An adaptive transmission (AT) is a type of automatic transmission that uses electronic controls and sensors to adapt to driving style and road conditions. This allows the automatic transmission to optimize gear changes and improve performance, fuel economy and ride comfort.
Operating principle of adaptive automatic transmission:
1. Electronic control unit (ECU): The ECU is the ‘brain’ of the adaptive automatic transmission. It receives data from various sensors and calculates the optimal gear shift pattern.
2. Sensors: Adaptive automatic transmission uses several sensors to monitor various parameters, such as:
* Vehicle speed
* Engine rotation speed
* Engine load
* Throttle position
*Transmission temperature
3. Adaptation Algorithms: The ECU uses adaptation algorithms to analyze sensor data and calculate ideal gear shift points. These algorithms take into account factors such as accelerator pedal pressure, fuel economy and ride comfort.
4. Solenoids: Solenoids are solenoid valves that are controlled by the ECU. They control the flow of hydraulic fluid to the transmission, which mechanically changes gears.
5. Hydraulic Control Unit (HCU): The HCU uses solenoids to change the pressure and direction of hydraulic fluid flow. This pressure is used to change gears.
Adaptive Features:
Adaptive automatic transmissions can perform various adaptive functions, including:
* Adaptive Shift: Optimizes shift points based on driving style and traffic conditions.
* Fuel Saving: Shifts to higher gears at lower speeds to reduce engine speed and fuel consumption.
* Acceleration: Keeps the engine at higher rpm when accelerating, allowing for faster acceleration.
* Towing: Extends gear ratios for improved traction when towing heavy loads.
Advantages of adaptive automatic transmissions:
* Improved performance
* Increased fuel economy
*Smoother and more comfortable gear shifting
* Increased transmission durability
* Customization to individual driver preferences