Modeling and Analysis of Uncertain Static Contact Characteristics for Revolute Clearance Joints

The presence of uncertain clearance in revolute joints affects the motion accuracy and stability of the mechanical system with revolute joints. In this paper, a novel static conformal contact force (CCF) model for revolute clearance joints is developed to evaluate the relationship between contact forces and penetration depth in conformal contact problems based on the geometric constraints and the Winkler elastic foundation theory. Compared to the other two conventional static contact force models, the computational results of the proposed CCF model are more consistent with the FEM simulation results in analyzing the conformal contact problems. Static contact characteristics of the revolute joint during conformal contact are investigated using the established CCF model when considering the fuzzy uncertainty of clearance size and material parameters of the joint. The analysis results may be used to guide the design and the contact analysis of the revolute clearance joints.