Ratchet Wheel

Ratchet wheels are a type of gear commonly used in mechanical power transmission systems. They are part of the supply class "Gears, Pulleys, Sprockets, and Transmission Chain" in the supply group "Mechanical Power Transmission Equipment."

A ratchet wheel consists of a circular disc with teeth around its circumference. These teeth are designed to engage with a pawl, which is a small lever or catch that allows the ratchet wheel to rotate in one direction but prevents it from rotating in the opposite direction.

The main purpose of a ratchet wheel is to convert rotary motion into intermittent or one-way motion. When a force is applied to the ratchet wheel in the allowed direction, it rotates freely. However, when the force is applied in the opposite direction, the pawl engages with the teeth, preventing the wheel from rotating backward.

Ratchet wheels are commonly used in various applications, such as hand tools, mechanical clocks, winches, and other devices where intermittent or one-way motion is required. They provide a reliable and efficient means of transmitting power and controlling motion in mechanical systems.

In summary, ratchet wheels are a type of gear used in mechanical power transmission systems. They allow for intermittent or one-way motion and are commonly found in various applications where controlled motion is required.