Study on dynamic performance and optimal design for differential gear train in wind turbine gearbox

The differential gear train is a common component in wind turbine gearboxes. Investigating the dynamic performance of the gear train is crucial for improving its transmission capabilities. Unlike planetary and compound gear train, there has been relatively little research on differential gear train. Additionally, transmission efficiency is a critical performance metric for gear train, while addressing volume constraints remains a significant challenge in gear research. Currently, there is a lack of relevant research on dynamic transmission efficiency and precise volumetric modeling for differential gear train. Therefore, this paper introduces a high power density design approach for the differential gear train, utilizing the analysis of its dynamic performance. Practical application is demonstrated through two examples. In the first example, the system achieved a 26.32 % reduction in power loss, a 35.44 % decrease in volume, and a maximum root mean square reduction of 12.4 % in component vibration acceleration. In the second example, the system achieved a 19.21 % reduction in power loss, a 41.07 % decrease in volume, and a maximum root mean square reduction of 103.4 % in component vibration acceleration. This research establishes a solid foundation for improving dynamic performance, reducing energy consumption, and minimizing volume in helical differential gear train.