Understanding the difference between an epicycloid and a hypocycloid is essential in engineering and geometric drawing, as both curves arise from the motion of rolling circles. While they may seem similar, the key distinction lies in where the rolling circle moves.
This guide breaks down the differences between these two fascinating curves and their applications in technical design.
The primary difference between an epicycloid and a hypocycloid lies in the position of the rolling circle—outside for the epicycloid and inside for the hypocycloid. Both curves have significant roles in mechanical and engineering design, especially in gear and motion systems.
