Nonlinear Frequency Response Analysis of a Multistage Clutch Damper With Multiple Nonlinearities

Abstract

This paper presents the nonlinear frequency response of a multistage clutch damper system in the framework of the harmonic balance method. For the numerical analysis, a multistage clutch damper with multiple nonlinearities is modeled as a single degree-of-freedom torsional system subjected to sinusoidal excitations. The nonlinearities include piecewise-linear stiffness, hysteresis, and preload all with asymmetric transition angles. Then, the nonlinear frequency response of the system is numerically obtained by applying the Newton–Raphson method to a system equation formulated by using the harmonic balance method. The resulting nonlinear frequency response is then compared with that obtained by direct numerical simulation of the system in the time domain. Using the simulation results, the stability characteristics and existence of quasi-harmonic response of the system are investigated. Also, the effect of stiffness values on the dynamic performance of the system is examined.