In this article the authors present a loaded tooth contact analysis (LTCA) method for asymmetric gears that provides an accurate and efficient design tool for analyzing and comparing designs. The presented method is implemented in SMT's MASTA software. The authors also present an example comparative study using this tool for an automotive application.

Lately, the use of asymmetric gears in automotive and other applications is an upcoming trend, though few applications are known to have asymmetric teeth. However, an increased interest in asymmetric gears can be seen. Many companies have started to design and test such applications.