Thread: Understanding WCP Drive Train Calculator
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Unread 14-12-2016, 17:20
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Re: Understanding WCP Drive Train Calculator
Quote:
Originally Posted by InFlight View Post
I'm not a big fan of these calculators as you miss out on understanding the fundamentals equations of why you would want a particular ratio. These equations ignore any inefficiencies in the drive train, but give you a better insight into the tradeoffs.
It's definitely good to understand the math behind the calculators, but I don't think you're giving the calculators enough credit. Drivetrain calculators are an effective way of quickly seeing the visualization of a drivetrain as you change specific variables, something that would take much longer when doing the math by hand.

I've been designing drivetrains for 6 years now and while I *can* do all of the equations, I always have a tab open of JVN's Mechanical Design Calculator and the WestCoast Products Drivetrain calculator. These calculators are so useful that learning how to utilize them is an invaluable tool for any designer.
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