TOD controller - knob, wheel, or buttons?

[mbeach]

Some of you may have been following the TOD controller thread from a couple of months ago, here's an update and a poll to get some feedback.

I've designed and built a PWM generator, capable of operating at 50Hz (optimum for the e-clutch), and varying its duty cycle from 5 to 95%. This is enough to control the torque split through the transfer case.

I still need to develop:
-a switch that activates the TOD controller (turns off the AUTO mode, and turns on the controller). I was thinking that a Trooper 4WD switch can do this.

-a method of driver input -hence the poll. We have a few options here; many have mentioned that they want a knob, others have asked for a sliding switch or even buttons. The Rally VX uses a 4 position switch, with discrete torque values assigned to each position. We can also do a potentiometer, with infinite torque values available, however there will only be 4 display options.
I can also do buttons or even a vertical wheel.

I'll build whatever people seem to like the most.

Even if this is not a mod you are considering, I'd still like to see your input. I have to think about ergonomics, etc. and the more ideas, the better.
I have the component count down to a minimum, so the thing can most likely be built for less than $15 (!), will operate with the TOD display, and be hooked up by splicing only 4 wires.

[AREA 51]

knob is best. can't accidentally bump it or inadvertently change positions

[ZEUS]

I'm all over that option!!! As for what style I would like to see on my dash for the control of such a cool option, I personally think a switch to fill one of the blanks would be appropriate. I think the Trooper switch you mentioned is like that isn't it? As for regulating the percentage of torque I don't know where I would put a knob but I could see a vertical wheel next to the switch working and looking really nice. I'll have to go through your previous posts on this! Good luck...

[AREA 51]

you could probably mount the knob on a switch blank

[steelzeus]

what would be nice is a knob that had a cover over it so it does get changed on accident like the "nos" switches your see all the time.

[ZEUS]

I really didn't know if I would like how a knob would look on my dash compared to a wheel but it probably wouldn't look too bad on the console near the power/winter buttons. However, mbeach has put so much time into this mod and it seems to have become his baby... I'd say he will come up with what is best for everyone even without our feedback. So whatever you come up with, mbeach, just let me know when it's ready. Kudos on all your research and development! I can't wait to try it out.

[climbcovey]

requesting a little clarification. this switch on the tod system would give control back to the driver in reference to % of power going to front tires? is this the equivelent to a push button 4wd system allowing me to push a button or turn a knob and change from 15% to 50% power to front on the fly like a 4 high button? if so sign me up for one sorry if this is a stupid question but im a TOD "toddler". it seems to me under adverse conditions sometime the power transfer comes a little to late like after youve lost traction!!! please reply with more info on this Thanks!!!

[mbeach]

Yup, that's what it'll do.

My gripe with the TOD is the fact that I require a little slip before torque is transfered up front. In most cases this is alright, but for me, it is unacceptable. I drive in some pretty sketchy places, and a little slip could cause a big crash. I just wanted the ability to dial in 4hi at will.

Since I have to generate a PWM to (correctly, for the coil) pull the e-clutch in to 4hi mode, it was just a few extra steps to make it truly variable (like the rally VXs). The TOD is very smart, I don't even pretend to believe that I can sense torque bias requirements as fast as it can. However, I do know that when I am decending an ice covered hill, I want 4hi WAY before the TOD says that I need it.

Also, for those following this thread, there was some discussion about the transfer case's ability to transfer torque to the front wheels in the absense of any e-clutch input (cutting a wire to get 2wd). The t-case CAN transfer torque up front when the front driveshaft is spinning at a significantly slower rate than the rear. This speed differential causes the engagement of a ball-ramp mechanism in the t-case. So even with no e-clutch, there will NEVER be true 2wd without a front-axle disconnect as found on the Troopers.

This TOD mod will only allow you to dial in MORE front torque bias than the conditions call for, never less. So no donuts or dynos.

[Maugan_VX]

mbeach,

Its nice to see that you're still working on this. In fact, its the only reason I came back to the site is to check the status of the project. I voted Rotary.

[mbeach]

Maugan,
I decided a long time ago, that if I were to send out a freebie test unit, I was going to send it to you.

If anyone could find a flaw in it, it'd be you for sure.


I thought that you just wanted a 4hi option -in that case, it's pretty much done.

[Maugan_VX]

thanks for the consideration :P

I've wanted a selectable torque solution ever since the "suprise" snow storm down here in Raleigh last year.

Glad to see it hasn't been abandoned.

[Maugan_VX]

mbeach... any progress?

I've got the spot on my dash picked already for the knob.

[climbcovey]

Great!!! Thanks for the clarification as I said before I am definately interested in this so keep us posted on cost &install

[Velvis]

any change?

[steelzeus]

if you need a project box go to a radioshack and you can get them cheap there.