Now that we know how to find weak links in our mechanisms,
let’s look at some examples of reinforcing. Figures 11-10 to
11-14 show reinforcing done poorly and done properly.
As you can see, reinforcing gears can be boiled down
to making sure the axles are securely supported. But since
axles can be long and prone to bending, there are two rules
to follow here:
- The axle should be supported at least at two points.
- The axle should be supported as close to the gears on it as
possible, preferably from both sides of the gears.
Figure 11-15 illustrates the first rule, and Figure 11-16
illustrates the second rule. Axles are in fact much less rigid
than beams or bricks, and they can bend, twist, or even
slide through the gears when subjected to sufficient stre