Automatic or robot: which is better, which is more reliable, pros and cons, features of automatic transmission

With a manual transmission, everything has always been extremely clear, but the emergence of new transmissions leads car enthusiasts to a dead end when choosing a car. Robotic and automatic transmission: what is the difference, what are the advantages of each transmission and what should you ultimately choose?

Having previously had a limited choice of transmissions, when purchasing a vehicle, car enthusiasts could only choose manual or automatic. Now, the active development of the automotive industry has led to the emergence of new transmissions, and the choice is no longer so simple. Of interest is the robotic and automatic transmission: what is the difference between these transmissions and how to choose between them?

What is the difference between a robot and a machine gun?

To understand the difference between an automatic transmission and a robot, it is worth understanding the operating principle of each of these transmissions and the design of the system as a whole.

Design and operating principle of automatic transmission

The automation is based on a control system, a torque converter and a planetary type gearbox with specific gears and clutches. Thanks to this design, speeds are switched autonomously without driver intervention. The guideline in this case is such parameters as driving mode, load and engine speed.

Additionally, we recommend reading our specialist’s article on how to properly drive an automatic transmission.

Advantages and disadvantages of transmissions

To finally draw conclusions about which is better: a robot or an automatic transmission, it is worth analyzing the positive and negative aspects of each transmission.

Pros and cons of automatic transmission

A comparative description of the advantages and disadvantages of automation is presented below.

Advantages

Flaws

Driving is simple and comfortable. The driver only watches the road; the automation does the rest for him.
The torque converter is more durable when compared to the clutch in the hands of beginners.
The load on the engine is less compared to mechanics. The speed does not increase to change speed.
The load on the chassis is also reduced.
The presence of a passive safety system prevents the machine from moving independently if it is parked on a slope.
Fuel is consumed more economically when it comes to six-speed automatic transmissions.

Significant fuel consumption on 4- and 5-speed transmissions.
Lack of such acceleration dynamics as in the case of mechanics.
The efficiency is lower due to the presence of a torque converter.
The cost of automation is higher, which affects the overall cost of the vehicle, its maintenance and repairs.
Oil is consumed in large quantities.
The dynamics are not so high, acceleration takes a long time.
Gears change with a slight delay.
If you start moving on a slope, there is a slight roll back.

Conclusion
To decide which transmission is better, you must first decide on your own ideas about the comfort, convenience and safety of driving a car. When studying the characteristics of a car at the time of purchase, remember that the absence of a clutch pedal in both transmissions considered can lead to confusion and an inexperienced driver may mistake the robotic gearbox for an automatic transmission.

All modern internal combustion engines are not powerful enough and are not suitable for significant load changes with direct drive. To adapt the traction force, gearboxes are used, which allow you to change the rotation speed in the desired range. Currently, more and more cars are equipped with an automatic transmission, and while the differences between a manual and an automatic are clear to everyone, the difference between an automatic and a robot confuses many.

Variable speed drive

Such gearboxes began to be installed on cars in the mid-20th century, but they did not immediately gain mass popularity. But they were remembered when boxes were needed that have a lower efficiency consumption than a conventional automatic, and at the same time do not require effort from the driver when changing gears.

The variator is usually called stepless. As you can understand, unlike an automatic transmission, such a transmission does not have the usual speeds. The design of the box implies the presence of a driving and driven pulley, which are located parallel to each other. They are connected to each other by a metal belt in the shape of a trapezoid. The variator cones have sliding halves. At the moment when the drive pulley is moved apart, the belt rotates along a small diameter; this can be considered analogous to a high gear on an automatic machine. When the pulley is moved, the belt rotates along a large diameter, thereby obtaining the maximum gear ratio, that is, first gear.

Depending on the smooth movement of the pulley, the gear ratio changes. This leads to an increase/decrease in speed, although there are no speeds as such, as in an automatic transmission, in a variator. Since the transmission of torque from the engine to the transmission and wheels is rigid, it is possible to minimize the transfer of efficiency.

What causes a variator to break?

As in the case of an automatic transmission, improper maintenance leads to failure of the variator. Such gearboxes are even more demanding on oil than automatic transmissions. The oil change in the variator is also carried out every 50-70 thousand kilometers, and this is mandatory here. If you do not change the oil in the variator on time, then:

The oil pump will become clogged and will not be able to generate sufficient pressure;
The belt will begin to slip because the shafts will not be able to compress and decompress it sufficiently;
This will lead to increased belt wear and tear, which will cause damage to other components of the variator.

It is also worth noting that the variator contains many more electronic components than a conventional automatic transmission. Accordingly, the likelihood of their failure is greater.

What resource does the variator have?

