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Analytic modeling and analog computer simulation techniques are presented for determining power train transient responses excited by clutch-actuated gear shifts. A method for describing the dynamics of a transmission arrangement having several clutches and interconnected planetary gear sets is considered in detail. Simulation model testing is directed toward optimizing system design parameters and evaluating power train component capability and vehicle shift-feel. Data reduction techniques applied to model responses of torque and speed will yield appropriate spectrums representative of simulated work cycle. The spectrum data are used to predict hours of life for gears, bearings, and driveshafts, according to cumulative fatigue damage theory.

Chromatographic analysis of diesel exhaust indicates a number of low molecular weight hydrocarbons, below C6. Using reactivity index as a criterion, much of the diesel exhaust reactivity can be attributed to ethylene and propylene caused by the thermal decomposition of the fuel. Hydrocarbons in the C4-C7 range, including high relative reactivity olefins, are generally low in volume concentration and therefore contribute little to the overall exhaust reactivity. Hydrocarbons, in terms of parts per million carbon above C7 are low in present diesel engine designs, so individual volume concentrations are generally fractional parts per million. Reactivity per horsepower-hour from diesel engine exhaust is less than that from the one small industrial gasoline engine tested by the heavy-duty truck diesel engine cycle.

Diesel engine exhaust emission characteristics vary considerably with the overall design of the combustion and fuel injection systems. Emission measurements were made on total hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and smoke. The hydrocarbon measurements of the precombustion chamber engine are considerably lower than the direct injection engine. Less than five pounds of total hydrocarbons per 1000 gal of fuel are produced at rated conditions by all precombustion chamber engines studied. Precombustion chamber engines produce smaller quantities of the oxides of nitrogen when compared to direct injection engines. All diesels produced low carbon monoxide emissions. A novel technique for qualitative and quantitative evaluation of diesel exhaust odors is introduced. Exhaust odor intensity from the precombustion chamber engine is much less than that from the direct injection engine.

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.

A cooperative research program has been completed evaluating the impact of fuel composition (volatility, aromatics and sulfur) on the combustion and emissions performance of a Caterpillar 3406B turbo-charged diesel engine, which is representative of diesel truck engines of the late 1980s. Tests included both steady-state and transient operation measuring regulated and unregulated emissions. The fuel set was blended using only commercially available refinery stocks typical of those which could be considered for use in distillate fuel. The compositions of the blends were selected so that direct measurements of the individual effects of 10% and 90% distillation temperatures, aromatic content, and sulfur content could be made independently. Engine combustion performance data indicated that all fuels operated satisfactorily; aromatic content was as high as 50% and cetane number as low as 39. Further, the cetane number did not predict the engine measured ignition delay in this program.

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.