This study focuses on investigation of the time response of a controllable limited slip differential (LSD) clutch consisting of an on-off close-loop control system and a magneto-rheological fluid (MRF). The control law of the controller is based on velocity feedback where the main goal is to keep the relative velocity of the input and output shafts of the clutch less than a predetermined threshold value. The response time of the control system (including the DAQ system and the computer) and the MRF LSD clutch is examined both theoretically and experimentally. System identification experiments are performed to determine the parameters such as bearing friction coefficients, dry and viscous clutch torque coefficients. These coefficients are used in theoretical response time analysis of the MRF LSD clutch using MATLAB Simulink. It is demonstrated that, the simple on-off closed-loop control system is feasible for this clutch application. The response time reduces by increasing solenoid current and increasing velocity. The theoretical model predictions are in good agreement with the experimental results.

Date Published: 5 August 2003
PDF: 10 pages
Proc. SPIE 5056, Smart Structures and Materials 2003: Smart Structures and Integrated Systems, (5 August 2003); doi: 10.1117/12.483486

Published in SPIE Proceedings Vol. 5056:
Smart Structures and Materials 2003: Smart Structures and Integrated Systems
Amr M. Baz, Editor(s)