Theory of Machines (21ME42)

GEAR TRAINS
1. Introduction
If power is transmitted by using more than two gears, then the arrangement is called gear
train. It is mainly classified into following four types.
i) Simple gear train
ii) Compound gear train
iii) Reverted gear train
iv) Epicyclic gear train
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2. Velocity ratio (VR) or Speed ratio
It is defined as the ratio of angular speed of driver gear to the angular speed of the driven
gear.
Let ω1= angular speed of driver gear
ω2= angular speed of driven gear, then
𝜔𝟏 𝐍𝟏
𝐕𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐜𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨 = =
𝜔𝟐 𝐍 𝟐
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3. Train value (TV)
It is the reciprocal of the velocity ratio i.e., it is defined as the ratio of angular speed of driven
to the angular speed of the driver.
𝜔𝟐 𝐍𝟐
𝐓𝐕 = =
𝜔𝟏 𝐍𝟏
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4. Direction or Sense of rotation
 Clockwise rotation is considered as positive and anticlockwise rotation is considered as
negative.
 When the driver and driven rotate in the same direction, their motion is taken with the
same sign and if they rotate in the opposite direction, their motion is taken with the
opposite sign i.e., positive and negative vice versa.
 When gears mesh externally they rotate in opposite direction and if they mesh internally
(Annular gear) they rotate in the same direction.
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 Theory of Machines (21ME42)

5. Simple gear train

The simple gear train is as shown in Figure 1.
i) In simple gear train each shaft carries only one gear.
ii) All the gears revolve about fixed axis.

iii) Velocity ratio (VR):

Let N1, N2 and N3 are speeds on gears 1, 2 and 3 respectively, Z1, Z2 and Z3 are number
of teeth on gears 1, 2 and 3 respectively.
Consider gear 1 to be the driver.
VR for gear 1 and gear 2 is, N1 = Z2 ................................................ (i)
N2 Z1

VR for gear 2 and gear 3 is, N2 = Z3 ............................................... (ii)

N3 Z2

Multiplying (i) and (ii), we get

N1 N2 Z2 Z3
∗ = ∗
N2 N3 Z1 Z2
𝐍𝟏 𝐙𝟑
𝐕𝐑 = =
𝐍𝟑 𝐙𝟏
Therefore, the velocity ratio (VR) is independent of number of intermediate gears used.
Hence gear wheel 2 is called an idler. Gear 3 is called the driven or follower.
iv) The direction of rotation of the first and last gear is the same if odd number of intermediate
gears is used, the driver and driven will rotate in the opposite direction if the number of idlers
between them is even.

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 Theory of Machines (21ME42)

𝐍𝟑 𝐙𝟏
v) Train value, 𝐓𝐕 = =
𝐍𝟏 𝐙𝟑
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6. Compound gear train
The compound gear train is as shown in Figure 2.
i) In compound gear train each shaft carries two or more gears except the first and last, one of
which acts as follower and the other as the driver.
ii) All the gears revolve about a fixed axis.

iii) Velocity ratio (VR) and Train value(TV):

In Figure 2, gear 2 and 3 constitute a compound gear since both the gears are mounted on
the same shaft ‘B’. Gear 1 is the driver and gear 3 acts as a driver. Let Z1, Z2, Z3 and Z4 are
the number of teeths on gears 1, 2, 3 and 4 respectively and N1, N2, N3 and N4 are speeds on
gears 1, 2, 3 and 4 respectively. But N2= N3 as it is a compound gear.
Consider gear 1 to be the driver.
VR for gear 1 and gear 2 is, N1 = Z2 ................................................ (i)
N2 Z1

VR for gear 3 and gear 4 is, N3 = Z4 ............................................... (ii)

N4 Z3

Multiplying (i) and (ii), we get

N1 N3 Z2 Z4
∗ = ∗
N2 N4 Z1 Z3
𝐍𝟏 𝐙𝟐∗𝐙𝟒 (N2 = N3)
VR= =
𝐍𝟒 𝐙𝟏∗𝐙𝟑

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 Theory of Machines (21ME42)

𝐍 𝟒 𝐙𝟏 ∗ 𝐙 𝟑 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐧𝐮𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐡 𝐨𝐧 𝐝𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐠𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬

