Gyroscopic forces in a flywheel kers system

In summary, the conversation discusses the gyroscopic forces that act on a car with a flywheel KERS system. It is mentioned that if the flywheel is mounted transversely and rotating clockwise from the right side of the car, turning right can cause the car to roll to the left due to gyroscopic precession. However, it is unsure if this applies since the flywheel is moving with the car and not rotating about its center point. The conversation also suggests using a bike-wheel and swivel chair to understand this concept and emphasizes the importance of carefully placing the coordinate axis when calculating the torque that acts to roll the car.
  • #1
Webbd050
35
4
What gyroscopic forces act on a car fitted with a flywheel kers system? From what i understand if the flywheel was mounted transversely and rotating clockwise when viewed from the right side of the car and the car turned right gyroscopic precession would cause the car to roll to the left ie a clockwise torque acts on the car viewed from the front. Is this correct? Or would gyroscopic precession not occur because the flywheel isn't rotating about its centre point but is just moving with the car, if that makes sense. I am really confused haha. How would i go about calculating the torque that acts to roll the car if this is correct? Thanks
 
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  • #2
You can try this out using the bike-wheel and swivel chair.
Usually you rotate the wheel and the chair turns the other way.
You want to know if you/someone rotate/s the chair, will the wheel attempt to turn?

To avoid confusion, you need to be more careful about where you put your coordinate axis.
The angular momentum in the flywheel is calculated about the center of rotation of the flywheel.
This does not change with translation. Travelling on a curve the car is rotating as well as translating ... try a simple model where the flywheel is centered at the rotation center of the car.
You'll also want to take account of where the flywheel is mounted.
 

1. What is a flywheel KERS system?

A flywheel KERS (Kinetic Energy Recovery System) is a type of energy storage and release system that utilizes a spinning flywheel to store kinetic energy generated during braking or deceleration. This stored energy can then be used to provide an extra boost of power during acceleration, improving the overall efficiency and performance of a vehicle.

2. How does a flywheel KERS system work?

A flywheel KERS system works by converting kinetic energy into potential energy. When the vehicle brakes, the flywheel's rotational energy is transferred to a high-speed motor/generator, which then stores this energy in a battery. When the vehicle accelerates, this stored energy is released back to the motor/generator, providing an extra boost of power.

3. What are gyroscopic forces in a flywheel KERS system?

Gyroscopic forces refer to the physical phenomenon that causes a spinning object to resist changes in its orientation or direction of rotation. In a flywheel KERS system, these forces play a crucial role in maintaining the stability and balance of the flywheel, as well as controlling its speed and direction of rotation.

4. What are the advantages of using a flywheel KERS system?

There are several advantages to using a flywheel KERS system in vehicles. Some of these include improved fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, increased power and acceleration, and improved handling and stability. Additionally, flywheel KERS systems are also relatively lightweight and compact, making them suitable for use in a variety of vehicles.

5. Are there any limitations or drawbacks to using a flywheel KERS system?

While flywheel KERS systems offer many benefits, they also have some limitations and drawbacks. These include high initial costs, added weight and complexity to the vehicle, and potential safety concerns due to the high speeds and forces involved. Additionally, the effectiveness of a flywheel KERS system is highly dependent on the driving conditions and style, so its benefits may vary in different situations.

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