level lower than the torque capacity but still higher than the
reactive torque currently applied to the clutch. At this point, mechanisms
within the clutch control system, for example, variable pressure control
solenoids within an exemplary hydraulic clutch control system, change
settings to modulate the clamping force within the clutch. As a result, torque

capacity of the clutch begins to change as the clamping force applied to the
clutch changes. As discussed above, the clutch reacts to a change in command
torque over a reaction time, and reaction time for a particular clutch will
depend upon the particulars of the application. In the exemplary graph of FIG.
5, torque capacity reacts to a reduction in command torque and begins to
reduce accordingly.
[0067] As mentioned above, during the same unlocking state, reactive torque
resulting from input torque and electric machine torques must also be
unloaded from the clutch. Undesirable slip results if the reactive torque is not
maintained below the torque capacity throughout the unlocking state. Upon
initiation of the unlocking state, at substantially the same point on FIG. 5
where the torque capacity is reduced to initiate the unlocking state, limits are
initiated and imposed upon input torques from the engine and the electric
machine in order to accomplish a ramping down of each to zero. As described
in the method disclosed herein and in exemplary embodiments described
above, changes to limits including a engine torque immediate request and an
immediate torque request are executed in a coordinated process, implementing
a lead period calibrated to the reaction times of the various torque providing
devices, such that the resulting input torques from the devices are reduced
substantially simultaneously. FIG. 5 illustrates a method to perform this
coordinated change to torque requests by imposing limits upon torque requests
in the form of a clutch reactive torque lead immediate min/max constraining
the engine torque immediate request and a clutch reactive torque immediate
min/max constraining the torque request to the electric machine. These
maximum reactive torque values represent the maximum torque that is

permitted to be commanded from each torque providing device: the actual
engine torque immediate request and the actual immediate torque request can
be less than the maximum reactive torque values, but as the maximum values
reduce, so the actual torque request values will also eventually reduce. The
input torques from the engine and electric machine together provide, each up
to the defined maximum values, some portion of the overall input torques,
with the portion of each being controlled by the HCP. As a result of the
calibrated lead period, both the clutch reactive torque lead immediate min/max
and the clutch reactive torque immediate min/max reduce applied reactive
torque to the clutch at substantially the same time, resulting in the reduction to
the actual clutch reactive torque as illustrated in FIG. 5. As will be
appreciated by one having ordinary skill in the art, other safeguards will
additionally need to be utilized to ensure that the torque capacity remains in
excess of the reactive torque throughout the unloading process. Many such
methods are contemplated, and an exemplary set of terms which might be used
are depicted on FIG. 5. For instance, a calibrated offset term can be used to
ensure that the command setting the clutch capacity remains in excess of the
actual clutch reactive torque until the actual torque passes below some
threshold. An exemplary threshold for such a purpose is defined in FIG. 5 as
the calibrated threshold for reactive torque. In maintaining this torque
capacity request above the actual clutch reactive torque, and remembering that
all devices include a reaction time to request changes, including the clutch
clamping mechanism, the delay in the change to torque capacity in response to
clutch command changes in combination with this offset term will maintain
the torque capacity in excess of the actual clutch reactive torque.

Additionally, another threshold, a calibrated threshold for torque estimate, can
be used to define the end of the torque phase. For instance, if an estimate of
the clutch torque capacity, as determined by an algorithm modeling clutch
operation, stays below this threshold through a calibrated period of time, then
the clutch can be determined to be in an unlocked state.
[0068] FIG. 6 is a graphical representation of torque terms associated with a
clutch through an exemplary transitional locking state, in accordance with the
present disclosure. As described above, within many transmission shift
events, a second clutch is synchronized and locked, and torque is applied to
the clutch. Lines illustrated at the left extreme of the graph depict clutch
operation in an unlocked state. The initiation of locking state requires a series
of subordinate commands necessary to transition the clutch from an unlocked
state to a locked state. As described above in relation to a transition to a
second torque phase within a transmission shift, the clutch, including the shaft
connected to the oncoming torque providing shafts and the shaft connected to
the output member, must be synchronized. Once the clutch connective
surfaces attached to these shafts have been attenuated and are moving at the
same rotational velocity, clamping force can begin to be applied to the clutch
to bring the clutch to a locked state and begin increasing the torque capacity of
the clutch. As described above with regards to avoiding slip during a torque
phase, clutch capacity must be increased before reactive torque to the clutch
can be increased. In order to enable the application of input torques resulting
in a reactive torque across the clutch as rapidly as possible, an increase in
clutch capacity can be commanded anticipatorily to achieve an initial increase
in clutch capacity coincident with the clutch reaching a locked state. Reactive

torques, taking into account reaction times by utilizing a lead period by the
method disclosed herein, can then be timely commanded with a short lag to
follow increasing clutch torque capacity. An exemplary embodiment of this
method, acting in reverse of the limits imposed to torque requests as described
in FIG. 5, imposes limits upon the torque requests which can be issued to the
engine and to the electric machine according to a calibrated ramp rate, selected
to avoid slip. As depicted in FIG. 6, a clutch reactive torque immediate
min/max acting as a constraint upon electric machine torque requests is
increased after a calibrated lead period from the initiation of an increasing
clutch reactive torque lead immediate min/max acting as a constraint upon
engine torque requests. By utilizing the lead period, the increase in input
torques from the engine and the electric machine increase reactive torque
applied to the clutch substantially simultaneously, according to the methods
disclosed herein. As the limits upon the torque generating devices are lifted
according to the calibrated ramp rate applied to each limit, the HCP can
command the engine and the electric machine to fulfill a portion of the
reactive torque required from the clutch, each up to the respective maximum.
In this way, torque requests to the engine and the electric machine are
coordinated in order to compensate for reaction times in order to increase
input torques from each substantially simultaneously through a shift event.
[0069] The calibrated ramp rate utilized in the above exemplary transmission
shift is a selected value which will adjust input torque levels to the desired
range quickly, but also will stay below the torque capacity for the clutch so as
to avoid slip. The ramp rate may be developed experimentally, empirically,
predictively, through modeling or other techniques adequate to accurately

