Simulation of variable dynamic dimension systems: The clutch example

Due to the presence of strong non-linearities (i.e. coulomb friction) some systems change their dynamic dimension while functioning. Such systems can be found in many application fields, such as in automotive and robotics. This paper proposes a simulation model for this type of systems that we will call as "Variable Dynamic Dimension Systems" (VDDS). Particularly, a VDDS system composed by n masses which slip and interact together by means of the coulomb friction is analyzed. A congruent state space transformation is used to obtain a simple and effective simulation model for the system. The performances of the model are tested through simulation experiments applied to an interesting automotive application: a clutch with torsional damper-spring.