Software in the loop model and decoupling control for dual clutch automotive transmissions

Dry dual clutches are widely used in conventional and innovative automotive vehicles. The engagement control of dry dual clutches is a not easy task because of the synergic interaction of the two clutches in terms of their corresponding torque transmissibility characteristics. In this scenario the so-called software in the loop approach can represent a foundamental preliminary and driving step for hardware in the loop and on vehicle testing of new engagement strategies. This paper proposes a software in the loop model for dry dual clutch transmission control systems, developed by Fiat for new C635 transmission family and its future evolutions. The vehicle model includes the representation of the shift process for a six-speed dry-type dual clutch transmission. The transmission model is used to design a decoupling engagement controller of the dual clutch.