A transient thermal analysis approach will be utilized in evaluating the effect of profile modification on the bulk temperature of involute gears. Linear, parabolic, and circular-arc modifications will be considered. A finite- element generation program, designed for use in gear coolinganalysis, will be modified to incorporate profile modificaitons. An optimization process is planned to develop design charts in terms of amplitude and normalized length of the modified portion so as to minimize the temperature rise over the gear tooth. The results of this project should be of significant value in designing high speed gearing where scoring is a primary mode of failure. Commercial applications would be in improved gear manufacturing methodology, improvement of the gear scoring index, and enhanced gear transmission reliability.
