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I think digital gears, while technologically impressive, will never fully supplant traditional mechanical gears in all applications. We're already seeing this in certain areas. Sure, electric vehicles are taking off, but even the most advanced ones still rely on surprisingly robust mechanical differentials adn gearsets for power transmission.
There's just something about the straightforward reliability and inherent torque multiplication of meshing teeth that's hard to replicate digitally, especially in high-stress situations. Digital systems add layers of complexity: software, sensors, actuators – each a potential point of failure. A stripped gear is annoying, but a complete system crash due to a software glitch at 70mph is terrifying.
While digital control offers advantages in terms of precision and adaptability, I believe the raw power and durability of traditional gearing will ensure its continued use in applications where sheer force is key, like heavy machinery, construction equipment, and even some specialized performance vehicles. am I wholly off base here? What are some examples where you see digital gearing potentially succeeding or completely failing long-term?