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Chassis dynamometer

A chassis dynamometer, commonly referred to as a "chassis dyno," is a specialized testing apparatus that measures a vehicle's drivetrain performance by allowing its wheels to rotate on fixed rollers while simulating real-world road loads in a controlled indoor environment.^[1] This device replicates driving conditions such as acceleration, deceleration, and resistance forces without requiring actual on-road travel, enabling precise evaluation of power output, torque, emissions, and fuel efficiency.^[2] Chassis dynamometers have a history dating back to the early 20th century, when initial versions emerged to assess vehicle power under controlled conditions, evolving from basic mechanical setups to advanced systems incorporating hydraulic, eddy current, and modern AC motor technologies for greater accuracy and versatility.^[3] Today, they are essential tools in automotive engineering for applications including regulatory emissions compliance testing, such as those mandated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), where they simulate standardized drive cycles like the Federal Test Procedure (FTP).^[4] Beyond emissions, these dynamometers facilitate performance tuning, noise-vibration-harshness (NVH) analysis, hybrid and electric vehicle validation, and drivability assessments, often using coastdown techniques to model road load forces including rolling resistance, aerodynamic drag, and gravitational effects.^[1]^[2] Technically, a chassis dynamometer consists of large-diameter rollers (typically at least 120 cm in diameter for regulatory compliance), load-absorbing mechanisms, and sensors that measure variables like wheel torque, speed, and force at frequencies of at least 10 Hz, with NIST-traceable resolution to within ±0.05% of maximum load-cell force.^[5] Load simulation is governed by equations incorporating vehicle-specific coefficients for constant (A), linear (B·v), and quadratic (C·v²) road load components, plus inertia (M·a), ensuring repeatable results that closely mimic on-road dynamics despite limitations in capturing variables like tire slip or wind effects.^[5] Standards from organizations like SAE International, such as J2264, further standardize procedures for coastdown-based road load simulation, promoting consistency across testing facilities worldwide.^[2]

Overview

Definition and Purpose

A chassis dynamometer, also referred to as a rolling road or dyno, is a mechanical device equipped with fixed rollers or hubs that enable a vehicle to simulate driving while stationary, allowing sensors to capture data on torque, speed, and power output directly at the wheels.^[1]^[3] This setup measures the tractive force generated at the tire-roller interface, providing an assessment of the drivetrain's performance under controlled conditions.^[1] The primary purpose of a chassis dynamometer is to evaluate key aspects of vehicle performance, including drivetrain efficiency, fuel consumption, emissions, and component durability, all within an indoor laboratory setting that eliminates the safety hazards, environmental variability, and logistical challenges of on-road testing.^[6] It serves as a substitute for track or highway driving, enabling precise determination of power delivered through the drive tires for heavy-duty road vehicles.^[6]^[4] By simulating road loads economically and accurately, it supports regulatory compliance testing and development optimization.^[3] Key benefits include the ability to conduct highly repeatable experiments, integrate with auxiliary equipment such as exhaust gas analyzers for comprehensive emissions profiling, and replicate diverse driving scenarios without external dependencies.^[3] These features make it indispensable for automotive research and quality assurance, facilitating high-volume testing—such as accumulating up to 500,000 kilometers annually in endurance evaluations.^[3] At its core, chassis dynamometer testing relies on fundamental concepts of torque and power: torque represents the rotational force produced by the engine and transmitted through the drivetrain, while power is the rate at which work is performed, derived from torque multiplied by angular speed.^[7]^[1] These measurements provide a direct gauge of how effectively the vehicle's propulsion system converts energy into motion.^[7]

