Self-Tuning Torsional Vibration Dampers for V8 Engines 2017-01-1819

The problem of crankshaft torsional vibrations for heavy car engines is important for the V8 engines. The paper describes the results of the dynamical study of the new patented Torsional Vibration Dampers mounted on a crankshaft in V8 engines. Design and structure of Torsional Vibration Damper is based on author’s US Patent 7,438,165 having the control system with instantaneous frequencies tuner for all frequencies of running engine. Analysis and disadvantages of conventional rubber and viscous Crank Dampers are shown. The focus of the study is on Torsional Vibration Damper having the mechanical self-tuning structure applicable for V8 engines. Mathematical model based on the system of ordinary differential equations describing the rotation and vibration of mechanical components has been used for the analysis of the dynamic behavior of V8 engine crankshaft system having proposed Torsional Vibration Damper. Significant part of the study is dedicated to design and selection of the optimal parameters of the proposed device in order to solve the problems of effective mitigation of crankshaft torsional vibrations in V8 engines. Tests have been conducted in order to get objective metrics and compare the dynamic performance of new device to dynamic data of conventional torsional vibration dampers. It is demonstrated that the replacement of conventional Crank Dampers by proposed patented Torsional Vibration Dampers provides more effective reduction of the levels of torsional vibrations in total operational range of RPM for V8 engines. The acceptable in automotive industry value of torsional vibration peak - to - peak twist angles is 0.4 degrees. The tested prototype of self-tuning Torsional Vibration Damper allowed reduces this number to 0.1 degrees for V8 engines.