Cylindrical Contact Force Models for the Dynamics of Roller Chain Drives

摘要

A multibody dynamics methodology for the study of roller chain drives based on the contact between its mechanical elements is proposed here. In particular, the chain drive mechanisms are described as planar multibody systems in which the connection between each pair of links is modelled as a multiple revolute clearance joint, instead of the traditional kinematic constraint, and the meshing between the roller and sprocket teeth is also treated as a generalized revolute clearance joint. The contact force model includes the geometric contact detection and the contact force evaluation. Recognizing the numerical and physical limitations of the existing cylindrical contact models, a new enhanced model is applied here and demonstrated with the study of the dynamics of a roller chain drive with initial pre-tension. In the process, the energy dissipative effect of friction and coefficient of restitution on the chain dynamics is also studied.