Modeling of the process of gear shifting in planetary gear trains of motor vehicles

Abstract

Gear boxes, i. e. the realization of their functions, especially gear shift, have a big impact on vehicle operation quality through their effects on the performance of vehicles and their comfort. This paper shows a method of modeling the transition process during gear shifting in planetary gear trains. The simulation model is developed with in order to provide virtual research of planetary gear trains, which would positively decrease the number of real prototypes, thus considerably saving time and contributing to the quality improvement of the final product (planetary gear train) and vehicles in general. Introduction Modeling of gear shift processes has been carried out on the planetary gear type Ravigneaux used in planetary gear trains of motor vehicles. The model was developed modularly, so that more simulation models can be added to the whole. At the same time each subsystem is a model for itself and can be used independently from the main model. Simplified engine model Bearing in mind that, for the simulation of the planetary gear which is the subject of this paper, the necessary input parameters are in the form of engine torque Mm, angular velocity and motor ωm moment of inertia of rotating engine components reduced to the input shaft gear, a simplified model of an internal combustion engine has been formed. Model of external load External load resistance is in the form of the torque Mt occurring on the drive wheel of the vehicle. On the other hand, this load is defined by the moment of inertia of rotating elements from the planetary gear to the drive wheel, reduced to the output shaft. Model of friction transmission simulation Transmission power control in planetary gears is achieved through friction components. The output size of this subsystem is the moment of carrying the friction assembly. Simulation model of the planetary gear train The model simulation of the planetary gear type Ravigneaux was formed in accordance with the kinematic scheme of the gear train. The gears are presented as a solid body defined by mass, moment of inertia, position with respect to the system and the center of gravity. Subsystem for monitoring the simulation results Measuring and recording the simulation results are simulated with the simulation tracking subsystem. The simulation results are described through the torque and the angular velocity as a function of time. Analysis of the simulation model Forming a simulation model enables virtual testing of the planetary gear and the analysis of the impact of certain parameters on the behavior of the gear during gear changes. In other words, an opportunity has been created to examine the behavior of the model while simulating different conditions. Conclusion This paper presents the modeling of the gear change process in a planetary gear using computers in the Matlab / Simulink environment. Computer-aided modeling of the gear change process enables the generation of different versions of virtual gear models with relevant data about their characteristics thus helping designers in their decision making in the iterative process of design, i. e. in making appropriate decisions in the early stages of design.