Strain wave gearheads from maxon are a specialised type of gearhead where precision and compact design are crucial. This type of gearhead is often used in applications in a confined space. With their advanced gear tooth design, maxon’s strain wave gearheads provide high efficiency and good back drivability. Typical applications include robotics, aerospace, medical technology and optical systems.
They offer several advantages over conventional gearheads, and are unmatched in highly precise and demanding applications:
• High precision: They enable precise motion control and positioning. This is extremely important in robotics and medical technology, where any deviation from the target position can have fatal consequences.
• Zero backlash: They are inherently backlash-free, as the flexspline continuously meshes with the circular spline. As a result, exact positioning requirements can be met.
• High reduction ratio: The special tooth design enables a significant reduction ratio within a compact design. This is achieved by means of the flexible wave structure and precisely tuned gear components that ensure efficient power transmission, even in the smallest of spaces.
• High torsional rigidity: The design ensures high torsional rigidity. This means the gearhead does not yield under load, and transmits motion without delay or deformation.
• Large hollow shaft: In combination with a suitable motor, they can be designed with a large hollow shaft. This allows media and cables to be fed through the drive unit. This is an extremely important aspect in applications in robotics and medical technology.
• High efficiency: The special design results in minimal friction losses. This leads to greater efficiency and an extended service life of the components.
• Backdrivability: Due to low friction losses, maxon strain wave gearheads can be backdriven. This allows a robotic arm to be manually moved when the system is powered off.
• High repeatability: They provide outstanding repeatability due to their zero backlash, high torsional rigidity and minimal hysteresis. These characteristics ensure precise and consistent motion, even under varying loads.
• Compact design: Despite their high precision and performance, strain wave gearheads are extremely compact. They provide a high transmission ratio in a short build length, making them ideal for applications with space constraints.
• High torque density: The proven strain wave gearhead technology and optimal system integration enable maximum torque transmission and high peak loads.
• High dynamics: The low mass inertia of strain wave gearheads and their high torsional rigidity enable dynamic movements with exceptional accuracy and reliability.
• Low noise level: The continuous meshing of the elliptical flexspline and its wave-like motion result in smooth and quiet operation.
• Reliability and durability: The components of a strain wave gearhead are built to withstand extreme loads and achieve a long service life. This reduces maintenance requirements and downtime in industrial applications.
Functional principle of a strain wave gearhead
A strain wave gearhead makes use of the principle of elastic deformation and the flexibility of the flexspline component. The centerpiece of the strain wave gearhead is the wave generator, an elliptical shaft. This shaft deforms the flexspline, a thin-walled flexible ring that meshes with a rigid outer ring (circular spline). This deformation generates radial motion that is converted into rotational motion.
The circular spline is a rigid, cylindrical ring with inner toothing. It remains stationary and is typically attached to the gearhead housing. The engagement with the flexspline converts elliptical motion into rotary motion.
Strain wave gearheads are used across a wide range of industries and applications. Their unique properties make them ideal for use in the following areas:
• Robotics: In robotics, precision, compact design and weight play a critical role. Strain wave gearheads provide the perfect solution for controlling joints and axes, especially in industrial cobots.
• Test and measurement technology: The high demands in test and measurement technology leave no room for errors. Reliability and high precision are key criteria for strain wave gearheads.
• Medical technology: In medical equipment, such as surgical robots and MRI systems, precise motion control is essential. Strain wave gearheads enable precise positioning, which is crucial for the safety and success of medical procedures.
• Aerospace industry: In aerospace applications, reliability and weight are critical factors. Strain wave gearheads provide the required precision while being compact, lightweight and durable. This makes them ideal for use in satellites and space probes.
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