Abstract
A refined numerical analysis of the dynamic behavior of roller chain drives is performed considering the roller assembly as a three-layer structure with mechanical clearance between each two of the mechanical components. Instead of using analytical method, explicit finite element technique is utilized for modeling and simulating the dynamic behavior of chain drives. The complete standard geometry of sprockets and all components of chain links are used in the developed model with minor geometry simplification. A primary goal is to achieve a more complete understanding of the dynamic behavior of chain drives especially in the transient vibration response of the engaging rollers, which is crucial for noise emission calculation. The simulated velocity response of the engaging rollers and roller-sprocket contact forces achieved using the full model are compared with what found by the simple model which has been adopted in analytical study of chain roller dynamics.