What is the difference between a robotic gearbox and automatic transmission? Robot or machine: which box is better.

28.04.2019

Brake system

Modern cars are equipped with different types of gearboxes and it can be difficult for the consumer, especially when buying his first car, to make right choice among this variety of transmissions.

Therefore, in this article we will try to understand how an automatic transmission differs from a robot, it is this issue that worries many future car owners.

Automatic transmission. As you know, the automatic transmission includes two main components - a torque converter and a gearbox. The torque converter provides smooth and jerk-free shifting, in fact, it works instead of the clutch that is found on machines with a manual transmission.

The gearbox of the machine consists of a certain set of gears, they are engaged and form several stages: 4, 5, 6 and even 8.

Due to the design features, automatic transmission gears based on engine speed and injection oil pressure itself switches the steps (speeds), without the intervention of the driver. Due to this speed switching, electronics is used to a minimum.

What is a gearbox robot? To put it simply, a control unit was installed on a mechanical gearbox, which consists of a hydraulic drive and a servo drive (electronic assembly). This block, without human intervention, is in charge of the clutch and gear shifting.

The principle of operation of the robot is like that of mechanics, only everything happens automatically - hydraulics with electronic control will do everything herself.

To better understand how an automatic transmission differs from a robotic one, let's look at their performance characteristics.

1. Automatic transmission has significantly reduced the load on the driver when driving, this is especially noticeable when driving in urban areas. Modern automatic transmissions (adaptive) can even adapt to each driver, to his driving style. Also, the machine is characterized by soft and imperceptible gear shifting.

The automatic transmission also has disadvantages - this is increased consumption fuel, especially in the city and the repair of the machine, which sometimes happens, will result in a decent amount.

2. The robot belongs to the mechanics, which means that maintenance and repair will be cheaper than that of the machine. The fuel consumption of a car with a robot box is equal to a manual transmission, and in urban conditions it is even lower, which is good news. Also, robots eat less oil than machines.

Robots transmit torque from the engine to the wheels of the car without significant losses, which cannot be said about the machine. Great advantage robotic box that she supports manual switching speeds, which many machines do not have.

The robot also has disadvantages - this is a slow gear change and jerky jerks in the operation of the box, this happens quite often if the driver presses the gas pedal very hard. Also, in the city during parking, it is necessary to put the selector lever in the “neutral” position.

And why do this, you can find out in this video, which tells about the robot box.

Let's summarize the difference between an automaton and a robot:

the robot is a mechanical gearbox with a control unit, the machine has its own design;
when shifting gears, the machine outperforms the robot in terms of speed and smoothness of shifting;
the robot has manual switching, and many machines do not have such a function;
the robot box consumes less fuel and oil than an automatic machine;
maintenance and repair of a robotic box is cheaper than an automatic box.

Conclusion. My opinion: the robot is a dark horse from which unpleasant surprises can be expected. I choose an automatic, it is studied and predictable in operation, especially since new automatic transmissions with a large range of gears are already approaching mechanics in terms of fuel consumption, and also, these automatics can adapt to each driver.

Today, the car is a much-needed device. individual use, like mobile phone, camera or personal computer. Most car enthusiasts in the selection process new car they cannot fully understand how a robotic gearbox differs from an automatic one, and they also hardly understand technical features and terminology of the models presented to their attention. Automatic transmissions will soon be replaced by mechanical ones, but few people know about the large number of their varieties and differences. However, it is too early to talk about this, now it is necessary to figure out what the robotic mechanics and what represents classic machine.

"Automatic" consists of two main elements:

is an alternative to the clutch used classic box gears.
The gearbox is made of meshed pairs of gears. Due to its structure, a feature is revealed automatic system- the ability to change gears without driver assistance. The mechanism is practically not equipped with electronics.

