Efficient Modeling of Engine Parts and Design Analysis Tasks in Simulation of Powertrain Dynamics: An Overview

Simulation of dynamics is one of the important tasks in engineering calculation projects related to internal combustion engine-based powertrains. It allows to evaluate strength and durability of engine parts, reliability and wear of their lubricated contacts, noise, and vibratory interaction of the powertrain with the vehicle body. Depending on the modeling depth and on the scope and accuracy of results, the software tools used for simulation of powertrain dynamics, can be sub-divided into fast basic tools and precise high-end tools. It is shown that in order to reach the expected quality and to be timely efficient at the same time, a complete project should apply a combined dynamic simulation workflow consisting of two main phases: (1) early phase, with system check, basic analysis and layout, as well as coarse optimization using basic tools, and (2) final phase, with fine tuning and verification of critical parameters of the system using high-end tools. The present chapter gives an extended overview of the typical design analysis tasks and related software tools used in the early phase of powertrain simulation workflow. It should be noted that efficient dynamic models of engine parts—first of all crankshaft—significantly contribute to shorter preparation for high-performance calculations, and to smooth transition between different tasks and phases of the project.