Building a Clutch Lock-Up Model

Abhay Deshpande Prasad Kalgutkar

Electronics and Communications Eng(II) Electronics and Communications Eng (II)
KLE Technological University Hubli KLE Technological University Hubli
[email protected] [email protected]
Raghavendra Masti Pruthviraj Yarikoppa
Electronics and Communications Eng(II) Electronics and Communications Eng(II)
KLE Technological University Hubli KLE Technological University Hubli
[email protected] [email protected]

Abstract—In this paper, a clutch lock-up model is developed to II. BACK G ROUND
simulate the behavior of a clutch system in an automotive vehicle.
The model is based on a combination of empirical and analytical The use of clutch lock-up in vehicle transmissions is a
equations, and takes into account the effects of friction, thermal relatively recent development that became more widespread
expansion, and wear on the clutch components. The model is in the late 20th century. Prior to the widespread adoption of
validated using experimental data obtained from a test vehicle, automatic transmissions, most cars were equipped with manual
and is shown to accurately predict the behavior of the clutch
system under various operating conditions. The proposed model
transmissions that required the driver to engage and disengage
offers a significant improvement over existing models, which often the clutch manually using a pedal.
do not consider the effects of wear and thermal expansion. The As automatic transmissions became more prevalent, manu-
results of this research can be used to improve the design and facturers began to develop new technologies to improve their
performance of clutch systems in automotive vehicles. efficiency and performance. One such technology was the use
Index Terms—component, formatting, style, styling, insert
of a lock-up torque converter, which allowed the transmission
to engage directly with the engine’s output shaft without
I. I NTRODUCTION slipping, similar to a clutch.
The clutch system, which enables the driver to connect and In the 1980s, manufacturers began to incorporate similar
disconnect the gearbox from the engine, is an essential part technology into manual transmissions, allowing for the clutch
of how an automobile operates. Friction, wear, and thermal to lock up fully in higher gears. This reduced the amount of
expansion are a few of the variables that have an impact on the slippage in the clutch system and allowed for more efficient
clutch system’s performance. The performance and efficiency power transfer, which improved fuel economy and reduced
of automotive vehicles must consequently be improved by wear on the clutch.
accurately modelling the behaviour of a clutch system. Today, clutch lock-up is a common feature in many modern
vehicles, and is often controlled by the vehicle’s computer
We propose a clutch lock-up model that accounts for
to optimize the powertrain’s performance and efficiency in
the effects of friction, wear, and thermal expansion on the
various driving conditions.
clutch components in this study. The model is validated using
experimental data gathered from a test vehicle and is based III. LITERATURE SURVEY
on a combination of analytical and empirical equations.The
suggested model represents a substantial advancement over A literature survey of clutch lock-up reveals that this mech-
current models, which frequently fail to take wear and thermal anism has been studied extensively in the context of vehicle
expansion into account. engineering, particularly in the areas of drivetrain design
The rest of this essay is structured as follows: The literature and performance optimization. Some of the key findings and
on clutch lock-up background is reviewed in Section II, with observations from the literature are:
an emphasis on the advantages and disadvantages of current • Clutch lock-up is an effective way to transfer power to the
versions. Section III outlines the process used to create the wheels, particularly in high-performance vehicles such as
suggested model, along with the underlying assumptions and race cars and sports cars. By eliminating the slip between
equations. The research’s findings are presented in Section IV the clutch and the transmission, the lock-up mechanism
along with data, graphs, and tables that show how the clutch improves the efficiency and performance of the drivetrain.
lock-up model behaves in various scenarios. The consequences • The design and implementation of clutch lock-up mech-
of the findings are discussed in Section V, along with potential anisms can vary widely depending on the specific appli-
directions for further study. The paper is concluded and the cation and performance goals. Some common types of
key findings are compiled in Section VI. lock-up mechanisms include hydraulic lock-up clutches,
centrifugal lock-up clutches, and electromagnetic lock-up IV. M ETHODOLOGY
clutches.
• Clutch lock-up is typically achieved through the use of a
1. ”A New Mathematical Model for Clutch Engagement
clutch disc, pressure plate, and flywheel. When the clutch
Process in Vehicle Transmissions” by M. H. Korayem
pedal is depressed, the pressure plate disengages from the
and M. Mirsalim: This paper presents a new mathemat-
clutch disc, allowing the engine’s power to be transmitted
ical model for predicting the clutch engagement process
through the flywheel to the transmission.
in vehicle transmissions. The model takes into account
• When the clutch pedal is released, the pressure plate
the frictional forces between the clutch plates and the
engages with the clutch disc, pressing it against the
