Strain wave gearboxes are an indispensable part of precision drive systems. They play a central role in robotics, automation technology, and positioning axes with high accuracy requirements in particular. But what exactly is the operating principle behind this gear technology, and why is it particularly suitable for compact, low-backlash drive solutions?Â
Wave generators are central drive elements in strain wave gears, which are used in robotics in particular due to their high reduction ratios and compact design. The component consists of a ball bearing with an elliptically shaped outer ring, which is mounted on a shaft and typically acts as the input side of the gearbox.Â
Producing these components presents significant technical challenges for manufacturers: The required shape tolerances in the single-digit micrometre range combined with complex elliptical geometries and thin-walled structures require specialized manufacturing strategies and highly capable machine tools.Â