Is There A Large Deviation in The Test Data Of The Electric Chassis Dynamometer? Guidelines For Torque Sensor Calibration, Inertia Matching, And Environmental Interference Investigation

Jul 17, 2025

The following is a systematic troubleshooting and solution guide for large deviations in test data of electric chassis dynamometers, covering key aspects such as torque sensor calibration, inertia matching, and environmental interference:

 

1, Calibration of torque sensor
①Pre calibration inspection
Physical state: Confirm that the sensor has no mechanical deformation, loose connectors, or damaged cables.
Zero drift: When disconnecting the load, observe whether the zero output is stable (error should be<± 0.1% FS).
Temperature compensation: Record the ambient temperature. If it exceeds the sensor calibration range (usually 10 ℃~50 ℃), recalibration is required.
② Calibration process
Static calibration:
Apply known torque using standard weights or hydraulic loading devices, covering 20%, 50%, 80%, and 100% of the measuring range.
Record the linear relationship between input and output values, and calculate the nonlinear error (target < ± 0.2% FS).
Dynamic calibration:
Apply a sine wave load through an exciter and test the frequency response (bandwidth ≥ 100Hz).
Check the phase delay and amplitude attenuation to ensure that the dynamic characteristics meet the requirements.
Repeatability verification: When loading the same torque multiple times, the standard deviation should be less than 0.1% FS.
③Common problem handling
Zero offset: Perform zero calibration again or replace the sensor.
Nonlinear error: Segmented linear fitting or replacement of high-precision sensors (such as strain gauge sensors).
Temperature drift: Enable the built-in temperature compensation module or install a constant temperature box.

 

2, Inertia matching optimization
① Inertia calculation and verification
Theoretical inertia: Calculate the equivalent moment of inertia based on vehicle parameters (mass, center of mass position) (formula: J=m × r ², including tires, flywheel, etc.).
Actual inertia measurement: During no-load operation, the actual inertia of the system is measured using the step response method or frequency scanning method.
Matching error: When the difference is greater than 5%, the flywheel group or software compensation coefficient needs to be adjusted.
②Dynamic inertia compensation
Real time monitoring: Collect the speed change rate (d ω/dt) during testing and dynamically correct the inertia deviation.
Software algorithm: Use Kalman filtering or Model Predictive Control (MPC) to optimize inertia estimation.
③Mechanical system inspection
Bearing friction: Insufficient lubrication can result in additional loads, requiring cleaning and the addition of specialized grease.
Transmission efficiency: The belt/chain transmission needs to be tightened regularly, and the gearbox oil needs to be replaced (recommended every 500 hours).

 

3, Environmental interference investigation
① Electromagnetic interference (EMI)
Shielding measures: The sensor cable adopts double-layer twisted shielded wire with a grounding resistance of less than 4 Ω.
Filter circuit: Install a low-pass filter (cut-off frequency ≥ 1kHz) at the signal input end.
Isolation transformer: Configure an isolation power supply for the dynamometer power supply system to reduce grid noise.
②Temperature and humidity
Temperature control system: The laboratory temperature is controlled at 20 ± 2 ℃, and the humidity is maintained at 40%~60%.
Thermal expansion compensation: Correction of thermal expansion coefficient for metal components such as shafts and brackets.
③ Vibration and impact
Isolation platform: Use rubber isolation pads or active isolation systems, with vibration amplitude less than 0.5g.
Structural reinforcement: Ensure sufficient rigidity of the dynamometer base to avoid resonance (modal testing frequency>200Hz).


4, Comprehensive verification and maintenance
①Repeatability test: Run the same operating conditions continuously for 3 times, and the data fluctuation should be less than ± 0.5%.
②Comparative verification: Cross compare with another high-precision device (such as a torque meter).
③ Log recording: Save calibration parameters, environmental data, and raw signal waveforms for easy traceability and analysis.

 

5, Recommended Tools and Resources
Calibration equipment: high-precision torque standard machine (accuracy ≥ 0.05%), laser tachometer.
Data analysis software: MATLAB/Simulink (dynamic modeling), LabVIEW (real-time monitoring).
Standard specifications: Refer to ISO 16802 (dynamometer calibration) and GB/T 18385 (electric vehicle testing).
By systematically executing the above steps, testing errors can be significantly reduced to within ± 1%. If the problem persists, it is recommended to contact the equipment manufacturer for in-depth diagnosis or return to the factory for repair.