Unlike a conventional automatic transmission, a variator has a shorter service life. Even if you take care of it and change the oil in a timely manner, it will be able to travel about 120-150 thousand kilometers, after which the belt will break, and this will lead to serious damage to other components of the box. To prevent this from happening, it is recommended to replace the variator belt at 120-150 thousand kilometers.

As you can understand, the driver of a car with a CVT must know that it is necessary to carry out timely diagnostic and repair work on the gearbox, otherwise this will lead to the need for its overhaul or replacement. Most often, drivers do not think about this, not distinguishing a CVT from an automatic, and this leads to serious problems.

Pros and cons of a variator

The advantages of CVTs include:

Increased efficiency. CVTs have an efficiency that is approximately 5-10% higher than that of automatic transmissions. This also affects fuel consumption, which is lower on cars with CVTs;
Smooth ride. The absence of gears leads to smooth operation of the gearbox;
Fast acceleration. Due to the absence of the need to change gears, acceleration in a car with a CVT is smoother;
Easy controls. As in the case of an automatic transmission, in a CVT the driver only needs to select the desired operating mode for the car to drive.

CVTs also have quite a few disadvantages:

Difficulty in maintenance and repair. As class=”aligncenter” width=”640″ height=”396″[/img] mentioned above, in a variator it’s not enough to just change the oil in a timely manner, unlike an automatic. It is also important here to determine the moment when the pulley will need to be replaced. At the same time, the cost of repairing a variator is much higher, since not all services undertake such work;
A large number of electronics. This is fraught with a large number of potential problems with electronics, which may result in the need for expensive diagnostics and repairs;
Expensive oil. When servicing the variator, a special oil is poured, which is determined by the gearbox manufacturer. This oil is much more expensive than the one used in automatic machines.

As you can understand from the comparison, automatic and variator have their pros and cons. It’s impossible to say for sure that one of the boxes is better and the other is worse. With proper maintenance, both one and the other can work for quite a long time.

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Differences between an automatic transmission and a robot

The fundamental differences between an automatic transmission and a robotic one are the following design features:

The main difference is the clutch design: the automatic uses a torque converter, while the robot uses a dry friction clutch with one or two discs.
The machines use planetary gearboxes with complex functioning and control; the choice of gear ratio is determined by the control unit. In a robot, like a mechanical box, the gears are constantly in mesh and are engaged by special clutches, using synchronizers to equalize angular velocities.
The robot's efficiency indicator is much higher, since the torque converter has higher mechanical losses than a dry clutch.
The automatic has a smoother ride and higher ride comfort, but the transmission is too expensive to repair, which can only be carried out by trained specialists at a service center. Repairing a robotic box is comparable in cost and complexity to a mechanical one.

Features and principle of operation of the automatic transmission

The main feature of an automatic transmission is the presence of a torque converter, which performs the function of smoothly switching speeds for which the gearbox is responsible. If we draw an analogy with a manual transmission, the torque converter performs actions similar to squeezing the clutch, ensuring smooth shifting of gear ratios. The automatic gearbox also has stages - 4, 5 or 6, while boxes with different numbers of stages will have different capabilities.

The operating principle of the automatic transmission is as follows:

The engine rotates a flywheel with a drive turbine rigidly attached to it; it moves fluid in the crankcase, activating the driven one. There is no mechanical connection between them, which allows them to rotate at different frequencies. At high speeds, the torque converter remains locked to save energy.
The force is transmitted to the input shaft of the box, where gear ratios are changed using gears. The clutches engage the correct sections to ensure optimal engine performance. Shock loads and jerks are compensated by overrunning clutches that slip during the reverse stroke.
The clutches are controlled by a hydraulic system. The hydraulic drive compresses certain clutches, driving the gears connected to it.
Oil pressure is provided by a special hydraulic pump. The hydraulic drives are controlled by spools that move the solenoids.

What is the difference between automatic transmission and variator

Having decided to figure out what is the difference between the two types, you need to remember that it is impossible to solve this problem visually. The lever is placed the same way. Looking at it, even a professional will not be able to give the correct answer. We need to clarify the details. They are always indicated by the manufacturer. Location is possible in a familiar place. There are options when the block is located at the steering wheel. The difference lies in the sensations when moving. The continuously variable transmission is the smoothest transmission shift available today. The fact that a speed switch has occurred can only be understood by the operation of the engine.

The automatic transmission has a slight jerk when shifting, but the latest generation also has smooth shifting. The difference is so subtle that it is not felt by the driver.

The next point, indicating important differences between the compared options, is the structure. The mechanism for smooth speed changes is not only the main, but also a characteristic feature of the variator. He is unique. For this, a chain or belt is used. They reliably connect the disks to each other. In this case, different types of drives are implemented. A detailed description is available in the official documentation.

