Flexible Member Serpentine Drive Analysis: A Computer-Aided Design Methodology

The Serpentine Drive Analysis Program (SDAP) is developed for designing flexible member (i.e. roller chain, synchronous belt, and V-belt) serpentine drives. The program, based on industry standard design procedures, provides the user with a design tool for investigating alternative configurations. SDAP calculates driver sizes, geometrical relationships, and force transmission characteristics. Basic design methodology is discussed, and two examples illustrate the usage and flexibility of the program.