Abstract
The present paper presents a numerical model able to simulate the quasi-static loaded behavior of a pinion rack with variable ratio. The three main steps are: -Tooth profiles, depending on a given kinematics law, -Unloaded kinematics simulations, to obtain the potential contact zones and to compute the distances between the meshing surfaces, -Instantaneous load sharing computation. Results such as the pressure distribution, meshing stiffness, transmission error and stresses at the tooth roots are provided. The model needs at several steps a CAD model. This one is automatically generated. All the process is briefly presented and the paper is focused on the two first main steps.
