FURI | Spring 2018

Drivability Optimization of Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) for Automobiles by Additional Sensory Inputs: Experimental

Theoretically, continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) should provide optimal drivability while reducing the energy loss through a smooth gear ratio change. However, even leading companies have not yet achieved the optimal algorithm to control CVTs. One of the greatest obstacles to achieving such algorithms is the uncertainty of drivers’ behaviors. Predicting user’s behaviors solely from the gas pedal has limitations, which have resulted in unsatisfying outcomes. This research is an attempt to optimize the CVT with sensory inputs, which are becoming more available in automobiles. New control algorithms will be compared with current models and analyzed.