Transmission assembly, driving assembly, driving axle and vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of vehicles, in particular to a transmission assembly, a drive assembly, a drive axle and a vehicle. One end of the transmission assembly is suitable for being connected with a power unit, the other end of the transmission assembly is suitable for being connected with a differential mechanism, the transmission assembly comprises a planetary structure, the planetary structure comprises a sun gear, and the sun gear is suitable for being in transmission connection with the power unit; and the gear ring surrounds the periphery of the sun gear and is in transmission connection with the sun gear, and the gear ring is connected with the differential mechanism. In the process that a planetary structure participates in gear shifting, due to the fact that the speed ratio can be designed to be small, the stage difference between a first gear and a second gear is small, and gear shifting smoothness is good, the problem that when a planetary reducer serves as a driving unit, gear shifting impact is caused by the fact that the gear shifting stage difference is large due to sun gear input and planet carrier output is solved. Therefore, according to the transmission assembly, the comfort of the vehicle can be improved.

Description

A transmission assembly, a drive assembly, a drive axle, and a vehicle Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of vehicle technology, and more particularly to a transmission assembly, a drive assembly, a drive axle, and a vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] A vehicle's transmission assembly is the device used to transmit power to the wheels, thereby propelling or pulling the vehicle forward. In electric vehicles, the transmission assembly typically uses a planetary reducer as the drive unit, which offers advantages such as high reduction ratios and high efficiency. However, when used as the drive unit, planetary reducers result in relatively poor shift smoothness. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This invention provides a transmission assembly, a drive assembly, a drive axle, and a vehicle to solve the technical problem of poor shift smoothness when using a planetary reducer as a drive unit in the prior art.

[0004] In a first aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide a transmission assembly, one end of which is adapted to be connected to a power unit and the other end of which is adapted to be connected to a differential. The transmission assembly includes a planetary structure, the planetary structure including a sun gear adapted to be driven by the power unit; and a ring gear surrounding the outer periphery of the sun gear and driven by the sun gear, the ring gear being connected to the differential.

[0005] Optionally, the planetary structure further includes a first transmission assembly, through which the gear ring is connected to the sun gear; the first transmission assembly causes the gear ring and the sun gear to rotate at the same speed, or causes the gear ring and the sun gear to rotate at different speeds.

[0006] Optionally, the first transmission assembly includes a plurality of planetary gears, which mesh with the ring gear and the sun gear respectively; a planet carrier, which is rotatably connected to the plurality of planet carriers respectively, and the planet carrier has a first rotating state and a fixed state; when the planet carrier is in the first rotating state, the ring gear and the sun gear rotate at the same speed; when the planet carrier is in the fixed state, the ring gear and the sun gear rotate at different speeds.

[0007] Optionally, along the axial direction of the sun gear, a first tooth groove is provided on the outer periphery of the first end of the sun gear; along the radial direction of the sun gear, a gear ring is provided around the outer periphery of the first end of the sun gear and has a gap between it and the first end of the sun gear, and a second tooth groove is provided on the radial inner side of the gear ring; a plurality of planet gears are respectively provided in the gap, and planet gear external teeth are provided on the outer periphery of the planet gears, and the planet gear external teeth mesh with the first tooth groove and the second tooth groove respectively.

[0008] Optionally, the transmission assembly further includes a shift synchronizer, which can selectively position the planetary carrier in the first rotating state or the fixed state.

[0009] Optionally, the transmission assembly further includes a transmission housing; a planetary carrier holder connected to the transmission housing; and the shift synchronizer selectively connects the planetary carrier to the planetary carrier holder to place the planetary carrier in the fixed state.

[0010] Optionally, the shift synchronizer includes a synchronizer ring connected to the planetary carrier; and a synchronizer sleeve disposed around the outer periphery of the synchronizer ring. The synchronizer sleeve can be moved toward the planetary carrier fixing frame to connect the synchronizer ring and the planetary carrier fixing frame, so that the planetary carrier is in the fixed state.

[0011] Optionally, the second end of the sun gear extends along the axial direction of the sun gear, and the second end of the sun gear is adapted to be connected to the power unit for transmission.

[0012] Optionally, the first end of the planet carrier extends radially along the sun gear, and the first end of the planet carrier is rotatably connected to a plurality of planet carriers respectively; the second end of the planet carrier extends along the axial direction of the sun gear; along the axial direction of the sun gear, the second end of the planet carrier is sleeved on the outer periphery of the middle part of the second end of the sun gear, and is rotatably connected to the second end of the sun gear.

[0013] Optionally, the synchronization ring is sleeved on the outer periphery of the second end of the planetary carrier and connected to the second end of the planetary carrier.

[0014] Optionally, the planet carrier fixing frame is sleeved on the outer periphery of the second end of the planet carrier and is rotatably connected to the second end of the planet carrier.

[0015] Optionally, the planetary carrier holder is located on the side of the synchronization ring facing the first end of the planetary carrier.

[0016] Optionally, the synchronizer sleeve can also connect the synchronizing ring and the sun gear, so that the planet carrier rotates at the same speed as the sun gear.

[0017] Optionally, the transmission assembly further includes a second transmission assembly disposed between the power unit and the sun gear, the second transmission assembly being adapted to transmit power provided by the power unit to the sun gear.

[0018] Optionally, the second transmission assembly includes an input gear connected to the second end of the sun gear, the input gear being located on the side of the synchronizing ring away from the planetary carrier fixing frame; the synchronizer sleeve is movable toward the input gear to connect the synchronizing ring and the input gear, so that the planetary carrier rotates at the same speed as the sun gear.

[0019] Optionally, the second transmission assembly further includes a gear ring, which is disposed around the outer periphery of the second end of the sun gear. The gear ring is located between the input gear and the synchronizing ring and is connected to the input gear. The synchronizer sleeve is movable toward the input gear to connect the gear ring and the synchronizing ring, so that the planet carrier rotates at the same speed as the sun gear.

