ThreeJS Curves for Sprocket Generation

Looking at your sprocket generation project, I can see you're creating the sprocket contours using circular arcs. This is a great approach for mechanical components that need to be kinematically accurate.

Based on the context of your project and the screenshots, you might find the following ThreeJS curve classes particularly useful for your next steps (adding the chain and movement):

Relevant ThreeJS Curve Classes

• ArcCurve: Perfect for the circular arc segments you're already using in your sprocket teeth
• EllipseCurve: Could be useful if you need to create elliptical components
• CatmullRomCurve3: Excellent for creating smooth 3D paths that the chain could follow between sprockets
• CubicBezierCurve3: Provides precise control for complex 3D paths with control points

For your chain animation, you might want to consider using CatmullRomCurve3 to create the path between sprockets, as it creates a smooth curve through a series of points in 3D space.

If you need more precise control over the curve shape, CubicBezierCurve3 would allow you to define exact control points for the path.

Your approach of using circular arcs for the sprocket teeth is mathematically sound, especially for ensuring proper chain engagement. When you move to implementing the chain movement, you'll likely need to calculate points along these curves at specific intervals, which all of these curve classes support through their .getPoint() methods.

The 5-tooth sprocket is indeed a great way to illustrate the concept clearly, even if it's not practical for most real-world applications (as you noted about the 19-tooth minimum recommendation).