𝐓𝐕 = = =
𝐍 𝟏 𝐙𝟐 ∗ 𝐙𝟒 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐧𝐮𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐡 𝐨𝐧 𝐝𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐧 𝐠𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬
iv) The direction of rotation of the first and last gear is the same if odd number of intermediate
shafts is used. The driver and driven will rotate in the opposite direction if the number of
intermediate shafts is even. The train value (TV) is positive if the driver and driven rotate in
clockwise direction.
v) The advantage of compound gear train is the larger velocity ratio in limited space.
Example: Automobile gear box, lathe speed gear box, etc.
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7. Reverted gear train
The reverted gear train is as shown in Figure 3.
i) In reverted gear train the first and last gears are on the same axis.
ii) In reverted gear train, the centre distances of the two pairs of gears must be the same.
r1 + r2 = r3 + r4
Since module is same for all the gears, the number of teeth is proportional to pitch circle radius.
Z1 + Z2 = Z3 + Z4
Where Z1, Z2, Z3 and Z4 are number of teeth on gears 1, 2, 3 and 4 respectively. r1, r2, r3
and r4 are pitch circle radius of gears 1, 2, 3 and 4 respectively.

iii) Velocity ratio and train value

𝐍𝟏 𝐙𝟐∗𝐙𝟒 (Since gear 2 and gear 3 are compound gears, N2 = N3 )
𝐕𝐑 = =
𝐍𝟒 𝐙𝟏∗𝐙𝟑
𝐍𝟒 𝐙𝟏 ∗ 𝐙𝟑 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐧𝐮𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐡 𝐨𝐧 𝐝𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐠𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬
𝐓𝐕 = = =
𝐍𝟏 𝐙𝟐 ∗ 𝐙𝟒 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐧𝐮𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐡 𝐨𝐧 𝐝𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐧 𝐠𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬

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 Theory of Machines (21ME42)

iv) All the gears revolve about a fixed axis.

v) Application: In watches and clocks the hour and minute needles are connected by reverted
gear train, back gear of lathe, automotive transmissions etc.,
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8. Epicyclic gear train
An epicyclic gear train is as shown in Figure 4.

In epicyclic gear train, the axes of rotation of all the wheels are not fixed. In epicyclic
gear train, axes of some gears (one or more) having relative motion with respect to other or
relative to the frame. In figure 4, the gear 2 revolves about its own axis as well as about the
centre of the fixed gear 1; epicyclic gear train is also called planetary gear train.
Application: Used in automobile differential, watches etc.
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9. Methods to find velocity ratio or train value
The two common methods to find the train value in epicyclic gear train are;
(i) Algebraic method
(ii) Tabular column method
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10. Train value by Algebraic method
In figure 4, consider gear 1 or the sun wheel as the driver, gear 2 or the planetary wheel as
the driven and 3 is the arm.
𝐙𝟏
𝐓𝐕 = −
𝐙𝟐

[Negative sign indicates 2 rotates in the opposite direction of 1]

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 Theory of Machines (21ME42)

Speed of wheel 1 relative to Arm 3; n13 = n1 – n3

Speed of wheel 2 relative to Arm 3; n23 = n2 – n3
𝐧𝟐𝟑 𝐧𝟐 − 𝐧𝟑
𝐓𝐕 = =
𝐧𝟏𝟑 𝐧𝟏 − 𝐧𝟑
Hence the train value for the given planetary train is,
𝐧𝟐 − 𝐧𝟑 𝐙𝟏
= −
𝐧𝟏 − 𝐧𝟑 𝐙𝟐
The general expression for any epicyclic gear train is,
𝐧𝐋 − 𝐧𝐚𝐫𝐦
𝐓𝐕 =
𝐧𝐅 − 𝐧𝐚𝐫𝐦
Where nL= Speed of last gear
nF= Speed of first gear
narm= Speed of arm
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11. Train Value by Tabular Column Method
Step 1: Assume the arm 3 is fixed and all the other gears are free to rotate. Therefore when gear
𝐙𝟏
1 makes one revolution in clockwise direction, gear 2 will make − revolution.
𝐙𝟐
𝐧 𝐙𝟏 𝐙𝟏
[ 𝟐= − 𝐢. 𝐞. , 𝐧 = − ∗ 𝟏 ] Negative sign indicates that gear 2 rotates in the opposite
𝐧𝟏 𝐙𝟐 𝟐 𝐙𝟐

direction of gear 1. It is entered in the first row of tabular column.

𝐙𝟏
Step 2: If gear wheel 1 makes ‘x’ revolutions, then gear 2 will make − . 𝐱 revolutions. It is
𝐙𝟐

entered in the second row.

