Abstract
Three models with various degree-of-freedom for a manual transmission clutch full-size tester have been developed and the models' reliability and accuracy have been verified using the measured data. A simulation study has also been conducted to understand dynamic behavior of the tester. The model for this simulation study includes clutch disk friction and damper dynamics. The developed model is very accurate in terms of maximum torque exerted on the clutch, slip duration and the vibration response except a slight difference compared to the measured data. In a history graph of the clutch torque, the maximum torque response from simulation is flat but the measured is sunken with a noticeable curvature. This phenomenon is found to be irrelevant to the dynamics of the full-size tester but is originated from the characteristics of the clutch itself. Thus, the full-size tester has been proven to be a reliable tester for clutch's power and torque transmission capability. To obtain a better understanding of clutch's characteristics and relationship between full-size tester and other testing methodologies, future research directions have been suggested.
