DESIGN OF A SINGLE-CYLINDER ENGINE CAM SHAPE USING COMPUTATIONAL TOOLS AND SIMULATION 2023-36-0072

Computational tools have become indispensable in the development of cam profiles, aiding designers in achieving optimal performance. This paper explores the application of computational tools in the design of cam profiles for a single-cylinder research engine (SCRE) prototype under development with a direct-acting mechanism. The primary objective is to present a comprehensive design process, encompassing kinematic analysis and Quasi-Dynamic Analysis (QDA), to enable designers to generate preliminary cam profiles based on design requirements. The VT-Design® software, a part of the GT-SUITE package, is employed for simulations in this study. Key design considerations, such as lift, velocity, and acceleration curves, are discussed, emphasizing the importance of maintaining continuity in the acceleration curve. The design process involves optimizing the acceleration curve to minimize negative acceleration and improve dynamic response. The paper also highlights the significance of contact stresses and component separation speed, which can be estimated through QDA. The results of this case study demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method in achieving optimized cam profiles, providing guidelines for designers to optimize performance while considering trade-offs between contact forces and desired engine performance characteristics, while also being able to serve as an input for a further multi-body dynamics (MBD) analysis or an experimental setup to determine critical parameters with precision.