Historical Development

The concept of the dynamometer originated in the 18th century, with Edme Régnier developing an early device in 1798 to measure the pulling force of horses, laying the groundwork for mechanical power measurement tools.^[8] Chassis dynamometers, specifically designed for whole-vehicle testing, emerged in the early 20th century as automotive engineering advanced, enabling evaluation of drivetrain performance and efficiency without on-road trials.^[9] These initial systems relied on heavy rollers to simulate road inertia, providing approximate power assessments for emerging automobile manufacturers during the 1910s and 1920s.^[9] Significant advancements occurred in the mid-20th century, particularly during World War II, when roller-based chassis dynamometers were adapted for military vehicle evaluation to ensure reliability under simulated combat conditions, such as with Clayton models produced around 1945.^[10] In the 1970s, innovations focused on absorber technologies; John Petelinsek founded Power Test, Inc. in 1976 and improved the water brake dynamometer with a simpler, deeper pocket design for enhanced durability and absorption in chassis applications.^[11] The 1980s marked a shift with the introduction of eddy current absorbers, as Mustang Advanced Engineering launched its first eddy current power absorber unit-based chassis dynamometer in 1986, offering faster response times over complex water brake systems and supporting growing inspection programs.^[12] Concurrently, Dynojet developed its rolling-road chassis dynamometer in the late 1970s and refined it through the 1980s for motorcycle and automotive tuning, including inertial models calibrated against production vehicles like the 1985 Yamaha VMax.^[13] The 1990s saw integration of computer controls, driven by U.S. Clean Air Act amendments that mandated emissions testing via inspection and maintenance programs, with companies like Mustang supplying over 450 dynamometers for state compliance by 1994 and pioneering PC-based graphical interfaces for precise operation.^[12] This evolution transitioned from basic inertia-based systems—limited by fixed mass and repeatability—to absorption types like eddy current and hydraulic for controlled load simulation, and later motoring configurations that could actively drive the vehicle.^[14] Post-2000 developments addressed hybrid and electric vehicles, with hybrid AC/eddy current chassis dynamometers enabling efficient calibration of electrified powertrains under simulated road loads.^[15] In the 2020s, further advancements have included integration with digital twin technology for virtual simulations, upgrades for testing autonomous and next-generation electric vehicles, and adaptations to meet evolving global emissions regulations, supporting market growth projected at around 5% CAGR through 2034.^[16]^[17]

Types

Roller Dynamometers

Roller dynamometers represent the most prevalent configuration for chassis dynamometers, enabling full-vehicle testing by simulating road conditions through direct tire contact with rotating rollers while the vehicle remains stationary.^[8] These systems typically feature one or more pairs of cylindrical rollers, with diameters commonly ranging from 8 to 20 inches for light-duty automotive applications, though larger variants up to 50 inches exist for heavy-duty testing.^[18] Available in single-axle setups for two-wheel-drive (2WD) vehicles or all-wheel-drive (AWD) configurations that accommodate four-wheel-drive systems, they allow the vehicle's wheels to rotate freely against the rollers to measure performance metrics.^[18]^[3] Key components include the rollers themselves, constructed from durable steel with knurled surfaces for enhanced grip and traction, or occasionally polyurethane-coated for reduced wear and improved contact in specialized setups.^[19] Power absorption is achieved via integrated absorbers such as water brake units, which use hydraulic resistance for high-torque applications, or eddy current absorbers that generate electromagnetic drag for precise, responsive loading.^[8] Safety features are integral, encompassing interlocking barriers to prevent accidental vehicle movement, protective grids over rollers to contain debris, and high-volume ventilation systems with blowers to manage heat, exhaust emissions, and airborne particulates during operation.^[3]^[18] Operationally, roller dynamometers quantify forces and torques at the tire-roller interface, capturing wheel-speed data that reflects drivetrain output under controlled conditions.^[8] They are versatile for testing cars, trucks, and motorcycles, with particular popularity in aftermarket tuning shops owing to their straightforward installation and ability to perform quick diagnostics without drivetrain disassembly. Modern iterations leverage AC motoring technology for exact speed and load control, supporting power outputs exceeding 2,000 horsepower in high-performance scenarios.^[3]^[18]

Hub Dynamometers

Hub dynamometers represent a direct measurement approach in chassis testing, where the vehicle's wheels are removed and the axles are attached to precision-engineered hubs equipped with torque sensors. This design simulates road conditions by applying load directly to the drivetrain, bypassing the wheels and tires to eliminate variables such as slip or deformation. The setup typically requires lifting the vehicle onto a stable platform, with adapters bolted to the wheel flanges or hubs for secure connection.^[20]^[21]^[22] Key components include high-precision hubs integrated with load cells for torque measurement, encoders for speed and position tracking, and low-friction bearings to minimize mechanical losses. Additional elements often comprise in-line shaft sensors for torque and speed, along with automated control systems like DynoLAB™ for test sequencing and data acquisition. These systems support configurations for front-, rear-, or all-wheel-drive vehicles, with no need for a dyno pit, only a smooth floor surface.^[21]^[22]^[23] Operationally, hub dynamometers provide superior accuracy by removing tire-related variables, achieving frictional losses as low as 5 kW at low speeds (10 kph) and 50 kW at high speeds (200 kph), compared to higher losses in indirect methods. This direct attachment enables measurement accuracies of at least 0.05% full scale, closely approximating true drivetrain output— for instance, capturing 450 kW from a 500 kW engine versus lower readings from tire-contact systems. They excel in high-performance and electric vehicle testing due to their ability to handle axle speeds up to 6,000 rpm (over 500 mph) and support unattended automated runs without restraints or tire failure risks. Less common in general repair shops owing to the setup complexity involving wheel removal and lifting, they have gained popularity in OEM research and development, as well as facilities for race teams.^[20]^[21]^[23]^[24]