predict engine and electric machine operation, and a multitude of ramp rates
might be used by the same hybrid powertrain, depending upon different engine
settings, conditions, or operating ranges and behavior of the control system
actuating the clutch torque capacity. The ramp rate used to decrease input
torques in an unlocking event can but need not be an inverse of the ramp rate
used to increase input torques in a locking event. Similarly, the lead period
used to coordinate input torques can but need not be the same time span value
utilized in both transmission transitional states and can be varied according to
particular behaviors of a vehicle and its components.
[0070] As described above, during a transmission shift, for example,
between two fixed gear states as defined in the exemplary transmission
described above, the transmission passes through an inertia speed phase
between a first torque phase and a second torque phase. During this inertia
speed phase, the originally applied clutch and the clutch to be applied are in an
unlocked state, and the input is initially spinning with a rotational velocity that
was shared across the first clutch just prior to becoming unsynchronized. in
order to accomplish synchronization within the second clutch to be applied
and loaded in the second torque phase, inputs to be connected to the second
clutch must change NI to match the driveline attached through the
transmission at some new gear ratio. A number of methods are known in the
art to accomplish this synchronization. However, within a shift in a hybrid
powertrain transmission, shifts usually occur through range operating state
where at least one clutch is still applied while another clutch is in an inertia
speed phase. This means that changes to the various torque generative devices
required to create synchronization in the input speed and output speed of the

second clutch still impact vehicle performance in the inertia speed phase
through the still applied clutch. Therefore, the methods described herein to
utilize a lead period to effect changes to input torques substantially
simultaneously can additionally present advantages to drivability can continue
to be utilized through an inertia speed phase.
[0071] An exemplary method to accomplish this synchronization through an
inertia speed phase of a transmission shift is graphically depicted in FIG. 7, in
accordance with the present disclosure. The effects of the transmission shift
upon two terms descriptive of the shifting process are illustrated in two
sections with a common timescale. The top section depicts N|, initially
connected through the first, initially applied clutch. The upper dotted line
represents the velocity profile of NI while the first clutch is in a locked state
before initiation of the shift. The bottom dotted line represents the velocity
profile of NI that must be achieved to synchronize the input speed with the
output speed of the second clutch. The transition between the two dotted lines
represents the change to input speed that must take place to accomplish the
shift. The bottom section of FIG. 7 depicts input acceleration (NI_DOT), or a
derivative with respect to time of NI. NI_DOT is described in this case as the
input acceleration immediate or the acceleration profile driven with a
relatively quick reaction time by an electric machine or machines, and the
term closely tracks actual NI_DOT. The input acceleration immediate shows the
change in the rate of speed which must be accomplished in order to transition
the NI from an initial NI at the synchronous state with the first clutch to a
target input speed at the synchronous state with the second clutch. The initial
flat portion describes the acceleration with which the input speed is increased

before the initiation of the shift, and this constant value reflects the slope of
the input speed in the left portion of the top section of the FIG. 7. At the time
of the initiation of the shift, based upon operator input such as pedal position
and algorithms within the transmission control system, including determining
a preferred operating range state, a determination is made regarding target
input speed that will be required to achieve synchronization and the target
input acceleration profile required to accomplish the shift. An input
acceleration rate, calculated to support a target acceleration rate after the shift
is completed, can be termed an input acceleration lead predicted and describes
the NI_DOT that needs to exist after the inertia speed phase is completed. The
input acceleration lead immediate is predicted through an algorithm factoring
in operator requested torque, the preferred operating range state being
transitioned to, and other relevant variables. Because, as described in the top
portion of FIG. 7, NI must be changed through the inertia speed phase to
accomplish the shift and because NI_DOT describes the rate of change of the NI,
the NI_DOT of the device being controlled during the inertia speed phase must
reflect the input speed change to be accomplished through the inertia speed
phase. In the exemplary data displayed in FIG. 7, wherein the input speed
needs to be reduced to accomplish the transmission shift, the NNI_DOT of the
device necessarily must change to a negative value representing the change in
NI. Once NI has been reduced to a level enabling transition to the target input
speed needed for synchronizing the input and output speeds, the NNI_DOT
changes to match the input acceleration lead predicted. In this way, NI and
NNI_DOT can be controlled through an inertia speed phase to match a target input

speed and target input acceleration necessary to achieve a smooth transmission
shift.
[0072] As described above, a transmission shift in a hybrid powertrain
transmission requires transition between operating range states, wherein an
inertia speed phase must be accomplished as described above, while at least
one clutch is still applied and transferring torque from the torque producing
devices to the driveline. Changes to input torques, driven by torque requests
to the various torque generating devices, must accomplish both the required NI
and NI_DOT changes and maintain drivability throughout the inertia speed
phase. Therefore, exemplary methods described herein to utilize a lead period
to effect changes to input torques substantially simultaneously can be utilized
through an inertia speed phase to effect torque request changes to the various
torque producing devices in order to effect substantially simultaneous changes
to the input torques. FIG. 7 illustrates coordinating torque producing device
reaction times, and a lead period calibrated to the difference in the related
reaction times, to improve drivability in a transmission shift. An engine, as
described above, includes the greater reaction time among torque generating
devices. In order to adjust the NI and NI_DOT as quickly as possible to achieve
the target speed and acceleration values for the shift, an input acceleration lead
immediate is predicted through an algorithm. This input acceleration lead
immediate includes the reaction time of the engine to changes in torque
requests, and profiles the most rapid change in NI and NI_DOT in the lead
device that can be accomplished to reach the target values. This rapid change
in NI must include the aforementioned reaction time in the engine to changes
in torque requests and the time the engine will take to accelerate or decelerate

