A non-linear elastodynamic model of a desmodromic valve train

A lumped-parameter model of a motorbike engine’s desmodromic valve train is developed for the simulation of the dynamic behaviour of such an uncommon train. The model takes into account several non-linear effects and is highly time-varying. The estimation of the model parameters is discussed and the effectiveness of the model is assessed by a comparison with experimental results. The model is employed to predict the magnitude of forces, impacts and bounces, and to detect unacceptable dynamic phenomena; thus, it may be used as a tool both in design optimization and diagnostics.