Numerical Analysis Procedures for Reliable Design of Automotive Mechanical Clutches

In the mechanical clutches of automotives, knowledge on the thermo-elastic behavior a priori is very important in the design stage. Especially, the precise prediction technique should be stressed in the mechanical clutches due to their requirements of durability and compactness. To meet this end, we develop an efficient and reliable analysis technique (axisymmetric and 3-D) for the mechanical clutches by using computer modeling and the finite element method via CATIA™, MSC/PATRAN™, and MSC/NASTRAN™. Through the developed procedure we present thermal capacity, temperature profiles, and thermo-mechanical stresses with time and apply this procedure to optimize a clutch design. Some experiments are also performed on a dynamometer and vehicle to validate the procedure and calibrate the thermal properties. In conclusion, a design procedure, including numerical steps and experimental techniques for calibration, is proposed.