Question:
Explain epicyclic gear train with neat sketch.
Answer:
In case of Epicyclic Gear train, the axis of shafts on which gears are mounted may have a relative motion between them, unlike other gear trains. This gives advantage that, very high or low velocity ratio can be obtained compared to simple and compound gear trains; in the small space. In above sketch, if gears A and B are rotating and arm RS is fixed, then it behaves like simple gear train. However, when Arm C rotates and gear A is fixed, then train becomes epicyclic. It is also known as planetary gear train. Applications- Differential gears of the automobiles, back gear of lathe, hoists, pulley blocks