{"data":{"fields":"term_definition","term_definition":"<div class=\"definition\">They are one of the new members in the family of gears. While this type of gear has been described in text books for years, it was not available in a successful form until 1925. These gears are similar in form to bevel gears, but operate on offset axes. As with bevel gears, the axes usually are at right angles, but a wide range of angular arrangements is also possible. Hypoids are practically always made with spiral teeth, and therefore, the lines of contact are curved and oblique. Some lengthwise sliding takes place between the teeth when the gears operate. The principal use of hypoid gears has been in automobile rear axles with the pinion offset below center. This design makes the pinion larger and stronger then the corresponding spiral bevel pinion and also allows a lower car body. These gears tend to be smoother and quieter than spiral bevel gears. Hypoid gears are also used in applications where it is necessary for two shafts to continue past one another. They are put to this use frequently in heavy machinery such as rolling mills, paper mills, etc.<\/div>"}}