Flatness-based clutch control for automated manual transmissions

Control of the clutch position is a crucial point for automating manual transmissions. Here, an electrohydraulic clutch position control system is considered. Based on the flatness approach, a nonlinear feedforward control is designed, which is combined with a linear feedback control and implemented on a standard transmission control unit. Experiments with a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and a Mercedes-Benz CLK prove that this new control system is significantly superior to conventional control concepts, and provides an accurate trajectory tracking of the clutch position. (C) 2003 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.