Using CAE Simulation Tools to Study the Performance of a 2-Stage Variable Force Solenoid Acting on a Clutch

In many of today's modern Automotive Automatic Transmissions, a Variable-Force-Solenoid (VFS) is used to pilot a spool which, in-turn, regulates control pressure to a spring-loaded clutch. This paper describes one possible procedure employed in using CAE Simulation Software to predict a solenoid's ability to fill a clutch properly. The paper also includes a sensitivity study on how quickly the VFS valve and spool combine to fill and pressurize the clutch.