3D Simulation And Finite Element Analysis Of An Involute Cylindrical Worm And Helical Gear Drive

This research is supported by the Natural Science Foundation of China (grant No. 50175112)A worm-gear drive comprising an involute cylindrical worm and helical gear is presented. In comparison to traditional involute cylindrical worm and wheel drives, it has the following advantages: easy to manufacture, low cost, high tooth accuracy and a better lubrication condition.In this research, the 3D simulation and finite element analysis of the involute cylindrical worm and helical gear drive are conducted using I-DEAS NX10 software package. The following research is carried out:The 3D models of the worm and the helical gear are established first, and then they are assembled together to form the drive model. Based on those models, the 3D simulation and finite element analysis are carried out, and their contact patterns at different tooth engagement stages are investigated. Based on the simulation and analysis, the finite element model is loaded step by step, and corresponding contact regions are analyzed.Based on the simulation and analysis results, the finite element model is loaded at all positions in tooth engagement cycle from the beginning till the end of tooth contact, and the contact region is analyzed at different positions .To eliminate the impact at the gear tooth tip, gear tooth profile modification along the tooth height has been conducted. The finite element models of the worm and the helical gear are established. 3D simulation and finite element analysis are carried out, and the contact regions are analyzed within a full tooth engagement cycle.By comparing the unmodified model with the modified model, some conclusions can be drawn.Contact regions are calculated and analyzed for different materials.