Vibro-acoustics based sound pressure minimization in a cam-follower system using micro-geometric modifications on minimizing the noise

Abstract

The systems with inherent combined rolling-sliding contacts, such as cam-followers, gearboxes, and clutches, generate undesirable noise. It affects operator well-being, environmental acoustics, and component wear during operation. The sound produced due to interaction between the cam and the follower can be reduced by micro-geometric changes, i.e., profile modification of the cam surface while maintaining the macroscopic geometry of the system. This study aims to identify an optimal profile modification to the cam, using a vibro-acoustic relationship between the contact forces, sound pressure to minimize the sound pressure. The methodology utilizes a mathematical model of a cam-follower system to estimate the contact forces for different parametric values, and an equivalent finite element model to obtain vibro-acoustic transfer functions for various profile modifications. Sound pressure is predicted for each profile based on the obtained transfer functions, and contact forces. The optimal profile is then selected based on a comparative evaluation of the predicted sound pressure levels. The outcome of this study would lead to the development of quieter systems with combined rolling-sliding contact.