Operating Principles

Basic Modes of Operation

Chassis dynamometers operate in several basic modes to evaluate vehicle performance under controlled conditions. The primary modes include steady-state and transient testing, each designed to capture specific aspects of vehicle behavior while ensuring safety and repeatability. These modes rely on precise vehicle setup and simulation techniques to replicate on-road dynamics without external variables. In steady-state mode, the vehicle maintains a constant speed or throttle position while a controlled load is applied to the dynamometer rollers or hubs. This mode is used to generate baseline power curves and efficiency maps by holding the engine at fixed operating points, allowing for stable data collection on performance parameters. Typically, each steady-state point lasts 10-30 seconds to achieve thermal equilibrium and accurate readings.^[25]^[1] Transient mode, in contrast, simulates real-world driving conditions through rapid changes in speed and load, following predefined acceleration and deceleration profiles. This approach captures dynamic responses such as turbocharger lag, gear shifts, and transient fuel consumption, which are critical for emissions and drivability assessments. Common protocols include wide-open throttle (WOT) pulls, where the vehicle accelerates from a low RPM to redline in a single run, providing comprehensive data on power delivery across the operating range.^[26]^[1] Prior to testing in either mode, the vehicle undergoes a standardized setup process to ensure alignment and safety. This involves positioning the drive wheels centered on the dynamometer rollers or hubs, securing the vehicle with approved restraints such as straps or chains to prevent forward movement, and initializing the control software to calibrate parameters like vehicle mass and test profiles. Safety restraints are essential to counter the forces generated during acceleration, particularly in high-power tests.^[27]^[28] Key concepts in these modes include inertia simulation, which mimics the vehicle's mass to replicate realistic acceleration feel. This can be achieved using physical flywheels attached to the dynamometer or advanced software algorithms that dynamically adjust load based on calculated inertial effects, eliminating the need for additional hardware in modern systems. Additionally, ramp time settings control the rate of speed increase during pulls, with a minimum of 15 seconds recommended to ensure safe and controlled acceleration, preventing excessive stress on components. Outputs from these modes, such as torque, inform subsequent power calculations.^[29]^[30]

Measured Variables

Chassis dynamometers capture several primary physical quantities at the vehicle-wheel interface to evaluate performance under simulated conditions. The core measured variables include wheel torque, rotational speed of the rollers or hubs, and vehicle speed derived from wheel rotation. Wheel torque is typically detected using strain gauges integrated into the roller assemblies or hub structures, which deform under load and convert mechanical strain into electrical signals for precise quantification.^[31]^[32] Rotational speed, expressed in revolutions per minute (RPM), is measured via encoders—either optical or magnetic types—that track angular position and velocity with high resolution.^[33] Vehicle speed is then calculated directly from the rotational speed and the fixed geometry of the dynamometer's rollers or hubs, providing a direct correlation to on-road conditions.^[34] Secondary variables extend the analysis to broader vehicle behavior and efficiency metrics. Acceleration is derived from temporal changes in rotational speed, enabling assessment of dynamic response during transient operations. Fuel consumption is quantified through integrated flow meters that monitor fuel delivery rates in real time, often in conjunction with emissions testing protocols. Temperatures, such as those in the catalytic converter or exhaust system, are monitored using thermocouples placed at key points to ensure operational integrity under load.^[35]^[36] Sensor specifications emphasize precision for reliable data. Torque transducers, based on strain gauge technology, achieve high accuracies, typically with linearity errors ≤1% of maximum torque to meet regulatory requirements, minimizing measurement errors in high-load scenarios.^[37] Encoders provide angular resolution down to 1.25 arcseconds, supporting accurate speed tracking even at varying velocities.^[32] Data acquisition systems sample these variables at rates of at least 10 Hz as required for regulatory compliance, with higher rates used for detailed transient analysis to capture rapid changes without aliasing.^[5] A key distinction in these measurements is that they reflect power at the wheels rather than at the engine crankshaft, inherently incorporating drivetrain losses estimated at 15-20% due to friction in transmissions, differentials, and other components. This wheel-centric approach provides a realistic indicator of propulsion efficiency delivered to the road surface.^[38]

