Dynamic optimum design and analysis of cam wave generator for harmonic gear drive

Mathematical models of structural optimization were established for the cam wave generator, by integrally taking its static and dynamic performance into consideration, while the dynamic optimum design was carried out. The topology optimization of the cam wave generator was performed based on artificial material density method; then a conceptual model, which satisfied the model acted by four concentrated forces, was obtained. And the size optimization of the cam wave generator was also executed based on the zero-order method in software Ansys after setting up its parameterized model. The optimized results indicate that its final volume declines to 1284.217mm³ from its 1397.830mm³, which reduced by 42.18% than the original volume of cam (2221.224mm³). Simultaneously, the static analysis and modal analysis were implemented, and the results show that the static and dynamic performance complies with the design requirements, proving that the results of dynamic optimum design are reasonable. The optimized results in paper are realizable in engineering. And the study method provides not only a reference to decreasing design mass and lowering inertia of the cam wave generator, but also an important basis of lightweight design of harmonic gear drive.