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For Researchers · Gear Train Ratios

Gear Train Ratios for a footbridge

Built for researchers prototyping or validating an idea. Prototype fast, reproduce exactly, and share a citable, interactive version of your model. Simulate a footbridge live below — adjust the inputs and watch it respond, right in your browser.

Gear Train RatiosLive

trade speed for torque

Controls

Presets

Driver teeth

Driven teeth

Input speed (rpm)

Input torque (N·m)

A larger driven gear turns slower but with proportionally more torque — the ratio equals the tooth-count ratio. Gears trade speed for force, exactly like a lever.

▶ Run in Python

Data Inspector

Gear ratio3.00 : 1

Output speed20.0 rpm

Output torque6.0 N·m

Governing equation

\frac{ω _{o u t}}{ω _{in}} = - \frac{N _{in}}{N _{o u t}} = - \frac{12}{36}, τ_{o u t} = τ_{in} \cdot \frac{N _{o u t}}{N _{in}} = 6.0 N\cdotm

Reading this result: Reduction drive: the driven gear turns 3.0× slower but multiplies torque 3.0× — trading speed for pulling force, like low gear on a bike.

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Frequently asked questions

Is this good for researchers?: Yes — this version of "Gear Train Ratios for a footbridge" is framed for researchers prototyping or validating an idea. Prototype fast, reproduce exactly, and share a citable, interactive version of your model.
Do I need to install anything?: No. It runs in any modern browser, free, with no account required.