Abstract
PHYSIOLOGICAL CHARACTERISATION OF ELECTRO-PNEUMATIC CLUTCH ACTUATION SYSTEM FOR HEAVY DUTY VEHICLES
*Ndubuisi Paul-Darlington Ibemezie, Mbabuike Ikenna, Isaac Raphael Okafor, Agwo Joseph Ndubuisi and Arua Julius Egwu
ABSTRACT
Characterisation is a process of describing the distinctive nature or feature of an environment, with the purpose of establishing the existing nature and scientific measurement of that environment?s parameters. The electro-pneumatic clutch actuation system of a heavy-duty vehicle was characterised. A Mercedes Benz Actros Truck model MP 2, 2031 was chosen for the investigation. The empirical study cut across relevant features of the actuation chamber including piston and control valve springs, gearing timing parameters and resultant error signals in the actuator. The test instruments including linear tools and specialised ones like Xentry Tab 2, Xentry Connect and Mass Spring Balance were deployed in the characterisation. Data in respect of the Sensor Monitor signals/Clutch travel distance, Gear Shift parameters under static and dynamic conditions, error signals as the Piston rod in the actuator translates from disengagement to engagement modes and vice versa and the resultant forces on the piston spring during clutch engagements and disengagements were all established by direct measurements in most cases.
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