Solving gear puzzles: tips
In a gear puzzle it is not enough to connect parts somehow. What matters is how the motion changes along the way. These basic ideas help you work more systematically.
Think from source to target
Start at the power source and follow where the motion spreads, step by step. Then check backwards from the target to see which part must connect last. Where both paths meet is usually where the gap is.
Mind the direction
Two meshing gears turn in opposite directions, so a straight chain of gears reverses direction at every link. A crossed belt also reverses the direction, a normally routed one does not. Count the links to the target if it demands a certain direction.
Speed and switches
Wheels of different sizes change the speed. If a target needs a particular speed, compare the sizes along the chain. Clutches open or close a drive, so check the state of each clutch individually.
When you are stuck
Try small steps, take moves back, and rebuild a part rather than shifting everything. A break often helps more than more guessing. In Cogwisp you can also use single-step and test run to follow the motion, and call up three graded hints per room.
FAQ
Why do two gears turn in opposite directions?
Because their teeth mesh and one wheel pushes the other the opposite way.
Does a belt reverse the rotation?
Only a crossed belt does; a normally routed belt keeps the direction.
