Product Details

This apparatus is designed to study the motion, torque transmission, and efficiency of a multi-stage epicyclic (planetary) gear train, allowing students to analyze complex gear ratios and velocity relationships. It provides a practical method for understanding how these compact gear systems can achieve high reduction ratios and reverse motion within a coaxial assembly. The unit features three interconnected epicyclic gear stages, each comprising a sun gear, planet gears on a carrier, and an annular ring gear. Protractors are mounted on the input, intermediate, and output shafts to measure angular displacement accurately. Locking pins allow specific elements to be held stationary, and calibrated weights with hangers are used to apply and measure torque, enabling the experimental determination of gear ratios and mechanical efficiency under different configurations. Its primary application is in mechanical engineering education for teaching gear dynamics and power transmission systems. The key benefit is the hands-on investigation of planetary gear behavior, enabling students to calculate velocity ratios, plot efficiency curves, and comprehend the operational principles behind automatic transmissions, helicopter rotors, and other machinery utilizing epicyclic gear trains.