Method for inspecting contact between mating gears

Abstract

A method for inspecting contact between mating gears that includes applying a mixture to teeth of a first gear, teeth of a second gear, or the teeth of both the first and second gears. The mixture includes a lubricating oil and a fluorescing dye. The first gear is rotated to drive the second gear. While the second gear is being driven by the first gear, electromagnetic radiation, such as ultra-violet radiation, is applied to the teeth of at least one of the first and second gears to cause the teeth to fluoresce. The fluorescing teeth of the second gear are inspected to identify a tooth inspection zone that approximates a zone of contact between the teeth of the first and second gears.

Description

technical field [0001] The present disclosure generally relates to methods for checking contact between mating gears. Background technique [0002] This section provides background information related to the present disclosure which is not necessarily prior art. [0003] Automotive axle assemblies typically include a hypoid input pinion meshing to a bevel ring gear. During the manufacture of the hypoid input pinion and ring gear and / or the assembly process of the axle assembly, it is common practice to visually inspect the contact area between the mating teeth of the hypoid input pinion and bevel ring gear . While some have suggested the use of sophisticated inspection tools, the usual practice is to use traditional gear mesh paint. For example, a gear mesh paint can be applied to a bevel ring gear; the hypoid input pinion can be rotated several revolutions to mesh the teeth of the hypoid input pinion with the teeth of the bevel ring gear; and due to the The teeth of the...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

[0004] In some respects, using traditional gear mesh stains is disadvantageous because the gear mesh stains are dirty and can be difficult to remove after the inspection process

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