Mechanical Transmission

ANSYS and SolidWorks have simulation addins. You can also purchase standalone multiphysics packages. Or, you could buy parts from Stock Parts and build one. Or you could use real transmission models and download a ton of youtube stuff.

Do you have a budget?

Some of our more creative, learned members have animated avatars. I'd think one of them could tell you how to animate the drive. This would illustrate the different ratios of the drive components nicely.

This doesn't seem to be a complicated system. On offense to your students.

Good luck.

Google - Animated Mechanisms - may find what you are looking for.

Automation is Ok, but there is nothing to compare with a hands-on experience. I would suggest investing in a construction kit (like Meccano, Lego or the many other types). Build a model of whatever it is you want to demonstrate so that the students can get a direct view of the concept; you could even ask the students to build it themselves (even chemical engineers can do this).

Go to the local bone yard and buy an old standard shift transmission. Have the sides cut out leaving the corners to connect the ends and you will have a perfect, real life example that can be seen from every angle.

If you really want to challenge them, buy a Mack 21 speed triplex.

If I may make some recommendations to your concept is to move the bearing at right end of shaft to between the gear and pulley, the reason is reduce deflection between the mating gear teeth and I would let the pulley overhang; thus, making it easier to replace belts. Also, reducing the length of the shaft. In addition, I would recommend adding a belt tighten mechanism.

Just some suggestions

Good Luck

OK Good suggestions.

Gabriel