[0020] Optionally, the second transmission assembly further includes: a first gear adapted to be connected to the power unit output shaft of the power unit; a second gear meshing with the first gear; and a third gear coaxially arranged with the second gear, the third gear meshing with the input gear.

[0021] Optionally, the second transmission assembly further includes an input shaft connected to the second gear and the third gear respectively, the input shaft being parallel to the axis of the sun gear.

[0022] Optionally, the planetary carrier also has a second rotational state; when the planetary carrier is in the second rotational state, the synchronizer sleeve is separated from both the input gear and the planetary carrier mounting frame, and the power transmission between the gear ring and the sun gear is disconnected.

[0023] Optionally, the planetary structure is a Ravina-type planetary structure.

[0024] Secondly, embodiments of the present invention also provide a drive assembly, the drive assembly including a differential and a transmission assembly as described above; the gear ring of the transmission assembly is connected to the differential.

[0025] Optionally, the differential includes a differential housing; along the axial direction of the sun gear, a plurality of second tooth grooves are provided at a first end of the differential housing to form the gear ring.

[0026] Optionally, a first chamber is formed at the first end of the differential housing, and a plurality of second tooth grooves are formed on the cavity wall of the first chamber, and the first end of the sun gear is disposed in the first chamber.

[0027] Optionally, along the axial direction of the sun gear, a second chamber is formed at the second end of the differential housing; the differential also includes a cross shaft and planetary gears, the cross shaft being connected to the second end of the differential housing; the planetary gears are disposed in the second chamber, and the planetary gears are connected to the second end of the differential housing via the cross shaft, the planetary gears moving to achieve power output.

[0028] Optionally, the differential includes a differential housing for outputting power; the differential housing is connected to the gear ring.

[0029] Thirdly, embodiments of the present invention also provide a drive axle, the drive axle including an axle housing and a drive assembly as described above, wherein the drive assembly is disposed within the axle housing.

[0030] Fourthly, embodiments of the present invention also provide a vehicle, the vehicle including a vehicle body and a drive axle as described above, the vehicle body being connected to the drive axle.

[0031] Optionally, the vehicle further includes a power unit connected to the vehicle body and driven by the drive axle.

[0032] Optionally, the power unit is a drive motor.

[0033] Compared with prior art, the present invention has the following advantages:

[0034] In the transmission assembly of this invention, the sun gear is adapted to be connected to the power unit for transmission, and the ring gear is connected to the differential. The power provided by the power unit is output from the differential sequentially through the sun gear and the ring gear. That is, the planetary gear structure has the sun gear as input and the ring gear as output, and the speed ratio of the planetary gear structure can be designed to be relatively small, for example, close to 2. During the shifting process involving the planetary gear structure, because the speed ratio can be designed to be relatively small, the difference between first gear and second gear is small, resulting in better shifting smoothness. This solves the problem of shifting shock caused by the large shifting difference when using a planetary reducer as a drive unit, where the sun gear is the input and the planet carrier is the output. Therefore, the transmission assembly of this application can improve vehicle comfort.

[0035] The above description is merely an overview of the technical solution of the present invention. In order to better understand the technical means of the present invention and to implement it in accordance with the contents of the specification, and in order to make the above and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention more apparent and understandable, specific embodiments of the present invention are described below. Attached Figure Description

[0036] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below.

[0037] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the drive bridge according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the structure of part A in Figure 1 after the bridge shell is removed.

[0039] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the connection between the input gear, shift synchronizer, planetary carrier holder and differential according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 4 is a structural schematic diagram of the BB cross-sectional view in Figure 3.

[0041] Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a differential according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the transmission assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 7 is a structural schematic diagram of a portion of the drive axle after the axle housing has been removed, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Figure label:

[0045] 10. Differential; 11. Differential housing; 12. Gear groove; 14. Cross shaft; 15. Planetary gear;

[0046] 20. Planetary structure; 21. Sun wheel; 23. Planet carrier; 24. Planet wheel;

[0047] 30. Power unit;

[0048] 40. Gear shift synchronizer; 41. Synchronizer ring; 42. Synchronizer sleeve;

[0049] 50. Transmission housing;

[0050] 60. Planetary carrier fixing bracket; 61. Elastic retaining ring; 62. Cylindrical pin;

[0051] 71. Input gear; 72. First gear; 73. Second gear; 74. Third gear; 75. Input shaft; 76. Gear ring;

[0052] 80. Wheel hub; 81. Brake; 82. First half-shaft; 83. Second half-shaft; 84. Axle housing; 85. Shift fork; 87. Shift mechanism. Detailed Implementation

[0053] Exemplary embodiments of the invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. While exemplary embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawings, it should be understood that the invention can be implemented in various forms and should not be limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided to enable a more thorough understanding of the invention and to fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.

[0054] Referring to Figures 1 to 7, this application embodiment provides a transmission assembly. One end of the transmission assembly is adapted to be connected to a power unit 30, and the other end is adapted to be connected to a differential 10. The transmission assembly is mainly used to receive power from the power unit 30 and transmit it to the differential 10, which then transmits the power to enable the vehicle to drive. It also serves to reduce the speed and increase the torque to adapt to the power requirements under different driving conditions.

[0055] Referring to Figures 1 to 7, the transmission assembly provided in this application embodiment includes a planetary structure 20, which includes a sun gear 21 and a ring gear. The sun gear 21 is adapted to be connected to the power unit 30 for transmission. The ring gear surrounds the outer periphery of the sun gear 21 and is connected to the sun gear 21 for transmission. The ring gear is connected to the differential 10.

