Application of direct acceleration measurement in powertrain testing

The paper describes the measurement methods and techniques used in powertrain testing with use of a dedicated device named PAAF, which is based on an accelerometer. The goal is to calculate car´s traction parameters such as acceleration, driving force and power on wheels according to data measured during a road test with a short duration. The measurement algorithms must be immune to accelerations caused by road irregularities and assure determination of appropriate traction parameters. Realization of such goal requires the development of special device designed in accordance with mechatronic principles. Additionally, it is necessary to develop appropriate measurement algorithms with extensive use of mathematical transformations and sophisticated signal filtration. All the above mentioned aspects are presented in detail in this article.