"Robot" is close to mechanics in its principle, but has some differences. In its structure there is a type consisting of servo drives and hydraulic drives, operating on the basis of certain algorithms. The gearbox independently switches the friction clutch system, as well as speeds, it allows the driver not to interfere in this process

Visual difference between "machine" and "robot"

When you decide to buy a car or have already done so, but have no idea which gearbox is installed inside, you need an answer to the question, what are the differences between automation and a robot, why is one better than the other. visual difference of these two gearboxes - a robot and an automatic, is expressed quite clearly. All that is needed is to pay attention to the design of the gear shift channel, it is they who differ. If at the top there is such a position as Parking - "P", then this is an automatic transmission automatic transmission, when there is no such position, but there is a Neutral - "N", as well as Back "R", then you are dealing with a robotic device.

The principle of operation of "machines"

The automatic transmission box is made of two parts (torque converter, gearbox), as already mentioned earlier. Now consider the device and the principle of operation of the box. The gearbox transmits force through a system of gears that are meshed with each other in different variations. It is due to this position that their force changes. The torque converter is responsible for the smooth switching of one speed to another, it is also responsible for performing functions similar to the clutch on the mechanics.

The automatic transmission greatly facilitates control, allowing the driver not to contact the clutch pedal in a constant mode. The driver does not have to shift gears with a lever and control smooth movement, as the automation does everything for him. Thanks to this, the car owner has a lot of ways to completely control any situation on the road (this is how an automatic transmission differs from a manual transmission). The torque converter as a node is much more reliable here, unlike a manual gearbox. It is almost impossible to break it due to inexperience. This feature reduces the load on undercarriage And power unit.

Engine resources are better preserved by switching speeds with acceptable speeds. Fuel consumption is more economical due to a large number steps at gear ratio. The car will never roll on its own when standing on a slope, as the passive mode of the safety system is set.

Apart from clear merits Even this approach has its drawbacks. An automatic machine differs from a robot in that the dynamics of increasing speed is less during the ride. Less economical fuel consumption relative to a large number of gear stages. The efficiency of the unit is much lower due to the torque converter absorbing part of the power. The high cost of the unit affects total price the entire product. Maintenance, parts replacement, repairs are more expensive.

Advice! Since a gearbox with four gears is considered the most wasteful, give preference to fewer gears when buying a car with automatic transmission.

First of all, in the presence of an automatic transmission, in normal mode, the driver does not need to independently select and engage a gear, work with the pedal, etc. In practice, this greatly simplifies the process of driving a car, increases comfort and safety.

As for the automatic boxes themselves, today it is customary to call “automatic” both, and (AMT) and CVTs. In other words, there are several options automatic transmissions, while for a number of reasons, classic automatic transmissions and “robots” are the most common among them.

Read in this article

What is the difference between "robot" and "machine"

To understand how one type of gearbox differs from another, it is necessary to consider their features and principle of operation. We note right away that both the “automatic” (automatic transmission) and the “robot” (RKPP, AMT) provide a similar final result: The transmission automatically selects and shifts gears while driving based on vehicle speed, engine load, accelerator position, etc.

However, a hydromechanical automatic transmission and a robotic gearbox manual transmission are fundamentally different in design and principle of operation. Let's look at their features and differences in more detail.

Let's start with the "classic" hydromechanical "automatic" with. Unlike the robot, which appeared relatively recently, an ordinary automatic transmission appeared a long time ago and became the first type of automatic transmission that began to be massively installed on cars.

In a nutshell, automatic transmission is step box gears, where the torque converter (GDT) plays the role of a clutch. At the same time, it is transmitted to the gas turbine engine through the transmission ATF fluid.

The valve plate () and the ECU are responsible for controlling the operation of the automatic transmission. The plate has special channels through which the pressure is supplied transmission fluid. The channels are blocked by valves (). At the command of the ECU, the valve opens or closes, respectively, opening or blocking the channel.

When the valve is open, ATF fluid acts on the gearbox, which as a result allows you to engage and disengage gears in automatic mode.

Advantages and disadvantages of automatic transmission. Speaking of pros and cons hydromechanical automatic transmission, in the list of main advantages, the reliability of the unit and the time-tested design, as well as the ability to withstand a sufficiently large torque, should be highlighted.

Among the minuses, we note that although the automatic transmission works quite smoothly, the moments automatic switching gears are still noticeable to the driver. Also, gear shifting can be “long”, especially on older “automatic machines”. Still to be highlighted high flow fuel for cars with this type of transmission.