Step 3: Give ‘y’ revolution to each element of the given epicyclic gear train. i.e., Add ‘y’ to the
second row values to get the third row.
Tabular column:

Sl.No. Condition of Motion(Revolution of Arm 3 Gear 1 Gear 2

the elements)
Fix the arm and give +1 revolution to Z1
1 0 +1 −
gear 1 Z2
Z1
2 Multiply by ‘x’ 0 x − .x
Z2
Z1
3 Add ‘y’ y y+x y− .x
Z2

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 Theory of Machines (21ME42)

Speed of arm = y ...............................................(1)

Speed of gear 1 = y + x .................................... (2)
𝐙𝟏
Speed of gear2 = 𝐲 − . 𝐱 ............................... (3)
𝐙𝟐

The given conditions of motion may be applied to (1), (2) or (3) to find the unknown speed.
******************************************************************************
12. Problems on Algebraic method
1. Two spur gears A and B of an epicyclic gear train is shown in figure have 24 and 30 teeth
respectively. The arm rotates at 100 rpm clockwise direction (cw). Find the speed of gear B
on its own axis when gear A is fixed. If instead of being fixed the wheel A rotates at 200rpm
in counter clockwise direction (ccw) direction, what will the speed of B.?
Data: narm= 100 rpm (cw); ZA= 24; ZB= 30
Solution:
Consider the gears A, B and arm. Let gear A be the first gear and gear B be the last gear.
The first gear A and the last gear B rotate in the opposite direction.

𝐍𝐮𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐡 𝐨𝐧 𝐝𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫

𝐓𝐕 =
𝐍𝐮𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐡 𝐨𝐧 𝐝𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐧
ZA 24 .................................................................
TV = − = − (1)
ZB 30
𝐧𝐋−𝐧𝐚𝐫𝐦
Also, 𝐓𝐕 = = nB−narm .................................................... (2)
𝐧𝐅−𝐧𝐚𝐫𝐦 nA−narm

Equating (1) and (2)

24 nB−narm ...........................................................................
− = (3)
30 nA−narm

(i) Gear A is fixed(i.e., nA=0) Substituting nA = 0 and narm = 100rpm(cw) in equation (3); we
get,
24 nB − 100
− =
30 0 − 100

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 Theory of Machines (21ME42)

24
nB − 100 = (− ) (−100)
30
Speed of gear B; nB = 180rpm (cw)
(ii) Gear A rotates at 200rpm(ccw) i.e., nA= -200rpm, Substituting nA = 200rpm(ccw) and
narm = 100rpm(cw) in equation (3); we get,
24 nB − 100
− =
30
−200 − 100
24
nB − 100 = (− ) (−300)
30
Speed of gear B; nB = 340rpm (cw)
******************************************************************************
2. An epicyclic gear train is shown in figure, the number of teeth on wheel A, B and C are
48, 24 and 50 respectively. If the arm rotates at 400rpm clockwise, find
(i) Speed of wheel C when A is fixed
(ii) Speed of wheel A when C is fixed

Data: narm= 400rpm (cw); ZA= 48; ZB= 24; ZC= 50;
Solution: Let gear A be the first gear and gear C be the last gear. The first gear A and last gear C
rotates in the same direction.
𝐍𝐮𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐡 𝐨𝐧 𝐝𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫
𝐓𝐕 =
𝐍𝐮𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐡 𝐨𝐧 𝐝𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐧
ZA 48 ................................................................
TV = = (1)
ZC 50
𝐧𝐋−𝐧𝐚𝐫𝐦
Also, 𝐓𝐕 = = nC−narm .................................................... (2)
𝐧𝐅−𝐧𝐚𝐫𝐦 nA−narm

Equating (1) and (2)

48 nC−narm ......................................................................
= (3)
50 nA−narm

(i) Gear A is fixed(i.e., nA=0) Substituting nA = 0 and narm = 400rpm(cw) in equation (3); we get,

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48 nC − 400
=
50 0 − 400
48
nC − 400 = ( )(−400)
50
Speed of gear C; nC = 16 rpm (cw)
(ii) Gear C is fixed (i.e., nC=0) Substituting nC = 0 and narm = 400rpm(cw) in equation (3); we
get,
48 0 − 400
=
50 nA − 400
50
nA − 400 = ( )(−400)
48
Speed of gear A; nA = -16.67 rpm (ccw)
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3. In an epicyclic gear train shown in figure, the arm A is fixed to the shaft S. The wheel B
having 100 teeth rotates freely on this shaft S, wheel F 150 teeth is separately driven. If the
arm A runs at 200 rpm, wheel F at 100 rpm in the same direction, Find (i) No. of teeth of
gear C. (ii) Speed of wheel B.
Data: ZB= 100; ZF= 150;
nA= 200 rpm; nF= 100 rpm
Solution:

