Dynamic analysis of a Drum Charger: Large amplitude vibrations of clamped circular thin plate on a linear foundation

The Impulse Drum Charger® (IDC) represents a valid and innovative alternative in the field of the superchargers, in particular when the available space is limited, such as in motorcycles. In fact, with respect to the traditional one, which uses turbine-compressor system for engine supercharging, the IDC exploit the deflection of an elastic membrane-spring system to generate overpressure at the intake from the pressure waves generated by the exhaust gases. In this way, the aim of this work is the development of a mathematical model of the membrane-spring system, both realized in 102-RGUD600 glass fiber composite (PA matrix), of a Drum Charger® using Von Karman theory with Berger's approximation. Focusing on the central deflection of the membrane in time and frequency domain, the derived models reproduces with good accuracy the results of the complete finite-element simulations computed with Ansys™, especially in the higher frequencies. Moreover, in order the system work properly, the spring behavior must maintain in linear-elastic range. Hence, a three-point bending test of the spring was carried out, following the specifications in ASTM (D790-03), in order to verify the force-displacement linear relation. The numerical simulations shown excellent agreement with the force-displacement curve observed in the experimental tests.