Macro geometry multi-objective optimization of planetary gearbox considering scuffing constraint

A novel multi-objective optimization of planetary gearbox is presented using a discrete version of Non-Dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm (NSGA-II). Minimization of weight and total power loss of planetary gearbox are two objective functions. Number of teeth in the sun, planet and ring gears, module, face width, input shaft and planet pin diameter are design variables. Regular mechanical, bearing selection and scuffing are various design constraints considered. Investigations were done for three different gear profiles on an industrial planetary gearbox. The results were compared with an industrial gearbox provided in the AGMA standard, which showed not only significant reduction of weight and power loss, but were also found safer in scuffing. Pareto fronts of different ISO grade oils were compared for all gear profiles, and ISO VG 460 was found to be the best oil. Further analysis without a scuffing constraint showed moderate to high levels of scuffing risk for lower-grade ISO oils and lower level risk for higher-grade ISO oils. Ultimately, this study helps to reduce weight, enhance the efficiency and prevent early failures in planetary gearbox.