through the input acceleration lead immediate. As depicted in FIG. 7, the
input acceleration lead immediate, in anticipation of a pending shift, can
initiate requisite commands to the engine in anticipation of the inertia speed
phase, as the resulting input torque from the engine will not begin to reduce
until later, due to the relatively long engine reaction time. Once the input
acceleration lead immediate has been determined, an input acceleration
immediate, following the input acceleration lead immediate by a lead period,
calibrated to reaction times as described above, can be utilized to control the
electric machine to match changes in NI and NI_DOT at substantially the same
time as the response from the engine. In this way, the engine and the electric
machines are substantially synchronized in affecting the target input speed and
target acceleration.
[0073] The above methods describe cases in which a transmission is
operating with a clutch or clutches engaged and with a torque being applied
from at least one input torque to either an output torque or between torque
generating devices. However, a neutral operating range state is known
wherein all clutches are unlocked and no torque is being applied through the
transmission. One having ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that for
various reasons, either the engine or an electric machine can be set to an idle
or operational state in a neutral condition, and that portions of the transmission
attached to the running device can continue to spin. In such a neutral
operating state, such portions of the transmission can apply little resistance to
the spinning device and can quickly accelerate to a high rotational speed.
Such portions of the transmission rotating at high speeds can cause a variety of
issues, including noise and vibrations issues, damage to the spinning parts, or

the spinning parts, storing kinetic energy, can cause a perceptible jerk in the
transmission if subsequently connected through a clutch. The above methods,
monitoring portions of the powertrain and issuing lead and immediate control
signals to the torque generating devices in order to maintain control over the
torques and speeds of the various portions of the powertrain, can be applied in
the neutral operating range state to monitor speed of various components,
monitored or predicted as a clutch slip acceleration lead predicted and by
imposing limits upon clutch slip acceleration in a lead control signal as a
clutch slip acceleration lead immediate and an immediate control signal as a
clutch slip acceleration immediate. Operated in this way, a powertrain can be
controlled through a neutral operating range state, maintaining speed of
various portions of the transmission within a preferred range.
[0074] The above methods describe torque management processes as a
comparison of positive values. It will be appreciated by one having ordinary
skill in the art that clutch torques are described as positive and negative
torques, signifying torques applied in one rotational direction or the other.
The above method can be used in either positive or negative torque
applications, where the magnitudes of the torques are modulated in such a way
that the magnitude of the applied reactive torque does not exceed the
magnitude of the torque capacity for a particular clutch. One particular
corollary to minimum and maximum reactive torque values is illustrated in
FIG. 8. FIG. 8 graphically illustrates an instance in which an input
acceleration lead immediate has been determined for engine control through
an inertia speed phase, and additionally, a corresponding input acceleration
immediate has been determined for electric machine control through the

inertia speed phase. In an instance where negative NI_DOT or deceleration is
occurring to the engine in an inertia speed phase, this condition is most
commonly an instance where the engine is simply being allowed to slow down
by internal frictional and pumping forces within the engine. However, when
an electric machine is decelerating, this condition is most commonly
accomplished with the electric machine still under power, or conversely,
operating in a regeneration mode. Because the electric machine is still
operating under system control and with implications with the rest of vehicle's
systems, the motor is still subject to systemic restraints, for instance, battery
power available to drive the motor. FIG. 8 imposes such a systemic restraint
in the minimum input acceleration constraint. Where such a restraint
interferes with the input acceleration immediate, algorithms within the electric
machine control system modify the input acceleration immediate to
accommodate the constraint. Once the constraint no longer limits electric
machine operation within the input acceleration immediate, the algorithm
operates to recover the NI_DOT to the effect the desired changes to NI.
[0075] FIG. 9 shows a control system architecture for controlling and
managing torque and power flow in a powertrain system having multiple
torque generative devices, described hereinbelow with reference to the hybrid
powertrain system shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, and residing in the aforementioned
control modules in the form of executable algorithms and calibrations. The
control system architecture can be applied to any powertrain system having
multiple torque generative devices, including, e.g., a hybrid powertrain system
having a single electric machine, a hybrid powertrain system having multiple
electric machines, and non-hybrid powertrain systems.

[0076] The control system architecture of FIG. 9 depicts a flow of pertinent
signals through the control modules. In operation, the operator inputs to the
accelerator pedal 113 and the brake pedal 112 are monitored to determine the
operator torque request ('TO_REQ'). Operation of the engine 14 and the
transmission 10 are monitored to determine the input speed ('N|') and the
output speed ('No'). A strategic optimization control scheme ('Strategic
Control') 310 determines a preferred input speed ('NI_DOT') and a preferred
engine state and transmission operating range state ('Hybrid Range State Des')
based upon the output speed and the operator torque request, and optimized
based upon other operating parameters of the hybrid powertrain, including
battery power limits and response limits of the engine 14, the transmission 10,
and the first and second electric machines 56 and 72. The strategic
optimization control scheme 310 is preferably executed by the HCP 5 during
each 100 ms loop cycle and each 25 ms loop cycle.
[0077] The outputs of the strategic optimization control scheme 310 are used
in a shift execution and engine start/stop control scheme ('Shift Execution and
Engine Start/Stop') 320 to command changes in the transmission operation
('Transmission Commands') including changing the operating range state.
This includes commanding execution of a change in the operating range state
if the preferred operating range state is different from the present operating
range state by commanding changes in application of one or more of the
clutches C1 70, C2 62, C3 73, and C4 75 and other transmission commands.
The present operating range state ('Hybrid Range State Actual') and an input
speed profile ('NI_PROF') can be determined. The input speed profile is an
estimate of an upcoming input speed and preferably comprises a scalar

