Transmission Errors and Backlash Analysis of a Single-Stage Cycloidal Drive Using Tooth Contact Analysis

Abstract

Cycloidal gear drives possess compact sizes, large reduction ratios, and low backlash. They are particularly suitable for applications in precise positioning and large output torque, for example, industrial robots and machine tools. Two main dynamic performances, transmission accuracy and backlash, is directly influenced by manufacturing errors. This paper aims to provide a direct method to effectively evaluate both performances. The mathematical models of transmission errors and backlash are established using the theory of gearing as well as tooth contact analysis. Three cases, considering profile modifications of the cycloidal gear and manufacturing errors, are evaluated to verify the correctness of the mathematical models.