Computer Simulation of Vibrations in Vehicle Powertrains Considering Nonlinear Effects in Clutches and Manual Transmissions

A simulation software has been developed to determine the dynamic behavior of vehicle powertrains in time domain. The simulation method presented in this paper considers both linear and nonlinear effects in torsional vibration systems. Thus, superimposed effects like gear rattling, clutch behavior, slipping, with any periodical or transient excitations can be taken into account. Computer simulation may be used effectively to design best powertrain configuration and therefore to minimize vibrations and noise.