parametric value that is a targeted input speed for the forthcoming loop cycle.
The engine operating commands and the operator torque request are based
upon the input speed profile during a transition in the operating range state of
the transmission.
[0078] A tactical control scheme ('Tactical Control and Operation') 330 is
repeatedly executed during one of the control loop cycles to determine engine
commands ('Engine Commands') for operating the engine, including a
preferred input torque from the engine 14 to the transmission 10 based upon
the output speed, the input speed, and the operator torque request and the
present operating range state for the transmission. The engine commands also
include engine states including one of an all-cylinder operating state and a
cylinder deactivation operating state wherein a portion of the engine cylinders
are deactivated and unfueled, and engine states including one of a fueled state
and a fuel cutoff state.
[0079] A clutch torque ('TCL') for each clutch is estimated in the TCM 17,
including the presently applied clutches and the non-applied clutches, and a
present engine input torque ('TI') reacting with the input member 12 is
determined in the ECM 23. A motor torque control scheme ('Output and
Motor Torque Determination') 340 is executed to determine the preferred
output torque from the powertrain ('TO_CMD')> which includes motor torque
commands ('TA','TB') for controlling the first and second electric machines
56 and 72 in this embodiment. The preferred output torque is based upon the
estimated clutch torque(s) for each of the clutches, the present input torque
from the engine 14, the present operating range state, the input speed, the
operator torque request, and the input speed profile. The first and second

electric machines 56 and 72 are controlled through the TPIM 19 to meet the
preferred motor torque commands based upon the preferred output torque.
The motor torque control scheme 340 includes algorithmic code which is
regularly executed during the 6.25 ms and 12.5 ms loop cycles to determine
the preferred motor torque commands.
[0080] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram exemplifying data flow through a
shift execution, describing more detail exemplary execution of the control
system architecture such as the system of FIG. 9 in greater detail, in
accordance with the present disclosure. Powertrain control system 400 is
illustrated comprising several hybrid drive components, including an engine
410, an electric machine 420, and clutch hydraulics 430. Control modules
strategic control module 310, shift execution module 450, clutch capacity
control module 460, tactical control and operation module 330, output and
motor torque determination module 340, and clutch control module 490, are
illustrated, processing information and issuing control commands to engine
410, electric machine 420, and clutch hydraulics 430. These control modules
can be physically separate, can be grouped together in a number of different
control devices, or can be entirely performed within a single physical control
device. Module 310, a strategic control module, performs determinations
regarding preferred powertrain operating points and preferred operating range
states as described in FIG. 9. Module 450, a shift execution module, receives
input from strategic control module 310 and other sources regarding shift
initiation. Module 450 processes inputs regarding the reactive torque
currently applied to the clutch and the preferred operating range state to be
transitioned to. Module 450 then employs an algorithm, determining

parameters for the execution of the shift, including hybrid range state
parameters describing the balance of input torques required of the torque
providing devices, details regarding a target input speed and input acceleration
lead predicted required to execute the transition to the preferred operating
range state, an input acceleration lead immediate as previously described, and
clutch reactive torque lead immediate min/max and clutch reactive torque
immediate min/max values as previously described. From module 450. clutch
reactive torque parameters and hybrid range state information are fed to clutch
capacity control module 460, lead control parameters and signals are fed to
tactical control and operation module 330, and immediate control parameters
and signals are fed to output and motor torque determination module 340.
Clutch capacity control module 460 processes reactive torque and hybrid
range state information and generates logic describing clutch reactive torque
limits enabling engine control through module 330, electric machine control
through module 340, and clutch control through module 490, in accordance
with methods described herein. Tactical control and operation module 330
includes means to issue torque requests and execute limits upon input torque
supplied from engine 410, and feed, additionally, describe the input torque
supplied from the engine to module 340 for use in control of electric machine
420. Output and motor torque determination module 340 likewise receives
and processes information to issue electric machine torque requests to electric
machine 420. Additionally, module 340 generates clutch reactive torque
commands for use by clutch control module 490. Module 490 processes
information from modules 460 and 340 and issues hydraulic commands in
order to achieve the required clutch torque capacity required to operate the

transmission. This particular embodiment of data flow illustrates one possible
exemplary process by which a vehicular torque generative devices and related
clutches can be controlled in accordance with the method disclosed herein. It
will be appreciated by one having ordinary skill in the art that the particular
process employed can vary, and this disclosure is not intended to limited to the
particular exemplary embodiment described herein.
[0081] Control of a powertrain system, such as the exemplary hybrid
powertrain described above in FIGS. 1 and 2, requires selection and balancing
of a number of variable control parameters. FIG. 11 schematically illustrates
an exemplary hybrid powertrain configuration including power loss terms
useful in calculating various powertrain settings, in accordance with the
present disclosure. There is a first power flow path from a fuel storage system
9 which transfers fuel power ('PFUEL') to the engine 14 which transfers input
power ('PI') to the transmission 10. The power loss in the first flow path
comprises engine power losses ('PLOSS ENG'). There is a second power flow
path which transfers electric power ('PBATT') from the ESD 74 to the TPIM 19
which transfers electric power ('PIN ELEC') to the first and second electric
machines 56 and 72 which transfer motor power ('PMOTOR MECH ') to the
transmission 10. The power losses in the second power flow path include
battery power losses ('PLOSS BATT') and electric motor power losses ('PLOSS
MOTOR')- The TPIM 19 has an electric power load ('PHV LOAD') that services
electric loads in the system ('HV Loads'), which can include a low voltage
battery storage system (not shown). The transmission 10 has a mechanical
inertia power load input ('PINERTIA') in the system ('Inertia Storage') that
preferably include inertias from the engine 14 and the transmission 10. The