Power Measurement

Calculation Methods

The power output on a chassis dynamometer is fundamentally calculated as P = T \times [\omega](/page/Angular_velocity), where P is the power, T is the torque at the rollers, and \omega is the angular velocity. The angular velocity is obtained from the roller rotational speed in revolutions per minute (RPM) using \omega = \frac{2\pi \times \text{RPM}}{60} radians per second, with power commonly expressed in kilowatts (kW) or horsepower (hp), where 1 hp = 0.7457 kW. This equation derives directly from the mechanical work principle, applied to the dynamometer's roller measurements during steady-state or transient operations. To derive engine power from the measured wheel power, adjustments account for drivetrain losses, using P_\text{engine} = \frac{P_\text{wheel}}{\eta}, where \eta represents the overall drivetrain efficiency. Typical values for \eta range from 0.80 to 0.90, varying by vehicle type, gear selection, and condition. These corrections ensure comparability with engine dynamometer results or manufacturer ratings.^[39] In acceleration tests, inertia compensation simulates the vehicle's inertial load by setting the dynamometer's effective mass to match the total system inertia. The effective mass is given by m_\text{eff} = m_\text{vehicle} + m_\text{dyno}, where m_\text{dyno} is the equivalent mass from the rollers and flywheels; the tractive force is then F = m_\text{eff} \times a, with acceleration a derived from speed changes over time, and torque computed as T = F \times r, where r is the effective wheel or roller radius. This approach allows accurate replication of on-road acceleration dynamics.^[40] Specific methods enhance calculation reliability, such as the coast-down technique for determining road load coefficients. During coast-down, vehicle deceleration data is fitted to the equation F = A + B v + C v^2, where F is the total road load force, v is vehicle speed, A represents constant rolling resistance, B accounts for speed-proportional mechanical effects, and C captures aerodynamic drag; coefficients are solved via least-squares regression from multiple runs to minimize noise. Averaging results across several coast-down trials reduces variability from environmental factors or tire conditions.^[41] For transient power assessment, software algorithms integrate instantaneous power values over the test cycle, summing P(t) \Delta t to yield total energy or average power while compensating for speed fluctuations.

Accuracy Considerations

Accuracy in chassis dynamometers is influenced by several error sources that can deviate measured power from true values. Tire slip in roller dynamometers, arising from tire deformation under load, can introduce errors up to 10% in force transmission, thereby affecting torque and power calculations derived from roller speed and acceleration. Windage and drag from the test setup, including aerodynamic effects and mechanical resistances, contribute additional losses that must be minimized to avoid overestimation of road load. Temperature variations impact sensor accuracy, such as in load cells and speed encoders, leading to thermal drift in torque readings. Drivetrain flex generates torque pulsations, causing oscillations in measurements that software filtering must address to maintain precision.^[22]^[42]^[43]^[44] Calibration techniques are critical for mitigating these errors and ensuring reliable data. Regular torque verification uses standards like calibrated load cells with known weights to check dynamometer response, typically performed every six months for traceability to national metrology institutes such as NIST. Compliance with ISO 9001 ensures calibration processes maintain documented traceability and quality control. Software-based corrections compensate for baseline noise, environmental drifts, and inertial offsets, enhancing overall measurement stability.^[45]^[4]^[46] Hub dynamometers offer superior precision compared to roller dynamometers due to direct force application without tire interfaces. These specifications apply to full-scale force measurements, where hub systems achieve 0.05% full-scale accuracy compared to 0.1% for rollers. Humidity affects roller grip by altering tire-roller friction, potentially increasing slip and errors in high-moisture environments.^[22] To verify reliability, repeatability testing involves back-to-back runs under identical conditions, targeting variance below 1% to confirm system consistency. The SAE J1349 standard corrects power data to reference conditions of 25°C, 99 kPa dry air pressure (equivalent to sea level), and 0% humidity, enabling comparable results across varying test environments; this adjustment influences power equations by normalizing for air density effects.^[47]^[43]

