Mesh Characteristic Analysis of Spiral Bevel Gear Pairs Considering Assembly Errors and Tooth Tip Chipping Faults

Abstract

Due to machining errors, location inaccuracies, human error, and various other factors, it is challenging to avoid assembly errors during the production of spiral bevel gears (SBGs). When SBG assembly errors occur, it can cause the appearance of edge contact and may even lead to severe tooth tip chipping. In this study, we propose an improved method based on loaded tooth contact analysis (LTCA) to examine mesh characteristics, including time-varying mesh stiffness (TVMS), unloaded transmission error, and contact stress. Furthermore, we explore the effects of assembly errors and tooth tip chipping. Moreover, it is observed that assembly errors can alter the contact area of SBGs and potentially reduce the peak-to-peak value of TVMS. Additionally, the occurrence of tooth tip chipping decreases TVMS within the chipping region, lowers transmission error, and increases maximum contact stress. Notably, when assembly errors are present, the reduction in TVMS due to tooth tip chipping exceeds that of a properly assembled SBG pair.