Method and apparatus for efficient clutch engagement

Abstract

A method for effecting efficient engagement of a clutch to interconnect an engine and an implement which monitors operational parameters of the engine and implement and determines from those operational parameters at least two ramp rates for the application of hydraulic pressure to the clutch. The hydraulic pressure is applied at a first ramp rate to the clutch for a first period and applied at a second ramp rate to the clutch for a second period. A determination is made from the relationship between the input and output speeds of the clutch whether the clutch is fully engaged. If it is not fully engaged, clutch pressure is released and the ramp rates are reevaluated and reset. They are then sequentially applied for the first and second periods. The process repeats until full engagement is achieved or a determination is made that full engagement cannot be achieved.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.