Powertrain Testing

By measuring the input and output of systems within the drivetrain, efficiency losses can be determined for each system.

Transducers can be made from, or applied to, the internal components and are used to measure the engine output. In an automatic transmission vehicle, a transducer can be made by applying strain gauges to the flexplate to measure torque. The data can be monitored using Michigan Scientific slip ring assemblies or telemetry solutions. Similar techniques can be used for a manual transmission vehicle by installing a torque transducer on the flywheel. It is also possible to instrument the vehicle’s crankshaft by deep-bore gauging, a method of applying strain gauges into a deep bore in a component and routing the signal wires to a slip ring assembly.

The transmission output torque is measured with an instrumented transmission output shaft or instrumented driveshafts. By calculating the input power and the output, the overall transmission efficiency can be directly measured. The transmission output shafts are instrumented and the wiring is contained within the shaft. The data is then brought out to a slip ring assembly mounted in the front of the transmission or telemetry can be used with either inductive or battery power. 

The Wheel Torque Transducers can be used to measure aerodynamic drag, brake drag, tire rolling drag, and bearing seal drag. It gathers data that can be used in braking systems, vehicle stability, and driveline development. Results gathered from these on-road measurements of chassis system losses can influence fuel economy. Data from these tests are valuable in determining where energy is lost within the system, which allows for adjustments to be made to improve the efficiency of the system and the vehicle. 

Measuring Vehicle Efficiency and Power Mapping

Telemetry for Rotating Shafts

Measuring Torque on Class 8 Electric Vehicles

Electric Vehicle Instrumentation and Testing

Using Wheel Torque Transducers to Improve Efficiency