Modelling the elastodynamic behaviour of a desmodromic valve train

This paper deals with a lumped-parameter model of a motorbike engine's desmodromic valve train. The model of such an uncommon cam system is developed and validated with the aid of experimental measurements carried out on a test bench which operates the cam mechanism by means of an electrically powered driveline. The model describes the mechanical system taking into account the mass distribution, the link elastic flexibility, and the presence of several non-linearities. The model parameter estimation is discussed and the effectiveness of the model is assessed by a comparison with experimental results. In addition, the model is employed to estimate the magnitude of contact forces and to predict the system behaviour as a consequence of changes in some design parameters; therefore, it may be used as a tool both in design optimisation and diagnostics.