Toyota patents unique automated manual transmission

Toyota patents unique automated manual transmission

Some automatic transmissions are able to place the vehicle in neutral while coasting in order to maximise fuel economy. Toyota is looking to mimic this function on the humble manual transmission, according to this patent filed with the United States Patent & Trademark Office.

The transmission described in the patent works like any other manual transmission, but comes with a controller that is capable of operating the clutch and gearbox. Should the system detect that coasting is possible, it will automatically disengage the clutch, allowing for engine-idle coasting.

The system also comes with shift lock pins that are engaged to prevent drivers from shifting to the wrong gear (too high or too low) given the vehicle’s speed. This prevents drivers, particularly inexperienced ones, from over-revving or lugging the engine if they find themselves in the wrong gear once coasting ends.

The patent doesn’t reveal a specific control method for this coasting control system, but it will likely be configurable to different setups. However, will this system be relevant given the popularity of automatic transmissions these days?

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Gerard Lye

Originating from the corporate world with a background in finance and economics, Gerard’s strong love for cars led him to take the plunge into the automotive media industry. It was only then did he realise that there are more things to a car than just horsepower count.

 

Comments

  • syer1n on Aug 09, 2017 at 10:38 am

    I drive manual and I’m happy that proton still offer manual for iriz and persona given that persona is not mainly targeted for early buyers e.g students. Not fond of toyota driving experience so far as it’s a little too comfy i can’t feel the road but I’m not gonna say toyota is built for that anyway.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 16 Thumb down 4
    • Well proton has lotus so they have always had an edge in ride and handling for economy cars. But everything else about their cars are umm… well let’s just say “not good”.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 4
  • Basher says AMT taboleh pakai one wor… oh wai

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 10 Thumb down 2
  • Brake problem solve?

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 5 Thumb down 2
  • Why don’t use sequential manual gearbox?

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 1
 

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