[0056] The primary function of the differential 10 is to allow the wheels to rotate at different speeds when the vehicle is turning. That is, when traveling straight, the left and right wheels of the vehicle need to rotate at the same speed; however, when turning, the outer wheel needs to rotate faster than the inner wheel to maintain the vehicle's straight-line trajectory. The differential 10 distributes power through the differential housing 11 and the planetary gears 15 located within the differential housing 11, allowing the outer wheel to receive more torque during cornering, thereby reducing tire wear and improving vehicle handling performance. The planetary gear set 20 has advantages such as high efficiency and high torque density, making it suitable for use in vehicles.

[0057] In the transmission assembly of this application embodiment, the sun gear 21 is adapted to be connected to the power unit 30 for transmission, and the ring gear is connected to the differential 10; the power provided by the power unit 30 is output from the differential 10 through the sun gear 21 and the ring gear in sequence. That is, the planetary structure 20 is input to the sun gear 21 and output to the ring gear. The speed ratio of the planetary structure 20 can be designed to be relatively small, for example, close to 2. During the shifting process of the planetary structure 20, because the speed ratio can be designed to be relatively small, the difference between first gear and second gear is small, and the shifting smoothness is good. This solves the problem of shifting shock caused by the large shifting difference when using a planetary reducer as a drive unit, with the sun gear 21 as input and the planet carrier 23 as output. Therefore, the transmission assembly of this application can improve the comfort of the vehicle.

[0058] In some embodiments, the planetary structure 20 further includes a first transmission assembly, through which the ring gear is connected to the sun gear 21; the first transmission assembly causes the ring gear and the sun gear 21 to rotate at the same speed, or causes the ring gear and the sun gear 21 to rotate at different speeds. In the above structure of the embodiments of this application, the first transmission assembly achieves gear shifting by causing the ring gear and the sun gear 21 to rotate at the same speed or at different speeds.

[0059] In some embodiments, the first transmission assembly includes a plurality of planetary gears 24 and a planet carrier 23, wherein the plurality of planetary gears 24 mesh with a ring gear and a sun gear 21 respectively; the planet carrier 23 is rotatably connected to the plurality of planet carriers 23 respectively, and the planet carrier 23 has a first rotating state and a fixed state; when the planet carrier 23 is in the first rotating state, the planet carrier 23 rotates at the same speed as the sun gear 21; when the planet carrier 23 is in the fixed state, the ring gear and the sun gear 21 rotate at different speeds.

[0060] In this embodiment, the planetary carrier 23 participates in gear shifting. When the planetary carrier 23 is in the first rotating state, the ring gear and the sun gear 21 rotate at the same speed to achieve direct drive output. When the planetary carrier 23 is in the fixed state, the ring gear and the sun gear 21 rotate at different speeds to achieve deceleration and torque increase function. The planetary carrier 23 can shift between first gear and second gear when it is in the first rotating state or the fixed state.

[0061] In some embodiments, along the axial direction of the sun gear 21, a first tooth groove is provided on the outer periphery of the first end of the sun gear 21; along the radial direction of the sun gear 21, a gear ring is provided around the outer periphery of the first end of the sun gear 21 and has a gap between it and the first end of the sun gear 21, and a second tooth groove is provided on the radial inner side of the gear ring; a plurality of planet gears 24 are respectively provided in the gap, and planet gear external teeth are provided on the outer periphery of the planet gears 24, and the planet gear external teeth mesh with the first tooth groove and the second tooth groove respectively.

[0062] Among them, along the axis of the sun gear 21, the axis direction is direction C in Figure 2.

[0063] In some embodiments, the second end of the sun gear 21 extends along the axial direction of the sun gear 21, and the second end of the sun gear 21 is adapted to be connected to the power unit 30 for transmission. In practical applications, the end of the second end of the sun gear 21 that is opposite to the first end of the sun gear 21 is connected to the power unit 30 for transmission.

[0064] In some embodiments, the transmission assembly further includes a shift synchronizer 40, which can selectively position the planetary carrier 23 in a first rotating state or a fixed state. In this embodiment, using the shift synchronizer 40 to position the planetary carrier 23 in either a first rotating state or a fixed state offers the advantages of simple and convenient operation.

[0065] In some embodiments, the transmission assembly further includes a transmission housing 50 and a planetary carrier holder 60, the planetary carrier holder 60 being connected to the transmission housing 50; the shift synchronizer 40 may selectively connect the planetary carrier 23 to the planetary carrier holder 60 to fix the planetary carrier 23.

[0066] The transmission assembly's transmission components can change the gear ratio, thereby achieving different vehicle speeds and torque outputs. The transmission assembly includes a transmission housing 50, a transmission component, and a planetary structure 20, with the transmission component and planetary structure 20 housed within the transmission housing 50.

[0067] In this embodiment, when the transmission assembly is operating, the planetary carrier holder 60 is fixed along with the transmission housing 50. The shift synchronizer 40 can selectively connect the planetary carrier 23 to the planetary carrier holder 60, so that the planetary carrier 23 is fixed along with the planetary carrier holder 60. At this time, the sun gear 21 of the planetary structure 20 is input, and the sun gear 21 causes the ring gear to rotate through the planet gears 24. The rotation of the ring gear achieves deceleration and torque increase through the differential housing 11. At this time, it is in first gear.

[0068] It is understood that the connection method between the planetary carrier holder 60 and the transmission housing 50 can be set according to the usage requirements, and this application embodiment does not specifically limit it. For example, the outer periphery of the planetary carrier holder 60 is connected to the transmission housing 50 by a fixing member such as a cylindrical pin 62, and a limiting member such as an elastic retaining ring 61 is used to achieve a limiting connection, so that the planetary carrier holder 60 and the transmission housing 50 are connected.

