Reverted Gear Train in Clock Mechanism

A clock mechanism consists of various gears that are interlinked to perform the function of displaying time accurately. One of the important gear trains used in a clock mechanism is the reverted gear train. Let's understand what it is and how it is used in a clock mechanism.

What is a Reverted Gear Train?

A reverted gear train is a type of gear train that consists of three gears - two idler gears and one driver gear. The driver gear and the idler gears are mounted on the same shaft, and the other end of each idler gear meshes with an output gear. The direction of rotation of the output gear is opposite to that of the driver gear.

How is it Used in a Clock Mechanism?

In a clock mechanism, the reverted gear train is used to connect the minute hand to the hour hand. The minute hand is mounted on the output gear of the reverted gear train, while the hour hand is mounted on the driver gear. As the hour hand rotates, it drives the driver gear of the reverted gear train. The two idler gears mounted on the same shaft as the driver gear, mesh with the output gear. As a result, the output gear rotates in the opposite direction to that of the driver gear. The minute hand mounted on the output gear rotates at a slower speed than the hour hand, thus indicating the minutes that have passed since the last hour.

Advantages of Reverted Gear Train in Clock Mechanism

- Provides a simple and reliable way to connect the minute hand to the hour hand
- Reduces the number of gears required in the clock mechanism
- Increases the accuracy of time display by eliminating errors due to backlash and friction

Conclusion

The reverted gear train is an important gear train used in a clock mechanism to connect the minute hand to the hour hand. It provides a simple and reliable way to display time accurately and efficiently.