transmission 10 has a mechanical power losses ('PLoss MECH') and power
output ('POUT') which can be affected by brake power losses ('PLOss BRAKE')
when being transferred to the driveline in the form of axle power ('PAXLE')-
[0082] The power cost inputs to the cost function 450 are determined based
upon factors related to vehicle drivability, fuel economy, emissions, and
battery usage. Power costs are assigned and associated with fuel and
electrical power consumption and are associated with a specific operating
points of the hybrid powertrain. Lower operating costs can be associated with
lower fuel consumption at high conversion efficiencies, lower battery power
usage, and lower emissions for each engine speed/load operating point, and
take into account the candidate operating state of the engine 14. As described
hereinabove, the power costs may include the engine power losses ('PLOSS
ENG'), electric motor power losses ('PLoss MOTOR'), battery power losses ('PLOSS
BATT'), brake power losses ('PLOSS BRAKE'), and mechanical power losses
('PLOSS MECH') associated with operating the hybrid powertrain at a specific
operating point which includes, for example, in the exemplary powertrain
described above: NI, NA, NB, TI, TA, TB, a transmission operating range state
and an engine state.
[0083] As described above, changes in transmission operating range states
involve transitioning clutches. According to the exemplary four clutch
transmission described above, in reference to Table 1 and FIG. 4, a number of
transitions between operating range states are foreseeable. In transition from
one operating range state to another operating range state, at least one clutch is
initially engaged, and at least one clutch is transitioned according to a process,
such as the exemplary process of FIG. 5, from a locked state to an unlocked

state and at least one clutch is transitioned according to a process, such as the
exemplary process of FIG. 6, from an unlocked state to a locked state. In the
interim period, clutches can pass through a neutral state, but such a change is
not preferable due to impacts to drivability and losses in efficiency caused by
unloading and re-loading the engine in a wasteful use of fuel not contributing
to the output of the powertrain. Instead, utilizing an inertia speed phase as
described above in the exemplary process of FIG. 7 allows for continued
transmission of torque from torque generative devices to the output throughout
the change in transmission operating range states. In this way, waste and
adverse impacts associated with changes through neutral can be avoided.
[0084] In FIG. 11 above, a process is described which compares losses or
costs to determine preferable powertrain settings. One such process can be
implemented to select operating range state in a transmission. A desired
operating range state can be selected based upon the losses or costs associated
with selecting various operating range states. Within an exemplary control
system such as depicted in FIG. 9, a strategic control module 310 monitors
inputs regarding current powertrain operation and communicates the desired
range state and a desired input acceleration to shift execution. Shift execution
coordinates the effort of tactical control and motor torque determination along
with controlling the transmission clutches to sequence and achieve the desired
range state.
[0085] A control module determining a desired operating state range based
upon costs associated with different operating range states monitors inputs
regarding current powertrain operation and communicates the desired range
state to shift execution. In the context of coordinating synchronous shifting

within a transmission, including quantifying power losses or inefficiencies
associated with particular operating range states, the inputs most relevant to
powertrain operation describe matching NI to NO through the gear ratio of the
selected operating range state within a time span and in the context of
changing powertrain operation set by an accelerator input. FIG. 12
graphically illustrates exemplary powertrain operation through a transmission
shift, including terms descriptive of costs associated with powertrain operation
through the shift and at the desired operating range state, in accordance with
the present disclosure. The exemplary shift illustrated describes the above
described exemplary hybrid powertrain shifting from EVT Mode 2 to EVT
Mode 1 through a transitory second fixed gear state in accordance with
shifting described in FIG. 4 and Table 1. As the shift is initiated, clutch C2 is
engaged. In order to synchronously engage clutch C1 in accordance with a
shift to the second fixed gear, an inertia speed phase is initiated in clutch C1,
wherein NI is changed to match NO adjusted by the gear ratio of the second
fixed gear, the requisite speed change in NI being described by the difference
between the horizontal line originally occupied and a dotted line representing
the second fixed gear for the current NO. The slope of the line associated with
the second fixed gear describes a gradual deceleration of the powertrain over
some time span through the shift. Once clutch C1 is synchronized and locked
in accordance with the dotted line representing the second fixed gear, as
described at the end of the oncoming clutch engagement period, the
transmission is in the second fixed gear and can begin the shift from the
second fixed gear to EVT Mode 1. Through the off-going clutch
disengagement, clutch C2 is unlocked through a method such as the exemplary

method of FIG. 5. Once clutch C2 is unlocked, clutch C1 remains engaged,
and the transmission operates in EVT Mode 1, and engine commands drive NI
to a preset selected speed for EVT Mode 1.
[0086] Every transition within a transmission and an engine creates
inefficiencies. Adjustments to engine speed, particularly adjustments outside
of fuel efficient operation into less efficient operation, lower work output for a
given amount of fuel and create displeasing transitional jerks and sounds to the
customer registering as an adverse impact to drivability. Shifts through
neutral, if required, consume fuel through operation of the engine without
performing work upon the output shaft. Any shift, even if torque to an output
shaft is not interrupted, creates potential for adverse impacts to drivability and
usually require changes to NI through engine speed changes, as described
above. Because transmission shifts, particularly transmission shifts occurring
during a change in desired NO, involve values that change as a function of
time, a projection of costs through a potential shift requires an understanding
of the time spans involved in the shift.
[0087] In order to estimate time spans through a transmission shift, time
spans of individual events through the shift can be estimated. Using the
exemplary shift of FIG. 12 as an example, the relevant time spans through the
shift needed to evaluated the costs of the potential shift include the inertia
speed phase from EVT Mode 2 state to the second fixed gear state; the on-
coming clutch engagement period associated with engaging clutch C1; and the
off-going clutch disengagement associated with disengaging clutch C2 Once
C2 is released, EVT Mode 1 is achieved, and the shift can be considered
complete. Referring still to FIG. 12, the time necessary to complete the inertia