[0069] In some embodiments, the shift synchronizer 40 includes a synchronizer ring 41 and a synchronizer sleeve 42. The synchronizer ring 41 is connected to the planetary carrier 23. The synchronizer sleeve 42 is arranged around the outer periphery of the synchronizer ring 41. The synchronizer sleeve 42 can be moved toward the planetary carrier fixing frame 60 to connect the synchronizer ring 41 and the planetary carrier fixing frame 60, so that the planetary carrier 23 is in a fixed state.

[0070] It is understandable that the connection between the synchronizing ring 41 and the planetary carrier 23 is configured according to requirements. For example, the synchronizing ring 41 and the planetary carrier 23 are connected by a keyway or the like, so that the synchronizing ring 41 and the planetary carrier 23 can rotate at the same speed around the axis of the sun gear 21.

[0071] Referring further to Figure 2, the synchronizer sleeve 42 is moved under the control of the shift mechanism fork 85 of the shift mechanism 87. When the shift mechanism fork 85 controls the synchronizer sleeve 42 to slide to the right, it connects with the planetary carrier mounting bracket 60, thus connecting the synchronizer ring 41 and the planetary carrier mounting bracket 60. Since the synchronizer ring 41 is connected to the planetary carrier 23, the planetary carrier 23 is connected to the planetary carrier mounting bracket 60. The planetary carrier 23 is connected to the transmission housing 50 through the planetary carrier mounting bracket 60. That is, when the synchronizer sleeve 42 is connected to the planetary carrier mounting bracket 60, the planetary carrier 23 is in a fixed state and does not rotate; the sun gear 21 of the planetary structure 20 is input, and the sun gear 21 causes the ring gear to rotate through the planetary gears 24. The rotation of the ring gear outputs power through the differential housing 11.

[0072] The synchronizer sleeve 42 can be connected to the planetary carrier fixing frame 60 via a keyway or similar connection, allowing the synchronizer ring 41 and the planetary carrier fixing frame 60 to be connected. The specific structure of the shift synchronizer 40 can be selected according to the application requirements, and this application embodiment does not limit it.

[0073] In some embodiments, the first end of the planet carrier 23 extends radially along the sun gear 21, and the first end of the planet carrier 23 is rotatably connected to a plurality of planet carriers 23 respectively; the second end of the planet carrier 23 extends along the axial direction of the sun gear 21; along the axial direction of the sun gear 21, the second end of the planet carrier 23 is sleeved on the outer periphery of the middle part of the second end of the sun gear 21, and is rotatably connected to the second end of the sun gear 21.

[0074] In this embodiment, the sun gear 21 is sleeved on the outer periphery of the vehicle half-shaft and rotatably connected to the half-shaft. The half-shaft includes a first half-shaft 82 and a second half-shaft 83. Referring to FIG2, the sun gear 21 is sleeved on the outer periphery of the first half-shaft 82. The second end of the planet carrier 23 and the second end of the sun gear 21 are coaxially aligned.

[0075] In some embodiments, the synchronizing ring 41 is sleeved on the outer periphery of the second end of the planet carrier 23 and connected to the second end of the planet carrier 23, so that the synchronizing ring 41 and the planet carrier 23 rotate at the same speed.

[0076] In some embodiments, the planetary carrier fixing frame 60 is sleeved on the outer periphery of the second end of the planetary carrier 23 and is rotatably connected to the second end of the planetary carrier 23. In this embodiment, when the synchronizer sleeve 42 is connected to the planetary carrier fixing frame 60, the planetary carrier fixing frame 60 is connected to the planetary carrier 23 through the synchronizer sleeve 42 and the synchronizer ring 41, so that the planetary carrier 23 is in a fixed state.

[0077] In some embodiments, the planetary carrier holder 60 is located on the side of the synchronizing ring 41 facing the first end of the planetary carrier 23. That is, as shown in FIG2, the planetary carrier holder 60 is located on the right side of the synchronizing ring 41.

[0078] In some embodiments, the synchronizer sleeve 42 can also connect the synchronizer ring 41 and the sun gear 21, so that the planet carrier 23 rotates at the same speed as the sun gear 21. In this embodiment, when the synchronizer sleeve 42 connects the synchronizer ring 41 and the sun gear 21, the planet carrier 23 is in a first rotational state, and both the planet carrier 23 and the ring gear rotate at the same speed as the sun gear 21 to achieve direct gear output.

[0079] In this embodiment, when the synchronizer sleeve 42 is connected to the synchronizer ring 41 and the sun gear 21, the planet carrier 23 is connected to the sun gear 21 through the synchronizer ring 41, allowing the planet carrier 23 to rotate at the same speed as the sun gear 21. At this time, the planetary structure 20 does not decelerate, and the planetary structure 20 is a direct-drive output (i.e., second-gear output), which has the advantage of high output efficiency.

[0080] In some embodiments, the transmission assembly further includes a second transmission assembly disposed between the power unit 30 and the sun gear 21. The second transmission assembly is adapted to transmit power provided by the power unit 30 to the sun gear 21. In this embodiment, the transmission assembly is disposed between the power unit 30 and the sun gear 21 for transmitting power output from the power unit 30 to meet the arrangement requirements of the components in the transmission assembly.

[0081] In some embodiments, the second transmission assembly includes an input gear 71 connected to the second end of the sun gear 21, and the input gear 71 is located on the side of the synchronizing ring 41 away from the planetary carrier fixing frame 60; the synchronizer sleeve 42 can move toward the input gear 71 to connect the synchronizing ring 41 and the input gear 71, so that the planetary carrier 23 and the sun gear 21 rotate at the same speed.

