Strain wave gears


Operating principle

Next level strain wave gears

Is it possible to improve upon the original? Of course; we have done it!

Innovation makes all the difference: After all, your application is unique!
You should therefore rely on an economical standard solution that can be enhanced at any time!
Take the plunge into the world of zero backlash strain wave gears
and experience a new level of quality, precision, production and service!
You will be astonished at what is possible.


High-precision zero backlash technology

Our strain wave gears offer decisive advantages – in terms of technology, construction and cost-effectiveness. They feature absolute zero backlash, fulfil the highest quality standards and are manufactured according to automotive standards. A unique aspect is our focus on the customer. We develop custom-designed strain wave gears and adapt performance, size and interfaces to the exact requirements of your application. This means there are no compromises in the design of your machine or robot.

Please contact us now to learn more: 

You can contact us by mail at info[at]nabtesco.de or phone +49 211 17379-0.

Functional principle

Strain wave gears comprise only three components: wave generator, flex spline and circular spline. They are characterised by power transmission via a flexible element, the flex spline. This is a flexible, cylindrical steel component with external gear teeth that assumes an elliptical shape when the wave generator is inserted. In combination with the continuously rotating engagement of the flex spline teeth and circular spline teeth, this achieves absolute zero backlash, outstanding transmission accuracy and high torsional rigidity.

The three components:

  • Circular spline: a cylindrical rigid ring with internal gear teeth
  • Flex spline: a cylindrical, flexible, thin-walled steel component with external gear teeth
  • Wave generator: a hub with an elliptical outer contour on which a special, radially flexible ball bearing is mounted

 

 

Flexible modular product system

Our strain wave gears are available in two versions:

  • Hat type gear (HTG)
  • Cup type gear (CTG)

Hat type gears (HTG) and cup type gears (CTG) differ only in the design of the flex spline. Both versions are available with a hollow shaft and solid shaft. The main advantage of the hat type gear is the larger hollow shaft, while the cup type gear has a higher overload capacity.

 


We offer four variants:

Gear sets:
Component sets

The gear sets are suitable for customers who wish to integrate the gear unit in an existing application.

A suitable high-performance lubricant is available, in addition to support with integration and installation. Interfaces can be adapted individually

 

Gear sets plus:
Strain wave gears with output bearings

The gear sets plus are gear sets with a rigid output bearing.

The integrated cross roller bearings (CRB) are designed for optimal absorption of tilting moments. A coupling (Oldham coupling) is available as an option.

 

Gear units:
Our enclosed plug-and-play solutions

The gear units are closed plug-and-play solutions that include rigid input and output shaft bearings and a reliable seal system.

 


 

Actuators

Actuators are complete systems, typically consisting of a gear set, bearings, housing, and electric motor.

Actuators are always implemented as custom solutions. Depending on customer requirements, these may also include various components such as brakes, torque sensors, temperature sensors, position sensors, etc. Due to the spline gear, a hollow shaft is possible.

Customising

We offer tailor-made solutions precisely aligned with your requirements. From custom design and development to the manufacturing of application-specific components, modules, and complete systems. Whether it's specially designed harmonic drive gears, sealed gearbox units, or customized interfaces, we optimize according to your specifications regarding cost, performance, weight, space, and more. Additionally, we develop integrated solutions, as well as software and control units, to meet the highest standards.

11 convincing arguments

1. Adjustable backdriving torque, e.g. very low for cobots, high for running gears

2. Maintenance-free throughout the entire service life

3. Efficiency can be increased by choice of materials and process adaptations, automotive DNA

4. Higher dynamic torques compared to conventional strain wave gears = super high torque

5. More efficient than conventional strain wave gears

6. Combination of diverse components allow integration throughout a wide range of sizes

7. Maximum acceleration torque is higher compared to conventional strain wave gears

8. Operating temperature: -20 °C to +70 °C

9. Certification according to IATF 16949

10. Outsourcing partner thanks to high level of automotive process competence (e.g. assembly of cobots)

11. 100 % traceability

Construction

The wave generator is generally the drive element of the gearbox. It is inserted in the flex spline so that the gear teeth of the flexible ring and the circular spline engage. Either the flex spline or the circular spline can be used for the output. The reduction ratio is achieved by the fact that the external gearing of the flex spline has two fewer teeth than the internal gearing of the circular spline.

How it works

The elliptical wave generator deforms the flex spline by means of the ball bearing. The flex spline in turn engages with the internal gearing of the circular spline in the areas opposite the major axis of the elliptical shape. The rotary motion of the wave generator causes displacement of the major axis of the elliptical shape and therefore of the area where the teeth engage. Since the flex spline has two fewer teeth than the circular spline, there is a relative motion of one tooth between the flex spline and the circular spline after a half revolution of the wave generator, and a motion of two teeth after a full revolution.

Your advantages at a glance

 


Absolute zero backlash


Outstanding transmission accuracy and repeatability


Compact, lightweight design


High torque capacity


High reduction ratios in one stage

 

 


High efficiency


High torsional rigidity


Central hollow shaft is possible


High reliability and long life


Maintenance-free

 

*produced by Ovalo GmbH in Limburg (wholly owned subsidiary of Nabtesco Europe GmbH), Tax number / VAT: DE 246304951, Authorized representative: Kazuhiko Yokoji, Toru Mashiko, Tim Wallner


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