Road Load Simulation

Core Principles

The core principles of road load simulation on a chassis dynamometer center on replicating the physical forces encountered during on-road driving to create realistic testing environments for vehicle performance, emissions, and fuel economy evaluation. The total road load force, F_{\text{road}}, comprises several key components: rolling resistance, which opposes motion due to tire-road interaction and is expressed as C_{rr} \times m \times g (where C_{rr} is the rolling resistance coefficient, m is vehicle mass, and g is gravitational acceleration); aerodynamic drag, resulting from air resistance and given by $0.5 \times \rho \times C_d \times A \times v^2 (where \rho is air density, C_d is the drag coefficient, A is frontal area, and v is vehicle speed); and inertial/grade forces, accounting for acceleration and road incline as m \times a + m \times g \times \sin \theta (where a is linear acceleration and \theta is the grade angle).^[41] These components are determined using vehicle-specific coefficients derived from coastdown tests, in which the vehicle is accelerated to a high speed (typically around 115 km/h) and then allowed to decelerate freely on a level, straight test track with the transmission in neutral and brakes disengaged; the resulting speed-time data are analyzed to fit a force-velocity curve that isolates and quantifies each road load element, ensuring the simulation matches real-world power demands. The simulation goal is to apply an equivalent load on the dynamometer that mirrors the on-road power required to overcome these forces, allowing the vehicle to experience comparable resistance and enabling precise replication of driving conditions without actual road travel. Central to this is the principle of equivalence, where the dynamometer applies a torque T_{\text{dyno}} = F_{\text{road}} \times r_{\text{wheel}} (with r_{\text{wheel}} as the effective wheel radius) to produce the same rotational resistance at the wheels as the road forces would, thereby making the vehicle "feel" authentic opposition to motion. This equivalence supports both steady-state load curves, which maintain constant speeds to evaluate efficiency under fixed conditions, and dynamic profiles that incorporate speed transients for simulating acceleration, deceleration, and varying loads. Accurate transient response further requires matching the vehicle's rotational inertia on the dynamometer to its actual mass, as mismatches can distort acceleration behavior and power delivery assessments.

Implementation Techniques

Chassis dynamometers employ various absorber types to replicate road load forces during testing. Eddy current absorbers, which generate variable load proportional to the square of the roller speed through electromagnetic induction, are commonly used for their simplicity and ability to handle high-power applications, such as simulating loads up to 600 horsepower per absorber in heavy-duty vehicle tests.^[48]^[49] AC electric motors serve as advanced absorbers, enabling both absorption and motoring modes to add power for precise load control, with capabilities extending to high vehicle speeds in modern systems.^[50]^[51] Control systems in these dynamometers rely on real-time software algorithms, such as proportional-integral-derivative (PID) loops, to dynamically adjust absorber torque and maintain adherence to predefined speed profiles derived from regulatory standards like the Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP) or the Federal Test Procedure-75 (FTP-75).^[40]^[52] These systems integrate sensors for continuous feedback on vehicle speed and torque, ensuring load simulation matches transient driving conditions in controlled environments.^[53] Key implementation techniques include pre-loading the dynamometer with selectable inertia masses via flywheels to mimic the vehicle's effective mass, typically ranging from 1,000 to 3,500 kg, thereby accurately replicating acceleration and deceleration dynamics.^[1] Fan systems, synchronized to roller speed, replicate aerodynamic drag by directing airflow over the vehicle, often within climatic chambers to account for environmental variables.^[54] For all-wheel-drive (AWD) vehicles, four-wheel independent control allows individual roller pairs to operate autonomously, preventing torque bind and enabling simulation of differential behaviors during traction events.^[34] Modern chassis dynamometers incorporate GPS-derived real-road data to generate custom drive profiles, capturing actual route-specific speed, elevation, and traffic variations for more representative simulations beyond standardized cycles.^[55] Additionally, integration with wind tunnel facilities validates aerodynamic coefficients (C_d) by correlating on-dyno drag measurements with tunnel-derived airflow data for refined load modeling.^[53] Recent advancements as of 2025 include updated standards like SAE J2264 (revised 2023) for improved coastdown-based simulations and integration with digital twin technology for enhanced predictive modeling.^[2]^[56]

