Assembly for lubricating gears of transmission, transmission and vehicle

Abstract

The invention discloses an assembly for lubricating gears of a transmission, the transmission and a vehicle. Specifically, the present disclosure relates to an assembly (1) for lubricating a gear (2) of a transmission (3), the assembly (1) comprising:-a shaft (4) arranged to rotate about an axis of rotation (A) extending in an axial direction (X),-a gear (2) arranged to be rotationally fixed on the shaft (4),-a first annular member (5, 5 ') arranged to be rotationally fixed on the shaft (4),-a second annular member (6, 5') arranged to be rotationally fixed on the first annular member (5, 5 '), the invention relates to a gear arrangement (1) comprising a shaft (4), a gear (2), a first ring member (6) coaxially and rotationally fixed adjacent to the gear (2) on the shaft (4), a lubricant distribution ring member (6) for providing lubricant to gear valleys (24) between respective adjacent gear teeth (22) of the gear (2). The disclosure also relates to a transmission (3) and a vehicle (100).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to lubrication in a vehicle transmission. In particular aspects, the present disclosure relates to a component for lubricating gears of a transmission, a transmission, and a vehicle. The present disclosure may be applicable to heavy vehicles such as trucks, buses, and construction equipment, as well as other vehicle types. Although the present disclosure may be described with respect to a particular vehicle, the present disclosure is not limited to any particular vehicle. Background Art

[0002] Gears used in a transmission generally require lubrication to operate properly. For example, it may be necessary to lubricate the gear teeth of a gear that mesh with the gear teeth of another gear. Efforts have been made to develop improved techniques related to gear lubrication. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a component for lubricating gears of a transmission, the component comprising: - a shaft arranged to rotate about a rotational axis extending in an axial direction, - the gear arranged to be rotationally fixed on the shaft, the gear including a plurality of gear teeth circumferentially arranged about the gear with respect to the rotational axis, - a first ring member coaxially and rotationally fixed on the shaft adjacent to the gear, wherein the first ring member has an axial end face including a circumferential portion that projects towards the gear in the axial direction such that an inner circumferential surface is formed on the circumferential portion, wherein the inner circumferential surface of the circumferential portion, the axial end face of the first ring member, the gear, and the shaft define a certain space, - a lubricant distribution ring member for supplying lubricant to gear valleys between corresponding adjacent gear teeth of the gear, wherein the lubricant distribution ring member is arranged inside the space, and wherein at least one of the first ring member, the gear, and the lubricant distribution ring member is configured such that the lubricant distribution ring member is axially press-fitted between the gear and the first ring member. The first aspect of the present disclosure may seek to improve the lubrication of gears in a cost-effective manner. Technical benefits may include that the axial press-fit of the lubricant distribution ring member prevents unnecessary leakage of lubricant near the first ring member and the gear. This may mean improved lubrication, for example, allowing more lubricant to lubricate the gear teeth of the gear. Another technical benefit may include that different components of the component can be conveniently machined, for example, the tolerance levels required for different components are less strict.

[0004] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the circumferential portion of the first ring member axially contacts the gear teeth of the gear. For example, the circumferential portion of the first ring member may axially contact each of the gear teeth of the gear. Technical benefits may include reducing the risk of leakage near the first annular member and the gear.

[0005] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the lubricant distribution ring member has a first radially outer peripheral surface near the gear, wherein the inner peripheral surface of the circumferential portion and the first radially outer peripheral surface of the lubricant distribution ring member are configured such that a radial gap is formed therebetween, and wherein the radial gap is arranged to supply lubricant to the gear valleys. Technical benefits may include achieving improved lubrication, thereby allowing the lubricant to flow axially in the radial gap towards the gear valleys and into the gear valleys.

[0006] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the gear has a root diameter, which is defined as the diameter of the circle that contacts the bottom of the gear valleys, wherein the diameter of the first radially outer peripheral surface is greater than the root diameter. Technical benefits may include improved lubrication. For example, the effect of changes in the root diameter on the lubricant flowing towards the gear can be reduced. Thus, in this context, "greater" may mean that the diameter of the first radially outer peripheral surface is greater than the root diameter, even when considering tolerance variations.

[0007] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the lubricant distribution ring member includes at least one radially extending opening that fluidly connects a portion of the space inside the lubricant distribution ring member to the gear valleys. Technical benefits may include improving the flow path of the lubricant towards the gear valleys. For example, the cross-sectional area of the at least one radially extending opening may be greater than the cross-sectional area of the radial gap. This may mean that the lubrication flow to the gear is improved.

