Design optimization of worm gear drive with reduced power loss

In worm gear mechanism, power loss is one of the critical issues, which requires attention from gear designers and researchers. This is due to power loss; the overall efficiency of worm gear drive gets reduced. In this article, Simulated Annealing (SA) is used to minimize the power loss of worm gear drives within the prescribed set of design constraints. Various design constraints included in the design optimization problem are linear pressure, bending strength and deflection of worm. Gear tooth number, coefficient of friction and helix angle are the design variables considered. Results obtained are compared and validated with the results obtained in previous research work found in the literature. It shows that SA is more efficient in attaining optimal design values for worm gear drive for reducing power loss.