Simple Machines – Gear Train

This gear train model has a sturdy wooden construction, ideal for classroom use. This apparatus can model how gears work at a basic level to make work easier. Students will find out that the movement of the next gear is in opposite direction than the first gear. The following gear afterwards is again moving in opposite direction as the gear next to it, but in the same direction as the first gear. They will also find out that the force is applied to the first gear, the ‘driver’ and that the load is applied to the next gear, the ‘follower’. A gear train is formed by mounting gears on a frame so that the teeth of the gears engage. Gear teeth are designed to ensure the pitch circles of engaging gears roll on each other without slipping, providing a smooth transmission of rotation from one gear to the next. The model is made of particle board and wooden components. The model comes with instructions to facilitate both students and teacher with the use of this apparatus. The base of the gear train model measures 41.3 cm (W) x 8.9 cm (L) with an height of 16.5 cm.