[0008] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the lubricant distribution ring member includes a circumferentially extending lubricant reservoir that fluidly connects the at least one radially extending opening to the gear valleys. Technical benefits may include improving the flow path of the lubricant towards the gear valleys. Another technical benefit may include more reliable lubrication of the gear valleys, such as reducing the risk of lubricant shortage.

[0009] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the shaft includes a lubricant conduit that is in fluid communication with the space. Technical benefits may include improving the flow path of the lubricant towards the gear valleys.

[0010] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the lubricant distribution ring member is radially press - fitted in the space. Technical benefits can include improved flow paths for lubricant to the gear valleys, such as the high concentricity of the radial clearance mentioned above. Another technical benefit can include reducing the risk of unnecessary lubricant leakage. Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the lubricant distribution ring member is radially guided in the space, such as being radially guided with a tight fit, but without a radial press - fit. Radially guiding, such as with a tight fit rather than a radial press - fit, can mean that the installation of the lubricant distribution ring member is more convenient. For example, radial guiding can mean sufficient concentricity.

[0011] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the lubricant distribution ring member has a second radially outer peripheral surface, wherein the inner peripheral surface of the circumferential portion of the first ring member and the second radially outer peripheral surface of the lubricant distribution ring member are configured such that the second radially outer peripheral surface is radially press - fitted against the inner peripheral surface of the circumferential portion of the first ring member. Technical benefits can include improved configurations for achieving a radial press - fit, for example, cost - effective configurations and / or robust and reliable configurations.

[0012] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the lubricant distribution ring member has a radially inner peripheral surface and the gear has a radially outer peripheral surface disposed inside the space, wherein the radially inner peripheral surface of the lubricant distribution ring member and the radially outer peripheral surface of the gear are configured such that the radially inner peripheral surface of the lubricant distribution ring member is radially press - fitted against the radially outer peripheral surface of the gear. Technical benefits can include improved configurations for achieving a radial press - fit, for example, cost - effective configurations and / or robust and reliable configurations.

[0013] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the axial press - fit of the lubricant distribution ring member between the gear and the first ring member is arranged such that axial protrusions (such as axial protrusions of the first ring member, the gear, and / or the lubricant distribution ring member) deform the lubricant distribution ring member in the axial direction. Technical benefits can include improved configurations for achieving an axial press - fit, for example, cost - effective configurations and / or robust and reliable configurations.

[0014] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the axially projecting portion is positioned adjacent to the inner circumferential surface of the circumferential portion of the first ring member. Technical benefits may include an improved configuration for achieving an axial press fit, e.g., a cost-effective configuration and / or a robust and reliable configuration. For example, the configuration mentioned above may mean a reduced risk of lubricant leakage.

[0015] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the lubricant distribution ring member is U-shaped as seen in a cross-section defined by the axis of rotation and a radial direction relative to the axis of rotation. Technical benefits may include a cost-effective configuration and / or a configuration that allows the lubricant distribution ring member to be bent to improve the axial press fit.

[0016] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the gear is the sun gear of a planetary gear.

[0017] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the first ring member is an engagement ring for selectively connecting the annulus gear of the planetary gear to the shaft in terms of rotation direction. Technical benefits may include that the engagement ring is configured for achieving lubrication, i.e., this may mean a cost-effective and / or compact configuration.

[0018] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the gear is a separate member relative to the shaft or integrated with the shaft.

[0019] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the first ring member is a separate member relative to the shaft or integrated with the shaft.

[0020] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the lubricant distribution ring member is made of at least two separate parts divided along a cross-section perpendicular to the axis of rotation. Technical benefits may include that the lubricant distribution ring member can be manufactured in a more cost-effective manner.

[0021] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a transmission for a vehicle, which includes components according to any one of the examples of the first aspect of the present disclosure. The advantages, benefits, and effects of the second aspect of the present disclosure are similar to the advantages, benefits, and effects of the first aspect of the present disclosure. For example, the components may form part of the gear of the transmission, where the gear is configured to provide a low gear mode and a high gear mode, where the low gear mode provides a reduced input / output speed relative to the high gear mode. The gear may include the planetary gear mentioned herein. The input / output speed ratio of the high gear mode may be 1:1.

[0022] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, a vehicle is provided that includes a component according to any of the examples of the first aspect of the present disclosure or a transmission according to any of the examples of the second aspect of the present disclosure.

[0023] Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the disclosed aspects, examples (including any preferred examples), and / or appended claims may be appropriately combined with each other. Additional features and advantages are disclosed in the following description, claims, and drawings, and will be partially apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art or will be recognized by practicing the present disclosure as described herein. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] Examples are described in more detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0025] Figure 1 is an exemplary vehicle in a side view according to an example.

