Hi, I would like to make a pivot joint like in the knee or elbow. I would like to control the angle by high torque Ac motor. How do I construct the joint and the gear? How do I make only one tube to move while the other tube stays in its position? I attach a picture that will demonstrate what I thought to be the basis for the joint. Thanks guys
About 25 years ago I built an arm using VCR parts and it had a pivot joint for the elbow. I was able to use a small motor & gear train to lift the arm because I “spring loaded” the joint so it was at a neutral point and the only weight the motor would have to pick up, is whatever the gripper had.
Another tip: when you’re using salvaged gears to make up your gear train, sections of telescoping antenna make great shafts to put your gears on. They come in all different sizes, are light weight, strong, and highly polished. Just push them through the holes, crimp the ends, and you’re good to go.