Analysis and Modeling of a Mechanical Power Recirculating Test Bench for Gears Testing

The optimization of a transmission goes through the evaluation of specific parameters such as efficiency, overall dimensions, noise, and economy. Added to these parameters, during sizing, is the need to evaluate the strength of gears subject to phenomena such as pitting, micro pitting, scuffing, and bending. Such evaluations must consider the field of use of the gearbox, which may require its operation at different torque regimes and speeds. The requirements listed above lead to the need to perform test procedures involving the implementation of even quite complex load spectra for the purpose of accurately replicating actual operating conditions. This paper analyzes a mechanical power recirculating test stand and its modeling in Mathworks’ Simscape multi-domain environment. In particular, the objective is to test the potential of such a simulation environment for modeling the dynamic aspects that are fundamental for the proper sizing of the test rig. This phase is essential for defining the components for subsequent bench design.