Harmonic Drive SE — Mechanical Parts for Automation Devices Harmonic Drive were established based on the invention of the strain wave gear by Walton Musser in 1955. Originally designed for space applications, the unique characteristics of this gear principle — including zero backlash, compactness, and high reduction in one stage — quickly gained acceptance in other industries and made the company rapidly expand. Harmonic Drive SE — Mechanical Parts for Automation Devices