A Load Distribution Model for Planetary Gear Sets

A load distribution model of planetary gear sets presented is capable of simulating planetary gear sets having component-and system-level design variations such as component supporting conditions, different kinds of gear modifications and planetary gear sets with different numbers of equally or unequally spaced planets as well as different gear set kinematic configurations while considering gear mesh phasing. It also accounts for classes of planetary gear set manufacturing and assembly related errors associated with the carrier or gears, i.e., pinhole position errors, run-out errors, and tooth thickness errors. Example analyses are provided to indicate the need for a model of this type when studying load distribution of planetary gear sets due to unique loading of the gear meshes associated with planetary gear sets. Comparisons to measurements existing in the literature are provided.