As for repairs, in the event of failure of both the box itself and the torque converter, one should prepare for serious costs. At the same time, the maintainability of automatic transmissions is quite acceptable, a large number of service stations provide repair services.

The robotic gearbox was originally designed to achieve maximum fuel economy and comfort while simplifying and reducing the cost of the unit itself. In the conditions of the world fuel crisis and tough environmental standards this solution was intended to solve a number of problems inherent in classic hydromechanical automatic transmissions.

Simply put, the “robot” box is where the clutch foot drive is replaced with an electric drive, and the gear shift is carried out by the actuator. The choice of gear and its inclusion, as well as the engagement and disengagement of the clutch, is controlled by an electronic unit.

The control of these boxes resembles the well-known single-disk robot in terms of the principle of operation. There are all the same servos, executive mechanisms and controller. The main difference is that while, for example, the second gear is engaged, the ECU simultaneously engages the third one, keeping the clutch “squeezed out”. As soon as the shift time comes, in a fraction of a second, the second gear is turned off and the third gear, already half engaged in advance, is switched on.

While driving, the gearbox control unit evaluates the actions of the driver, takes into account the speed of the car, the position of the gas pedal, the load on the engine and a number of other parameters in order to select the most suitable gear in relation to specific conditions.

Pros and cons of a "robot" with double clutch. In terms of benefits, the up and down shift moments are invisible to the driver, highest speed switching allows you to achieve an almost complete absence of a break in the flow of power, the acceleration of the car is smooth and fast.

It also retains the maximum fuel efficiency inherent in all robotic gearboxes. At the same time, preselective boxes are the most economical compared to all other types (single-disk robot, automatic transmission, variator, mechanics).

As for the minuses, first of all, such boxes are quite complex, cars with a preselective gearbox are very expensive. The resource of these types of transmissions is longer than that of analogues with a single clutch, however, in practice it is reduced compared to classic torque converter automatic transmissions.

Speaking of maintainability, DSG repair and analogues from other manufacturers can be quite expensive. In practice, the cost of such work and spare parts often exceeds the high-quality restoration of an automatic transmission with a torque converter as part of a comprehensive overhaul or overhaul of the gearbox.

Summing up

As you can see, each of the considered types of automatic transmissions has its pros and cons. Also, if an automatic gearbox and a robot are considered, there are differences both in the device of these gearboxes and in the principles of their operation.

Also, before buying a car (especially a used one), it is important to know what type of gearbox is installed, automatic or robot, how to distinguish these types of boxes. The point is that under general concept Automatic transmission today can hide both the first and second options.

As a rule, it is recommended to study separately the information on specific model car, for which generation and in what years of production this or that transmission was installed. It should be remembered that visually, for example, DSG can not be distinguished from a conventional automatic transmission with Tiptronic. In other words, you need to know how to distinguish a robot from a machine in a car.

Finally, we note that it is quite difficult to unequivocally answer the question, a robot and an automatic machine, which is better. If we are talking about new cars with a gun, then it is better to select a gearbox taking into account personal preferences and financial capabilities.

As a rule, a machine with a single disc robot is cheaper and more economical in terms of consumption, however, the comfort when shifting gears compared to classic automatic transmission may be reduced. For this reason, it is optimal to test drive models with different types of gearboxes before buying.

In the case of preselective robotic boxes, it is the classic automatic that may seem more “thoughtful”, the comfort when shifting gears suffers a little, worse dynamics overclocking, etc.

However, the reliability of a torque converter automatic transmission in practice turns out to be higher, such a box is often easier and cheaper to repair. These features should be considered separately, especially if you plan to buy a used car with an automatic transmission.

Technical differences between a robot and a standard machine

In technical terms, these types of gearboxes are completely different. Automatic transmission is a design with a torque converter, as well as electronics to control the behavior of the car. The torque converter plays a major role in this set of devices, performing gear shifts depending on the speed. This feature allows you to stably operate the machine and expect its specific response.