[0026] Figure 2 is an exemplary component in a cross-sectional view according to an example.

[0027] Figure 3 is an exemplary component in another cross-sectional view according to an example.

[0028] Figures 4a to 4c is an exemplary component in a cross-sectional view according to an example.

[0029] Figure 5 is an exemplary component in a cross-sectional view according to another example.

[0030] Figure 6 is an exemplary component in a cross-sectional view according to another example.

[0031] Figure 7 is an exemplary transmission according to an example.

[0032] Figure 8 is an exemplary lubricant distribution ring member according to an example.

[0033] The drawings are not necessarily to scale. It should also be noted that some details in the drawings may be exaggerated for better description and illustration of specific examples. Throughout the specification, unless otherwise indicated, the same reference numerals refer to the same elements. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] The detailed description set forth below provides information and examples of the disclosed technology in sufficient detail for those of ordinary skill in the art to practice the present disclosure.

[0035] The present disclosure may seek to provide improved lubrication for gears in a transmission. For example, an object of the present disclosure may be to provide a component for a gear that alleviates at least one drawback of the prior art or at least provides a suitable alternative. Other objects of the present disclosure may be to provide an improved transmission and vehicle that alleviate at least one drawback of the prior art.

[0036] Figure 1 Illustrative vehicle 100 is shown in a side view according to an example. Vehicle 100 is a truck for towing one or more trailers (not shown). However, it should be understood that the vehicle can be any other type of vehicle, such as another type of truck, bus, passenger car, and construction equipment (such as excavators, wheel loaders, etc.). Vehicle 100 can be driven by a user (not shown) and / or at least partially autonomously driven, i.e., it can be a vehicle including autonomous driving functions. Vehicle 100 can be a pure electric vehicle that includes one or more electric motors for generating propulsion force. The vehicle can include an internal combustion engine, or the vehicle can be a hybrid vehicle that includes one or more electric motors and an internal combustion engine for generating propulsion force.

[0037] Vehicle 100 includes component 1 and transmission 3 according to an example of the present disclosure. Transmission 3 can be configured, for example, to transfer torque from the above-mentioned internal combustion engine and / or one or more electric motors to drive wheels 110 of vehicle 100.

[0038] Figure 2 An example of component 1 for lubricating gears 2 of transmission 3 is depicted. Component 1 and transmission 3 can be used, for example, for Figure 1 the vehicle 100 shown. Component 1 includes a shaft 4 that is arranged to rotate about a rotational axis A extending in an axial direction X. Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of component 1 is depicted in the form of a plane extending along rotational axis A. Component 1 further includes a gear 2 that is arranged to be rotationally fixed to shaft 4. As shown, gear 2 can be a separate gear 2 that is rotationally fixed to shaft 4. Alternatively, gear 2 can be integrated with shaft 4.

[0039] Figure 3 Depicts Figure 2 component 1 in Figure 3 but in another cross-sectional view. More specifically,

[0040] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 , gear 2 includes a plurality of gear teeth 22 that are circumferentially arranged around gear 2 with respect to rotational axis A.

[0041] The assembly 1 further includes a first annular member 5, which is coaxially and rotationally fixed to the shaft 4 adjacent to the gear 2. The first annular member 5 has an axial end face 52, which includes a circumferential portion 54 that projects axially in the axial direction X towards the gear 2, such that an inner circumferential surface 542 is formed on the circumferential portion 54. The inner circumferential surface 542 of the circumferential portion 54, the axial end face 52 of the first ring member 5, the gear 2 and the shaft 4 define a space S.

[0042] The assembly 1 further includes a lubricant distribution ring member 6 for supplying lubricant to the gear valleys 24 (see Figure 3 ) between the respective adjacent gear teeth 22 of the gear 2. As used herein, a gear valley refers to the space between two adjacent gear teeth 22 of the gear 2. The lubricant distribution ring member 6 is disposed inside the space S and is coaxial with the shaft 4. At least one of the first ring member 5, the gear 2 and the lubricant distribution ring member 6 is configured such that the lubricant distribution ring member 6 is axially press-fitted between the gear 2 and the first ring member 5. An axial press-fit herein may mean that at least a portion of the lubricant distribution ring member 6 is deformed in the axial direction X.

[0043] As Figure 2 shown, the assembly 1 and / or the transmission 3 may further include a nut 7 for locking the gear 2 and / or the first annular member 5 to the shaft 4. As shown, the nut 7 is concentric with the shaft 4 and is rotationally fixed to the shaft 4.

