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Driveline axes coupled with Coulomb friction

Clutch blocks allow you to transfer rotational motion and torque among spinning components at different speeds and gear ratios. In general, a single set of gears is not sufficient to accomplish this transfer. Control the time, method, and quantity of transferred power by building high-fidelity custom clutch systems that connect clutches to multiple blocks from the Gears library. Determine how heat generation affects the efficiency and temperature of driveline components using thermal variants of clutch blocks.

Simscape Blocks

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Cone ClutchFriction clutch with conical plates that engage when normal force exceeds threshold
Disk Friction ClutchFriction clutch with disk plates that engage when plate pressure exceeds threshold
Dog ClutchClutch with toothed plates that engage when plate teeth become enmeshed
Double-Sided SynchronizerBack-to-back dog-cone clutch pairs assembled symmetrically about a translational detent to provide smooth gear engagement
Logic-Controlled ClutchFriction clutch with input control
SynchronizerCone clutch, dog clutch, and translational detent assembled to provide smooth gear engagement
Unidirectional ClutchClutch that transmits power in a single direction
Fundamental Friction ClutchFriction clutch with kinetic and static-limit friction torques as inputs


How a Clutch Works

Learn basic terminology, understand how clutches function.

Engage and Disengage Gears Using a Clutch

Model a simple gear and clutch coupling.

Brake Motion Using Clutches

Bring a spinning driveline component to a controlled stop using a clutch.

Clutches, Clutch-Like Elements, and Coulomb Friction

Learn how clutch-like elements can act as dynamic elements or conditional restraints.

Model Friction Clutches at a Fundamental Level

Learn how the Fundamental Friction Clutch block allows you to exert direct control over friction torques.

Model Clutches with Viscous Friction Loss

Model viscous friction using subsystems that act at shaft bearings.

Model Realistic Clutch Pressure Signals

Model smooth clutch pressure signals changes using neutral switches.

Driveline States & Effect of Clutches


Automatic Transmission with a Dual Clutch

Model a vehicle with and dual-clutch transmission system.

Model Thermal Losses in Driveline Components

Evaluate the effects of thermal losses on device temperature and performance.

Automotive Clutch

This example shows how to model, parameterize and test an automotive clutch.

Hydraulic Clutch System

This example shows how to model, parameterize, and test a hydraulic clutch system.


Driveline Simulation Performance

Optimize simulation performance by adjusting Simscape™ Driveline™ and Simscape solver settings and model fidelity.

Troubleshoot Clutch and Transmission Errors

Identify and eliminate issues with dynamic constraints.

Featured Examples