Technical Paper
Controlled Alternator Decoupling for Reduced Noise and Vibration
2010-04-12
2010-01-0900
Development of a novel alternator pulley for reduction of engine noise and vibration is described in detail. The sources of noise and vibration resulting from interaction of the alternator's apparent inertia with the speed variation of the engine crankshaft are discussed and quantified as they relate to decoupling of this vibration from the alternator rotor. Present approaches to improving the noise and vibration as well as reducing the wear and stress on accessory drive belts are discussed as background to the discussion of the controlled decoupling pulley. The new pulley is described in detail, including its working principal, part configuration details, and both static and dynamic characteristics compared with competitive pulleys, followed by details of the development phases.