As the module is same for all the gears, the number of teeth is proportional to the pitch circle
radius.
rF = rB + 2rC
ZF = ZB + 2ZC
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 Theory of Machines (21ME42)

150 = 100 + 2ZC

No. of teeth on gear C, ZC= 25
Consider arm A, gears B, C and F. Let B be the first gear and F be the last gear. The first
and last gear rotates in the opposite direction.
ZB ............................................................................
TV = − (1)
ZF
nL−narm
Also, TV =
nF−narm

= nF−nA .................................................... (2)

nB−nA

Equating (1) and (2)

ZB nF−nA
− =
ZF nB−nA

Speed of arm A= 200rpm. i.e., nA= 200 rpm. Gear F rotates in the same direction at 100
rpm i.e., nF= 100 rpm
100 100 − 200
− =
150 nB − 200
nB = 350 rpm
Speed of gear B = 350 rpm, rotates in the same direction of gear F and arm A.
******************************************************************************
4. An epicyclic gear train is composed of fixed annular wheel A having 150 teeth. Meshing
with A is wheel B, which drives wheel D through an idler wheel C. D being concentric with
A wheels B and D are carries on an arm which rotates clockwise at 100 rpm about the axis
of A and D. If the wheels B and D have 25 and 40 teeth respectively, find the number of
teeth on C and the speed and sense of rotation of C.

Data: ZA= 150; ZB= 25; ZD= 40

narm= 100 rpm (cw); nA= 0 (fixed)
Solution: As the figure is not given, first draw the given arrangement as shown in figure.
Since the module is same for all the gears, the number of teeth is proportional to the pitch
circle radius.
rA = rD + 2rC + 2rB
ZA = ZD + 2ZC + 2ZB
150 = 40 + 2ZC + 2*25
No. of teeth on gear C, ZC = 30
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 Theory of Machines (21ME42)

Consider gears A, B, C, D and the arm. Let Gear D be the first gear and gear A be the last
gear. The first gear and last gear rotate in the same direction.
ZD
TV =
ZA
nL−narm
Also, TV =
nF−narm

= nnA−n
−narm
D arm

40 0 − 100
=
150 nD − 100
Speed of gear D; nD = -275 rpm (ccw)
Now consider only gear C, gear D and arm
ZD
TV = −
ZC
nC−narm
Also, TV =
nD−narm

= nnC−n
−narm
D arm

40 nC − 100
− =
30 −275 − 100
Speed of gear C; nC = 600 rpm (cw)
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5. In an epicycle gear train shown in figure; shafts I and arm rotate at 2000 rpm and 350
rpm respectively in the direction indicated. Determine the speed of rotation of shaft II and
also state whether the direction of rotation is same or opposite to that of shaft I. The
numbers of teeth on various gears are indicated on the figure.
Data: Z1= 12; Z2= 40; Z3= 30; Z4= 40; Z5= 24; Z6= 18;

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nI = n1 = 2000 rpm (cw); narm = 350 rpm (ccw)

Solution: First consider gears 1 and 2;

n1 Z2
=−
n2 Z1
2000 40
=−
n2 12
Therefore, 𝐧𝟐 = −𝟔𝟎𝟎 𝐫𝐩𝐦 (𝐜𝐜𝐰)
i.e., speed of gear 2 = 600 rpm (ccw)
As gear 2 and 3 are compound gear, n3 = 600 rpm (ccw)
Now consider gears 3,4,5,6 and arm. Let gear 3 be the first gear and gear 6 be the last
gear. The first and last gears rotate in the same direction.
Z3 ∗ Z5
TV =
Z 4 ∗ Z6
nL−narm
Also, TV =
nF−narm

= nn6−n
−narm
3 arm

Z3∗Z5 n −n
= n 6−narm
Z4∗Z6 3 arm

30∗24 n6−(−350)
i.e., =
40∗18 −600−(−350)

𝐧𝟔 = −𝟔𝟎𝟎 𝐫𝐩𝐦
i.e., Speed of gear 6 or shaft II = 600 rpm (ccw)
******************************************************************************

