Session: PTG-02-02: Gear Analysis, Materials, and Fatigue 2

Paper Number: 118236

118236 - A Three-Dimensional Quasi-Static Model of a Helical Gear Pair 

Failure of any gear of the power transmission system due to tooth breakage or contact surface degradation (pitting, wear, or scuffing) means the failure of the overall system, say an aircraft or a ground vehicle. Even if the gears are able to withstand torques applied, they might still be deemed unacceptable if they generate excessive vibratory excitations to cause transmission vibration and noise problems. Solution to these real-life gear problems often requires a multidisciplinary approach. The core components that must be investigated are (i) the contact mechanics and load distribution along the interfaces of a gear pair supported flexibly, (ii) the dynamic behavior of the system, and (iii) the manufacturing processes employed to fabricate the gears, responsible for introducing various errors and imperfections. However, before including dynamic behavior, it is prudent to first develop a baseline quasi-static model that links the remaining two core components, namely contact mechanics and the manufacturing processes responsible for introducing errors.

 

In reality, the deflections of a helical gear pair under realistic support (shaft and bearings) conditions are three-dimensional. This would require a load distribution computation, which includes with all 12 DOF. If those DOFs were to be strictly included, this would require one to determine the actual locations where contacts occur instead of assuming theoretical contact lines. Currently, this is only possible with the second category of models, which are fully computational, deformable-body contact models relying on finite elements (e.g. Ref. [3.9, 3.10]). These models are difficult to develop and are very demanding computationally so that they cannot be used for dynamics simulations or design optimization studies.

Presenting Author: David Talbot The Ohio State University

Presenting Author Biography: David Talbot is an assistant professor in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at The Ohio State University. His research focuses on multi-disciplinary power transmission problems within the aerospace, transportation, wind energy, and industrial gear box industries. His specific research investigations include load distribution modeling of power transmission components, gear, bearing and power transmission system efficiency modeling and measurement, gear dynamics and vibrations, gear manufacturing process simulation, and failure modes of power transmission components. Dr. Talbot is an associate editor for Mechanism and Machine Theory, the chair of the ASME Power Transmission and Gearing Committee, and the chair of the upcoming ASME Power Transmission and Gearing Conference 2023 as part of ASME IDETC.

Authors:

David Talbot The Ohio State University
Michael Benatar The Ohio State University