If a continuously variable gearbox is installed as the transmission gearbox, the acceleration time is much shorter. When starting, there is a smooth and almost imperceptible acceleration. It also has higher reliability and lower weight.

The DSG box has a characteristic structure. Its action is triggered by gears. The driver switches transmissions. There is a slight jerk, but it may not be noticeable. The differences in structure are fundamental. Without technical education it is impossible to understand. You need to be guided by manifestations in practice.

Main differences:

Description in documents and engine markings. When purchasing a car, you need to pay attention to checking the accompanying documents;
Shocks that are present when switching the automatic transmission;
Smooth acceleration, but automatic jerk;
Behavior on the rise. A car with an automatic transmission does not roll down when you press the gas pedal.

Note!

If you still have not been able to figure out what is the difference between a variator and an automatic transmission, then it is worth checking the engine markings and the data in the documents for the car. They must be duplicated.

The basis is electronics. Reflashing the engine is highly not recommended, as it may not work correctly or be completely erased. If you contact a professional, the cost of such repairs is high.

Advantages and disadvantages of an automatic transmission

Due to its design features, an automatic transmission has certain advantages:

Ensuring easy driving without the need to press the clutch, change gears, and smoothly start the movement. This is ensured automatically, allowing the driver to concentrate on the road.
The torque converter cannot be quickly damaged due to the driver’s inexperience, as can happen with a clutch on a manual transmission.
An automatic transmission does not create heavy loads on the engine, as with a manual transmission. Gear ratios are changed without unnecessary increase in speed, thereby extending the engine life.
When using a torque converter, the load on the chassis is lower compared to other types of transmissions.
The presence of a passive safety system, in which a car standing on a slope cannot roll.
The six-speed automatic transmission has lower fuel consumption.

Automatic transmission has the following weaknesses:

Compared to a manual or robotic gearbox, there is no high acceleration dynamics.
Significant fuel consumption, especially with a four-speed gearbox.
Reduced efficiency due to significant power losses required to operate the torque converter.
The high cost of the unit and its maintenance, which negatively affects the cost of the entire car.
Possible rolling back when starting to move on a slope.
The automatic transmission kicks when used incorrectly.

Difference between robots and machines

If we consider both versions of the gearbox from the perspective of operational issues, then the difference between them is small. In an automatic gearbox, there is simply no clutch; although the robotic version does provide one, it takes full control of it. In general, robotic boxes are an analogue of mechanical boxes, while automatic boxes require a system of hydromechanical elements.

Perhaps this is the main feature and difference between robotic and automatic options. It is worth considering and important to understand the nuance of overclocking with some delay. The fluids in automatic machines do not cope with the impacts of the driven shafts in a timely manner due to the non-rigid clutch. This design feature was created specifically to act as a kind of “fuse”.

The transformer will rotate in free mode, even if something jams. The efficiency, as we noted earlier, is relatively low, which contributes to the loss of some power. In addition, with the engine turned off, the automatic transmission simply will not be able to function.

robotic gearbox

Features and principle of operation of the robotic box

A robotic gearbox (robot), installed on ordinary cars, is a mechanical gearbox with automatic (electric or hydraulic) control. Switching speeds in such a device occurs using automation. The car does not have a traditional clutch pedal, as it disengages automatically when you change gears. In some cars, along with automatic transmission, a manual gear shift mode is provided.

The operating algorithm of the box is as follows: after starting the engine with the brake depressed, the selector is moved to the desired position. The clutch drive disconnects the transmission, and the gearbox mechanism engages the desired gear. The driver releases the brake pedal and smoothly presses the accelerator pedal, the car starts moving, and further shifts are made automatically. The box is controlled by the processor according to the selected algorithm. The driver can interfere with the operation of the box.

A more advanced version of the robot is installed on sports cars participating in racing. Its design provides for the presence of two clutch systems, each of which is responsible for its own gears.

Thanks to the double clutch, the gear shift speed is maximum, which is very important for sports racing.

Advantages and disadvantages of robotic box

Compared to an automatic transmission, a robotic gearbox has fewer advantages due to the fact that the system is still quite crude and has not been perfected. The strengths of the robot are as follows:

Better fuel economy compared to automatic transmissions.
High reliability of the gear mechanism.
The robot is cheaper to produce and maintain, and consumes less oil (on average, half) than an automatic machine.
Double the clutch life compared to a manual gearbox.
The box weighs less than an automatic one, and is highly maintainable.
Higher dynamics, the ability to manually change gears in semi-automatic mode, which is important on off-road, uphill, or in a traffic jam.

What is the difference between a robotic gearbox and a manual gearbox?

The operating principle of a robotic gearbox is the same as that of a manual gearbox, only the robotic gearbox is equipped with a special electronic unit, the task of which is to control the hydraulic cylinders that engage the clutch and engage the required gear. The driver only controls the selector to select forward or reverse travel.

