A harmonic gear reducer primarily consists of four basic components: a wave generator, a flexible gear, a flexible bearing, and a rigid gear. This type of gear transmission relies on the wave generator, which, when equipped with a flexible bearing, induces controlled elastic deformation in the flexible gear. This gear then engages with the rigid gear to transmit motion and power. The harmonic gear transmission reducer is a novel type of reducer that has evolved based on the principles of planetary gear transmission.
Harmonic gear reducers are increasingly used in various fields, including aviation, aerospace, energy, maritime, shipbuilding, bionic machinery, conventional weaponry, machine tools, instruments, electronic equipment, mining metallurgy, transportation, lifting machinery, petrochemical machinery, textile machinery, agricultural machinery, and medical devices, which involves in medical gearboxes. Their superiority is particularly evident in high-dynamic performance servo systems. They can transmit power ranging from tens of watts to tens of kilowatts, though high-power reductor harmonic drive transmissions are mostly used for short-term operations.
High Reduction Ratio: A single-stage coaxial robot speed reducer can achieve a high reduction ratio of 1/30 to 1/320. Despite its simple structure, it can realize a high reduction ratio.
Low Backlash: Unlike conventional gear engagement, harmonic gears have minimal backlash, an essential feature in control systems.
High Precision: With multiple teeth engaging simultaneously and two gears engaging symmetrically at 180 degrees, the gear pitch error and cumulative pitch error are averaged, resulting in extremely high positional and rotational accuracy.
Few Components and Easy Installation: The high reduction ratio is achieved with just three basic components, all mounted coaxially, making the system easy to install and compact.
Small Size and Lightweight: Compared to traditional gear systems, harmonic reducers from PICEA, one of the leading harmonic drive distributors, are one-third the size and half the weight, yet they provide the same torque capacity and reduction ratio, achieving a compact and lightweight design.
High Torque Capacity: The flexible robotic arm gearbox is made from special steel with high fatigue strength. Unlike conventional transmission systems, about 30% of the total number of teeth are engaged simultaneously and in surface contact, reducing the pressure on each gear and allowing for high torque capacity.
High Efficiency: With minimal sliding at the gear engagement points, frictional power loss is reduced, maintaining high efficiency even at high reduction ratios and enabling the use of smaller drive motors.
Low Noise: The low peripheral speed of gear engagement and balanced transmission of motion ensure quiet operation and minimal vibration.