speed phase can be estimated by quantifying the change required of NI. This
change required of NI can be estimated by determining the NI that would be
immediately required in the destination gear based upon NO and the gear ratio
of the destination gear and projecting based upon accelerator position pedal
what NI can be achieved through an inertia speed phase. This projection can
be utilized through a look-up table and can be developed experimentally,
empirically, predictively, through modeling or other techniques adequate to
accurately predict engine and transmission operation, and a multitude of
calibration curves might be used by the same engine for different settings,
conditions, or operating ranges. Alternatively, the projection can be
performed by an algorithm or computational model quantifying the transitions
necessary to complete the inertia speed phase. In the exemplary transmission
shift of FIG. 12, an initial NI delta can be quantified, based upon an initial No,
and a change required in NI can be projected based upon the initial NI delta
and an accelerator pedal position describing a desired change in NO. Based
upon these values, a time necessary to complete the inertia speed change can
be estimated. This inertia speed change time, in addition to clutch engagement
and disengagement times, easily estimable from known clutch operation, can
be summed to estimate the time until EVT Mode 1 is achieved and NI at EVT
Mode 1 achieved. NI at the potential destination operating range state
achieved along with the behavior of NI throughout the transmission shift
describes the engine commands and fuel consumption that will occur through
a shift. NI at the potential destination operating range state achieved also
describes a projected engine speed through the shift, and this engine speed can
be compared with allowable engine speeds to determine whether the shift is

possible without a shift through neutral. The projection of times and NI
behavior through a shift event can be projected through multiple destination
range states, and the behavior of NI and the shift times can be used to project
costs associated with each potential operating range state. In this way,
transitions to multiple operating range states can be evaluated and selected
from based upon projected costs of each potential transmission shift.
[0088] FIG. 14 illustrates in tabular form use of an exemplary 2D look-up
table to determine inertia speed phase times, in accordance with the present
disclosure. Accelerator pedal position and the initial NI delta allow
projection of a change required in NI, as describe above, which, in turn, allows
estimation of an inertia speed phase time. Based upon the given inputs, an
estimated inertia speed phase time can be estimated. Values of the initial NI
delta in the look-up table can span positive and negative values, allowing for
different calibrations according to upshifts and downshifts.
[0089] The anticipated change in No, for example through a prediction or
profile of output deceleration, indicated by accelerator pedal position has a
direct impact on whether a particular potential shift is preferable. FIG. 13
graphically illustrates two different deceleration events, one a light
deceleration maneuver and a second an aggressive deceleration maneuver, and
the impacts upon NI through the potential shifts, in accordance with the
present disclosure. An analysis of NI through a light deceleration maneuver
and projected transmission shifting to a desired operating range state, as
depicted in the top portion of the graph, indicates no violation of NI with either
a minimum allowable input speed or a maximum allowable input speed.
Minimum and maximum allowable input speeds will often be determined by

the resulting engine speeds and the limits of the engine. By contrast, an
analysis of NI through an aggressive deceleration maneuver a projected
transmission shifting to a desired operating range state, as depicted in the
bottom portion of the graph, indicates that a predicted minimum input speed
would drop below the minimum allowable input speed before completion of
the shift. This violation of the minimum allowable input speed can be utilized
to flag this potential transmission shift as not preferred due to an excessive
cost associated with the fuel inefficiencies and adverse impacts to drivability
that would be incurred by the NI violation. The graphical depiction of
determining NI at EVT Mode 1 achieved can be reconstructed mathematically.
For example, in the exemplary shifts of FIG. 13, prediction of NI at the point
EVT Mode 1 is achieved can be expressed through the following equation:
NI_MI Achieved = (NO_Current + NO_DOT * ShiftTimeEstimate) * Gear2Ratio [2]
As described above, this predicted input speed can used to judge whether the
input speed will violate minimum and maximum allowed values.
Additionally, the impact of the predicted input speed can be compared to fuel
consumption impacts, drivability impacts, predicted noise and vibration
impacts, and other factors that can be evaluated and calibrated into cost terms
and predictive tables.
[0090] The methods described above to evaluate costs associated with
transmission shifts can be utilized similarly in shifts to and from different
operating range states. FIG. 15 graphically illustrates exemplary powertrain
operation through a transmission shift, including illustration of time spans

relative to defining costs through the shift, in accordance with the present
disclosure. The shift illustrated in FIG. 15 differs from the shift illustrated in
FIG. 12 because the initial state of the clutch is in a third fixed gear. As a
result, the time necessary to complete the shift is lengthened by the additional
off-going clutch release associated with shifting from the third fixed gear into
the inertia speed phase. FIG. 16 graphically illustrates exemplary powertrain
operation through an additional transmission shift, including illustration of a
time span relative to defining costs through the shift, in accordance with the
present disclosure. The shift illustrated in FIG. 16 is a simple shift from a
second fixed gear, with two clutches applied, to EVT Mode 1. Because the
only transition required to shift from the second fixed gear to EVT Mode 1 is a
release of a single clutch, and, as described above, once the shift is in a
destination state with a single clutch applied and no costs are incurred, the
only time relevant to cost of the shift is the off-going clutch release time.
[0091] The above methods to determine costs associated with different
potential operating range states can be used at any time to aid evaluation of
whether a transition to one operating range state is desired as compared to the
present operating range state. However, it will be appreciated that the current
operating range state is not a required input to the determination, as NI
independent of the current operating range state is utilized in the
determination. Additionally, it will be appreciated that not all calculations are
required to be run for every determination. Where No or output acceleration
(NO_DOT) are determinative according to calibrated thresholds, indicating
operation there NI in the potential operating range state is not feasible, then the
prediction of NI at the achieved operating range state can be disabled.