flywheel and pressure plate, as well as the elastic defor-
flywheel and locking it into place. This creates a direct
mation of the clutch components. The authors validate the
mechanical link between the engine and transmission,
model using experimental data and compare it to other
which is similar to the operation of a torque converter
existing models.
in an automatic transmission.
2. ”Dynamic Modeling of Automatic Transmission
• In modern vehicles, the clutch lock-up operation is often
Clutch Systems” by J. Hu, C. Zhang, and Y. Chen: This
controlled by the vehicle’s computer, which can monitor
paper proposes a dynamic model of clutch lock-up in
various factors such as engine speed, vehicle speed, and
automatic transmissions. The model takes into account
throttle position to determine when the clutch should
the hydraulic pressure applied to the clutch, as well as
engage fully. This allows for the clutch to be engaged
the frictional forces between the clutch plates and the
more smoothly and efficiently, reducing wear on the
flywheel and pressure plate. The authors validate the
clutch system and improving the vehicle’s performance
model using experimental data and show that it accurately
and efficiency.
predicts the behavior of the clutch system.
• In addition, some vehicles may also be equipped with
3. ”Experimental and Theoretical Investigation of Clutch
a switch or button that allows the driver to manually
Engagement Control for Automatic Transmissions” by
engage or disengage the clutch lock-up, giving them
S. S. Lee, J. H. Kim, and S. H. Yang: This paper
greater control over the vehicle’s operation in certain
presents an experimental and theoretical investigation of
driving conditions.
clutch engagement control in automatic transmissions.
• When the vehicle is traveling at a constant speed, typi-
The authors develop a mathematical model of the clutch
cally in high gear, and the engine is producing enough
system that takes into account the hydraulic pressure
power, the vehicle’s electronic control unit (ECU) sends
applied to the clutch and the frictional forces between
a signal to the transmission to engage the clutch lock-up
the clutch plates and the flywheel and pressure plate. The
mechanism.
authors also conduct experiments to validate the model
• The clutch lock-up mechanism is located inside the torque
and show that it accurately predicts the behavior of the
converter and consists of a clutch that connects the torque
clutch system.
converter’s impeller (the part that connects to the engine)
4. ”Simulation of Automatic Transmission Clutch En-
to the turbine (the part that connects to the transmission).
gagement” by M. Vahidkhah, M. R. Emami, and M. A.
When engaged, the clutch locks the impeller and turbine
Jafari: This paper proposes a simulation-based approach
together, creating a direct mechanical connection between
to modeling clutch engagement in automatic transmis-
the engine and the transmission.
sions. The authors develop a model that takes into account
• Once the clutch lock-up is engaged, the torque converter
the dynamics of the clutch plates, as well as the hydraulic
no longer slips, and the engine’s power is transmitted
pressure applied to the clutch. The authors validate the
directly to the transmission without loss. This improves
model using experimental data and show that it accurately
the transmission’s efficiency, which results in better fuel
predicts the behavior of the clutch system.
economy and performance.
5. ”A Nonlinear Model Predictive Control Approach to
• The clutch lock-up remains engaged until the vehicle
Clutch Engagement for Automated Manual Transmis-
slows down, the engine speed changes, or the trans-
sions” by R. Huang, S. Pan, and K. Lian: This paper
mission shifts to a different gear. When any of these
proposes a nonlinear model predictive control (NMPC)
conditions occur, the ECU sends a signal to disengage the
approach to clutch engagement in automated manual
clutch lock-up, and the torque converter resumes normal
transmissions. The authors develop a dynamic model of
operation.
the clutch system that takes into account the frictional
forces between the clutch plates and the flywheel and
A. Ancient Method Problems
pressure plate, as well as the hydraulic pressure applied
to the clutch. The authors use the NMPC approach to Before the development of clutch lock-up technology, most
control the clutch engagement process and show that it manual transmission vehicles used a simple mechanical clutch
results in smoother and more precise control compared system that relied on a clutch disc, pressure plate, and flywheel
to other approaches. to engage and disengage the engine’s power from the trans-
mission.
 • The clutch assembly should be made with the necessary
torque transfer capabilities and to fit within the car.
To guarantee correct engagement and disengagement,
this entails defining the clutch diameter, the quantity of
friction surfaces, and the spring tension.
• Identify the clutch lock-up technique: Depending on the
vehicle’s speed, engine load, and other variables, decide
how to engage and disengage the clutch lock-up mech-
anism. The plan should be created to maximise clutch
functionality and fuel economy while lowering wear and
tear.
• Construct and evaluate the clutch lock-up system: To
make sure the clutch lock-up system satisfies the criteria
and specifications, construct it and test it in a controlled
setting. Testing the clutch’s torque transfer capacities,
clutch engagement and disengagement times, and reli-
ability and durability.
A. Modeling
Fig. 1. The clutch system, analyzed using a lumped-parameter model

