Gears are essential parts of many precision power transmitting machines such as automobiles. The major functions of a gearbox are to transform speed and torque in a given ratio and to change the axis of rotation. Planetary gears yield several advantages over conventional parallel shaft gear systems: They produce high speed reductions in compact spaces, a greater load sharing, a higher torque to weight ratio, diminished bearing loads, and reduced noise and vibration. They are used in automobiles, helicopters, aircraft engines, heavy machinery, and a variety of other applications. Despite their...