An Integrated Method of Kinematic, Force, Power Flow and Efficiency Analyses for 3-D Epicyclic Gear Trains

A unified and simplified technique is introduced to perform kinematic, force, power flow, and efficiency analyses for either planar or bevel (3-D) epicyclic gear trains. The method relies on an accurate spatial kinematic analysis using graph theory. It improves on existing techniques used separately for force, power flow, and efficiency analyses, combining and streamlining them into one straightforward procedure to aid in the design process. The technique is readily automated and has been implemented in a computer spreadsheet program. Examples are presented for illustration of the method.