Design and Testing of an Experimental Magnetorheological Fluid Clutch

Owing to very good controllability, simple design, and durability, magnetorheological fluid (MRF) clutches become attractive solutions for various industrial and automotive applications. An experimental MRF clutch has been developed at the University of Zagreb, in order to support MRF clutch modeling, and control research. The clutch design facilitates MRF handling, change of fluid gap width, and testing various types of seals. The paper first presents calculation of the main clutch design parameters. Next, design of the overall clutch mechatronic system is described. Finally, the main results of testing the clutch static and transient behaviors are presented and compared with the design parameters.