Study on a novel backlash-adjustable worm drive via the involute helical beveloid gear meshing with dual-lead involute cylindrical worm

Abstract

This paper focuses on a novel backlash-adjustable worm drive, and it is composed of a dual-lead involute cylindrical (DIC) worm and an involute helical beveloid (IHB) gear. It is characterized by the low error sensitivity, easy to manufacture and with the backlash-adjustable. The design criteria for the novel worm drive are presented based on a variable-lead and variable-thickness media rack. Then the mathematical model and meshing performance analysis model are deduced and established, and the theory of backlash-adjustable is proposed. The tooth contact analysis (TCA) is conducted by the numerical calculation and stress analysis. Moreover, the experimental gearbox is manufactured, and the contact tests and transmission accuracy tests are completed. These results indicate that the novel worm drive can effectively adjust backlash without affecting the transmission accuracy. This theoretical research provides the theoretical support for further analysis and application of the novel backlash-adjustable worm drive.