TAKING A DESIGN FOR A TEST DRIVE: COMPUTER SIMULATION OF VEHICULAR PROPULSION SYSTEMS.

A methodology for simulating vehicle propulsion systems has been developed. Emphasis is placed on the development of component models, including the use of controlled laboratory experiments. As an example of the use of simulation methods, studies of an engine-flywheel hybrid driveline are presented. Such a system was 'breadboarded', and results predicted by analysis are compared with experimental dynamometer results. In addition, the experimentally verified propulsion system model was used to provide direction for future changes in the hardware and controller software. Some of these changes, together with the results of that simulation study, are also presented.