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13. Problems on Tabular Column method

6. In an epicyclic gear train, the internal wheels A, B and the compound wheel C and D
rotate independently about the axis ‘O’. The wheels E and F rotate on a pin fixed to the
arm G. E gears with A and C, and F gears with B and D. All the wheels have same pitch
and the number of teeth on E and F are 18, C=28, D=26. (i) Sketch the arrangement (ii)
Find the number of teeth on A and B (iii) If the arm G makes 150 rpm cw and A is fixed,
find speed of B (iv) If the arm G makes 150 rpm cw and wheel A makes 15 rpm ccw, find
the speed of B.
Data: ZF= 18; ZE= 18; ZC= 28; ZD= 26
NL= 150 rpm (cw)
Solution:
(i) Sketch of the arrangement
The arrangement is shown in the figure

(ii) Number of teeth on A and B

As all the gears have same pitch, the pitch circle radius is proportional to the number of teeth.
rA = rC + 2rE
ZA = ZC + 2ZE
ZA = 28 + 2*18 = 64 = Number of teeth on gear A
rB = rD + 2rF
ZB = ZD + 2ZF
ZB = 26 + 2*18 = 62 = Number of teeth on gear B

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 Theory of Machines (21ME42)

Tabular Column
Compou
Arm
Condition of Motion nd gear Gear F Gear B Gear E Gear A
G
D and C
Fix the arm G and give 0 +1 ZD ZD ZF ZC ZC ZE
− − ∗ − − ∗
+1 revolution to ZF ZF Z B ZE ZE Z A
ZD ZC
compound gear D and C =− =−
ZB ZA
ZD ZD ZC ZC
Multiply by ‘x’ 0 x − .x − .x − .x − .x
ZF ZB ZE ZA
ZD ZD ZC ZC
Add ‘y’ y y+x y − .x y − .x y − .x y − .x
ZF ZB ZE ZA

(iii) Arm G makes 150 rpm clockwise and wheel A is fixed

ZC
i.e., y =150 and y − .x = 0
ZA
28
150 − .x = 0
64

x = 342.86
ZD 26
Speed of B = y − . x = 150 − ∗ (342.86) = 6.22
ZB 62

i.e., Speed of gear B = 6.22 rpm (cw)

(iv) Wheel A makes 15 rpm (ccw) and arm G makes 150 rpm (cw)
ZC
i.e., y =150 and y − . x = -15
ZA
28
150 − . x = -15
64

x = 377.14
ZD 26
Speed of B = y − . x = 150 − ∗ (377.14) = −8.16
ZB 62

i.e., Speed of gear B = 8.16 rpm (ccw)

******************************************************************************
7. The gear train shown in the figure. Gear A meshes with gear B. In the compound gear B-
C, gear C meshes with gear D, rotating relative to A around the same axis of A. If the gear
A is fixed, arm F is used as the driving member, determine the speed ratio nD/nF. Number
of teeth on wheels A, B, C and D are 61, 61, 62 and 60 respectively.

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 Theory of Machines (21ME42)

Data: ZA= 61; ZB= 61; ZC= 62; ZD= 60

Solution:
Tabular Column
Compound gear B
Condition of Motion Arm F Gear A Gear D
and C
Fix the arm F and give 0 +1 ZA ZA ZC
− + ∗
+1 revolution to gear A ZB ZB Z D
ZA ZA ZC
Multiply by ‘x’ 0 x − .x + ∗ .x
ZB ZB Z D
ZA ZA ZC
Add ‘y’ y y+x y− .x y + ∗ .x
ZB ZB Z D

Gear A is fixed
i.e., y + x = 0
x = -y
Z Z 61 62
y + A∗ C.X y+ ∗ .(−y)
ZB ZD 1
Now, ND = = 61 60
=−
NF y y 30
𝐍𝐃 𝟏
= Arm F and gear D rotates in opposite direction
𝐍𝐅 𝟑𝟎

******************************************************************************
8. An epicyclic gear train is constructed as follows. A fixed annular wheel A and a smaller
concentric wheel B are connected by a compound wheel A1-B1. A1 gearing with A. B1
gearing with B. The compound wheel revolves on a stud which is carried around an arm
which revolves about the axis A and B. A has 130 teeth, B = 20 teeth, B 1 = 80 teeth, pitch of
A and A1 being twice that of pitch of B and B1. How many revolutions B will make for one
revolution of arm.
Data: ZA = 130; ZB = 20; ZB1 = 80

