Laboratory for Drive Technology and Tribology
As part of the training programme in drive technology, our laboratory offers a practical and versatile environment in which students can utilise modern test benches and methods. From the analysis and testing of key transmission components, through fundamental tribological investigations and fatigue analyses, to the design, calculation and tolerance assessment of complete transmission systems – our laboratory covers the entire spectrum of powertrain engineering. This is complemented by analyses of gear-shift performance and comfort in vehicles, simulations of powertrains and gear-shift sequences, as well as detailed functional and design analyses of a wide variety of gearbox types. Furthermore, we support the development of innovative drive systems for industrial applications and provide students with the best possible preparation for future technical challenges.
Goals and idea
During the training of students in the field of drive technology, various test benches and methods are used:
- Testing and analysis of transmission components such as synchronizers, gearshifts, etc.
- Basic research on tribology Fatigue strength tests
- Fatigue testing
- Design, calculation and tolerance analysis of transmission systems
- Switching performance and switching comfort analysis in the vehicle
- Simulation of automotive powertrains and shifting processes
- Analyses of gearboxes of all kinds with regard to function, design and construction
- Development of drive systems for industrial applications
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Work placement, analysis of previously recorded measurement data
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Manual gearbox test bench
Laboratory equipment and activities
Linear tribometer
The linear tribometer is used in addition to the otherwise common rotary tribometers. Translational processes can thus be recorded more realistically. In particular, statements on static friction can be made through the reversal of motion.
Circuit analysis vehicle
In the vehicle, switching processes are examined by means of mobile measuring technology. This enables objective statements to be made on shifting comfort (force/displacement curve) as well as on the type and extent of shifting comfort disturbances (bouncing, upshift scratching, 2nd pressure point, insert hanger, blocker, etc.). Furthermore, these measurements are used to calibrate and validate shift simulations.
Operational stability test bench
The fatigue strength test bench is used to examine powertrain components. For example, index plates of synchronizer rings or thrust pieces can be tested. Changing loads (e.g. for index plates on synchronizer rings) or pulsating loads (e.g. for thrust pieces) can be defined.
Friction value measuring device
The friction coefficient measuring device can be used to investigate the friction properties of different material pairings as a function of various influencing parameters. For this purpose an upper sample is moved over a lower sample. In addition to different materials of the samples, the pressure (via normal forces and the contact surfaces) and sliding speed (via the drive weights) can be varied.
Efficiency test rig
The efficiency test bench is used to investigate the efficiency and to determine structure-borne and airborne noise. The gear to be tested is operated in an electrical bracing. This means that the drive is from an electric motor to the gearbox input shaft.
The output side of the gearbox is connected to a generator. The shifting is done mechanically via a linkage in a load-free state. A torque sensor is integrated on both the input and output side. The transmission efficiency can be determined by determining the differential power between input and output. The measuring technology is supplemented by a temperature sensor in the oil sump, acceleration sensors for determining structure-borne noise and a microphone for determining airborne noise.
Synchronization test benches
The synchronization test benches are used to investigate the functional and service life behavior of synchronizers and shift elements as used in manual and double-clutch transmissions. Independent of the transmission environment, the influences of axial forces, differential speeds, friction work, friction power, lubricant, quantity and temperature, etc. on the friction and wear behavior can be precisely determined.
Courses
- Machine elements 1/2
- Drive Technology
- Product development
Lab management and team
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Prof. Dr.-Ing. Thomas Suchandt
Spokesperson SAFIR
