Prediction of the Normal and Tangential Friction Forces for Thick Flat Belts Using an Explicit Finite Element Code

Abstract

A necessary condition for high-fidelity dynamic simulation of belt-drives is to accurately predict the normal and tangential contact forces between the belt and the pulleys. In previous papers those contact forces were predicted using one dimensional thin beam elements and approximate Coulomb friction models. However, typically flat belts have a small thickness and the reinforcements are typically near the top surface of the belt. In this paper the effect of the belt thickness on the normal and tangential contact forces and on the average slip between the belt and the pulleys is studied using a two-pulley belt-drive. The belt rubber matrix is modeled using three-dimensional brick elements. The belt reinforcements are modeled using one dimensional truss elements at the top surface of the belt. Friction between the belt and the pulleys is modeled using an asperity-based Coulomb friction model. The pulleys are modeled as cylindrical rigid bodies. The equations of motion are integrated using a time-accurate explicit solution procedure.