Need information on alternatives to Harmonic Drives / Cycloidal Gear systems.
Hi all,
I'm looking to find out what alternatives to the Cycloidal Drive and Strain Wave Gearing systems ( Harmonic Drives ) have been found over the past 50 years.
I'm looking for systems that have similar reduction capabilities in a single stage ( eg, 30:1 to 600:1 ) in a small lightweight gear system, ideally one suited to an embedded motor and position sensor.
If there is something that also does not rely on very-strong materials, so that it could be 3D printed, that would also be ideal.
As the Harmonic Drive was first invented in the 1950's, I'm surprised that there aren't a large number of alternative solutions to it. Everything I can find says there aren't any other mechanisms that provide the same kind of function, short of multi-stage planetary systems. This doesn't seem realistic since it is so widely used in modern technology, but I can't find any indication of something better?
Thanks in advance for anyone who can offer suggestions, directions or ideas I can follow up -
David.