https://vimeo.com/372301612 [vimeo.com]
https://vimeo.com/372302022 [vimeo.com]

The generator randomly distributes points along a given plane, builds a path along the points, and based on this path creates the correct gear size with the centers at these points. Only the radius of the first gear is set (as a percentage of the distance between the first two points), the radiuse of the remaining gears are dependent on it. In the case of the intersection of the gears, the generator will automatically move the gear to the next level (the beginning of a new path is created). If gears with different levels are located nearby, the generator will create two gears at different levels centered at one point. There is a random seed for choosing the type of gears (only 3 types, each with its own settings: solid (with an additional ratchet mechanism), with knitting needles, a flywheel (with an additional spring). For each type there is a probability of occurrence (from 0 to 1), you can set minimum threshold radius for displaying gears of only the solid type (to avoid errors at small radius). The base is built on the points of the centers of the gears (random seed here touches the starting point at each level), you can choose the shape for the base (input geometry or convex hull of the gears) or build only the inside of the base (this creates sharp angles, which sometimes requires to fix it by hand ) When you turn on the last level of the foundation and with the selected inside only mode, it should be understood that at the last level there may not be enough points for the generator to work correctly, as a result of which the last level cannot be created or will not be created correctly. It is possible to adjust the height of the levels and the relative height of the gear. You can change the length and height of the gear teeth, while the necessary rotation of the gear is automatically calculated. For animation, the rotation angle of the first gear is set (the others are dependent on it) and the compression ratio of the springs. The ratchet mechanism does not use simulations (only geometric calculations), while small intersections of the locks with the geometry of the gear wheel and their intermittent movement at extremely low speeds are possible (if necessary, there are many parameters that affect the shape of the lock).

Extremely informative piece of content. I was able to get some really good tips on how to design a gear. Thank you.