Design and Experimental Characterization of a Magnetorheological Fluid Clutch

Magnetorheological fluid (MRF) clutches are expected to be used in several automotive systems such as auxiliary engine devices, active differentials, and automatic transmissions. An experimental MRF clutch has been developed at the University of Zagreb, in order to support MRF clutch modeling and control research. The paper first presents calculation of the main clutch design parameters and describes the clutch mechatronic system. Next, the clutch static and dynamic behaviors are experimentally characterized. Finally, a model of MRF clutch dynamics is outlined, and characteristic model validation results are presented.