Single clutch robotic gearbox
A single-clutch robotic transmission (RST) is a type of automatic transmission that combines elements of a manual and automatic transmission.
Operating principle
Unlike traditional torque converter automatic transmissions, the RST has a manual clutch. Gear shifting is carried out using an electro-hydraulic servo drive, which is controlled by an electronic control unit.
*Clutch: The clutch in an RST is similar to the one found in a manual transmission and is responsible for transferring torque from the engine to the transmission.
* Gear shifting: The electronic control unit receives signals from sensors that monitor vehicle speed, engine load and rpm, and selects the appropriate gear. The servo moves the shift fork, which then converts the signal into the physical action of engaging or disengaging the clutch and shifting into the desired gear.
Advantages
Compared to traditional automatic transmissions, RST offers the following advantages:
*Higher Fuel Efficiency: Mechanical clutch reduces power loss resulting in better fuel efficiency.
* Lighter weight and size: RST is lighter and more compact than torque converter transmissions.
*Sportier Feel: RST provides faster and more responsive gear shifting, emulating the driving experience of a manual transmission.
Flaws
However, RST also has some disadvantages:
* Shift Jerky: Gear shifts may not be as smooth as torque converter transmissions, especially at low speeds.
*Limited towing capabilities: Maximum towing weights are typically lower than traditional automatic transmissions.
*Higher Cost: RSTs tend to be more expensive to produce than traditional automatic transmissions.
Examples of vehicles with RST
RST is usually found in small and fuel efficient cars such as:
* Citroen C3
*Fiat Panda
*Ford Fiesta
*Honda Jazz
*Toyota Yaris