The robotic gearbox is mechanical in nature, therefore it has a number of specific advantages. manual transmission. The box is more flexible, has quite a remarkable range of different features and provides an economical ride. The main differences between the robot and the standard automatic transmission are as follows:

the principle of operation of a reliable mechanical transmission, the simplicity of the main structure;
the presence of a large number of electronics that control the clutch and switching;
possibilities active change type of construction that all world manufacturers use;
fuel savings due to the lack of regassing and the possibility of early gear changes;
the ability to quickly change the settings of the robotic box, giving character;
manufacturability and modern design, high reliability high quality units.

At the design standard automatic transmission there are also certain advantages. Such a box is more reliable, it does not break and does not require expensive electronics repairs. Of course, a torque converter is far from the most reliable technological unit in a car, but with correct operation it is durable and serves no less than the engine.

All these features suggest that a car with a conventional automatic machine and a robotic box has its own character. Indeed, the difference in design is not the only difference between these two nodes. Boxes are also operated with individual characteristics and create certain sensations when different modes trips.

Features of the practical operation of the robot and standard automatic transmission

The robotic box does not require any features in operation. Today, many self-respecting concerns have branded robots, and manufacturers often give individual recommendations on the use of nodes. For example, DSG robots from Volkswagen it is recommended to use at low speeds, without using the Sport mode.

robotic powershift boxes from Ford can work best in the middle rev range, increasing not only the elasticity of the car's responses, but also fuel consumption. An automatic transmission, made according to a standard model, can perform a variety of tasks and work in various conditions. The specifics of using such a node is as follows:

do not gain momentum too sharply - this will lead to an increased load on the automatic transmission;
towing other cars and heavy trailers should be avoided - the operation of the box is adjusted to the weight of the car;
Without normal service you will soon have to change entire units of the unit and resort to expensive repairs;
torque converter malfunctions often do not depend on operation - they sometimes occur unexpectedly;
the operation of the unit is quite stable, it often responds late to pressing the gas pedal;
often in automatic systems the possibility of Kick-Down is provided - an emergency speed reset to a low one for quick acceleration.

Given the rather prim operation of the automatic transmission, the system can be quite annoying and not dynamic enough. The nature of the car with the same engine on a manual and with a traditional automatic transmission will completely change. Often, buyers of such cars are sincerely surprised by the sluggish and not very dynamic ride on very powerful and voluminous engines.

However, the standard traditional type of automatic transmission keeps the power unit from excessive wear, so engines with automatics often run much longer than with a manual or CVT. But automatic transmission is more expensive, because it can increasingly be seen in the design of an expensive luxury car, and not in the configuration of budget transport. About the pros and cons various types gearbox, see the following video:

Summing up

The use of automatic transmissions is becoming more and more relevant in our time, because this convenient element allows you to pay more attention to the road and get maximum information about the environment. Also, automatic transmissions of any type are convenient in traffic jams, where manual box have to constantly switch. But the modern manufacturing industry prefers more affordable components, such as a robotic gearbox or CVT.

The robot costs the manufacturer cheaper than a traditional machine, and in operation up to 200 thousand kilometers in many ways it shows itself much better than competitors. Because the popularity of this type of checkpoint has increased so much recently. Do you have a particular preference for using one or another type of automatic transmission?

Any car enthusiast, when thinking about buying a new car or a used car, decides with which gearbox to buy a car. And quite often it is this choice that confuses a person.

And if everything is relatively clear in the matter of choosing between automatic and mechanics, then robotic gearboxes raise many questions among motorists. Therefore, today we will tell our readers about the difference between a robot and an automaton, we will try to find out which is better: a robot or an automaton.

After all, you need to take into account all the features of an automatic and robotic gearbox, their disadvantages and advantages. What are the differences, relatively speaking, between a robot and an automaton, their pros and cons. And before choosing a car with a particular box, you need to carefully weigh everything.

Automatic transmission

An automatic transmission consists of two main modules: a torque converter and a gearbox. The main function of the torque converter is smooth switching speed, or rather, smooth and jerk-free gear shifting. To a certain extent, the torque converter performs the task of clutching, which is on cars with a manual transmission.

The gearbox of an automatic transmission has several pairs of gears that are engaged. The automatic transmission gearbox has several steps: 4, 5, 6. And the possibilities for different automatic transmission steps in terms of the number of steps are completely different.

