The Rack and Pinion ProDynami - 1338 demonstrates how a pinion gear converts rotational motion into linear motion via a rack. This Rack and Pinion apparatus features a 26-tooth, 50mm diameter pinion gear at a 2mm module. It illustrates the mechanism commonly used in vehicle steering systems, offering reduced backlash and improved steering feedback compared to alternatives. The apparatus is supplied as a complete experimental unit with instruction manual.

Rack and Pinion ProDynami - 1338, Technical Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Mechanism Type | Linear actuator, converts rotational motion into linear motion |
| Pinion Gear | Number of teeth: 26 |
| Pinion Diameter | 50mm |
| Module | 2mm |
Technical Data
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Number of teeth on pinion gear | 26 |
| Diameter of pinion gear | 50mm |
| Module | 2mm |
Key Features
Construction and Design
The Rack and Pinion ProDynami - 1338 consists of a pinion gear with 26 teeth and a diameter of 50mm, at a module of 2mm. The pinion, a circular gear, engages teeth on a linear rack bar. Rotational motion applied to the pinion causes the rack to move, translating rotational motion into linear motion. This arrangement is commonly used in the steering mechanism of cars or other wheeled steered vehicles, providing less mechanical advantage than recirculating ball mechanisms but reduced backlash and improved steering feedback.
Scope of Delivery
Q: What is the Rack and Pinion ProDynami - 1338 used for?
A: It is used to demonstrate how a rack and pinion mechanism converts rotational motion into linear motion, as commonly used in vehicle steering systems.
Q: What is the pinion gear specification?
A: The pinion gear has 26 teeth, a diameter of 50mm, and a module of 2mm.
Q: How does a rack and pinion differ from recirculating ball mechanisms?
A: A rack and pinion provides less mechanical advantage than recirculating ball mechanisms but offers much less backlash and greater feedback or steering feel.
Q: Where is the rack and pinion mechanism commonly used?
A: It is commonly found in the steering mechanism of cars or other wheeled steered vehicles.
Q: Who is credited with improving the rack and pinion design for high-speed use?
A: Arthur Ernest Bishop invented the use of a variable rack, still using a normal pinion, to improve vehicle response and steering feel especially at high speeds.