AGMA 97FTM5 PDF

Recent advances in the speed and memory capacity of current computers combined with H-adaptive finite element theory permit the development of more realistic finite element gear strength models. The speed and memory improvements allow for increased numbers of elements and degrees of freedom and the addition of more detailed base regions underneath the gear teeth of the finite element model. The H-adaptive theory increases the accuracy of the finite element model by optimizing the size and shape of individual elements within the model. This paper presents results comparing the predicted fillet strain output of a three-dimensional gear tooth model with recently obtained experimental strain gage data. Comparisons are made for both spiral bevel and hypoid gears. Preliminary results show excellent agreement between theory and experiment with peak strain amplitudes agreeing to within ten percent or less. The inclusion of more accurate base regions underneath the gear teeth correctly predicts the range of strain from tensile to compressive values as the gear teeth roll through mesh.