Q6Basic Mechanical Engineering
Question
2 marks
Q.6. Why gear drive is called as positive drive?
Answer
A gear drive is classified as a 'positive drive' because it transmits motion without any slippage due to interlocking teeth.
In power transmission systems like flat belts or ropes, friction is relied upon to transmit power. Under heavy loads, these flexible drives can physically slip over the pulleys, causing a loss of speed and synchronization. A gear drive, however, utilizes rigid, precisely machined interlocking teeth that physically engage with one another. This mechanical engagement absolutely guarantees an exact, constant velocity ratio with zero slip, hence the term 'positive drive'.