[0082] Referring further to Figure 2, the synchronizer sleeve 42 is moved under the control of the shift mechanism fork 85 of the shift mechanism 87. When the shift mechanism fork 85 controls the synchronizer sleeve 42 to slide to the left, the synchronizer sleeve 42 connects with the input gear 71, thus connecting the synchronizer ring 41 and the input gear 71. Since the synchronizer ring 41 is connected to the planetary carrier 23, the planetary carrier 23 is connected to the input gear 71. The planetary carrier 23 is connected to the sun gear 21 through the input gear 71. That is, when the synchronizer sleeve 42 is connected to the input gear 71, the planetary carrier 23 and the sun gear 21 are connected and can rotate at the same speed. At this time, the sun gear 21 of the planetary structure 20 is input, and the sun gear 21 rotates at the same speed as the ring gear. The rotation of the ring gear outputs power through the differential housing 11, and the planetary structure 20 is a direct drive output.

[0083] Understandably, the connection method between the input gear 71 and the sun gear 21 is set according to requirements. For example, the input gear 71 and the sun gear 21 are connected through a keyway or the like, so that the input gear 71 and the sun gear 21 can rotate at the same speed around the axis of the sun gear 21. Furthermore, the structure for connecting the synchronizer sleeve 42 and the input gear 71 can be a connection through a keyway or the like, so that the synchronizer ring 41 and the input gear 71 are connected.

[0084] In some embodiments, the second transmission assembly further includes a gear ring 76, which is disposed around the outer periphery of the second end of the sun gear 21. The gear ring 76 is located between the input gear 71 and the synchronizing ring 41 and is connected to the input gear 71. The synchronizer sleeve 42 can move toward the input gear 71 to connect the gear ring 76 and the synchronizing ring 41, so that the planet carrier 23 rotates at the same speed as the sun gear 21.

[0085] In this embodiment, further referring to FIG2, when the shift fork 85 controls the synchronizer sleeve 42 to slide to the left, the synchronizer sleeve 42 connects with the gear ring 76, so that the synchronizer ring 41 is connected to the input gear 71 through the gear ring 76. Since the synchronizer ring 41 is connected to the planet carrier 23, the planet carrier 23 is connected to the input gear 71, and the planet carrier 23 is connected to the sun gear 21 through the input gear 71. That is, when the synchronizer sleeve 42 is connected to the gear ring 76, the planet carrier 23 and the sun gear 21 are connected and can rotate at the same speed. At this time, the sun gear 21 of the planetary structure 20 is input, and the sun gear 21 rotates at the same speed as the ring gear. The rotation of the ring gear realizes the output power through the differential housing 11, and the planetary structure 20 is a direct drive output.

[0086] Understandably, the connection method between the gear ring 76 and the input gear 71 is set according to the requirements. For example, the gear ring 76 and the input gear 71 are connected by a keyway or the like, so that the gear ring 76 and the input gear 71 can rotate at the same speed around the axis of the sun gear 21; or, for another example, the gear ring 76 and the input gear 71 are connected by external teeth and tooth grooves.

[0087] In some embodiments, the second transmission assembly further includes a first gear 72, a second gear 73, and a third gear 74. The first gear 72 is adapted to be connected to the power unit output shaft of the power unit 30; the second gear 73 meshes with the first gear 72; the third gear 74 is coaxially arranged with the second gear 73 and meshes with the input gear 71.

[0088] In this embodiment, the transmission assembly includes a first gear 72, a second gear 73, a third gear 74, and an input gear 71. The power unit 30 outputs torque through its output shaft, which is transmitted to the second gear 73 via the first gear 72. The second gear 73 is coaxial with and connected to the third gear 74, and they rotate at the same speed. The second gear 73 transmits torque to the third gear 74, which then transmits it to the input gear 71. The input gear 71 is connected to the sun gear 21, and thus transmits torque to the sun gear 21. Through this structure, the transmission assembly transmits the power output from the power unit 30 to the sun gear 21.

[0089] In some embodiments, the second transmission assembly further includes an input shaft 75 connected to the second gear 73 and the third gear 74 respectively, the input shaft 75 being parallel to the axis of the sun gear 21, in order to reduce the complexity of power transmission in the transmission assembly.

[0090] In some embodiments, the planetary carrier 23 also has a second rotating state; when the planetary carrier 23 is in the second rotating state, the synchronizer sleeve 42 is separated from the input gear 71 and the planetary carrier fixing frame 60, and the power transmission between the ring gear and the sun gear 21 is disconnected. In the above structure of the embodiments of this application, the transmission assembly is in neutral and does not transmit power, that is, the sun gear 21 does not transmit power to the ring gear.

[0091] In some embodiments, the planetary structure 20 is a Ravenna planetary structure. Ravenna planetary structures are characterized by being able to provide a smaller speed ratio while maintaining a relatively small size and light weight; they can make efficient use of limited space and provide the required reduction ratio.

[0092] When the planetary structure 20 is a Ravenel type planetary structure, a gear ratio close to 2 can be achieved. During gear shifting, the difference between first and second gear is small, resulting in smoother shifting and resolving the shift shock issue caused by the large gear shift difference in the planetary structure 20, thus improving vehicle comfort. Moreover, when the planetary structure 20 is involved in gear shifting, if the gear ratio of the planetary structure 20 is large, it is difficult to maintain a stable speed for climbing hills in second gear (e.g., a 4% gradient, 75 km / h continuous climbing). However, in the embodiment of this application, second gear can maintain greater power and speed requirements, which is beneficial for miniaturizing the power unit 30 and gear pairs, and avoiding the use of a larger power unit 30 and / or transmission system.

[0093] The transmission assembly of this application embodiment includes a planetary structure 20, a transmission housing 50, a shift synchronizer 40, a planetary carrier holder 60, and a transmission component. The transmission assembly achieves gear shifting through a shift mechanism 87.

[0094] The transmission assembly is adapted to be connected to the power unit 30 and to transmit the power output by the power unit 30 to the sun gear 21. Specifically, the power unit 30 outputs torque through the power unit output shaft, and this torque is transmitted through the first gear 72, the second gear 73, the third gear 74 and the input gear 71 of the transmission assembly. The input gear 71 is connected to the sun gear 21 and transmits the torque to the sun gear 21.

