The Finite Element Method in the Design Process of Spur Gears

Abstract

A computer-aided methodology that applies the Finite Element Method (FEM) to gear design is presented in this work. The analysis takes into account the real tooth profile created by the involute flank of the tooth and the trochoidal fillet at the bottom of the tooth. The method enables gears with modified addendum and with any number of teeth to be modeled, so it can be used in CAD systems that require accurate models. Finally, the design process uses finite element modeling as an analysis tool to study the behaviour of components or products before they physically exist, thereby eliminating the need to create physical prototypes and providing a clean engineering design process.