Optimizing Gear Train Simulation with Exponential Acceleration and Braking

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the optimization of a computer simulation for a three-gear train system, focusing on the implementation of exponential acceleration and braking mechanisms. Participants explore the mathematical modeling of gear rotation influenced by a fictitious motor and braking system, considering the effects of inertia and energy dynamics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant proposes using the equations Acceleration=[1-e(-t/TC)] for acceleration and Acceleration=[e(-t/TC)] for braking to simulate exponential changes in rotation.
  • Another participant notes that the kinetic energy of the meshed gears is proportional to the square of the RPM and emphasizes the need to specify the Torque to RPM curve for the motor to compute changes in velocity over time.
  • A different participant expresses interest in achieving a visually acceptable effect in the simulation while questioning the correct equation for angular acceleration over time, suggesting an exponential model that approaches an end value asymptotically.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present various viewpoints and approaches regarding the equations and modeling techniques, with no consensus reached on the best method for simulating the gear train dynamics.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention energy losses that could affect RPM but suggest ignoring them for the current discussion, indicating a limitation in the scope of the simulation's accuracy.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in computer simulations of mechanical systems, gear dynamics, and mathematical modeling of acceleration and braking in engineering contexts may find this discussion relevant.

TechFan
Messages
34
Reaction score
1
Hi:
I'm building a computer simulation for a 3 gear train system. So far the gears rotate with mouse movement horizontally. Now I'm adding a fictitious motor and braking system to start/stop rotation with mouse clicks. I multiplied the rotation angle by [1-e(-t/TC)] to simulate exponential acceleration and e(-t/TC) for braking for exponential deceleration. Is exponential is the right way to do it? or is there any other better equation. This is just a simple case with no other external conditions influencing; but just the system inertia.
In general terms this is the equation I'm using.
Acceleration=[1-e(-t/TC)];// acceleration case
Acceleration=[e(-t/TC)];// braking case

Thanks
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
The meshed gears will have kinetic energy proportional to RPM squared.
The motor will provide that energy. You must specify the Torque to RPM curve for the motor.

Power = torque * RPM = watts = joules of energy per second.
Use that to compute the change in velocity over time as energy flows in or out.

There will be some energy losses that will remove energy and so reduce the RPM. Ignore them for now, or make them proportional to RPM.
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: 1 person
Hi:
Interesting info. I'll experiment trying to code that somehow (?) and see the results. My goal is just having an acceptable "visual effect", although using the real equation will be much better.
The real question would be: What is the equation for the change in rpm with time (angular acceleration)? I assumed it to be exponential so it will tend to the end value asymptotically with time in both cases.
Thanks
 
Wow that is awesome!. Thanks.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
4K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 75 ·
3
Replies
75
Views
7K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
4K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
3K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K