Three-Dimensional Modeling-Driven AMESim Virtual Prototype Development and Flow Characterization of Swashplate Axial Piston Pumps

Abstract The swashplate-type axial piston pump, a core component of hydraulic systems, encounters challenges in optimizing performance due to the high costs and lengthy cycles of traditional experimental methods.This paper proposes a virtual prototyping approach that integrates 3D modeling with AMESim simulation to overcome the limitations of conventional design.We employ a high-precision geometric model of the pump and derive piston motion equations and a transient flow mathematical model based on kinematic theory. This establishes a theoretical framework for analyzing the pump’s dynamics and flow and pressure characteristics.Using the AMESim platform, we developed virtual prototypes for fixed-displacement and constant-pressure variable pumps to systematically study how key parameters—such as swashplate tilt angle and outlet displacement—affect output flow, pressure pulsation, and dynamic response.The results show that:Increasing the swashplate tilt angle significantly boosts flow but worsens pulsations;Outlet displacement requires a balance between response speed and pulsation suppression.By implementing a digital thread, this study seamlessly integrates geometric design with dynamic simulation, offering greater efficiency in multidisciplinary coupling analysis and performance optimization compared to traditional HCD library modeling methods.This approach provides effective technical support for low-pulsation design, parameter optimization, and engineering applications of hydraulic components.