Application of the Thin Slice Model for Determination of Face Load Distribution along the Line of Contact and the Relative Load Distribution Measured along Gear Root

Abstract

This article concerns the investigation of the relationship between stress distribution caused by contact during tooth flank engagement and tensile stress distribution due to bending at the tooth root. Four different approaches are discussed. The first refers to ISO 6336 guidelines describing the relationship with a simple empirical formula. The second is the proposed thin slice model developed in MATLAB computer software. The third approach is based on finite element analysis (FEA). The last experimental method uses a bespoke test rig designed and manufactured for this work. The thin slice model has been verified against ISO 6336 guidelines, FEA simulation, and the test rig measurements. Two phenomena have been observed: coupling and edge effect, both of which impact the relationship between load intensity distribution for contact and bending.