NEMA 17 Cycloidal Drive
Transmission & Actuator Optimization
The Objective
I built this to test the performance limits of a purely 3D-printed cycloidal drive. Initially, I designed it as an actuator for a custom robotic arm project. However, after physical prototyping, I realized the inherent backlash in 3D-printed cycloidal gears was too high for millimeter-level precision. I eventually scrapped the drive in favor of a belt-drive system for the arm, which yielded vastly superior repeatability. Even though it didn't make the final cut, the cycloidal design was a great exercise in mechanical tolerances and theoretical zero-backlash kinematics.
3D model design
Alternative angle
Technical Approach & Testing
[How did you mount and integrate the absolute encoder? When running torque tests, what were the specific failure points or physical limitations of the 3D printed materials?]
Cross-sectional View