Cycloidal gearboxes are known for their compact size and high transmission efficiency, making them a popular choice for applications such as robotics and medical equipment. Recently, I decided to design and build a cycloidal gearbox using laser-cut acrylic, which offered several benefits over a traditional 3D printed design.
One of the main advantages of using laser-cut acrylic for the gearbox was the speed at which the parts could be produced. By using a laser cutter, I was able to quickly and accurately cut all of the necessary parts for the gearbox, reducing the overall production time. Additionally, laser-cut acrylic is also more cost-effective than 3D printing, making it a more affordable option for producing the gearbox.
The finished gearbox was tested with a high-speed motor, and the results were impressive. The laser-cut acrylic parts held up well under the high rotational speeds, and the gearbox performed better than expected. A video of the test can be seen above, which shows the gearbox in action and the impressive speed at which it operates.
I will be continuing to experiment with these gearboxes for some upcoming projects.