Robotic

Assignment
Topic 3: Examine the role of gears in robotic systems, and how
do they influence the robot’s performance?

-Abhinav.N
X-topaz
 Content

01 Gears Slide No.3

02 Types of Gears Slide No.5

Importance of Gear
03 Ratio
Slide No.8

04 Effect of Gear Ratio Slide No.9

Impact of Gear
05 Type and Material
Slide No.10
Gears:

Gears were invented by the Greek mechanics of Alexandria in the third century
B.C. and were developed by the great Archimedes, which saw wide use in the Roman world.

A gear is a wheel fixed in machines to make different parts move different speeds
or in different direction. Gears have toothed edges that help them to engage or mesh with one
another. They are widely used in machinery, including robotics to control speed, torque, and
direction of movement.

SOME COMMON TYPES OF GEARS;

1) Spur 2) Bevel 3) Planetary

Gears in controlling speed and torque:
1) Torque Amplification:
● Robots often use small, high-speed motors that can't produce much torque on their own.

● Gears reduce speed and increase torque, making the motor’s output suitable for moving
heavier loads or precise positioning.

2) Speed Reduction:
● High-speed motors (e.g., DC or servo motors) are not always ideal for joint movements that
require precision and stability.

● Gearboxes reduce rotational speed, allowing smoother and more controlled motion at the
joints.
Types of Gears:
Spur gears:
These gears have straight teeth that are parallel to the axis of rotation and are the most
commonly used type. They provide efficient power transmission and are suitable for parallel shafts. The
provide efficient and reliable rotational motion transfer.
Applications:

1. Robotics: Joint Actuation: Used in robotic arms and mobile robots where linear gear trains are
sufficient.
2. Mechanical Clocks and Watches: Precise, consistent motion makes spur gears ideal for
timekeeping mechanisms.
3. Gear Pumps: In hydraulic systems, spur gears are used to move fluids through a pumping action.
Bevel Gears:
Bevel gears have teeth that are cut on conical surfaces. They are used to transmit
motion between intersecting shafts and change the direction of rotation. They can be either straight bevel
gears or spiral bevel gears, depending on the orientation of the teeth. Bevel gears are used in robotic
applications where there is a need to transmit motion between intersecting or perpendicular shafts. They are
often employed in joint mechanisms to change the direction of motion.

Application:

1. Industrial Machinery: Used in conveyors, elevators, and material handling equipment where a 90°
gear shift is required.

2. Marine Applications: In boat propulsion systems, bevel gears transmit engine power to the propeller
shaft.

3. Printing Presses:Transmit motion at precise angles between rollers and shafts.

Planetary Gears:
Planetary gears, also known as epicyclic gears, are a sun gears, planet gears,
and a ring gear. The planet gears rotate around the sun while also engaging with the ring gear. Planetary
gears offer compact design, high torque transmission, and multiple gear ratios within a single gear system.
They are commonly used in application that require high torque and compactness, such as automotive
transmissions, robotic joints and drivetrains.

Application:
1. Electric Bicycles and Scooters: Found in hub motors to reduce motor speed and increase wheel torque
without taking up much space.

2. Industrial Machinery: Used in conveyors, mixers, packaging machines, and automation systems for
torque multiplication and reliable power transfer.

3. Aerospace:Found in turboprop engines, landing gear systems, and actuators where size and weight
constraints are critical.
Importance of Gear Ratio:
1. Torque Control: Critical in robots, vehicles, and machines that need power to lift, push, or
resist load.

2. Speed Adjustment: Useful for applications that prioritize fast movement over force, like
drone propellers or high-speed conveyors.

3. Power Efficiency: Helps match the motor's output to the load’s requirement, improving
energy efficiency and preventing motor strain.

4. Precision Control: In robotics and CNC machines, gear ratios allow for fine movement and
positioning, which is essential for accuracy.

5. Motor Optimization: Motors perform best at certain RPM ranges. Gear ratios allow
designers to use small, high-speed motors to drive slow, high-torque loads efficiently.
Effect of Gear Ratio in Precision and Strength:
1)Strength (Torque Output):
● Higher Gear Ratio = More Torque
○ A high gear ratio amplifies the torque from the motor.
○ This is especially important in robotic arms or legs that need to lift, push, or hold heavy
loads.

2)Precision (Control & Resolution):

● Higher Gear Ratio = More Precise Movements
○ It slows down the output rotation, which increases control over small movements.
○ One revolution of the motor results in a fractional turn of the joint — enabling fine
adjustments.
Impact of Gear Type and Material:
1. Efficiency

● Both affect power transmission:

○ The right gear type (e.g., spur or planetary) reduces energy losses.
○ The right material (e.g., smooth metals like steel or bronze) lowers friction.

Efficient gears reduce heat, battery drain, and wear on motors.

2. Durability

● Both determine wear resistance:

○ Strong gear types (like helical or planetary) spread load better.
○ Hard materials (like steel) last longer under repeated stress.

Durable gear systems reduce maintenance and increase robot lifespan.

Thank You