This thesis aims to develop a method to enhance the performance of auxiliary belt-drive systems in Scania engines through parameter optimisation. Existing dynamic simulation methods within Scania were used to identify critical design parameters in auxiliary belt-drive systems. The study focuses on developing an optimisation methodology to improve belt-drive layout design by analysing dynamic responses to varied input parameters such as belt pretension, number of belt ribs, and pulley positions.

The main outcome of this thesis is the establishment of a parameter optimisation methodology and its successful incorporation into HEEDS MDO together with Dymola simulations, thereby automating the post-processing to achieve an optimal belt-drive layout. Insights into minimising the angular amplitude of the tensioner, and maximising the minimum hub loads on pulleys were provided. The study highlighted the correlation between belt vibration, tensioner amplitude, and slip. The optimisation process identified the maximum shaft torque on OADs as the most violated constraint and suggested that minimising the belt flutter is redundant when constraints on tensioner amplitude and slippage are included.

Any future improvements should focus on integrating high-performance computing to reduce computational time, conducting comprehensive DOE simulations, and developing surrogate models for further optimisation. Implementing a dedicated test rig will validate the simulation results and ensure practical applicability.