Minimizing self-oscillation in belt drives: Surface texturing

摘要

Detachment waves have recently been identified as one of the main sources for self-oscillation and accompanying energy losses in belt drive systems under low-speed and otherwise steady operation. In light of this, herein we explore mitigation of detachment wave-induced instabilities via regular and irregular texturing of the belt contact surface. The results document that surface texturing reduces the magnitude of belt drive oscillations, with the reduction being significantly more pronounced in the driver case than in the driven case. While both regular and irregular surface topographies are useful in minimizing the vibrations, regular patterns result in a stronger effect. The aspect ratio of surface projections is found to be the most important parameter, while excessive texturing of the belt surface is shown to result in belts losing their tractive capabilities.