Analysis and Development of Camshaft Drive Systems Using a Computer Simulation Model

To drive the camshafts in modern 4-stroke-engines, roller chains or toothed belts are normally used. These components are highly loaded during engine operation, especially due to torque fluctuations at the camshafts and torsional vibrations of the crankshaft. The stresses can be increased due to vibration excitation in the drive. The goal of this paper is to describe a simulation model for the dynamic behavior of camshaft drive systems. First, the boundary conditions in a camshaft drive of an IC-engine are analysed and evaluated. Then, possible methods of mathematical simulation are discussed. Finally, to show the accuracy of the model, some calculation results are shown in comparison to corresponding measurements.