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Solution: The given arrangement is shown in figure

As pitch circle radius is proportional to number of teeth and pitch of A and A1 being
twice that of B and B1
rA = rB + rB1 + rA1
i.e., 2ZA = ZB + ZB1 + 2ZA1
2*130 = 20 + 80 + 2ZA1
Number of teeth on gear A1, ZA1 = 80
Tabular Column
Compound gear B1
Condition of Motion Arm Gear B Gear A
and A1
Fix the arm and give +1 0 +1 ZB ZB ZA1
− − ∗
revolution to gear B ZB1 ZB 1 ZA
ZB ZB ZA1
Multiply by ‘x’ 0 x − .x − ∗ .x
ZB 1 ZB 1 ZA
ZB ZB ZA1
Add ‘y’ y y+x y− .x y− ∗ .x
ZB 1 ZB 1 ZA

Arm makes one revolution, i.e., y = 1

Annular wheel A is fixed
ZB ZA1
i.e., y − ∗ .x = 0
ZB 1 ZA
20 80
1− ∗ .x = 0
80 130
x = 6.5

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 Theory of Machines (21ME42)

Speed of gear B = y + x = 1 + 6.5 = 7.5

i.e., for one revolution of arm, gear B will make 7.5 revolutions, in the same direction of
arm.
******************************************************************************
9. A mechanism for recording the distance covered by the cycle is as follows; Arm drives
the bicycle wheel through gearing not described will revolve on the same axis of a fixed
annular wheel A of 22 teeth. Another annular wheel B of 23 teeth also rotates loosely on the
axis of A. The arm carries a pin on which revolves a compound wheel C and D. C = 19
teeth meshes with A, wheel D = 20 teeth meshes with B as shown in the figure. If the
diameter of the bicycle wheel is 70 cm, what will be the velocity ratio between the bicycle
wheel and the arm, if B makes one revolution per 1.6 km covered by the bicycle?
Data: ZA= 22; ZB= 23; ZC= 19; ZD= 20
Solution:

Tabular Column
Compound gear C
Condition of Motion Arm Gear A Gear B
and D
Fix the arm and give +1 0 +1 ZA ZA ZD
+ + ∗
revolution to gear A ZC ZC Z B
ZA ZA ZD
Multiply by ‘x’ 0 x + .x + ∗ .x
ZC ZC Z B
ZA ZA ZD
Add ‘y’ y y+x y+ .x y + ∗ .x
ZC ZC Z B

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 Theory of Machines (21ME42)

Wheel A is fixed. i.e., y + x = 0; Therefore x = -y

Gear B makes 1 revolution per 1.6 Km
ZA ZD
i.e., y + ∗ .x = 1
ZC ZB
22 20
y+ ∗ . (−y) = 1
19 23
y = -145.66
i.e., when B makes 1 rev, arm makes 145.66 revolutions in the opposite direction of gear B.
Revolutions made by the bicycle wheel while covering 1.6 Km
1.6∗1000 1.6∗1000
= = = 727.56 (d = 70 cm = 0.7m)
𝜋∗𝑑 𝜋∗0.7

Therefore, Velocity ratio = 𝟕𝟐𝟕.𝟓𝟔 = 𝟒. 𝟗𝟗

𝟏𝟒𝟓.𝟔𝟔

******************************************************************************
10. For the gear train shown in figure, shaft A rotates at 300 rpm and the shaft B at 600
rpm in the same sense of A. Determine the speed and direction of rotation of shaft C.

Data: nA = n1 = 300 rpm; nB = n8 = 600 rpm;

Z1 = 30; Z2 = 18; Z3 = 24; Z5 = 18; Z6 = 42; Z7 = 22;
Solution:
Consider the gears 5, 6, 7 and 8. Gear ^ and gear 7 is a compound gear. Gears 5 and 8 are on the
same axis.
Therefore, r5 + r6 = r7 + r8

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 Theory of Machines (21ME42)

Since pitch circle radius is proportional to number of teeth.

