Highly precise, compact, and efficient. Strain wave gearheads are ideal for use in applications requiring precision motion control and high torque transmission in a compact design. Strain wave gearheads offer a wide range of application options. maxon strain wave gearheads are a specialized type of gearhead where precision and compact design are crucial. This type of gearhead is often used in applications in a confined space. With their advanced gear tooth design, maxon’s strain wave gearheads provide high efficiency and good back drivability. Typical applications include: Robotics , Aerospace , Medical technology and Optical systems . Advantages of maxon strain wave gearheads maxon strain wave gearheads offer several advantages over conventional gearheads, and are unmatched in highly precise and demanding applications: High precision maxon strain wave gearheads enable precise motion control and positioning. This is extremely important in robotics and medical technology, where any deviation from the target position can have fatal consequences. Zero backlash Strain wave gearheads are inherently backlash-free, as the flexspline continuously meshes with the circular spline. As a result, exact positioning requirements can be met. High reduction ratio The special tooth design of strain wave gearheads enables a significant reduction ratio within a compact design. This is achieved by means of the flexible wave structure and precisely tuned gear components that ensure efficient power transmission even in the smallest of spaces. High torsional rigidity The design of a strain wave gearhead ensures high torsional rigidity. This means the gearhead does not yield under load and transmits motion without delay or deformation. Large hollow shaft In combination with a suitable motor, maxon strain wave gearheads can be designed with a large hollow shaft. This allows media and cables to be fed through the drive unit. This is an extremely important aspect in applications in robotics and medical technology. High efficiency The special design of maxon strain wave gearheads results in minimal friction losses. This leads to greater efficiency and an extended service life of the components. Backdrivability Due to low friction losses, maxon strain wave gearheads can be backdriven. This allows a robotic arm to be manually moved when the system is powered off. High repeatability maxon strain wave gearheads provide outstanding repeatability due to their zero backlash, high torsional rigidity, and minimal hysteresis. These characteristics ensure precise and consistent motion, even under varying loads. Compact design Despite their high precision and performance, strain wave gearheads are extremely compact. They provide a high transmission ratio in a short build length, making them ideal for applications with space constraints. High torque density The proven strain wave gearhead technology and optimal system integration enable maximum torque transmission and high peak loads. High dynamics The low mass inertia of strain wave gearheads and their high torsional rigidity enable dynamic movements with exceptional accuracy and reliability. Low noise level The continuous meshing of the elliptical flex spline and its wave-like motion result in smooth and quiet operation. Reliability and durability The components of a strain wave gearhead are built to withstand extreme loads and achieve a long service life. This reduces maintenance requirements and downtimes in industrial applications. Strain wave gearheads Our product portfolio. GSW A – Standard Reliable and compact GSW A – Standard Reliable and compact maxon standard strain wave gearheads transmit high torques precisely and efficiently. They offer a high reduction ratio in a very compact space and can be combined with a wide range of maxon drive components. Gearhead Powerful and compact maxon High Power strain wave gearheads transmit high torques precisely and efficiently. They offer a high reduction ratio in a very compact space and can be combined with a wide range of maxon drive components. Gearhead Individual and flexible In combination with the custom output bearing, maxon offers full integration into your application. The three core components – wave generator, flexspline, and circular spline – form the key elements of a secure and reliable drive system. Everything from a single source: DC/BLDC motor, gearhead, sensor, electronics, software, housing Customized solutions Functional principle of a strain wave gearhead A strain wave gearhead makes use of the principle of elastic deformation and the flexibility of the flexspline component. The centerpiece of the strain wave gearhead is the wave generator, an elliptical shaft. This shaft deforms the flexspline, a thin-walled flexible ring that meshes with a rigid outer ring (circular spline). This deformation generates radial motion that is converted into rotational motion. Wave generator Circular spline The wave generator is an elliptical disk that runs in a bearing. This bearing is designed to utilize the flexibility of the flexspline, forcing it into an elliptical shape. The rotational motion of the wave generator continuously deforms the flexspline, which results in motion transmission. Areas of application of strain wave gearheads Strain wave gearheads are used across a wide range of industries and applications. Their unique properties make them ideal for use in the following areas: Robotics In robotics, precision and compact design – and thus weight – play a critical role. Strain wave gearheads provide the perfect solution for controlling joints and axes, especially in industrial and collaborative robots (cobots). Test and measurement technology The high demands in test and measurement technology leave no room for errors. Reliability and high precision are key criteria for strain wave gearheads. In medical equipment such as surgical robots and MRI systems, precise motion control is essential. Strain wave gearheads enable precise positioning, which is crucial for the safety and success of medical procedures. In aerospace applications, reliability and weight are critical factors. Strain wave gearheads provide the required precision while being compact, lightweight, and durable. This makes them ideal for use in satellites and space probes. High dynamics and precision are crucial to success in the semiconductor industry. Strain wave gearheads provide these qualities: They are extremely precise, efficient, and their exceptional rigidity enables highly dynamic positioning applications. Regardless of whether a microscope, night vision device, or a huge space telescope, optical systems have sensitive components inside them. Their sensitive and precise motion control makes strain wave gearheads a perfect fit for these applications. In combination with other maxon system components maxon strain wave gearheads can be seamlessly combined with maxon drives. maxon offers strain wave gearheads with output bearings as part of its proven modular system. Without an output bearing, the three core components – wave generator, flexspline, and circular spline – enable optimal integration into custom applications. ECX FLAT platform up to 106 mNm up to 1000 mNm up to 2840 mNm We pack maximum power into the smallest of spaces. Open in AR View: Strain wave gearhead technology is the perfect fit wherever precision and reliability are required. Strain wave gearheads are an outstanding technology that is indispensable in many high-precision applications. Their functional principle, based on the elastic deformation of the flexspline, enables highly precise, zero-backlash, and efficient motion transmission. Additional interesting facts for you. Coorperate with maxon Young Engineers Program With YEP, we have created an international platform for young talents, universities, and start-ups from all over the world. Here, we implement exceptional innovation projects and support outstanding engineering. Company Technology Our core technologies are based on 60 years of experience in combining mechanical micro-components and electrical systems. Today, we constantly push the boundaries of what is feasible and make targeted investments in research and development. Working at maxon We provide a suitable starting point for every professional level in a dynamic industry. In our Careers section, you will find current job openings and the right people to contact. Interviews, feature articles, application stories: Our company is full of stories. 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