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100 Years in Motion: The Legacy of Cone Drive

Published:  June 3, 2025

Company History • 100-Year Anniversary Series

From a Simple Idea to a Global Leader in Motion Control

In 1925, forward-thinking inventor Samuel I. Cone set out to improve traditional worm gear technology. What Cone developed was a practical method for precisely machining the double enveloping worm gear—an idea that, though conceptually ancient and studied by figures like Archimedes and Leonardo da Vinci, had never been manufacturable at scale. This breakthrough in geometry marked a major leap in gear performance, efficiency, and load capacity.

This innovation marked the beginning of Cone Drive, founded in Detroit, Michigan. Unlike traditional worm gears that engage with one tooth at a time, Cone’s design enabled multiple teeth to engage simultaneously, providing superior torque and durability.

Powered by Innovation: A Legacy of Service

Cone Drive’s precision gearing quickly found critical use in World War II, powering naval guns, aircraft, and even the landing gear of America’s first jet plane, the Bell XP-59A Airacomet. Our gears played a key role in the war effort and earned a lasting reputation for reliability and performance.

New Roots in Northern Michigan

In 1950, Cone Drive relocated to Traverse City, where it remains headquartered today. Over the years, we’ve transformed from a military-focused manufacturer into a global leader in motion control solutions for a wide range of industries—including robotics, medical, packaging & food, aerospace, satellite communications, construction equipment, solar energy, and more.

A New Chapter: Cone Drive Joins

In 2018, Cone Drive was acquired by The Timken Company, expanding our access to global resources, additional R&D capabilities, and strategic support.  Together, we are building on a shared commitment to innovation, engineering excellence, and enduring craftsmanship and quality.

Beyond Worm Gearing: A Full Motion Portfolio

Today, Cone Drive offers a suite of advanced gearing solutions, designed to meet the high-performance demands of modern industry.

What’s Next? A Future in Motion

As we celebrate our 100-year milestone, we’re not slowing down—we’re ramping up. Cone Drive’s technologies are paving the way forward for industries seeking efficiency, precision, and compact performance in a rapidly evolving world.

Our double-enveloping worm gears continue to power rugged industrial and defense applications, as well as precision systems in medical and aerospace environments.

Our harmonic strain wave and cycloidal gears are supporting the next generation of satellite communications, surgical robots, and defense systems, while our slew drives and bearings are revolutionizing solar tracking and construction platforms worldwide.

We’re investing in our people, expanding our global footprint, and deepening partnerships to stay at the forefront of motion control. 

The past century was defined by breakthroughs, resilience, and leadership.

The next 100 years? We’re just getting started.

1925
Innovation
Cone Drive is Founded with Double Enveloping Worm Gear

Samuel I. Cone patents the double-enveloping worm gear, and the Michigan Tool Company establishes the Cone Drive Division.

1931
Establishment
Manufacturing Plant Opens in Detroit

Cone Drive opens its first plant in Detroit.

1935
Expansion
Launch of HP Product Line

The HP Product line is launched, expanding Cone Drive's role in power transmission applications.

1950
Relocation
Headquarters Move to Traverse City, Michigan

Cone Drive relocates operations from Detroit to Traverse City, cementing the city as its headquarters.

1985
Growth
Manufacturing Grows with Ludington Facility Opening

A new facility opens in Ludington, Michigan, expanding Cone Drive's manufacturing capabilities.

2001
Advancement
Introduction of Zero-Backlash, Adjustable Gearset

Cone Drive advances its double-enveloping technology by introducing an adjustable, zero-backlash gearset.

2009
Diversification
Cone Drive Enters the Solar Energy Market

Cone Drive enters the solar energy market, delivering precision motion control solar tracking solutions.

2014
Globalization
Global Expansion and Entry into Slew Drive Market

Cone Drive expands globally and breaks into the slew drive and slew bearing market.

2016
Specialization
Stainless Steel IP69k Gearbox Launched

Cone Drive launches a hygienic IP69K stainless steel servo and NEMA gearboxes, tailored for the food and beverage industry.

2017
Breakthrough
Harmonic Solutions® Debut
for Robotics and Automation

Cone Drive Harmonic Solutions® goes live, enabling new applications in the robotics and automation sectors.

2018
Integration
Cone Drive Joins The Timken Company

Cone Drive is acquired by The Timken Company, accelerating our global reach and capabilities.

2023
Evolution
Cycloidal Technology Added
with Timken's Spinea Acquisition

Timken acquires Spinea, adding cycloidal gearing technology to the Cone Drive product portfolio.

2025
Centennial
Celebrating 100 Years
of Innovation and Excellence

Cone Drive proudly celebrates 100 years of engineering excellence and innovation.

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