Timing belt tooth profiles: trapezoidal, curvilinear,
Better load distribution and smooth meshing transitions mean curvilinear teeth are quieter than trapezoidal options. The catch is that curvilinear designs have higher backlash than trapezoidal profiles. Belt manufacturers typically offer their own exclusive or patented tooth designs, but even proprietary designs are based on one of three basic profiles—trapezoidal, curvilinear, or modified