Effect of structural design parameters on nonlinear dynamic characteristics of the gear transmission

The calculation of time-varying meshing stiffness caused by the alternate contacting of the gear tooth is an essential prerequisite to obtain real and effective nonlinear dynamic characteristics of the transmission system, so that the significance of which cannot be overemphasized. Accordingly, this work proposes an improved method to get meshing stiffness with taking fillet-foundation and gear rim deflection into consideration. Compared to the traditional potential energy method, the proposed method has more superior accuracy and performance, and its effectiveness has been further verified by the finite element analytical model. After that, an ideal eight degree of freedoms (DOFs) dynamic model of one stage mass-spring-damper involute spur gear, including lateral and torsional motions, is established to study the dynamic characteristics. Due to the complexity of the gear system operating conditions, we also investigate the influence of various parameters including hub bore radius, transmitting load, and rotation speed on dynamic features, especially in heavy-load and high-speed conditions. From the results, it can be concluded that these parameters will play a prominent role in the spur gear pair dynamic behaviors, providing a certain guidance for gear design.