Tribodynamics of ball CV joints

The contact between the ball and the inner and outer racetrack in ball continuous velocity (CV) joints is exposed to variable and complex kinematics and kinetics, originating from track conditions and the vehicle manoeuvres. Depending on the instantaneous operating conditions, the contacts may experience a combination of sliding and rolling motions. In addition, the contact is subject to variable loading, depending on the instantaneous CV joint articulation angle, which causes variations in the radius of effective curvature of the contact and transmitted torque to the wheels.
The aim of this project is to study the contact conditions between the balls in CV joints and their grease lubricated inner and outer raceways. The study is aimed at obtaining an in-depth knowledge of the ball contact mechanics to provide a tribological assessment of the associated contact subject to various operating conditions through a combined numerical and experimental investigation approach.