Gear mechanics

Gear mechanics

What is a Gearbox?

Gearboxes is a mechanical device that transmit power from one rotating part to another, such as from the engine to the wheels in a car, wrench to nut, mainspring to dial Train in mechanical watch.

The purpose is change speed of rotating source to optimise efficiency of machinery. 

Where Gearbox is used?

Gearboxes are used in a wide variety of applications such as - 

Automotive, power machinery and conveyers, crushing and cooling towers, wind turbines, tractors, irrigation system, cranes, bulldozers, aircraft, missiles, space vehicles, boats, ship.

What if no Gearbox?

Without a gearbox in a car, you'd be stuck in a single gear/speed supported by your engine, unable to accelerate or decelerate effectively to the different road conditions.

How  Gear work in mechanical watch?

A standard mechanical watch typically has following components. These components work together to transmit energy from the mainspring to the hands, ensuring accurate timekeeping.

 Mainspring

At the core of a mechanical watch lies the mainspring, a coiled metal spring that stores energy crucial for the watch's operation.

In manually wound watches, the wearer must turn the crown to wind the mainspring. This action tightens the spring, storing potential energy that powers the watch.

Gear Train

Energy Transfer Through the Gear Train

Once wound, the mainspring releases its stored energy slowly and evenly. This energy is transferred through the gear train, a series of gears designed to reduce the speed of the mainspring’s unwinding. This controlled release of energy is crucial for ensuring the watch keeps accurate time. 

Escapement & Balance wheel

The escapement is a pivotal component in mechanical watches. It regulates the energy released from the mainspring to the gear train, controlling the motion of the gears. By releasing energy in precise, timed intervals, the escapement ensures that the watch maintains consistent timekeeping.

The balance wheel works in tandem with the escapement to regulate time. It oscillates back and forth at a steady rate, much like a pendulum. The consistent oscillation of the balance wheel drives the precise movement of the watch’s hands.

Dial Train

Movement of the Hands to Display Time

The dial train, connected to the gear train, transfers the controlled movement to the hands of the watch. This causes the hands to move smoothly around the dial, displaying the hours, minutes, and seconds. 

Compiled by

Ms Naresh kuwar