Correct usage of knob wheel

[pepijndevos]

When is it appropriate to use this guy instead of normal gears?



My understanding is that it's stronger, but that the output speed is uneven in relation to the input speed, which is why I'm surprised to see it in the steering gear train of the RAC3TRUCK by Laurens Valk.

[inxt-generation]

The proper use is in a situation where two 12th double bevel gears or two 20th bevel gears would snap, I think. The wear and output can be uneven, but usually only under high-torque situations. I suspect it's usage in "RAC3TRUCK" is because the EV3 retail doesn't have enough other gears, or bevel gears would slip in that arrangement.

[mattallen37]

I use them where normal gears would slip (spacing slightly off, or high torque). Despite their odd appearance, they actually function surprisingly well.

[laurensvalk]

I used knob wheels in the gear train so that two 12z gears would be left over in the EV3 set. Combined with the 36z gears, builders can use them to make the truck actually 'race'. I've omited a technic pin in the rear to make it easy to add an axle (that's not a 'bug').

The design could have been much simpler, using fewer gears, but I wanted to make the steering wheel turn whenever the car steers.

I just realized I had an account here. Edit: It's actually my first post.

Laurens

[pepijndevos]

Ah, nice to hear the rationele of the designer himself I didn't even notice there was a pin missing, but you're right.

I see how i's great for racing, but for paralleel parking I might actually redo the front section without the steering wheel to decrease the tolerance. It could greatly improve the dead rockoning of my prescision movements.

Overal I really like the truck though I have added a trailer based on the NXT LEGO. I'll post pictures and videos sometime.