Where Can I Find an Affordable One-Way Rotation Mechanism?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around finding an affordable one-way rotation mechanism that includes detents or stops at specified intervals, such as every 90 or 45 degrees. Participants explore various types of mechanisms, their specifications, and potential suppliers, while considering the requirements for force, friction, and application.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the availability and terminology of a one-way rotation mechanism with specific detent requirements.
  • Another participant suggests that the described mechanism resembles a ratchet and pawl.
  • Concerns are raised about the ability to specify the mechanism for free rotation with stops at intervals, such as every 45 degrees, and requests for supplier recommendations.
  • A participant emphasizes the need for specific requirements regarding strength, environment, materials, and durability before sourcing a mechanism.
  • Discussion includes the variability of how freely a ratchet and pawl can rotate, depending on spring strength and other factors.
  • Another participant notes the distinction between precision indexing functions and simpler stop-go mechanisms, suggesting further research into indexing and intermittent motion mechanisms.
  • A one-way roller clutch is proposed as an alternative, highlighting its advantages in terms of friction, noise, and cost-effectiveness.
  • A suggestion is made to purchase a mechanism for practical understanding, with a recommendation to keep costs low.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express various opinions on the types of mechanisms suitable for the described application, with no consensus on a single solution or supplier. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best approach to meet the specified requirements.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention several factors that could influence the choice of mechanism, including strength, environmental conditions, and specific properties needed, indicating that the inquiry may require more detailed specifications.

Matt1
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Does anyone know if the following is available as an off-the-shelf component and what would it be called?
One-way rotation mechanism
Has detents or stops at specified intervals (such as every 90 degrees)
Fairly small - for attaching an approximately 2" diameter wheel or circular disc to
Doesn't require a lot of force to pull it out of the detent and begin rotation again, rotates freely with minimal friction
 
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It sounds like you are describing a ratchet and pawl.

ratchetwheel_20606_sm.gif
 
Yes, I've considered this. The question is whether it can be specified to rotate freely + have stops at specified intervals such as every 45 degrees. Any advice on good suppliers where something like this could be sourced would be appreciated.
 
Matt1 said:
Yes, I've considered this. The question is whether it can be specified to rotate freely + have stops at specified intervals such as every 45 degrees. Any advice on good suppliers where something like this could be sourced would be appreciated.

That mechanism is used in everything from wind up wrist watches to megaton winches. So you'll have to be much more specific in your requirements before shopping.

Strength, environment, materials, durability, teeth per revolution, the list of properties goes on and on. Your question is far too broad.
 
Last edited:
A ratchet and pawl can rotates pretty freely. Depends on the strength of the spring. If that's a concern then more info is required. What do you mean by "freely"? How freely? Not even any air resistance?
 
Really depends on whether you want a precision indexing function or just a sequential stop go stop go function .

There are many standard mechanisms and almost as many books describing them . Probably many of these books are now available online .

Try searching on 'indexing mechanisms' and 'intermittent motion mechanisms' .
 
Cheapest way to understand them is to buy one...don't pay more than 10 bucks for one.

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Kobalt-Direct-Drive-Gearless-Ratchet-Assembly-Rotating.jpg
 

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