Model Based Pressure Control of a Push Belt Continuously Variable Transmission

A Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is a type of transmissions that provides a continuous range of speed ratios, thus it allows increasing the overall powertrain efficiency by running the engine at the optimal operating points. This paper investigates implementing a model based hydraulic pressure controller to achieve the desired CVT gear ratio. A map of desired gear ratios was estimated using the Optimal Operating Line (OOL) strategy, which minimizes the engine fuel consumption according to a defined cost function and a set of systems constraints. The controller was implemented in a complete vehicle model that includes driver, powertrain and road load models. The model was subjected to two different driving cycles and the results demonstrate the effectiveness of the control strategy and the pressure controller in keeping the engine at the most efficient operating regions.