[0044] For example, as can be further seen from Figure 2 , the circumferential portion 54 of the first ring member 5 may be axially in contact with the gear teeth 22 of the gear 2. Thus, the risk of lubricant leakage from the space S can be reduced, which means improved lubrication.

[0045] The lubricant distribution ring member 6 may further have a first radially outer circumferential surface 62 adjacent to the gear 2, as further shown. The inner circumferential surface 542 of the circumferential portion 54 and the first radially outer circumferential surface 62 of the lubricant distribution ring member 6 may be configured as shown (see Figures 4a to 4c ) such that a radial gap g is formed therebetween, wherein the radial gap g is arranged to supply lubricant to the gear valleys 24. In the example shown, the radial gap g is configured such that the lubricant can be supplied axially towards the gear valleys 24.

[0046] An example of the radial gap g is as Figures 4a to 4c shown. Figures 4a to 4c Depicts an enlarged cross-sectional view of the lubricant distribution ring member 6 of the assembly 1 according to an example. The cross-sectional view is in the form of a respective plane extending along the axis of rotation A.

[0047] For example, referring to Figure 3, the gear 2 has a root diameter D1, which is defined as the diameter of the circle that contacts the bottom of the gear valley 24. It can be seen that the diameter D2 of the first radially outer peripheral surface 62 can be greater than the root diameter D1.

[0048] For example, referring to Figures 4a to 4c , as shown in the figure, the lubricant distribution ring member 6 may include at least one radially extending opening 64 that fluidly connects a portion of the space S inside the lubricant distribution ring member 6 to the gear valley 24. For example, there may be a plurality of radially extending openings 64 distributed around the circumference of the lubricant distribution ring member 6.

[0049] For example, it can be further seen from Figures 4a to 4c that the lubricant distribution ring member 6 may include a circumferentially extending lubricant reservoir 66 that fluidly connects at least one radially extending opening 64 to the gear valley 24.

[0050] In some examples, for example, as Figure 2 and Figure 3 shown, the shaft 4 may include a lubricant conduit 42 that is in fluid communication with the space S. In the example shown, the lubricant conduit 42 is a hole extending in the axial direction X in the shaft 4 and is concentric with the shaft 4. The lubricant (depicted by the flow arrows) supplied from the lubricant conduit 42 to the gear valley 24 is typically pressurized to achieve sufficient lubrication. The lubricant used herein may be oil or grease.

[0051] As can be further seen in Figures 4a to 4c , the lubricant distribution ring member 6 may be radially guided in the space S, for example, radially press-fitted in the space S.

[0052] For example, the lubricant distribution ring member 6 may have a second radially outer peripheral surface 68. Referring to Figures 4a to 4b , the inner peripheral surface 542 of the circumferential portion 54 of the first ring member 5 and the second radially outer peripheral surface 68 of the lubricant distribution ring member 6 may be configured such that the second radially outer peripheral surface 68 is radially guided or radially press-fitted against the inner peripheral surface 542 of the circumferential portion 54 of the first ring member 5. For example, as shown in the figure, the radial press-fit (or alternatively, radial guidance) may be achieved in the corner of the space S, which in this example, as seen along the axial direction X, is away from the radial clearance g.

[0053] As another example that can be combined with the previous examples, and referring to Figure 4c, the lubricant distribution ring member 6 may have a radially inner circumferential surface 70, and the gear 2 may have a radially outer circumferential surface 26 disposed inside the space S. The radially inner circumferential surface 70 of the lubricant distribution ring member 6 and the radially outer circumferential surface 26 of the gear 2 may be configured such that the radially inner circumferential surface 70 of the lubricant distribution ring member 6 is radially guided or radially press-fitted against the radially outer circumferential surface 26 of the gear 2. For example, as shown in the figure, a radial press-fit (or alternatively radial guidance) can thus be achieved in the corner of the space S, in this example, as seen in the radial direction, the corner being away from the radial clearance g. In other examples not shown that can be combined with the previous example, a radial press-fit (or alternatively radial guidance) can be achieved in another corner of the space S (e.g., a corner away from the radial clearance g, as seen in the axial direction X and the radial direction).

[0054] Reference Figures 4a to 4c , the axial press-fit of the lubricant distribution ring member 6 between the gear 2 and the first ring member 5 may be arranged such that the axially protruding portions 56, 28 (such as those of the first ring member 5 (see Figure 4a and Figure 4c ), the gear 2 (see Figure 4b ), and / or the axially protruding portions of the lubricant distribution ring member 6 (not shown)) deform the lubricant distribution ring member 6 in the axial direction X. As shown, the axially protruding portions 56, 28 may be positioned close to the inner circumferential surface 542 of the circumferential portion 54 of the first ring member 5, for example, close to one of the corners of the space S mentioned above, and / or close to the corner of the space S that is also close to the radial clearance g.