[0095] The shift synchronizer 40 is located between the input gear 71 and the planetary carrier fixed frame 60. The shift mechanism fork 85 of the shift mechanism 87 controls the movement of the synchronizer sleeve 42 of the shift synchronizer 40. The synchronizer sleeve 42 has three positions. Referring to Figure 2, when the shift mechanism fork 85 moves the synchronizer sleeve 42 to the left, the synchronizer sleeve 42 connects the synchronizer ring 41 and the input gear 71. Since the synchronizer ring 41 is connected to the planetary carrier 23 of the planetary structure 20, the synchronizer ring 41, the planetary carrier 23, the input gear 71, and the sun gear 21 rotate at the same speed. The ring gear rotates at the same speed as the sun gear 21. At this time, the planetary structure 20 is in direct gear output (i.e., second gear output).

[0096] When the shift fork 85 of the gear shift mechanism moves the synchronizer sleeve 42 to the middle position, the synchronizer ring 41 is not connected to the input gear 71 and the planetary carrier fixing frame 60, and is in neutral.

[0097] When the shift fork 85 moves the synchronizer sleeve 42 to the right, the synchronizer ring 41 and the planetary carrier fixing frame 60 are connected, and the planetary carrier fixing frame 60 is connected to the transmission housing 50. At this time, the input gear 71 and the sun gear 21 rotate at the same speed, while the synchronizer ring 41 and the planetary carrier 23 do not rotate. The sun gear 21 of the planetary structure 20 is input, and the sun gear 21 causes the ring gear to rotate through the planetary gears 24, achieving speed reduction and torque increase. At this time, it is in first gear output.

[0098] In the transmission assembly of this application embodiment, the sun gear 21 is adapted to be connected to the power unit 30 for transmission, and the ring gear is connected to the differential 10; the power provided by the power unit 30 is output from the differential 10 through the sun gear 21 and the ring gear in sequence. That is, the planetary structure 20 is input to the sun gear 21 and output to the ring gear, and the speed ratio of the planetary structure 20 can be designed to be relatively small. During the shifting process of the planetary structure 20, because the speed ratio can be designed to be relatively small, the difference between first gear and second gear is small, and the shifting smoothness is good. This solves the problem of shifting shock caused by the large shifting difference when using a planetary reducer as a drive unit, with the sun gear 21 as input and the planet carrier 23 as output. Therefore, the transmission assembly of this application can improve the comfort of the vehicle.

[0099] Furthermore, the transmission assembly in this embodiment uses a set of planetary structures 20, which gives the drive system the advantages of small weight and low cost, and reduces manufacturing difficulty; compared with using multiple sets of planetary reducers, it also has the advantages of high transmission efficiency and good NVH performance. The set of planetary structures 20 is located in the middle of the transmission assembly, reducing the torsional torque caused by the planetary structures 20 and reducing the risk of cracking of the axle housing 84.

[0100] Currently, planetary reducers in transmission assemblies typically do not participate in gear shifting, remaining constantly operational and resulting in low transmission efficiency. In this embodiment, a set of planetary gears 20 participates in gear shifting, using a sun gear 21 as input and a ring gear as output. This allows for smaller gear intervals, smoother shifting, and avoidance of significant shift shocks, improving vehicle comfort. The difference between first and second gear is small, and second gear provides strong power, enabling commercial vehicles and other vehicles to maintain a stable speed while climbing hills at relatively high speeds, demonstrating strong adaptability to various operating conditions. Furthermore, in second gear, the planetary gears operate as direct drive, resulting in higher system transmission efficiency and significant improvements in system integration and weight reduction.

[0101] This application provides a drive assembly, which includes a differential 10 and a transmission assembly as described above; the gear ring of the transmission assembly is connected to the differential 10. Since the transmission assembly has good shifting smoothness, the drive assembly of this application also has the advantage of good shifting smoothness, thus improving vehicle comfort.

[0102] In some embodiments, the differential 10 includes a differential housing 11 for outputting power; along the axial direction of the sun gear 21, a plurality of second tooth grooves are provided at the first end of the differential housing 11 to form a toothed ring.

[0103] In the differential 10 of this embodiment, the first end of the differential housing 11 is provided with a plurality of second tooth grooves to form a gear ring. In order to make the gear ring and the differential housing 11 into an integral structure, the planetary structure 20 and the differential 10 are integrated, which greatly improves the high integration and weight reduction of the drive assembly. It also reduces the use of fasteners such as bolts between the differential housing 11 and the gear ring, reduces oil churning loss, and improves system efficiency.

[0104] In some embodiments, a first chamber is formed at the first end of the differential housing 11 along the axial direction of the sun gear 21, and a plurality of second tooth grooves are formed on the cavity wall of the first chamber. The first end of the sun gear 21 is disposed in the first chamber. In the differential 10 of this application embodiment, disposing the first end of the sun gear 21 in the first chamber can increase the integration degree between the planetary structure 20 and the differential 10.

[0105] In some embodiments, a second chamber is formed at the second end of the differential housing 11 along the axial direction of the sun gear 21; the differential 10 also includes a cross shaft 14 and a planetary gear 15, the cross shaft 14 being connected to the second end of the differential housing 11; the planetary gear 15 is disposed in the second chamber, the planetary gear 15 being connected to the second end of the differential housing 11 via the cross shaft 14, and the planetary gear 15 moving to achieve power output.

[0106] Referring to Figure 5, a first chamber is formed at the left end of the differential housing 11, and a second chamber is formed at the right end. Multiple toothed grooves 12 are formed on the wall of the first chamber, and a planetary gear 15 is housed in the second chamber. The planetary gear 15 is connected to the differential housing 11 via a cross shaft 14. The differential housing 11 rotates to drive the planetary gear 15 via the cross shaft 14, thereby outputting power.