Applications

Automotive Testing

Chassis dynamometers play a central role in automotive research and development (R&D) by enabling precise evaluation of vehicle systems under simulated driving conditions. In drivetrain tuning, these devices allow engineers to measure and optimize power delivery from the engine through the transmission to the wheels, ensuring efficient torque distribution across various speeds. For instance, gear shift optimization uses chassis dyno testing to refine transmission shift points, improving fuel economy by 4-5% while maintaining performance margins, as demonstrated in controlled dyno runs.^[57] Hybrid system calibration benefits similarly, where dynos facilitate mapping of torque curves to program the engine control unit (ECU), integrating electric and internal combustion components for seamless power blending during acceleration and regenerative braking. Durability testing on chassis dynamometers simulates extensive real-world usage to evaluate long-term component reliability without the variability of on-road trials. These setups replicate high-mileage conditions, such as accumulating equivalents of 100,000 km or more, by applying controlled loads that mimic road resistance and accelerate wear on elements like transmissions, suspensions, and drivelines. For example, systems capable of sustaining 24/7 operation at speeds up to 250 km/h and axle weights exceeding 12,000 lbs enable rapid assessment of material fatigue and failure modes in a repeatable environment. Performance validation leverages chassis dynamometers to quantify key vehicle attributes, providing data for refinement before production. Brake testing involves simulating repeated stops under varied loads to measure stopping distances, fade resistance, and modulation, often in specialized setups that control environmental factors like temperature. Acceleration metrics, such as 0-60 mph times, are derived from dyno-recorded wheel speeds and torque during controlled pulls, offering insights into overall drivability. Concurrently, noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) analysis during dyno runs captures acoustic and tactile feedback, evaluating comfort levels across speed ranges up to 250 kph for passenger cars and light trucks. Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) integrate chassis dynamometers into prototype evaluation workflows to validate designs early in the development cycle. Ford employs advanced all-wheel-drive NVH chassis dynamometers in its engineering centers for comprehensive testing of powertrains and chassis dynamics in prototypes.^[58] Similarly, General Motors utilizes chassis dynamometers for brake testing to simulate extreme conditions, ensuring component robustness in production vehicles.^[59] In the aftermarket sector, chassis dynos support custom tuning for performance upgrades, such as ECU remapping to boost horsepower by 20-50% on modified engines, allowing tuners to verify gains in wheel torque without track access.

Emissions and Compliance

Chassis dynamometers play a critical role in emissions testing by simulating real-world driving conditions for whole-vehicle certification, which captures interactions between the engine, drivetrain, and exhaust aftertreatment systems that engine dynamometers cannot replicate.^[60]^[61] Unlike engine dynamometers, which test isolated powertrains, chassis dynamometers are essential for regulatory compliance because they evaluate emissions from the complete vehicle under load, ensuring accurate representation of tailpipe outputs during certification.^[62]^[1] Standardized testing protocols, such as the U.S. EPA's Federal Test Procedure (FTP-75), utilize chassis dynamometers to simulate urban driving through the Urban Dynamometer Driving Schedule (UDDS), measuring pollutants like carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx), hydrocarbons (HC), and particulate matter (PM).^[52]^[63] In Europe, the Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP), which replaced the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC), employs chassis dynamometer runs with dynamic speed profiles to assess emissions and fuel consumption under varied conditions, including low-speed urban, medium-speed suburban, high-speed rural, and motorway phases.^[64]^[65] These cycles integrate constant volume sampling (CVS) systems to dilute and collect exhaust samples proportionally to vehicle speed, enabling precise quantification of pollutant mass emissions.^[66]^[67] The setup typically couples the chassis dynamometer with exhaust gas analyzers for gaseous pollutants, condensation particle counters for PM, and fuel metering devices to correlate emissions with consumption, ultimately reporting results in grams per mile or kilometer for compliance verification.^[68]^[69] This integration ensures comprehensive data collection, where CVS dilutes the exhaust to maintain constant flow, preventing condensation and allowing analyzers to measure concentrations of CO, NOx, HC, and PM accurately.^[70]^[71] Regulatory mandates for chassis dynamometer testing emerged in the 1970s under the U.S. Clean Air Act, with the EPA requiring it for emissions certification and fuel economy under the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards to reduce urban air pollution.^[72]^[1] For electric vehicles (EVs), protocols adapt to measure energy consumption rather than exhaust emissions, using similar dynamometer cycles to quantify battery discharge in watt-hours per mile, supporting efficiency labeling and range certification.^[73]^[74] Post-2020, shifts toward real-driving emissions (RDE) regulations in the EU incorporate chassis dynamometer data for validating portable emissions measurement systems (PEMS) used in on-road testing, ensuring lab results align with real-world conditions through confirmatory dyno simulations.^[75]^[76] This hybrid approach refines type approval by cross-referencing dyno-measured emissions against RDE conformity factors for NOx and PM.^[77]^[78]

