Investigation on Tooth Surface Wear of Cycloid Drives Considering Tooth Profile Modifications

Cycloid drives are widely used in various mechanical systems due to their high reduction ratio, compact size, and high efficiency. Tooth surface wear is a major problem that affects the reliability and durability of cycloid drives. However, compared to the research on the wear of involute gears, the prediction of tooth surface wear in cycloid drives is relatively limited and less extensive. To fill this gap, the theoretical wear model of the tooth surface of cycloid-pin gear pairs is proposed based on the Hertz contact theory and Archard’s formula, with consideration of tooth profile modifications. Firstly, the loaded tooth contact analysis model is established to determine the relative sliding velocity and tooth contact stress. Secondly, the calculation steps of single tooth surface wear are presented within one gear mesh cycle. With this, the effects of the tooth profile modifications, the operating conditions such as output torque, input speed, and the assembly eccentricity on the wear depth within one gear mesh cycle are investigated. This study gives a deeper understanding of the tooth surface wear mechanisms of cycloid drives and could be employed to assist gear design and to improve the wear resistance.