Contact problems of gears using Overhauser splines

Abstract

This paper presents a new finite element technique which provides more accurate contact stress predictions than other already established methods. A novel contact detection algorithm in the framework of the contact problem analysis with the finite element method using Overhauser splines is presented. Using this approach the contact area is approximated with Overhauser spline interpolation functions over boundary nodes, which results in ‘smooth’ and accurate geometrical descriptions that is crucial to contact stress analysis. The geometry is also completely decoupled from the finite element polynomial shape functions. A single parametric curve is used to model the contacting surface providing the C 1 boundary continuity and exact boundary condition definition. In addition, the geometrical description using splines provides the data required for actual contact area determination and exact contact size calculation. Implementation of the proposed approach in the developed finite element code is presented. Benefits and drawbacks of the proposed approach are discussed. The method is successfully used for simulation of contact problems in gears.