Strength and geometry parameters accuracy improvement of 3D-printed polymer gears

Abstract

The study is concentrated on the topic of 3D-printed polymer gears quality improving issues in terms of both mechanical strength and geometric precisionat the production by FDM process. The conception of gears radial 3D-printing based on functional dimensional communications modelling between the basic and gear elements by string-mesh structure forming of even-and uneven numbered layers; printing gear layers are represented as stretched string system, pairwise and symmetrical placed related to the reference hole axis. Tangential dimensional communication of bidirectional tangent lines to generating circle was applied to the evolvement gears profiles forming. Formation of the gears tooth root on the basic circle accompanied with string-mesh layer structure forming will provide quality gears improvement.