Generalized model for machining and error compensation of polyhedron components

Abstract

Compared to conventional circular components such as keys, splices and pins, polyhedron components have many advantages as connecting components in torque transmission systems, including a greater shear strength, an improved fatigue strength and an improved transmission efficiency. However, the performance of such components is critically dependent on the precision of the manufacturing process. Accordingly, this study derives a mathematical model based on the homogeneous coordinate transformation method to facilitate the design, machining and error compensation of generic polyhedron components with n sides. The validity of the proposed approach is demonstrated numerically using polyhedron components with three, four and five sides. The results confirm that the proposed machining and error compensation method provides a simple yet versatile approach for fabricating a wide range of polyhedron components.