Step-length control analysis with a multi-staged clutch damper model in a torsional vibration problem using harmonic balance method

Abstract

This study focuses on a step-length control method to investigate piecewise type nonlinearities such as multi-staged clutch dampers in a practical system. In general, step-length control techniques are employed to overcome at least two difficulties with respect to examining the nonlinear dynamic responses of a physical system. Such techniques first reduce the calculation time, which increases the efficiency of simulation in many case studies. Then, the employment of step-length control resolves strongly stiff problems which often occur in the asymmetrical piecewise type nonlinearities. In order to overcome these difficulties, this study suggests a newly developed step-length control method based on the employment of two different adaptive step sizes from prior steps to the next steps, when simulation is conducted using an arc-length continuation method. The simulation results using the step-length control method show much improvement with respect to reducing the calculation times and number of steps compared with the ones without step-length control method. Thus, this study provides clear understanding of the objectives of using step-length control such that it increases the efficiency of simulation as well as resolves the convergence problems in a nonlinear dynamic system.