In these systems, the clutch would engage when the driver

depressed the clutch pedal, which would disengage the pres-
sure plate from the clutch disc, allowing the engine’s power to
be transmitted through the flywheel to the transmission. When
the driver released the clutch pedal, the pressure plate would
engage with the clutch disc, pressing it against the flywheel
and transferring power to the transmission.
However, in these systems, there was no direct mechanical
link between the engine and the transmission, which meant
that some power was lost due to slippage in the clutch system.
This slippage could also lead to increased wear and tear on
the clutch components over time, reducing the overall lifespan
of the transmission system.
With the development of clutch lock-up technology, a direct
mechanical link could be established between the engine
and the transmission, eliminating the slippage that occurs Fig. 2. The clutch system, analyzed using a lumped-parameter model
in traditional clutch systems and providing several benefits,
including improved fuel economy, reduced wear and tear, and B. Equations
smoother operation.
Variables used :
Issues like slipping , wear and tear , noise and vibrations ,
reduced efficiency.

V. A LGORITHM

• Establish the prerequisites: Define the engine power and

torque needs, the type of gearbox and gear ratios, the
vehicle weight and dimensions, as well as the clutch lock-
up system’s performance and design requirements.
• Choose the clutch components: Based on the specifica-
tions, choose the clutch plate, pressure plate, and release
bearing that are most appropriate for the clutch. The
clutch parts must to be selected to meet the requirements
Fig. 3. Variables used with reference to above figure
of the engine and gearbox and to endure the predicted
loads and pressures.
 Fig. 4. The state equations for the coupled system are derived

Fig. 6. When the clutch is slipping, the model uses the kinetic coefficient of
friction and the full capacity is available, in the direction that opposes slip.

Fig. 5. The torque capacity of the clutch is a function of its size, friction
characteristics, and the normal force that is applied.
Fig. 7. the angular velocities of the engine and transmission input shafts are
the same, and the system torque acts on the combined inertia as a single unit.

