Clearance distribution of misaligned gear coupling teeth considering crowning and geometry variations

Misalignment of gear coupling shafts due to assembly errors results in uneven distribution of clearance between meshing teeth of the hub and sleeve and eventually non-equal tooth load sharing which may result in cyclic loading and failure due to fatigue. This study calculates the distribution of clearances between meshing teeth along the coupling circumference in the presence of misalignment, and the effect of various coupling geometrical parameters on its performance and operation. Clearance distribution between meshing teeth are found to be functions of the misalignment angle and the position angle, and mainly depends on geometry and operating conditions.