A finite element method for 3D static and dynamic contact/impact analysis of gear drives

In this paper, an approach for mesh generation of gear drives at any meshing position is presented and an automatic modeling program for tooth mesh analysis is developed. Based on the derivation of a flexibility matrix equation in the contact region, a finite element method for 3D contact/impact problem is proposed. Using this method, tooth load distribution and mesh stiffness results are derived under static loading during meshing process. This method is also used to simulate the gear behavior under dynamic loading conditions. The dynamic responses of the gear drives are obtained under the conditions of both the initial speed and the sudden load being applied. The influence of the backlash on impact characteristics of the meshing teeth is analyzed.