Abstract: | Abstract In this paper, a quasistatic finite element model of a spur gear pair is developed. A node-to-target contact formulation is given, where calculations of initial gaps are based upon the actual geometry of the gear flanks rather than upon a contact node and a facet or a line segment. By using a special contact search algorithm, profile modifications and mounting errors are easily incorporated in the analysis. The problem, which also includes friction, is solved by using a nonsmooth Newton method. The static transmission error can be calculated with accuracy with a relatively small number of nodes along the gear flanks. Several examples are given in order to demonstrate the model. |