Application of analysis of variance to wet clutch engagement

Abstract

Factorial design is applied to a wet clutch in automatic transmission in order to study and predict the effects of operating conditions on its engagement. The analysis relies on a series of experimental measurements and computer simulations to compute process responses. Included in the simulations are the drive torque, friction coefficient, system inertia, applied load, engagement time, developed energy, maximum brake torque, maximum power requirement and maximum temperature rise. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) is performed to quantify realistically the main and interaction effects of the system parameters on process responses.

ANOVA results are effectively compiled into charts complemented with prediction models, which could be used as a valuable tool to facilitate learning for a novice trainee and to allow a designer to evaluate quickly and effectively the effects of operating conditions on, and prediction of, performance parameters. The scope of this analysis tool, as applied to wet-clutch engagement, is not limited to operating conditions and could be extended to include materials selection, and to explore ideas not yet fully tested.