A harmonic gear reducer, as a type of precision reducer, is known for its compact size and simple structure, making it ideal for light-load transmission scenarios. Due to high technical barriers, harmonic gear reducers play a crucial role in robotics, accounting for a significant portion of the cost and contributing to substantial profit margins.
Harmonic gear reducers, often referred to as the "tendons" of industrial machinery, are essential for controlling the rotational angles of machine "joints" centered around shafts. They help adjust the torque and speed of input/output devices. In principle, the rotation of joints relies on motors, which are typically small, limited in power, and high in speed, resulting in low torque output that cannot support heavy loads. Robot joints, which often need to carry heavier loads at lower speeds, require reducers to decrease speed, increase torque, and achieve precise angle control. Thus, reducers are vital components of robots, typically installed at the joints to precisely control movements and transmit greater torque. The main types include RV reducers and harmonic reducers.
Harmonic gear reducers achieve motion and power transmission through the controlled elastic deformation wave generated by the wave generator, interacting with the rigid gear. Their structure primarily comprises three parts: the rigid gear (with internal teeth), the flexible gear (with external teeth), and the wave generator.
The working principle of harmonic drive technologies generally involves the wave generator driving, the rigid gear fixed, and the flexible gear outputting. The rotation of the wave generator causes the flexible gear to undergo periodic elliptical elastic deformation. At the long axis, the flexible gear teeth engage fully with the rigid gear teeth, while at the short axis, the teeth are completely disengaged. Continuous rotation of the wave generator forces the flexible gear to constantly deform and produce a tooth movement error, such that one rotation of the input results in the output end rotating only the difference in the number of teeth between the flexible gear and the rigid gear, thus achieving motion transmission.
High-quality harmonic gear drive reducer offers numerous advantages and is widely used in robot joint transmission systems. Its small size, light weight, high transmission ratio, high load capacity, and high transmission accuracy and efficiency make it suitable for applications in robotics, CNC machine tools, photovoltaic equipment, medical devices, semiconductor equipment, and aerospace industries.
Unlike RV reducers, which are characterized by good rigidity, strong impact resistance, stable transmission system, and high precision, and are mainly used in heavy-load positions such as robot bases, arms, and shoulders, industrial robot harmonic drive are compact and simple in structure, making them suitable for light-load positions such as robot forearms or wrists. Both types of precision reducers complement each other in downstream products and application fields, being used in different scenarios and terminal industries.
At PICEA MOTION, one of the leading harmonic drive distributors, we understand the critical role harmonic gear reducers play in robot joint functions. This is why we focus on providing products that not only meet but exceed industry standards. Here's what sets our high-quality harmonic reducers apart:
High Precision and Accuracy: Our harmonic gear reducers are designed with attention to detail, ensuring minimal backlash and high positioning accuracy. This is crucial for applications where even the slightest deviation can lead to significant errors.
Compact and Lightweight Design: With a focus on light-load joints, we ensure our harmonic gear reducers are both compact and lightweight without compromising performance. This enhances the efficiency and flexibility of robots, enabling them to operate in tighter spaces and perform more complex tasks.
Durability and Reliability: Our harmonic gear reducers are built to withstand long-term use and harsh operating conditions. At PICEA MOTION, we use only the highest quality materials and manufacturing processes to ensure our products deliver consistent performance over time.
Versatility and Customization: We offer a range of harmonic gear reducers tailored for various robotic applications. Whether you need specific torque ranges, sizes, or configurations, PICEA MOTION can customize our harmonic gear reducers to meet your exact requirements.
