On the design and tuning of the controllers in a power-split continuously variable transmission for agricultural tractors

Abstract

In this work, a power-split continuously variable transmission (CVT) used in high-power tractors is considered. Power-split CVTs are characterized by the combination of a traditional discontinuous mechanical transmission and a continuously variable transmission. This provides, at the same time, smooth variations of the transmission ratio and high efficiency of the overall transmission system. The CVT considered in this paper is a hydrostatic power-split unit conceived for top-power agricultural tractors. The goal of this paper is to present a case study on the design and tuning of the control system structure for this type of CVT. This structure consists of three main parts: a servo controller on the internal current of the valve of the hydraulic transmission; a servo controller on the hydraulic transmission ratio; a synchronizer which coordinates the hydraulic and the mechanical parts of the CVT. The design, tuning and testing of this set of automatic controllers is presented.