An enhanced finite element model for determination of load capacity in planetary gear trains

Abstract

Planetary gear trains are being intensively applied in automobile drivelines during recent years due to its high load capacity, compact size, high gear ratio, and axial direction of power path. Determination of the load capacity in the design stage requires the calculation of contact pressures and bending stresses at the ring, sun, and planet gears. The knowledge of the load sharing between the planet gears and how it is affected by any assembly error or by the deflection of supporting shafts and carrier is needed for the determination of tolerances before manufacturing and assembly stages are accomplished. An enhanced finite element model is presented in this paper for the purpose of determination of the load capacity in planetary gear trains and investigation of the load sharing between the planet gears. A numerical example is presented. © Springer-Verlag 2013.