Structural Parameter Optimization and Fatigue Life Analysis of POM Flexspline in Harmonic Drive

Abstract

The flexspline, as a core component of the harmonic drive, is highly susceptible to fatigue failure due to elastic deformation and alternating stress during operation. Its performance directly affects the working life of the harmonic drive. In this paper, finite element modeling and analysis were carried out on the polyoxymethylene flexspline (POM FS), resulting in stress, displacement, and strain cloud maps. Then, using the control variable method, the influence of structural parameters such as cylinder length L, wall thickness d, and chamfer radius r on the maximum stress of POM FS was studied, and the structural parameters were optimized. Finally, the fatigue life of POM FS was analyzed based on the S-N curve of POM. The results show that the optimized POM FS has a fatigue life of 18,300 hours, which is 24% higher than the original POM FS with the initial parameters. This paper provides a technical reference for the optimization and improvement of the lifespan of POM FS.