[etischer]

I came up with another nice feature on my AC motor controller. Shifting gears on my manual transmission takes about 4-6 seconds because I don't have a clutch. I have to wait for the motor to coast to the correct speed before engaging the next gear.

I now have a shift light which tells me when to shift. It works like this:

When I let off the throttle the motor RPM value is stored.

I shift the transmission into neutral

When the motor RPM is 66% of the stored RPM, my shift light will illuminate. This tells me the next gear is ready to engage.

My next upgrade will be to regeneratively brake the motor until the conditions are right to shift, then let the motor coast as I engage the next gear.

[Russco]

Or you could add a real dry disc clutch just like manual transmission cars have had for 100 years. Can't beat a clutch for a safety disconnect let alone quick shifting!

[Crash]

I agree. I know that a clutch uses a few more amps, but the clutch really helps in safety and time. Put in a lightweight clutch/flywheel and save yourself some time. You may lose a whole mile out of all of your total range if your system is pretty efficient.

[dimitri]

You guys don't get it, any idiot can put a clutch in, but Eric is finding ways to add new functions to his AC controller is just too cool, so he is sharing.

Good stuff Eric, keep it up and keep sharing!

[etischer]

Thanks dimitri =)

If I were re-designing my car from scratch, I might add a clutch. I have that funny helical gear to deal with, so it's not as easy as you might think. I get along just fine using only 2nd gear, but thought others might benefit from the idea.

Originally Posted by dimitri

You guys don't get it, any idiot can put a clutch in, but Eric is finding ways to add new functions to his AC controller is just too cool, so he is sharing.

Good stuff Eric, keep it up and keep sharing!

[neanderthal]

wow very cool idea

[etischer]

I am using regen now to match the motor speed, it works really well. The rpm snaps to the right speed, light turns on, and shifter pops right into gear. I have a few other ideas to try to make it even better =)