[0107] In some embodiments, the differential 10 includes a differential housing 11 for outputting power; the differential housing 11 is connected to a gear ring. In this embodiment, the gear ring is an independent component with a ring structure, and a plurality of second tooth grooves are provided on the radially inner side of the gear ring.

[0108] In the differential 10 of this application embodiment, the differential housing 11 rotates to distribute power through the movement of the planetary gear 15 of the differential 10, so that when turning, the outer wheel can receive more torque, thereby outputting power and causing the wheels to rotate at different speeds.

[0109] It is understandable that the specific connection method between the differential housing 11 and the gear ring is not limited, as long as it meets the usage requirements. For example, it can be connected by fasteners such as bolts, or by welding.

[0110] In this embodiment, the differential housing 11 of the differential 10 rotates, causing multiple planetary gears 15 to move. The multiple planetary gears 15 mesh with the first half-shaft 82 and the second half-shaft 83 respectively. The planetary gears 15 drive the first half-shaft 82 and the second half-shaft 83 to rotate, so that when the vehicle is turning, the torque on the first half-shaft 82 and the second half-shaft 83 is different; when the vehicle is traveling straight, the torque on the first half-shaft 82 and the second half-shaft 83 is the same.

[0111] The first half-shaft 82, at one end away from the differential 10, is connected to the wheel hub 80 and the brake 81, respectively. The second half-shaft 83, at one end away from the differential 10, is connected to the wheel hub 80 and the brake 81, respectively. The wheel hub 80 is adapted to connect with the wheel, and the brake 81 controls the wheel hub 80 to decelerate or stop its movement, so that the wheel decelerates or stops its movement.

[0112] In the drive assembly of this application embodiment, the ring gear of the planetary structure 20 is formed on the differential housing 11, and the differential 10 serves as the output end. The center of gravity of the transmission assembly is basically centered, which solves the problem that when the planetary structure is arranged on the motor shaft or other countershafts, the unsprung mass of the vehicle is large, the vibration acceleration is large, and combined with the large center of gravity eccentricity, the transmission is prone to problems such as housing cracking, high NVH risk and difficulty in control.

[0113] This application provides a drive axle, which includes an axle housing and a drive assembly as described above, with the drive assembly housed within the axle housing.

[0114] The axle housing 84 is the outer shell of the transmission assembly. The axle housing 84 contains a portion of the first half-shaft 82 and a portion of the second half-shaft 83, as well as a shift mechanism 87, a differential 10, a planetary structure 20, a shift synchronizer 40, a planetary carrier holder 60, transmission components, etc.

[0115] This application also provides a vehicle, which includes a vehicle body and a drive axle as described above, with the vehicle body connected to the drive axle. Since the drive axle offers the advantage of smooth gear shifting, the vehicle offers the advantage of good comfort, thus improving user satisfaction.

[0116] In the embodiments of this application, the transmission assembly, drive assembly, drive axle and vehicle can be referenced to each other and have the same or similar beneficial effects as any of the aforementioned transmission assemblies and drive assemblies. To avoid repetition, they will not be described again here.

[0117] In some embodiments, the vehicle further includes a power unit 30, which is connected to the vehicle body and is driven to the drive axle.

[0118] In some embodiments, the power unit 30 is a drive motor, and the power output by the drive motor is transmitted to the sun gear 21 through a transmission assembly. In this case, the drive system is an electric drive system.

[0119] It should be noted that, in this document, relational terms such as "first" and "second" are used merely to distinguish one entity or operation from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. Furthermore, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes the element.

[0120] The various embodiments in this specification are described in a related manner. The same or similar parts between the various embodiments can be referred to each other. Each embodiment focuses on describing the differences from other embodiments.

[0121] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention are included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A transmission assembly, one end adapted to be connected to a power unit (30) and the other end adapted to be connected to a differential (10), characterized in that, The transmission assembly includes a planetary structure (20), the planetary structure (20) including a sun gear (21), the sun gear (21) being adapted to be connected to the power unit (30) for transmission. A gear ring surrounds the outer periphery of the sun gear (21) and is connected to the sun gear (21) in a driving connection. The gear ring is connected to the differential (10).

2. The transmission assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The planetary structure (20) further includes a first transmission component, through which the gear ring is connected to the sun gear (21); the first transmission component causes the gear ring and the sun gear (21) to rotate at the same speed, or causes the gear ring and the sun gear (21) to rotate at different speeds.

3. The transmission assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first transmission assembly includes a plurality of planetary gears (24), which mesh with the ring gear and the sun gear (21) respectively; a planet carrier (23), which is rotatably connected to the plurality of planet carriers (23), and the planet carrier (23) has a first rotating state and a fixed state; when the planet carrier (23) is in the first rotating state, the ring gear and the sun gear (21) rotate at the same speed; when the planet carrier (23) is in the fixed state, the ring gear and the sun gear (21) rotate at different speeds.

4. The transmission assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that, Along the axial direction of the sun gear (21), a first tooth groove is provided on the outer periphery of the first end of the sun gear (21); along the radial direction of the sun gear (21), a gear ring is provided around the outer periphery of the first end of the sun gear (21) and has a gap between it and the first end of the sun gear (21), and a second tooth groove is provided on the radial inner side of the gear ring; a plurality of planet gears (24) are respectively provided in the gap, and planet gear external teeth are provided on the outer periphery of the planet gears (24), and the planet gear external teeth mesh with the first tooth groove and the second tooth groove respectively.

5. The transmission assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that, The transmission assembly also includes a shift synchronizer (40) which can selectively position the planetary carrier (23) in the first rotating state or the fixed state.

