EASY TO PRINT: Educational 4:1 Gear Ratio Example

thingiverse

This is a straightforward, easy-to-print model of gear ratios. Included in the file location are three gears with diameters of 2.5, 5 and 10 centimeters, giving gear ratios of 2:2:1. When assembled these objects have a 4:1 gear ratio. This means that for every time the small 2.5cm gear turns four times, the large 10cm gear turns once. Other properties of gears can be observed using this assembly. For instance, only the initial and final gear affect the ratio. Notably, intermediate gears (the 5cm gear in this case) can serve a purpose. Observe how both the small and large gears rotate in the same direction, while the middle gear rotates in the opposite direction. Other uses of intermediate gears include reducing torque and transnational loads on the initial and final gears. Meshing of gears such as in this model is used to convert speed into rotational motion known as torque. An application in the real world could be an electronic linear actuator often used on smaller backhoes to move the arm. If you enjoyed this project, stay tuned for a planer example of car transmissions. Alternatively, check out my previous gear prints.