Advantages of automatic transmission

Automatic transmission provides simple control of the car. No need to depress and release the clutch, no need to think about changing gears, no need to think about how to move off correctly. Automation is responsible for all this, freeing the driver to pay attention to the road.

If we consider a torque converter as an analogue of a clutch, it becomes obvious that, compared with a traditional clutch, this mechanism will be rendered unusable as quickly as it happens with classic clutch for new drivers, it is impossible.

Automatic transmission does not create such loads on the engine, as it can happen with mechanics. Gear shifting occurs without an unnecessary increase in the number of revolutions. Thus, the engine resource is not wasted.

Due to the use of a torque converter, the load is reduced not only on the engine, but also on the chassis of the car.

Vehicles with automatic transmission have passive system security. If the vehicle is on a slope, it cannot roll.

The six-speed automatic transmission is characterized by lower fuel consumption.

Cons of automatic transmission

Cars with automatic transmission do not have such acceleration dynamics as it is on cars with mechanics.

On four and five speed automatic transmission consumption significant fuel. This is especially true for four-speed automatic transmissions.

In general, cars with automatic transmissions have lower efficiency. This is due to the fact that significant efficiency losses occur in the torque converter.

The automatic transmission itself is expensive. This cannot but affect the overall cost of the car. In addition, the repair and maintenance of the automatic transmission is expensive.

The automatic transmission uses a large amount of oil. And oil is expensive. And all this leaves its mark on the cost of service.

A car with an automatic transmission is less dynamic. Those. acceleration on it takes much longer than it does on a mechanic or on cars with a robotic gearbox.

There is a certain inertia in gear shifting. Those. automatic transmission works with a slight delay.

If the start of the movement is on a slope, a certain rolling backwards may occur.

Robotic gearbox

Now, in order to find out how a robot differs from an automatic machine, we will analyze the features, pros and cons of a robotic gearbox.

All gearboxes of this type can be divided into two types. The first type of robotic gearbox assumes that there is, in fact, a manual gearbox having automatic control.

In such a gearbox, gear shifting is carried out using electronics. Thus, such a device does not have a traditional clutch. Simultaneously with gear shifting using automatics, shifting to manual mode, How on conventional mechanics. In this case, a clutch is installed on the car.

These transmissions are characterized by torque interruption, so dips can occur when shifting gears.

The second type of robotic boxes is more advanced. Such gearboxes are used in automobiles sports class. It is in those machines that participate in the race. The specificity of such robotic boxes is that there are two clutch systems that are responsible for different gears. Thanks to the presence of two clutch systems and direct engagement, the speed of gear shifting is maximum. This is very important in sports.

Advantages of robotic gearboxes

If we consider the first type of robotic gearbox, then their disadvantages appear much more than their advantages. The system is quite crude.

But, nevertheless, it has its advantages compared to the AKP.

Robotic gearboxes are more economical than automatic transmissions. Their economy is on par with mechanical boxes.

A robotic gearbox costs less than an automatic transmission, and it is also cheaper to maintain and repair. Consumes less oil than automatic transmission.

The weight of robotic boxes is less than automatic boxes.

Can be used special systems gearshifts located on the steering wheel, which make gear changes very fast. Thus, the dynamics of the car is much higher than that of cars with automatic machines.

Cons of robotic gearboxes

Compared to an automatic transmission, gear shifting is not as smooth. Jerks of the car during the shift are very noticeable.

There is a certain delay after switching on desired gear and the beginning of its implementation.

Almost any stop requires shifting the lever to neutral, which is not the case in cars with automatic transmission.

Any slippage while driving negatively affects the resource of the robotic gearbox. Those. such a box is suitable mainly for hard road surfaces.

During the start of the movement, a certain rollback occurs. Although small.

Certain Conclusions

Thus, on the question of what better robot or automatic, there can be no definite answer. If one option were unequivocally worse than the other, manufacturers would produce cars with only one type of gearbox. Another thing is that the issue of choosing a gearbox is individual, and each motorist decides it on his own, based on his ideas about the convenience and comfort of driving.