Fluid-solid coupling characteristics analysis for tripod sliding universal joints

Fluid-solid coupling theory is introduced into tripod sliding universal joint design. The geometric models of the tripod sliding universal joint and lubricant film are established respectively and meshed. Fluid-solid coupling analyses of tripod sliding universal joints in unidirectional and bidirectional scenarios are performed to investigate sleeve and lubricant film coupling as well as sliding pin and lubricant film coupling under various differential pressures and frequencies. In the condition of unidirectional and bidirectional coupling, sleeve and sliding pin deformation and stress increase gradually with differential pressure and frequency. Under various differential pressures and frequencies, tripod sliding universal joint bidirectional coupling deformation and stress are greater than those of unidirectional coupling. The theory of fluid-solid coupling is combined with the tripod sliding universal joint for the first time in this paper. The fluid-solid coupling analysis results are of great significance and benefit to the design, application and marketing of tripod sliding universal joints.