Vibration Assessment of a Slip-in-Tube Propshaft Through Correlated Analytical Model 2003-01-1481

Analytical methods are used extensively in the automotive industry to validate the feasibility of component and assembly designs and their dynamic behavior. Correlation of analytical models with test data is an important step in this process. This paper discusses the Finite Element model of an innovative Slip-in-Tube Propshaft design. The Slip-in-Tube joint (slip joint) poses challenges for its dynamic simulation. This paper discusses the methods of simulating the joint and correlating it to experimental results. Also, the Noise and Vibration (NVH) characteristics of the Slip-in-Tube Propshaft design.

In this paper, a Finite Element model of the proposed propshaft is developed using shell and beam element formulations. Each model is verified to optimize the feasibility of using accurate and computationally efficient elements for the dynamic analysis. Finite Element (FE) component models such as the inner and outer tubes were correlated to the test Frequency Response Functions (FRFs) with free-free boundary conditions. The Slip-in-Tube assembly model was correlated with free-free boundary conditions and then correlated with fixtures that simulate in-vehicle boundary conditions. Later, the Slip-in-Tube Propshaft's dynamic behavior is discussed considering several parameters such as input torque, engagement length and material properties. The damping value for the joint is acquired from test data and is used in the analytical solution. The correlated Finite Element model is then utilized to perform response analysis for assessing amplitude attenuation characteristics of the slip-in-tube design.

Excellent correlation has been achieved between the test and the analytical model results. This investigation shows that the Slip-in-Tube (SiT) Propshaft has improved NVH characteristics compared to conventional propshaft design.