Z5 + Z6 = Z7 + Z8
18 + 42 = 22+ Z8
No. of teeth on gear 8; Z8 = 38
Consider gears 1, 2 and 3
n1 Z3
=
n3 Z1
n1 Z3
i.e., =
n3 Z1

𝐧𝟑 = 𝟑𝟕𝟓 𝐫𝐩𝐦
Since arm 4 is connected to gear 3, speed of arm=375 rpm, in the same direction of shaft A.
Now consider arm 4, gears 5, 6, 7 and 8
Tabular Column
Compound gear 6
Condition of Motion Arm 4 Gear 5 Gear 8
and 7
Fix the arm 4 and give 0 +1 Z5 Z5 Z7
− + ∗
+1 revolution to gear 5 Z6 Z6 Z 8
Z5 Z5 Z7
Multiply by ‘x’ 0 x − .x + ∗ .x
Z6 Z6 Z 8
Z5 Z5 Z7
Add ‘y’ y y+x y− .x y + ∗ .x
Z6 Z6 Z 8

Arm 4 rotates at 375 rpm; i.e., y = 375

Gear 8 rotates at 600 rpm in the same direction of arm 4
Z5 Z7
y + ∗ . x = 600
Z6 Z8
18 22
375 + ∗ . x = 600
42 38
x = 906.82
Speed of gear 5 = y + x = 375 + 906.82
Speed of gear 5 = 1281.82
i.e., Speed of shaft C = 1281.82 rpm, rotates in the same direction of shaft A and Shaft B.
******************************************************************************

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 Theory of Machines (21ME42)

14. Torque in an Epicyclic gear train

Gears in an epicyclic gear train move with uniform speeds, so they will not have angular
acceleration. The gear train is in equilibrium by the three externally applied torques. i.e.,
i) Input torque on the driving member (T1)
ii) Output torque on the driven member (T2)
iii) Holding or Fixing torque (T3)
For equilibrium, T1 + T2 + T3 = 0 ............................... (i)
i.e., F1r1 + F2r2 + F3r3 = 0 ............................. (ii)
Where; F1, F2 and F3 are externally applied forces at radii r1, r2 and r3.
If friction is neglected, the net energy dissipated by the gear train must be equal to zero.
T1ω1 + T2ω2 + T3ω3 = 0 ............................ (iii)
Where ω1, ω2 and ω3 are uniform angular velocities of driver, driven and fixed member
respectively.
The equation (iii) can also be written as;
T1n1 + T2n2 + T3n3 = 0 ............................ (iv)
Equation (iii) or (iv) is called energy equation.
******************************************************************************
Problems on Tabular Column method (continued...)
11. An epicyclic gear train is shown in the figure. The wheel A is fixed and the input at the
arm R is 3 kW at 600 rpm. Find the speed of wheel D and the torque on it and the torque
required to hold the wheel A. Neglect frictional losses.

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 Theory of Machines (21ME42)

Data: ZA = 47; ZB = 35; ZC = 42; ZD = 40

Input Power = 3 kW; nR = 600 rpm
Solution:
Tabular Column
Compound gear B
Condition of Motion Arm R Gear A Gear D
and C
Fix the arm R and give 0 +1 ZA ZA ZC
− + ∗
+1 revolution to gear A ZB ZB Z D
ZA ZA ZC
Multiply by ‘x’ 0 x − .x + ∗ x
ZB ZB Z D
ZA ZA ZC
Add ‘y’ y y+x y+ .x y + ∗ .x
ZB ZB Z D

Speed of Arm R = 600 rpm; i.e., y = 600

Wheel A is fixed. i.e., y + x = 0
600 + x = 0; i.e., x = -600
ZA ZC
Speed of wheel D = y + ∗ .x
ZB ZD
47 42
= 600 + ∗ (−600) = −246
35 40

i.e., Speed of wheel D, nD = 246 rpm, rotates in the opposite direction to that of arm R.
2πnRTR
Power = kW
60 ∗ 1000
2π∗600∗TR
i.e., 3 =
60∗1000
Torque on arm R, 𝐓𝐑 = 47.75 Nm
From energy equation,
TRnR + TDnD + TAnA= 0
i.e., TRnR + TDnD = 0 (nA = 0)
i.e., 47.75*600 + TD(-246) = 0
Torque on the wheel D, TD = 116.46 Nm
TR + TD + TA = 0
i.e., 47.75 + 116.46 + TA = 0
TA = -164.2 Nm

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 Theory of Machines (21ME42)

i.e., Torque required to hold the wheel A = 164.2 Nm, acts in the opposite direction to that
of Arm R.
******************************************************************************
12. An epicyclic gear train of sun and planet type is shown in figure. The pitch diameter of
internally toothed ring D is approximately 228 mm and the module is 4 mm. When the ring
is stationary, the spider A which carries three planet wheels C of equal size is to make one
revolution for every five revolutions of the spindle carrying the sun wheel B. Determine
suitable number of teeth for all the wheel and exact pitch circle diameter of ring D. If a
torque of 30 Nm is supplied to the sun-wheel B, what will be the torque required to keep
the ring stationary.

