Integrated Multibody Dynamics and Experimental Validation Study for a Novel Heavy-Duty Diesel Engine Valvetrain Design

High-powered, heavy-duty diesel engines are widely used in transportation, construction, railways, and marine applications. Optimizing valvetrain dynamics is crucial for improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. This study presents an integrated multibody dynamics (MBD) and experimental validation approach for a novel heavy-duty diesel engine valvetrain design. The development of the kinematic and dynamic models was motivated by the necessity to analyze valvetrain behavior, identify operational challenges, and optimize key parameters such as the position of the elephant foot and valve lift. The optimized design was validated through experimental testing using vibration measurements at multiple engine points. The results demonstrate that the proposed modifications effectively mitigate valve bounce, improve stability, and enhance engine performance. The validated model provides a foundation for further advancements in valvetrain optimization, contributing to improved efficiency in heavy-duty diesel engines.