By 2030, the global robotics market size is expected to range anywhere from $160 billion to $260 billion. The world is expecting robots to do a lot of the “heavy lifting” going forward. But with demand pressuring supply for many of the essential components, new production technologies are needed to keep pace. Nowhere is this truer than for the smaller, high-precision spiral and hypoid bevel gears that play such a critical role in transmitting power and delivering precise, reliable movement in increasingly complex, multiaxis robotic systems. Yet, manufacturers of these gears have, up until now, had surprisingly few options available to help them ramp up production of this new generation of high-efficiency bevel gears—particularly in the increasingly common size range of 100 mm in diameter and smaller. 

This article by Reishauer AG summarizes the insights gained from digitization in the machine tool sector, highlighting the long-term collaboration between the two companies. ZF Getriebe Brandenburg GmbH, distinguished by a team of over 1,500 specialists, leads in producing exclusive manual and dual-clutch passenger car transmissions used in high-end German sports cars for maximum precision and performance. A crucial factor in the quality of these transmissions is the precise ground gears manufactured on machines from Reishauer AG, a Swiss pioneer in gear grinding machines. 

For more than 60 years, Forest City Gear has crafted a legacy of excellence in precision gear manufacturing, leveraging advanced techniques and cutting-edge technology to earn the business of customers as exclusive as NASA. At the heart of the company’s technology-focused philosophy lies a long-time relationship with Sunnen Products Company, a leading manufacturer of honing systems, tooling, and accessories. The relationship helped Forest City set itself apart as one of the world’s most precise gear makers, and now the company’s parts are found on everything from fishing reels to the Mars Rovers.