Mechanical Simulation Corporation Introduces Updated BikeSim 1.02

ANN ARBOR, Mich. - BikeSim® 1.02, introduced recently by Mechanical Simulation Corporation, can provide accurate forecasts for motorcycle dynamic behavior with upgraded features such as a comprehensive powertrain model, more detailed rider’s riding position and refined tire characteristics.

BikeSim is vehicle dynamics software that analyzes a wide range of vehicle responses to motorcycle or scooter rider inputs such as steering, leaning, braking, shifting and throttle. The system also incorporates such environmental factors as aerodynamics, road geometry and friction for a variety of simulations. BikeSim was originally introduced in late 2005.

“This newest version of the software includes many updates, especially in the motorcycle mathematical model,” explained Yukio Watanabe, Ph.D., senior development and consulting engineer with Mechanical Simulation. “The new BikeSim 1.02 involves a comprehensive powertrain model that was originally developed and established over many years for CarSim®. But we rearranged it specifically for motorcycles.

“The big difference between powertrains for the motorcycle and car is the chain drive system,” Dr. Watanabe said. “Professor Robin Sharp of Imperial College in London assisted with modeling of the chain drive system. The BikeSim powertrain model accurately calculates the geometry among the drive sprockets, chain and swing arm, and calculates in detail the chain forces, which pull-up or pull-down the swing arm when the rider applies the throttle.

“We also newly defined the rider’s position in BikeSim 1.02 to allow users to set more detailed riding positions, such as ‘hang-on,’ which the racing riders normally do,” Dr. Watanabe said. “These new features will further assist design engineers by providing an accurate and repeatable alternative to track testing in motorcycle design.” Other improvements are in the tire model and documentation.

As is standard with other Mechanical Simulation products, BikeSim runs on Windows® desktop and laptop PCs, and can also run with MATLAB/Simulink (by providing an S-Function model for importing/exporting key variables). Its easy-to-use graphical user interface (GUI) allows engineers to spend more time making test runs and analyzing results than learning the software. The extensive database minimizes set up time. Output plots and animations can be easily inserted into reports and PowerPoint® presentations. BikeSim is also available in real-time systems to test HIL or SIL for ECU development.

Mechanical Simulation Corporation is a technology leader in the development and distribution of advanced software used throughout the automotive industry to simulate vehicle performance under a wide variety of conditions. Established in 1996, its Ann Arbor, Mich., headquarters provides car, truck and motorcycle simulation packages, training and ongoing support to more than 20 OEMs, over 30 Tier 1 suppliers and more than 60 universities and government research groups worldwide. For more information, visit www.carsim.com.