Development of an Automatic Gear Transmission System Teaching Aid

This study presents the development of an innovative educational tool designed to enhance the comprehension of automatic transmission systems. The teaching aid features a 2004 Toyota Corolla automatic gearbox integrated with a variable-speed electric motor, which is connected to the torque converter through a system of pulleys. A gear position shifter is paired with a programmed Arduino-based display panel that includes a gear position indicator and an LCD screen linked to a magnetic sensor on the output shaft. This setup provides real-time feedback on rotational speed, enabling students to analyze the relationship between engine speed, torque converter dynamics, and output performance. The project is aligned with core Mechanical Engineering courses such as Automotive Systems Engineering and Transmission System Design, fulfilling key learning objectives like understanding planetary gear mechanisms and torque converter operations. Its primary aim is to provide students with a hands-on learning platform that replicates the functional behavior of an actual automatic transmission while allowing direct comparison with manual transmission systems. By using the electric motor to emulate engine input power, learners can visualize and investigate how variations in engine speed influence torque converter behavior. Overall, this project offers a practical, interactive, and effective resource for both educators and students, bridging theoretical knowledge and real-world automotive applications.