[0092] Many relationships of predicted NI resulting from shifts to potential
operating range states are envisioned. One particular cost that can be
quantified through the above method is a likelihood that NI, as a result of the
transmission shift, will drop below a minimum input speed. Viewing this
result as preferable to avoid, a penalty cost can be defined as a scalar
likelihood that selection of a transmission shift to a destination operating range
state will cause NI to drop below the minimum input speed. While a
comparison can be made to the predicted NI at the destination operating range
state achieved, one with ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that variables
can change through the course of a deceleration, and use of a scalar term
tending to avoid NI values close to the minimum input speed accounts for
some of the uncertainty in the prediction of NI. A higher scalar penalty cost
used to describe a high likelihood that NI will drop to these levels can be
combined with other factors to dissuade the selection of that particular shift.
In the exemplary control system described above in FIG. 9, this deceleration
penalty cost can be combined with other costs that are determined within
strategic control for the purpose of determining a desired range state.
[0093] FIG. 17 graphically illustrates an exemplary relationship between
predicted input speeds at the destination operating range state achieved and
penalty costs that can be assigned to the potential transmission shift, in
accordance with the present disclosure. As described above, a penalty cost
can be associated with a predicted NI at a destination operating range state
achieved as a measure of the risk of NI dropping below a minimum input
speed. The shape of the curve depicted in FIG. 17 relates assignment of a
penalty cost based upon a likelihood that NI will drop below the minimum

level. A high predicted NI value makes the likelihood that NI will drop below
the threshold level small. Therefore, a small cost penalty is appropriate. A
low predicted NI value, such as a predicted value below the minimum input
speed, makes the likelihood that NI will drop below the threshold level great.
Therefore, a large cost penalty is appropriate. In cases wherein the predicted
NI value is close to or within a certain range of the minimum input speed, then
an intermediate cost penalty, calibrated to system behaviors, likelihoods of
aggressive deceleration, the severity of incorrect predictions, and other factors,
is appropriate. Such a calibrated curve can be employed in a series of ID
look-up tables or can be utilized through a algorithm programmed with the
calibrated information. FIG. 18 illustrates use of exemplary ID look-up tables
to determine penalty cost values associated with potential destination
operating range states, in accordance with the present disclosure. Using
methods described above and utilizing inputs describing current conditions,
known shift characteristics and predicted behavior of the input speed through
the shift can be utilized to tabulate costs associated with a particular shift
under certain deceleration profiles. The exemplary cost tables of FIG. 18
input various operating range state transitions and, based upon predicted
deceleration of the input speed, output penalty costs for various shifts given
current conditions. By utilizing look-up tables as described by FIG. 18, a wide
variety of potential shifts under any current condition can be quickly evaluated
for selection.
[0094] FIG. 19 illustrates an exemplary process whereby penalty costs for
potential operating range state during a deceleration can be determined, in
accordance with the present disclosure. Process 500 starts in block 502. At

block 504, a determination is made whether an output speed is within a
calibratable maximum and minimum threshold, such that operation of the
powertrain within the potential operating range state at that output speed is
feasible. If the output speed is within the appropriate range, then the process
proceeds to block 506, wherein a speed enable term is set to "MET". If the
output speed is not within the appropriate range, then the process proceeds to
block 508, wherein a speed enable term is set to "NOT MET". At block 510,
a determination is made whether an output acceleration is less than a
calibratable threshold, such that change in NI will not fall below a threshold
level within a given amount of time. If the output acceleration is less than the
threshold level, then the process proceeds to block 512, wherein an
acceleration enable term is set to "MET". If the output acceleration is not less
than the threshold level, then the process proceeds to block 514, wherein
determination is made whether an output acceleration is greater than a
calibratable threshold. If the output acceleration is greater than the
calibratable threshold, then the process proceeds to block 516 wherein an
acceleration enable term is set to "NOT MET". Blocks 512, 514, and 516
advance the process to block 518. At block 518, if both the speed enable and
acceleration enable terms are set to "MET", then the process proceeds to block
520, wherein a penalty cost is calculated for the potential operating range state
being evaluated. If both the speed enable and acceleration enable terms are
not set to "MET", the process proceeds to block 522, wherein an indication is
made that the penalty costs for the shift being evaluated was not calculated
due to one of the criteria not being met. In the present exemplary
embodiment, a decel penalty cost of zero, as opposed to a low but not zero

value corresponding to a high predicted NI value, indicates that the criteria of
the calculation were not met. Other values or flags can be used in different
embodiments to indicate the same failure. At block 524, the process ends.
[0095] It is understood that modifications are allowable within the scope of
the disclosure. The disclosure has been described with specific reference to
the preferred embodiments and modifications thereto. Further modifications
and alterations may occur to others upon reading and understanding the
specification. It is intended to include all such modifications and alterations
insofar as they come within the scope of the disclosure.

CLAIMS
1. Method for controlling a powertrain comprising an electro-mechanical
transmission mechanically-operatively coupled to an internal combustion
engine and an electric machine adapted to selectively transmit
mechanical power to an output member, the method comprising:
monitoring a desired synchronous transmission shift during deceleration
of said output member including a desired operating range state;
monitoring an output speed;
predicting output deceleration through said desired synchronous
transmission shift;
determining a penalty cost associated with said desired synchronous
transmission shift based upon an input speed profile resulting from
said predicted output deceleration and from said desired synchronous
transmission shift; and
executing said synchronous transmission shift based upon said penalty
cost.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein said determining a penalty cost
comprises:
monitoring a current operating range state;
determining an operating range state transition required to change from
said current operating range state to said desired operating range
state;
predicting a minimum input speed resulting during said desired
synchronous transmission shift based upon said predicted output
deceleration and said operating range state transition; and
determining a penalty cost associated with said predicted minimum input
speed.
3. The method of claim 2, wherein said determining said penalty cost
further comprises determining whether said predicted minimum input
speed violates a minimum allowed input speed.
4. The method of claim 2, wherein said determining said penalty cost
further comprises evaluating drivability impacts of said predicted
minimum input speed.
5. The method of claim 2, wherein said determining said penalty cost
further comprises evaluating fuel efficiency impacts of said predicted
minimum input speed.