Data: TB = 30 Nm; Approx. dD = 228 mm; Module, m = 4 mm

Solution:
As all the gears have equal pitch, the pitch circle radius is proportional to the number of
teeth.
rD = rB + 2rC
ZD = ZB + 2ZC ..............................(i)
Approx. dD = 228 mm
Also, dD = m.ZD
dD 228
ZD = = = 57
𝑚 4
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 Theory of Machines (21ME42)

Tabular Column
Condition of Motion Arm A Gear B Gear C Gear D
Fix the arm A and give 0 +1 ZB ZB ZC ZB
− − ∗ =−
+1 revolution to gear B ZC Z C ZD ZD
ZB ZB
Multiply by ‘x’ 0 x − .x − .x
ZC ZD
ZB ZB
Add ‘y’ y y+x y− .x y − .x
ZC ZD

Spider A makes one revolution, for every five revolutions of sun wheel B
i.e., y = 1
y+x=5
1 + x = 5; x=4
Annular wheel D is stationary
ZB
i.e., y − .x = 0
ZD
ZB
1− . (4) = 0
ZD
𝐙𝐃 = 𝟒𝐙𝐁
Approximate No. of teeth on wheel D = ZD = 57
57
ZB = =14.25
4

Case (i) take ZB = 15

ZB = 4*15 = 60
Now from (i), 60 = 15 + 2Zc
ZC = 22.5, It is not possible since fractional teeth.
Case (ii) take ZB = 14
ZD = 4*14 = 56
Now from (i), 56 = 14 + 2ZC
ZC = 21, It is possible
Number of teeth on wheel B, ZB = 14
Number of teeth on wheel C, ZC = 21
Number of teeth on wheel D, ZD = 56
Exact pitch circle diameter of ring D,
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 Theory of Machines (21ME42)

dD = mZD
= 4*56
dD = 224 mm
From energy equation,
TBnB + TAnA + TDnD= 0
i.e., TBnB + TAnA = 0 (nD = 0)
i.e., 30*5 + TD (1) = 0
Torque on the wheel A, TA = -150 Nm
TB + TA + TD = 0
i.e., 30 - 150 + TD = 0
Torque on the fixed gear, TD = 120 Nm
******************************************************************************
13. An internal wheel B with 80 teeth is keyed to a shaft F. A fixed internal wheel C with 82
teeth is concentric with B. A compound wheel D-E gears with two internal wheels; D has 28
teeth and gears with C while E gears with B. The compound wheels revolve freely on a pin
which projects from a disc keyed to a shaft A co-axial with F. If all the wheels have the
same pitch and shaft A makes 800 rpm, what is the speed of the shaft F. Sketch the
arrangement.
Data: ZB = 80; ZC = 82; ZD = 28; nA = 800 Rpm
Solution:

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 Theory of Machines (21ME42)

As the pitch circle radius is proportional to number of teeth,

rC - rD = rB – rE
ZC - ZD = ZB – ZE
82 – 28 = 80 - ZE
ZE = 26 = number of teeth on wheel E
Tabular Column:
Compound Gear E
Condition of Motion Arm Gear B Gear C
and D
Fix the arm A and give 0 +1 ZB ZB ZD
+ + ∗
+1 revolution to gear B ZE ZE Z C
ZB ZB ZD
Multiply by ‘x’ 0 x + .x + ∗ .x
ZE ZE Z C
ZB ZB ZD
Add ‘y’ y y+x y+ .x y+ ∗ .x
ZE ZE ZC

Since the disc is keyed to the shaft and the shaft makes 800 rpm,
i.e., y = 800
ZB ZD
Wheel C is fixed ie., y+ ∗ .x = 0
ZE ZC
80 28
800 + ∗ .x = 0
26 82

i.e., x = -761.43
Speed of gear B = y + x
= 800 – 761.43
Speed of gear B = 38.57 rpm
i.e., Speed of gear B =Speed of shaft F = 38.57 rpm, rotates in the same direction of shaft A.
******************************************************************************

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