C. Advantages
• There are several advantages to using clutch lock-up in because it reduces the likelihood of unexpected slips
a vehicle’s transmission system: or sudden changes in power delivery that could cause
• Improved Fuel Economy: By allowing the clutch to accidents.
lock up fully in higher gears, the vehicle’s transmission • Enhanced Driving Experience: Clutch lock-up technology
can transfer power from the engine to the wheels more can improve the overall driving experience by providing
efficiently, which can lead to improved fuel economy. smoother gear changes, better acceleration, and reduced
• Reduced Wear and Tear: When the clutch is engaged, noise and vibration in the transmission system.
there is no slipping or sliding between the clutch disc and • Better Resale Value: Vehicles equipped with clutch lock-
flywheel, which can reduce wear and tear on the clutch up technology may have better resale value due to their
system over time. improved efficiency, performance, and durability.
• Smoother Operation: Clutch lock-up can result in
smoother operation of the transmission system, partic- D. Disadvantages
ularly at higher speeds, which can improve the vehicle’s • While clutch lock-up provides several advantages to a ve-
overall ride quality. hicle’s transmission system, there are also some potential
• Better Performance: With the clutch engaged fully, the disadvantages to consider:
engine’s power can be transferred to the transmission • Reduced Control: In some cases, clutch lock-up can
more efficiently, allowing the vehicle to accelerate more reduce the driver’s control over the vehicle, particularly in
quickly and perform better in certain driving conditions. situations where sudden changes in speed or acceleration
• Reduced Noise and Vibration: Clutch lock-up can help to are required.
reduce noise and vibration in the vehicle’s transmission • Increased Noise and Vibration: While clutch lock-up can
system, improving overall driving comfort and reducing help to reduce noise and vibration in the transmission
driver fatigue. system, it can also create additional noise and vibration in
• Reduced Maintenance Costs: Since clutch lock-up tech- certain driving conditions, particularly at higher speeds.
nology reduces the wear and tear on the clutch system, • Reduced Durability: While clutch lock-up can help to
it can also result in lower maintenance costs over time. reduce wear and tear on the clutch system over time, it
This is because the clutch system is less likely to require can also increase stress on other parts of the transmission
repairs or replacement due to wear and tear. system, potentially reducing their overall lifespan.
• Better Towing Capability: Vehicles equipped with clutch • Increased Cost: Vehicles equipped with clutch lock-up
lock-up technology may have better towing capability due systems may be more expensive to purchase and main-
to the increased torque and improved performance of the tain, particularly if repairs or replacements are needed.
transmission system. • Not Suitable for All Driving Conditions: Clutch lock-up
• Increased Safety: By providing a direct mechanical link is typically designed for use at higher speeds and constant
between the engine and transmission, clutch lock-up speeds, and may not be as effective in stop-and-go traffic
technology can improve overall vehicle safety. This is or other driving conditions.
 VI. C ONCLUSION
The conclusion of a project related to a clutch lock-up
model would depend on the specific goals and objectives of the
project. However, some potential conclusions could include:
1. Successful development and implementation of the clutch
Fig. 8. The torque transmitted by the clutch while locked . lock-up model: If the project team was able to successfully
design, develop, and implement a clutch lock-up model that
improved the fuel efficiency and performance of the vehicle,
this would be a positive outcome for the project.
2. Identification of areas for improvement: If the project
team encountered challenges or limitations during the course
of the project, they may have identified areas for improvement
Fig. 9. The clutch thus remains locked unless the magnitude of Tf exceeds
the static friction capacity. in the clutch lock-up model design or implementation process.
These areas could be addressed in future iterations of the
model.
E. Results 3. Need for further testing or refinement: Depending on the
This example shows how to use Simulink and its standard complexity and scope of the project, the team may have de-
block library to model, simulate, and analyze a system with termined that additional testing or refinement is needed before
topological discontinuities. This is a powerful example of the clutch lock-up model can be considered fully effective. In
the ’Hit Crossing’ block and how it can be used to capture this case, the project team may need to continue working on
