Course structure
Module I: All-Wheel Drive Systems Overview
[Total Run Time: 70 minutes]
- Explain the differences between understeer, oversteer, and neutral steer vehicle dynamics behavior
- Compare and contrast front-wheel drive-based versus rear-wheel drive-based powertrain architectures
- Discuss the history of all-wheel drive systems
- Identify the need for differentials in a vehicle
- Calculate percent grade and understand its importance
- Front wheel drive and rear wheel drive vehicle architectures
Module II: Part-Time Systems
[Total Run Time: 40 minutes]
- Explain the powerflow of a transfer case in all part-time modes
- Articulate the need and benefit of auxiliary axle disconnects
- Describe the history and evolution of disconnect systems
Module III: Full-Time Systems
[Total Run Time: 25 minutes]
- Explain the powerflow of a full-time transfer case
- Explain the powerflow of an on-demand transfer case
- Identify the difference between a transfer case and power transfer unit
Module IV: Transfer Case Design
[Total Run Time: 34 minutes]
- Identify typical transfer case design parameters
- Recognize the operation of chain drive systems
- Explain the need for lubrication pumps
- Identify the components and function of manual versus electric shift systems
- Assess the powerflow of low range
- Compare the differences between a “simple” and “complex” power transfer unit
Module V: Couplers
[Total Run Time: 1 hour, 20 minutes]
- Name the difference between a coupler and a torque biasing device
- Explain the operating differences between active and passive systems
- Articulate the function difference between speed sensing and torque sensing devices
- Discuss the many different actuation types and methods in use today
- Explain the influence on vehicle dynamics behavior of different devices and implementations
- Compare and contrast the performance of different devices in many different vehicle situations
Module VI: Noise, Vibration, and Harshness
[Total Run Time: 10 minutes]
- List the elements that cause noise, vibration, and harshness
- Analyze system ratio and its effect on overall design considerations
- Predict chassis interaction to all-wheel drive system implementation
Module VII: Emerging Technologies
[Total Run Time: 11 minutes]
- Explain the basic function of a twin coupling approach
- List performance benefits achievable with independent wheel control
- Discuss the history and current status of torque vectoring systems
- Identify some current implementation methods of electrified all-wheel drive
Module VIII: All-Wheel Drive Interactions/New Developments
[Total Run Time: 11 minutes]
- Explain torque split ratio and its influence on vehicle behavior
- Describe the tire friction circle and its relationship to lateral and longitudinal acceleration
- Discuss the history and function of ER and MR fluids
Materials Provided
- 90 days of online single-user access (from date of purchase) to the six hour presentation
- Eight video modules (see Topics/Outline tab)
- Integrated knowledge checks to reinforce key concepts
- Course handbook (downloadable, .pdf’s)
- Online learning assessment (a passing score of 70% or higher is required))
- Follow-up to your content questions
- 0.6 CEUs*/Certificate of Achievement (upon completion of all course content and a score of 70% or higher on the learning assessment)
*SAE International is authorized by IACET to offer CEUs for this course.
