Meshing angles evaluation of silent chain drive by numerical analysis and experimental test

A methodology for integrating the CAD-CAE design of a chain drive system is presented by evaluating meshing angles. The methodology correlates the angles of engagement with transverse vibrations and the tensile force of the chain links, showing that the dynamic behaviour of a chain drive can be significantly improved by fine tuning the meshing angles. An objective parameter was introduced to evaluate divergence from correct meshing. Here the methodology is applied to optimize the timing chain system of a high power V12 quadruple overhead camshaft engine. The reliability of the method relies on multibody modelling all the components and accurate experimental tests. Correlating the experimental measurements provided exact modelling of the contact forces, exact evaluation of stiffness and damping values and precise dynamic modelling of the tensioners and guides. Finally, the dynamic performance of the two different primary stage chain drive layouts were compared.