As the car picks up speed, the car releases the gas, making a kind of pause so that the robot depresses the clutch and engages the desired gear. Gear changes are accompanied by a noticeable jerk, especially during sharp acceleration. Therefore, the Toyota Corolla is more of a car for a smooth and moderate ride.

Bottom line

As we found out, the difference between a robotic gearbox and an automatic one is very small: it lies in power indicators, maintenance details and durability. In general, if we speak seriously and from the perspective of the opinion of professional drivers or simply specialists who know inside and out the features of both the structural and operational features of both automatic and robotic options, then there is a clear answer to the question: which is better? - simply no.

If a universal design solution were currently presented on the automotive market, many global concerns would have long ago adopted it and produced cars with a unified gearbox.

The final decision on choosing one side or another, one machine or another, with an automatic machine or a robot, must be made by you yourself, having determined what you want more: smoothness or dynamics. The first parameter characterizes the automatic transmission, the second – the robotic one. Good luck on the roads and all the best!

Disadvantages of a robotic gearbox (robot gearbox)

Jerks are noticeable when changing gears during sudden acceleration;
When driving in traffic jams, during stops, it is necessary to move the gear shift lever to the neutral position (if you do not move it, the clutch will be under load, which will lead to premature wear).
Cars with a robotic gearbox must be put on the handbrake on descents to avoid rolling back.
The robot's gearbox is designed for highways, so the service life of the robot in city conditions is significantly reduced.

A car with a robot gearbox can become a good, faithful horse for an owner who is accustomed to smooth, careful driving and drives mainly over long distances on congested roads.

Automatic transmission

From a formal point of view, automatic transmissions include any gearbox in which gear shifting occurs without driver participation. However, historically this name was assigned to the hydromechanical gearbox, which appeared in the first half of the 20th century. Boxes with 4 gears were the first to appear; modern automatic transmissions can have 6, 8 and even 9 gears in the most advanced variations.

Short review

A classic automatic transmission consists of several blocks that ensure gear shifting without human intervention.

Planetary gearbox (planetary gearbox) is the main automatic transmission unit that shifts gears and is responsible for the speed of the vehicle. The gearbox consists of a sun gear, a planetary carrier, satellites and a ring gear.
Hydraulic control system - is responsible for the operation of the planetary gearbox and controls it.
Torque converter (fluid coupling) - transmits torque from the engine to the planetary gearbox. For transmission, the fluid coupling uses a working fluid - transmission oil. At the same time, the fluid coupling also performs clutch functions. The torque converter is located on the engine flywheel.

Advantages and disadvantages

A classic automatic transmission is a unit whose design has been tested by time. The pros and cons of the hydromechanical automatic transmission design were clearly evident in the first generation of gearboxes. Modern automakers are improving the design of automatic transmissions, so on the most expensive models its shortcomings are smoothed out.

The advantages of automatic transmission include the following qualities.

Reliable and time-tested design. Modern torque converters have a service life of hundreds of thousands of kilometers.
Ease of use and ease of repair. The design of the automatic transmission is quite simple and well studied by car service workers.
The ability to “digest” huge torque.
Ability to “survive” short-term towing.
The presence of a manual gear shift mechanism.
Gentle treatment of the engine. The automatic transmission changes gears earlier than the engine speed reaches high numbers. Thanks to this, the resource of the power unit is preserved.
Low demands on transmission oil. Classic 4-speed automatic transmissions are practically “omnivorous” - it is not at all necessary to purchase original oil, so replacing it with an analogue is quite acceptable. At the same time, new generation automatic transmissions with 8 or 9 gears are quite demanding on the quality of gear oil.

The disadvantages of the automatic transmission are also pronounced. These include the following disadvantages.

Relatively low efficiency. Due to losses in the torque converter, the automatic transmission uses less useful engine power. In this regard, the automatic transmission is inferior to both the manual transmission and the CVT.
Increased fuel consumption. This drawback is directly related to the previous one. To produce comparable power, a car with an automatic transmission uses a larger volume of fuel.
Lack of dynamism. Acceleration of a car with automatic transmission is inferior to cars with manual transmission and CVT.
Jerks when changing gears. While driving, noticeable jerks are felt when the automatic transmission changes gears. This drawback is especially typical for a classic 4-speed automatic; on a new generation automatic transmission with a large number of gears, jerks are significantly softened.

Disadvantages of automatic transmission

A car with an automatic transmission is inferior to a manual one in dynamics, and has higher fuel consumption than cars with a robotic gearbox. An automatic transmission requires expensive and timely maintenance, and repairing an automatic transmission is much more expensive. If you are faced with a faulty automatic transmission, read how to check the automatic transmission yourself . a lot to know about an automatic transmission before choosing one.

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