Geometry calculation of non-circular gears

Kisssoft offers the possibility to calculate the geometry of noncircular gears for different rolling curves.

Noncircular gears are typically designed with variable output torque and speed. It is also possible to design them with variable center distance. Due to their simplicity, the rolling curves of noncircular gears are usually ellipses. However, in order to achieve more complex transmission functions, modified elliptical shapes, n-lobed ellipses or custom functions for the rolling curves of the gears can be used in Kisssoft.

The main advantage of non-circular gears (compared to cylindrical gears) is the variable transmission ratio. However, due to the variable loads and speeds, additional vibrations and bearing forces can occur, especially if the gears do not rotate around their center of mass.

Once the geometry of out-of-round gears is defined, a strength calculation is required. The strength calculation of noncircular gears is not standardized - nevertheless it is possible to use Kisssoft for a rough strength calculation with specially adapted methods. If you want to learn more about this topic and the kinematics of out-of-round gears, please see our article. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.