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A report on a detailed evaluation of cylinder pressure measurement was made in 1967 by the author. At the beginning of that paper, the primary importance of cylinder pressure measurement was pointed out. Pressure is the means by which work is extracted from the gases; the cycle is known only to the extent that this work function ∫PdV is known. At the end of that paper, it was concluded that cylinder pressure could be measured accurately enough to determine imep and that complete electronic determination of imep was needed. A system for determining imep electronically with excellent accuracy has been developed and has been in use for several years. This paper describes the Caterpillar indicated mean effective pressure (imep) meter and gives a sample of the information it can provide.

THIS paper presents results which will answer many of the problems facing an engine manufacturer in the selection of the most suitable types and sizes of superchargers to use with a line of engines. Although performance curves of production model diesels are available, decisions are still needed in choosing peak supercharging pressures, drive means, and size and effectiveness of intercoolers, if any. The author describes the use of a typical model to determine response to variation in intake and exhaust conditions, resulting in data which will assist in evaluating engine potentials with any system of supercharging. Thus, supercharger selection for a particular line of engines is aided by knowledge of engine characteristics as a second-stage compressor.

AFTERCOOLING, coupled with higher pressure turbocharging can increase vehicle engine output. The author thinks that it is possible to anticipate diesel engines being run with compressors supplying air at pressure ratios higher than 2/1. Density ratio is the most important consideration in increasing pressure ratio, since the engine's output is dependent upon weight rather than volume of air supplied. Because the density of the compressed air is dependent upon its temperature at any pressure level, cooling the air after compression results in density increases. This paper describes various methods of after-cooling which increase engine output and fuel economy.

The requirements for cylinder pressure measurement for mechanical load, imep, and cycle analysis are developed. Methods for determining errors in transducers are presented, and the results are shown. The tests include passage error, hysteresis, nonlinearity, mounting strains, thermal strain, and twist in the crankshaft. Theories are developed to predict errors due to time or phase delay, passage, and thermal strain. The theory of the balanced pressure indicator is developed and the minimum delay and pressure error are calculated. Read-out systems are evaluated. Areas needing improvement are pointed out and specifications for the ideal pressure transducer are presented.

This paper describes the concept and design of the Caterpillar “G” series motor grader transmission and transmission controls. Comments on vehicle performance, power train, and oil system requirements are included. Countershaft directional clutches are combined with six or eight speed planetary ranges for this family of articulated motor graders. The pilot-operated hydraulic control provides smooth rapid gear ratio changes and “inching” modulation for the pressure lubed directional clutches.

THE HYDRAULIC SYSTEMS for the Caterpillar “G” Series Motor Graders were designed to provide for maximum operator comfort, ease of operation, and optimum control of the vehicle and implements. The use of high pressure closed center systems on these machines produces rapid system response and high hydraulic horsepower to the implement cylinders and motors, and operates with minimum size control components. Components were designed to meet specific system requirements for functional performance, reliability of operation, size and placement on the machine. System goals were met through the use of a variable displacement pressure compensated pump, controlled flow four-way implement valves, and a hydrostatic steering system.

ISO and SAE static sound power test methods are currently used for construction machinery. The European Economic Community sound committee has been developing a drive-by or simulated work cycle test method using a hemispherical array of microphones. The EEC method is inconsistent due to the changing test surface (moist sand) and the variables of outdoor testing: temperature, wind, and precipitation. The in-place-dynamic test method described provides a disciplined way to evaluate machines with moving track or wheels and operating hydraulic systems. The machine is slightly elevated, resting on stands, so that the wheels are off the ground or the tractor weight is off the track chain. Data obtained from track-type tractor, track-type loader, and wheel loader machines supports the validity of using an indoor, in-place-dynamic test instead of a moving, outdoor test. Results also show that using sound intensity instrumentation permits the option of testing in an untreated, indoor facility.

For some time, Caterpillar Tractor Co. has been marketing a new transmission control system for wheel-tractor scrapers and off-highway trucks. The new system is composed of an electronic microprocessor control box coupled with an individual clutch modulation hydraulic control. This system has resulted in increased vehicle productivity, improved reliability and serviceability, decreased complexity, and increased commonality of parts. This paper describes the concept, design, and test and evaluation process used to develop the new controls before production.