Study on the deformation of harmonic gear load considering the radial deformation of flexible bearings

ObjectiveTo provide the basis of backlash for tooth profile design of harmonic gears, a calculation method of flexspline load deformation was established.MethodsBased on Hertz contact theory, a theoretical formula for the radial stiffness of flexible bearings was obtained. Taking into account the radial deformation of flexsplines and the resulting circumferential displacement and elongation of the tooth ring, formulas for load deformation of the flexspline tooth ring under the action of meshing force were derived. A flexspline assembly model containing the flexible bearing was established with the solid element, and the deformations of the tooth ring in different axial cross sections caused by the meshing force was simulated to validate the theoretical formulas.ResultsIt is found that the theoretical formula reflects the deformation of the flexspline tooth ring in the bearing supporting section, but there are small deviations in the front and rear sections.