A novel non-involute gear designed based on control of relative curvature

Abstract

The flank shapes of gears greatly affect tooth durability, and the relative curvature and sliding of tooth profiles are the main influences. This paper advances a design method of tooth profiles based on control of relative curvature of engaged tooth profiles. The mathematical model of the spur gear with constant relative curvature is built through employing the proposed method. Equations of conjugate tooth profiles, the virtual rack cutter and undercut condition are formulated according to principle of plane engagement. Operating Performance of the new gear drive is evaluated by comparing with that of the involute gear drive. The results show that this new type of gear drive has the following advantages:With constant relative curvature of engaged tooth profiles, it enhances the contact strength of tooth surfaces and abates maldistribution of contact stress on tooth surfaces.It decreases the wear of tooth surfaces, especially the dedendum of the pinion due to the smaller sliding coefficient.It improves the lubrication of tooth surfaces owning to the higher minimum film thickness.