Probabilistic Dynamic Errors in Internal Combustion Engines

This research project deals with probabilistic methods of tolerance analysis for mechanical systems subjected to discontinuity forcing functions. The dynamic equations are solved using the alternating frequency/time domain method. The statistics is evaluated by determining the partial derivatives of the Fourier coefficients with respect to the random variables which, in this research, are link length tolerances and pin locations. These are representative of design variables of link length tolerances, radial clearances and associated tolerances. A nonlinear constrained optimization problem is solved in order to maximize the variances of tolerances, while satisfying the specified constraints. The results of this research lead to the development of an analysis and design tool for tolerance allocation in a dynamic system such as an internal combustion engine.***//