Design of a high power density pericyclic drive prototype for testing at NASA Glenn transmission test facility

The focus of this work is to integrate component level design analyses developed for different machine elements of a twin Pericyclic drive into a comprehensive design decisions framework. The integrated system loads, bearing loads, and tooth contact analysis procedure is used for designing a prototype for minimum weight within the constraints posed by assembly, component life, and system efficiency. Simultaneous sizing of the gears, bearings and shafts was performed for given input power, speed, and reduction ratio. The effect of inertial loads due to nutational gear motion is significant on support bearing loads and the gear bodies are designed to minimize these loads. It was demonstrated that a power density close to 1 kW/kg can be achieved for the Pericyclic transmission. The test article is designed to operate at a 50 HP, 5000 RPM input with a speed reduction ratio of 32:1 and system efficiency greater than 93%.