There was a need to study drive train components (such as transmissions) in the Mechanical Engineering Automotive lab at Ohio University. The approach was to expand the capabilities of the existing chassis dynamometer into a complete drive train test system. The prototype Electric Bobcat Racecar was modified to serve as a platform for component testing by removing all non-essential parts from the chassis. Suitable mounts were designed for the motor, controller, and cooling system. A wireless telemetry strain gage system was selected to measure shaft torque at locations throughout the drive train and on the dynamometer shaft. A gantry crane was selected to safely load components into the test bed and the test bed onto the roller frame.
Validation testing confirmed that the strain gage telemetry system gave values consistent with the values recorded by the calibrated dynamometer. Differential testing confirmed the capability of single component testing. Testing of two strain gages on the same shaft confirmed the potential repeatability of strain gages to be used as torque sensors.