The transmission control unit (TCU) is an electronic system which operates the traditional gear box. In the automated manual system, it consists basically of a dual clutch operating system, where the gear change is carried out by transfer of power from one clutch to the other. For a few years the automotive industry has been working on the prototyping and industrialisation of these new systems, which will now be implemented in a large number of new models of vehicles. Control units are subjected to harsh environments. As with all under-the-hood electronics where temperatures can range from –40 °C to 150 °C, control circuits are subject to thermal stress and have to withstand constant vibration.
EPP Europe 442