6. The transmission assembly according to claim 5, characterized in that: The transmission assembly further includes a transmission housing (50); a planetary carrier holder (60) connected to the transmission housing (50); and the shift synchronizer (40) selectively connects the planetary carrier (23) to the planetary carrier holder (60) so that the planetary carrier (23) is in the fixed state.

7. The transmission assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that: The shift synchronizer (40) includes a synchronizer ring (41) connected to the planetary carrier (23); a synchronizer sleeve (42) arranged around the outer periphery of the synchronizer ring (41); the synchronizer sleeve (42) can move toward the planetary carrier fixing frame (60) to connect the synchronizer ring (41) and the planetary carrier fixing frame (60), so that the planetary carrier (23) is in the fixed state.

8. The transmission assembly according to claim 7, characterized in that: The second end of the sun gear (21) extends along the axial direction of the sun gear (21), and the second end of the sun gear (21) is adapted to be connected to the power unit (30) for transmission.

9. The transmission assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that: The first end of the planet carrier (23) extends radially along the sun gear (21), and the first end of the planet carrier (23) is rotatably connected to a plurality of planet carriers (23); the second end of the planet carrier (23) extends along the axial direction of the sun gear (21); along the axial direction of the sun gear (21), the second end of the planet carrier (23) is sleeved on the outer periphery of the middle part of the second end of the sun gear (21), and is rotatably connected to the second end of the sun gear (21).

10. The transmission assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that: The synchronization ring (41) is sleeved on the outer periphery of the second end of the planet carrier (23) and connected to the second end of the planet carrier (23).

11. The transmission assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that: The planetary carrier fixing frame (60) is sleeved on the outer periphery of the second end of the planetary carrier (23) and is rotatably connected to the second end of the planetary carrier (23).

12. The transmission assembly according to claim 11, characterized in that: The planetary carrier holder (60) is located on the side of the synchronization ring (41) facing the first end of the planetary carrier (23).

13. The transmission assembly according to claim 7, characterized in that: The synchronizer sleeve (42) can also connect the synchronizer ring (41) and the sun gear (21) so that the planet carrier (23) and the sun gear (21) rotate at the same speed.

14. The transmission assembly according to claim 13, characterized in that: The transmission assembly further includes a second transmission assembly disposed between the power unit (30) and the sun gear (21), the second transmission assembly being adapted to transmit power provided by the power unit (30) to the sun gear (21).

15. The transmission assembly according to claim 14, characterized in that: The second transmission assembly includes an input gear (71) connected to the second end of the sun gear (21), the input gear (71) being located on the side of the synchronizing ring (41) away from the planetary carrier frame (60); the synchronizer sleeve (42) is movable toward the input gear (71) to connect the synchronizing ring (41) and the input gear (71), so that the planetary carrier (23) rotates at the same speed as the sun gear (21).

16. The transmission assembly according to claim 15, characterized in that: The second transmission assembly further includes a gear ring, which is arranged around the outer periphery of the second end of the sun gear (21). The gear ring is located between the input gear (71) and the synchronizing ring (41) and is connected to the input gear (71). The synchronizer sleeve (42) can move toward the input gear (71) to connect the gear ring and the synchronizing ring (41), so that the planet carrier (23) rotates at the same speed as the sun gear (21).

17. The transmission assembly according to claim 15, characterized in that: The second transmission assembly further includes a first gear (72) adapted to be connected to the power unit output shaft of the power unit (30); a second gear (73) meshing with the first gear (72); and a third gear (74) coaxially arranged with the second gear (73), wherein the third gear (74) meshes with the input gear (71).

18. The transmission assembly according to claim 17, characterized in that: The second transmission assembly also includes an input shaft (75) connected to the second gear (73) and the third gear (74) respectively, the input shaft (75) being parallel to the axis of the sun gear (21).

19. The transmission assembly according to claim 15, characterized in that: The planet carrier (23) also has a second rotation state; when the planet carrier (23) is in the second rotation state, the synchronizer sleeve (42) is separated from the input gear (71) and the planet carrier fixing frame (60), and the power transmission between the gear ring and the sun gear (21) is disconnected.

20. The transmission assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The planetary structure (20) is a Ravina-type planetary structure.

21. A drive assembly, characterized in that: It includes a differential (10) and a transmission assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1-20; the ring gear of the transmission assembly is connected to the differential (10).

22. The drive assembly according to claim 21, characterized in that: The differential (10) includes a differential housing (11); along the axial direction of the sun gear (21), a plurality of second tooth grooves are provided at the first end of the differential housing (11) to form the tooth ring.

23. The drive assembly according to claim 22, characterized in that: The first end of the differential housing (11) has a first chamber, and a plurality of second tooth grooves are formed on the cavity wall of the first chamber. The first end of the sun gear (21) is disposed in the first chamber.

24. The drive assembly according to claim 23, characterized in that: Along the axial direction of the sun gear (21), a second chamber is formed at the second end of the differential housing (11); the differential (10) also includes a cross shaft (14) and a planetary gear (15), the cross shaft (14) is connected to the second end of the differential housing (11); the planetary gear (15) is disposed in the second chamber, the planetary gear (15) is connected to the second end of the differential housing (11) through the cross shaft (14), and the planetary gear (15) moves to achieve power output.

25. The drive assembly according to claim 21, characterized in that: The differential (10) includes a differential housing (11) for outputting power; the differential housing (11) is connected to the gear ring.

26. A drive axle, characterized in that, It includes a bridge housing and a drive assembly as described in any one of claims 21-25, wherein the drive assembly is disposed within the bridge housing.

27. A vehicle, characterized in that, The vehicle includes a vehicle body and a drive axle as described in claim 26, the vehicle body being connected to the drive axle.

28. The vehicle according to claim 27, characterized in that: The vehicle also includes a power unit (30), which is connected to the vehicle body and is drive-connected to the drive axle.

29. The vehicle according to claim 28, characterized in that: The power unit (30) is a drive motor.

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