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Apr 14, 2015 · The benchmarking study described in this paper uses data from chassis dynamometer testing to determine the efficiency and operation of vehicle ...
[35]
[PDF] Performance Chassis Dynamometers
Accurately determine exhaust gas mixture over a wide range of engine conditions with this air/fuel ratio oxygen sensors. Integrates controller/data acquisition.
[36]
How Does a Torque Transducer Actually Work? - HBK
Torque transducers use strain gauges that deform under torsion, measuring the change in electrical resistance. They use contactless data transfer for rotating ...A Brief Trip Through Strain... · Two Typical Torque Sensor... · Torque Measurement FlangeMissing: chassis encoders<|separator|>
[37]
Dyno Duel: Engine vs. Chassis Dynos & What You Should Know
May 11, 2012 · And since there are standard factors for engine power losses through the drivetrain (15-17 percent for manual transmissions and 20-25 percent ...
[38]
https://www.onallcylinders.com/2012/05/11/dyno-duel-engine-vs-chassis-dynos-what-you-should-know/
[39]
Drivetrain Power Loss - The 15% "Rule" - MotorTrend
Mar 9, 2020 · Within the transmission, as much as 30 to 40 percent of power loss can be attributed to the pump, with the clutch contributing another 20 to 25 ...
[40]
Automotive transmission efficiency measurement using a chassis ...
Jul 7, 2011 · A simple model was developed for calculating the overall transmission efficiency of passenger cars by using a chassis dynamometer.Missing: typical | Show results with:typical
[41]
[PDF] Chassis Dynamometer Software, Inertia Determination and ...
This thesis includes a description of the dynamometer, and of the recalibration and software work that has been carried out to enable computer-controlled ...
[42]
[PDF] Using Transmission Data to Isolate Individual Losses in Coastdown ...
Apr 14, 2020 · Transmission data from coastdown tests, measured as a function of speed, is used to determine the proportion of full vehicle coastdown losses ...
[43]
Dynamometer Quality Control Calibration and Characteristics
Basically they found that frictional torque follows a first order function with an intercept value of .7 to 1.3 at 0 speed and values of 2.5 to 7.5 at 50 miles ...
[44]
Dynamometers: accuracy and repeatability - High Power Media
Nov 8, 2012 · If the drivetrain is already installed in a vehicle, removing the wheels from the equation increases the accuracy, as factors such as tyre ...
[45]
Chassis Dynamometer Torque Control: A Robust Control Methodology
Aug 6, 2025 · A common significant problem with feedback control in the conventional transient chassis dynamometer is due to resonances arising from the ...Missing: pulsations | Show results with:pulsations
[46]
How to Calibrate Torque on a Chassis Dynamometer
Aug 26, 2020 · Calibration is a simple process taking only 10-15 minutes, and ensures quality, repeatable testing results from your chassis dynamometer.Missing: standards ISO
[47]
ISO 9001 Clause 7.1.5.2 Measurement Traceability
Jul 14, 2023 · This is normally a tag on the equipment with either the date of calibration/testing or the due date for calibration/testing or even both.Missing: chassis dynamometer
[48]
https://www.mustangae.com/products/dynamometers-and-test-stands/chassis-dynamometers/7500-series-eddy-current-chassis-dynamometers/
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The Data And Accuracy Implications Of Different Dynamometer ...
May 8, 2018 · “An inertia-eddy or pure-eddy dyno allows the tuner to drive the vehicle on the dyno in more ranges than available with an inertia-only dyno,” ...Missing: evolution absorption motoring
[50]
7500 Series Eddy Current Chassis Dynamometers
Each absorber, or brake, can hold up to 600-hp (total power of 1,800-hp) – more than enough to simulate a fully loaded transit bus. As the systems PAUs (brakes) ...
[51]
[PDF] EC-Series Chassis Dynamometers
EC-Series dynamometers feature air-cooled eddy current absorbers, a heavy-duty steel frame, PowerNet CD system, and a rigid, welded, corrosion-resistant frame.
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AC Dynamometers - Power Test, LLC
AC dynamometers (dynos) deliver precise, consistent performance under demanding test conditions, making them ideal for a wide range of applications.
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DYNAS3 - AC Dynamometer - HORIBA
DYNAS3 dynamometers are specially designed for use in engine test stands. The combination of the powerful DYNAS AC machine with a variable frequency drive.
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Dynamometer Drive Schedules | US EPA
Jul 3, 2025 · This page provides the chassis dynamometer driving schedules and shift schedules used by EPA for vehicle emissions and fuel economy testing.Missing: PID control systems
[55]
https://docs.nrel.gov/docs/fy13osti/53865.pdf