6. The method of claim 2, wherein said determining said penalty cost
further comprises utilizing a look-up table calibrated according to effects
of transitions to said desired operating range state from said current
operating range state including operation at said predicted minimum
input speed.
7. The method of claim 2, further comprising:
monitoring inputs describing desired powertrain operation;
determining an alternative synchronous transmission shift including an
alterative operating range state based upon said inputs;
determining an operating range state transition required to change from
said current operating range state to said alternative operating range
state;
predicting output deceleration through said alternative synchronous
transmission shift;
predicting a minimum input speed resulting during said alternative
synchronous transmission shift based upon said predicted output
deceleration and said operating range state transition to said
alternative operating range state; and
determining a penalty cost associated with said predicted minimum input
speed said synchronous transmission shift to said alternative
operating range state; and
wherein said executing said synchronous transmission shift comprises
selecting between said desired operating range state and said alternative
operating range state based upon said penalty costs.

8. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
determining an alternative synchronous transmission shift including an
alternative operating range state;
predicting output deceleration through said alternative synchronous
transmission shift;
determining a penalty cost associated with said alternative synchronous
transmission shift based upon an input speed profile resulting from
said predicted output deceleration through said alternative
synchronous transmission shift and from said alternative
synchronous transmission shift; and
executing said synchronous transmission shift based upon comparing
said penalty cost associated with said desired synchronous
transmission shift and said penalty cost associated with said
alternative synchronous transmission shift.

9. Method for controlling a powertrain comprising an electro-mechanical
transmission mechanically-operatively coupled to an internal combustion
engine and first and second electric machines adapted to selectively
transmit mechanical power to an output member, the method
comprising:
monitoring a current operating range state of said transmission;
monitoring a desired synchronous transmission shift during a
deceleration of said output member including a desired operating
range state;
monitoring an output speed;
predicting a minimum input speed through said desired synchronous
shift based upon said current operating range state, said desired
synchronous transmission shift, and said output speed;
determining a penalty cost associated with said desired synchronous
transmission shift based upon said predicted minimum input speed;
and
executing said synchronous transmission shift based upon said penalty
cost.
10. The method of claim 9, wherein said determining said penalty cost
comprises determining whether said predicted minimum input speed
violates a minimum allowed input speed.

11. The method of claim 9, wherein said predicting said minimum input
speed through said desired synchronous shift comprises:
determining a transitory operating range state required to transition from
said current operating range state to said desired operating range
state;
determining projected output speeds through said deceleration of said
output member; and
utilizing said projected output speeds and said transitory operating range
state to predict input speeds through said desired synchronous shift.
12. The method of claim 11, wherein said determining said penalty cost
comprises evaluating drivability impacts of said predicted minimum
input speed.
13. The method of claim 11, wherein said determining said penalty cost
comprises evaluating fuel efficiency impacts of said predicted minimum
input speed.

14. Method for controlling a powertrain comprising an electro-mechanical
transmission mechanically-operatively coupled to an internal combustion
engine and first and second electric machines adapted to selectively
transmit mechanical power to an output member, the method
comprising:
monitoring a desired synchronous transmission shift during deceleration
of said output member including a desired operating range state;
monitoring an output speed;
determining a penalty cost associated with said desired synchronous
transmission shift based upon a look-up table calibrated according to
projected output speeds through said deceleration of said output
member, input speed profiles resulting from said desired
transmission shift, and predicted effects of said input speed profiles;
and
executing said synchronous transmission shift based upon said penalty
cost.

15. Method for controlling a powertrain comprising an electro-mechanical
transmission mechanically-operatively coupled to an internal combustion
engine and first and second electric machines adapted to selectively
transmit mechanical power to an output member, the method
comprising:
monitoring a current operating range state of said transmission;
monitoring a desired powertrain output deceleration;
identifying a plurality of potential destination operating range states
possible based upon said desired powertrain output deceleration;
determining input speed profiles associated with each of said potential
destination operating range states;
determining a transmission shift penalty cost for each potential
destination operating range state based upon said input speed
profiles; and
executing a synchronous transmission shift based upon said transmission
shift penalty costs.

A method for controlling a powertrain includes monitoring a desired
synchronous transmission shift during deceleration of an output member
including a desired operating range state, monitoring an output speed,
predicting output deceleration through the desired synchronous transmission
shift, determining a penalty cost associated with the desired synchronous
transmission shift based upon an input speed profile resulting from the
predicted output deceleration and from the desired synchronous transmission
shift, and executing the synchronous transmission shift based upon the penalty
cost.

Documents:

http://ipindiaonline.gov.in/patentsearch/GrantedSearch/viewdoc.aspx?id=dzc9vzotxSNeUVm1Hh3Trw==&loc=wDBSZCsAt7zoiVrqcFJsRw==


Patent Number 272484
Indian Patent Application Number 1863/KOL/2008
PG Journal Number 15/2016
Publication Date 08-Apr-2016
Grant Date 04-Apr-2016
Date of Filing 31-Oct-2008
Name of Patentee DAIMLER AG
Applicant Address 70546 STUTTGART
Inventors:
# Inventor's Name Inventor's Address
1 LAWRENCE A. KAMINSKY 4361 BERKSHIRE DRIVE, STERLING HEIGHTS, MICHIGAN 48314
2 ANTHONY H. HEAP 2696 LESLIE PARK CIRCLE ANN ARBOR, MICHIGAN 48105
3 KEE YONG KIM 1699 SCIO RIDGE RD, ANN ARBOR, MI 48103
4 JY-JEN F. SAH 1915 BLOOMFIELD OAKS DRIVE,WEST BLOOMFIELD, MICHIGAN 48324
PCT International Classification Number B60W10/04
PCT International Application Number N/A
PCT International Filing date
PCT Conventions:
# PCT Application Number Date of Convention Priority Country
1 60/984,980 2007-11-02 U.S.A.