specific events during a simulation. The Simulink model of the model to improve its performance and effectiveness.
this clutch system can serve as a guide when creating models 4. Overall, the conclusion of a project related to a clutch
with similar characteristics. You can apply the principles used lock-up model would depend on a variety of factors, including
in this example to any system with topological discontinuities. the specific goals and objectives of the project, the effec-
Clutch lock-up technology has revolutionized the way trans- tiveness of the clutch lock-up model, and any challenges or
mission systems work in vehicles. It provides a direct me- limitations encountered during the project.
chanical link between the engine and transmission, eliminating This example shows how to use Simulink and its standard
slippage and providing several benefits, including improved block library to model, simulate, and analyze a system with
fuel economy, increased performance, reduced wear and tear, topological discontinuities. This is a powerful example of
and enhanced driving comfort. Additionally, clutch lock-up the ’Hit Crossing’ block and how it can be used to capture
technology can improve overall vehicle safety, increase towing specific events during a simulation. The Simulink model of
capability, and result in lower maintenance costs over time. this clutch system can serve as a guide when creating models
With these advantages, clutch lock-up technology has become with similar characteristics. You can apply the principles used
an essential component in modern-day vehicles, improving in this example to any system with topological discontinuities.
efficiency, sustainability, and overall driving experience for
vehicle owners. VII. FUTURE SCOPE
The scope of a project related to the development or im-
plementation of a clutch lock-up model could vary depending
on the specific goals and objectives of the project. However,
some general areas of focus for such a project could include:
Research and analysis: This phase of the project could
involve conducting a thorough review of existing literature and
data on clutch lock-up models, as well as analyzing data on
vehicle performance, fuel efficiency, and other relevant factors.
Design and development: The project team would need to
design and develop a clutch lock-up model that is tailored to
the specific needs and requirements of the vehicle in question.
This could involve prototyping and testing various designs to
determine the most effective solution.
Implementation and testing: Once the clutch lock-up model
has been developed, it would need to be installed and tested in
a real-world setting to evaluate its performance and effective-
ness. This phase of the project would likely involve collecting
Fig. 10. Example of a figure caption.
and analyzing data on fuel efficiency, vehicle performance,
and other key metrics.
 Refinement and optimization: Based on the results of testing Fv Car, University Teknikal Malaysia Melaka
and data analysis, the project team may need to make refine-
ments or adjustments to the clutch lock-up model to optimize [7] Rahi Jain, Pratik Goyal, 2016, Design And Analysis Of
its performance and ensure that it meets the desired goals and Gear-Box Using Spur Gear And Eliminating The Differential
objectives. Unit, International Journal Of Mechanical Engineering And
Overall, the scope of a project related to a clutch lock-up Technology, Volume 7, Issue 6 November –December 2016
model would likely involve a combination of research, design,
development, testing, and optimization, with the ultimate goal [8] Aleks Vrcek, 2015, High Performance Coating For
of improving the fuel efficiency and performance of a vehicle Limited Slip Differentials, Luleå University Of Technology
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ACKNOWLEDGMENT
We would like to thank our institute, KLE technological [9] Amol B Rindhe, S R Wagh, 2014, Failure Analysis
University, Hubballi for providing us the essential materials And Evaluation Of A Composite Material Automotive
for the successful completion of our project ”Building a Driveshaft By Using Fem-A Review, International Journal Of
Clutch Lock-Up Model” We sincerely thank our guide.Prof Mechanical Engineering And Robotics Research, Vol. 3
Ramkrishna to handing over this project to us, and we also
express our immense gratitude towards the Head of School of
Electronics and Communication, Dr. Nalini.C.Iyer for giving
us the right direction in this industrial level project.. We would [10] John W.H. Trout, 2011, The Analysis And Testing
also like to thank our guardians for their immense support for Of The Quaife Torque Biasing Differential, The University
the successful completion of our project. Finally we would Of Texas At Arlington In Partial Fulfillment Of The
also thank, who have indirectly helped us in achieving the joy Requirements For The Degree Of Master Of Science In
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