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Definition of wind blowers for vehicles testing at chassis-dyno ...
This work provides some guidelines for the definition of the airflow supply system of chassis-dyno facilities for vehicle optimization tests.
[57]
[PDF] GPS Data Filtration Method for Drive Cycle Analysis Applications
Apr 16, 2012 · Global Positioning System (GPS) data acquisition devices have proven useful tools for gathering real-world driving data and statistics.
[58]
Technical Capabilities of the National Vehicle and Fuel Emissions ...
Dec 4, 2024 · Cars and light trucks are tested on a chassis dynamometer, under tightly-controlled conditions that simulate the operation of a vehicle on the ...
[59]
Comparison of Emissions Measurement Methods based on Chassis ...
Apr 6, 2021 · Engine and vehicle tailpipe emissions can be measured in laboratories equipped with engine dynamometers and chassis dynamometers, respectively.<|control11|><|separator|>
[60]
Emission Test Cycles - DieselNet
Descriptions and torque-speed-time data points for engine (dynamometer) and vehicle (chassis) test cycles from the US, EU, Japan and ISO.
[61]
FTP-75 - Emission Test Cycles - DieselNet
The FTP-75 is used for emission testing of light-duty vehicles, derived from FTP-72, and includes cold start, stabilized, hot soak, and hot start phases.Missing: PID control systems chassis profiles
[62]
Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Cycle (WLTC) - DieselNet
WLTC are chassis dynamometer tests for determining emissions and fuel consumption from light-duty vehicles, developed by UN ECE GRPE.Missing: protocol | Show results with:protocol
[63]
Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP)
The WLTP is a chassis dynamometer test cycle for determining emissions and fuel consumption from light-duty vehicles, replacing the European NEDC procedure.Missing: protocol | Show results with:protocol
[64]
ECE 15 + EUDC / NEDC - Emission Test Cycles - DieselNet
Emissions are sampled during the cycle according to the constant volume sampling (CVS) technique, analyzed, and expressed in g/km for each of the pollutants.
[65]
40 CFR Part 1066 -- Vehicle-Testing Procedures - eCFR
This part describes the emission measurement procedures that apply to testing we require for the following vehicles.40 CFR 1066.425 · 40 CFR 1066.801 · 1066.401 – 1066.425 · 1066.701 – 1066.710
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Measurement of Emissions - DieselNet
The task of the exhaust gas sampling system is to provide a sample of gas from the vehicle tailpipe or from the engine exhaust manifold to the analyzers.
[67]
Heavy-Duty Chassis Testing - HORIBA
HORIBA has been at the forefront of heavy-duty emission measurement with accurate and reliable solutions, and a wealth of expertise.
[68]
CVS-ONE Constant Volume Sampler - HORIBA
The CVS-ONE is a constant volume sampler for measuring diluted emissions from vehicles and engines, using an integrated operating platform.
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AVL SlimLine™ Dilution Systems
The AVL SlimLine™ features the AVL AMA SL™ diluted exhaust emission measurement system, the AVL CVS SL™ dilution system for constant volume sampling and the AVL ...
[70]
[PDF] Emissions Certification Procedures - Alternative Fuels Data Center
The exhaust emissions test procedures follow the EPA FTP 75, which uses the ... Exhaust emissions testing of MDVs is performed on a chassis dynamometer.<|control11|><|separator|>
[71]
Testing of an Electric Vehicle on a Clayton Water-Brake Chassis ...
Two different test procedures were used to determine energy consumption. The first test procedure followed the newly developed SAE Recommended Practice J1634 ...
[72]
[PDF] Energy consumption test methods for heavy-duty ... - UNECE
May 23, 2024 · Test methods. Basic vehicles should use chassis dynamometer method;. Variant vehicles should have the option to use chassis dynamometer method ...
[73]
[PDF] Real Driving Emissions (RDE): 2020 assessment of Portable ...
This section evaluates the EFM performance through validation tests that were received from 10 labs (40 tests) plus the JRC validations (12 tests). The non-JRC ...
[74]
[PDF] Real-driving emissions test procedure for exhaust gas pollutant ...
The legislation recommends performing a validation test using the chassis dynamometer to make sure the PEMS functions correctly. » The implementing ...
[75]
Cars and Light Trucks: RDE Testing - Emission Standards - DieselNet
The Real Driving Emissions (RDE) test is intended to quantify light-duty vehicle emissions using portable emissions measurement systems (PEMS)
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RDE Plus - A Road to Rig Development Methodology for Complete ...
Apr 13, 2020 · In this paper, the methodologies required for replicating real RDE road tests on a chassis dynamometer are discussed in depth. These include ...Missing: validation post-