Gear shift control of Dual Clutch Transmissions with a torque rate limitation trajectory

Gearshift control is one of the main functions of automotive transmissions. The proposed control utilizes the functionality of Dual Clutch Transmissions (DCTs) that two control inputs are available incorporating each other. During gearshift operation, each clutch is controlled uni-directionally to prevent undesirable effects such as dead zone nonlinearity, saturation, and etc. Even though they have such a constraint, the desired clutch profile is tracked well via cross-coupling effect of two actuators. In addition, engine torque is reduced based upon the predetermined target engine speed. A simple proportional-integrative (PI) controller is implemented for a feedback control of the proposed gear shifting management. Simulation results show that gear shifting is performed without excessive oscillations of the shaft torque.