Valve-train dynamics: a simplified tribo-elasto-multi-body analysis

This paper presents a model of a cycloidal cam-flat follower pair. The model incorporates the inertial elements, the assembly constraint functions and the sources of compliance in the valve train. The sources of compliance include the valve spring characteristics, including the spring surge effect under dynamic conditions, as well as the contact compliance between the cam and the flat follower. The contact domain is treated as a counterformal concentrated lubricated region subjected to an elasto-hydrodynamic regime of lubrication (EHL). The prevailing contact geometry is one of finite line contact. The paper presents the results of simultaneous solution of the Lagrangian dynamics for the non-linear constrained system, together with an approximate quasi-static elastohydrodynamic solution of the lubricated contact conjunction at each time step by an extrapolated oil-film thickness formula for combined entraining and squeeze film action. The effect of spring surge on the contact separation and residual vibrations of the system are investigated, as well as the lubricant pressure distribution and film thickness, including during start-up and acceleration

Aligned and misaligned contacts of rollers to races in elastohydrodynamic finite line conjunctions

The paper provides a solution for finite line concentrated contact of a roller-to-race under aligned and misaligned conditions. The lubricated contact conjunction is subject to an elastohydrodynamic regime of lubrication under isothermal conditions. Of particular interest are the edge stress discontinuities, represented by large secondary pressure spikes at the side constriction and to the rear exit in the contact domain. These pressure 'pips' are considerably larger in magnitude than those occurring in the central exit of the contact. The presence of pressure peaks inhibits the flow of lubricant in their vicinity, causing islands of minimum lubricant film thickness at the sides of the contact, referred to as the end closure films. The paper shows that the film shape and pressure distribution at the extremities of a finite line contact are not revealed by the traditional line contact solutions usually undertaken. The flow pattern becomes more complex with roller misalignment and the edge effects described are exacerbated. The paper provides the first ever solution of misaligned roller-to-race contact for moderate to high loaded elastohydrodynamic conjunctions. The numerical predictions conform well with both experimental and numerical findings of others for the cases where similar work has been reported

Multi-physics analysis of valve train systems: from system level to microscale interactions

The paper highlights a holistic, integrated, and multi-disciplinary approach to design analysis of valve train systems, referred to as multi-physics. The analysis comprises various forms of physical phenomena and their interactions, including large displacement inertial dynamics, small amplitude oscillations due to system compliances, tribology, contact mechanics, and durability at the cam-tappet contact. Therefore, it also represents a multi-scale investigation, where the phenomena can be investigated at system level and referred back to underlying causes at subsystem or component level, in other words, implications of an event at microcosm can be ascertained on the overall system performance. This approach is often referred to in industry as down-cascading and up-cascading. The particular case reported here to outline the merits of this approach concerns a four-stroke single-cylinder engine. This promotes a system approach to engineering analysis for integrated noise, vibration, and harshness, durability and frictional assessment (efficiency). Experimental validation is provided with a motored test rig, using laser doppler vibrometry

Elastodynamic transient analysis of a four-cylinder valvetrain system with camshaft flexibility

This paper presents an analysis of a line of valvetrains in a four-cylinder, four-stroke in-line diesel engine. The method highlighted in this paper predicts the vibration signature together with the prevailing contact conditions and frictional characteristics exhibited in the valvetrain system. This integrated dynamic and tribological investigation provides a practical approach that can be used during the design or the evaluation phase of automotive valvetrain systems

Elasto-multi-body dynamics of a multicylinder internal combustion engine

This paper presents a multi-body model of a four-cylinder, four-stroke diesel engine, incorporating component flexibility. The model also includes engine firing order and experimentally measured combustion time history. The paper presents numerical predictions for conical motion of the flywheel as a result of combined torsion-deflection modes of the flexible crankshaft system. The half-engine order responses induce complex three-dimensional whirling motion of the flywheel, which is responsible for repetitive shock loading of the drivetrain system through impact with the clutch system. This leads to an assortment of noise and vibration concerns, one of which is in-cycle vibration of the clutch system. Numerical prediction of this vibration response agrees well with experimental finding

A tribo-multibody model for valve train kinematic analysis, quasi-statics of lubricated contact and assessment of structural integrity

A tribo-multibody model for valve train kinematic analysis, quasi-statics of lubricated contact and assessment of structural integrit