[0055] As Figures 4a to 4c further shown, the lubricant distribution ring member 6 may be U-shaped, as seen in a cross-section defined by the rotational axis A and the radial direction relative to the rotational axis A. For example, such a shape may facilitate axial and / or radial press-fits, for example, allowing the lubricant distribution ring member 6 to deform in the radial and / or axial directions.

[0056] Figure 5 and Figure 6 show cross-sectional views of other examples of the assembly 1 according to the present disclosure. Figure 5 and Figure 6 The assembly 1 in Figure 2 to any one of FIGS. 4 may be configured in a similar manner as described above with reference to Figure 5 However, Figure 6 The assembly 1 in Figure 5 shows some additional and / or alternative configurations. For example, Figure 2 shows a configuration in which the first annular member 5 is disposed on the other side of the gear 2 instead of Figure 2to the side of the example shown in FIG. 4, as seen along the axial direction X. As shown, the first annular member 5 can be locked to the shaft 4 between the gear 2 and the nut 7. As shown in this example, the shaft 4 can have a stop surface 44 against which the gear 2 is pressed. In another example (not shown), for instance, if the first ring member 5 is located on the side of the gear 2 as Figure 2 shown, the first ring member 5 can be pressed against a similar stop surface of the shaft 4. As another example, Figure 6 shows a configuration in which the first annular member 5' also serves as a nut for locking the gear 2 to the shaft 4.

[0057] Although the above examples show the first annular members 5, 5' as separate members relative to the shaft 4, it should be noted that in alternative embodiments, the first annular member can be integrated with the shaft 4.

[0058] Figure 7 depicts an example of a transmission 1 according to the present disclosure. Thus, the transmission 1 includes a component 1 according to an example of the present disclosure. Referring to Figure 2 、 Figure 5 、 Figure 6 and Figure 7 , the gear 2 can be the sun gear 2 of the planetary gear PG as shown. As can be further seen, for example, from Figure 7 , the first annular member 5 can be a clutch ring for selectively connecting the ring gear 8 of the planetary gear PG to the shaft 4 in terms of rotation. Connecting two members in terms of rotation here means that when one of the members rotates about the axis of rotation, the other member rotates about the same axis of rotation simultaneously. As shown, the planetary gear PG can also include a planet carrier 9 for carrying one or more planet gears 92. Connecting the ring gear 8 of the planetary gear PG to the shaft 4 in terms of rotation will result in no speed change between the shaft 4 and the planet carrier 9, i.e., a speed ratio of 1:1. This mode can be represented as a high gear mode. However, when the clutch ring 5 is disconnected from the ring gear 8 and the ring gear 8 is alternatively fixed in terms of rotation to the housing (not shown), deceleration between the shaft 4 and the planet carrier 9 will be achieved. This mode can be represented as a low gear mode. The shaft 4 can be the main shaft of the transmission 1, and the planet carrier 9 can be connected to or be part of the output shaft of the transmission 1. The transmission 1 can be a vehicle transmission, including a plurality of additional gears and countershafts (not shown) configured to provide a plurality of different input / output speed ratios.

[0059] Figure 8Another example of the lubricant distribution ring member 6 according to the present disclosure is depicted in a sectional view. As shown in this example, the lubricant distribution ring member 6 can be made of at least two separate parts divided by a sectional plane PL perpendicular to the rotational axis A. In this example, the lubricant distribution ring member 6 is divided such that at least one radially extending opening 64 is provided in the vicinity of the sectional plane PL dividing the lubricant distribution ring member 6, and if there are multiple such openings, each opening is preferably provided. For example, as shown in the figure, the sectional plane PL can intersect at least one radially extending opening 64. Thereby, the radially extending opening 64 can be more easily made, such as by casting, swaging, or forging. This configuration can additionally or alternatively result in only one of the parts (e.g., the part forming the radial clearance g) being radially guided or radially press-fitted in the space S. Therefore, this can mean a more cost-effective configuration because, for example, for the other parts that do not form the radial clearance g, a less stringent tolerance level may be required.

[0060] In the following, possible features and combinations of features of the present disclosure are presented as a series of examples.

[0061] Example 1: An assembly (1) for lubricating a gear (2) of a transmission (3), the assembly (1) comprising: - a shaft (4) arranged to rotate about a rotational axis (A) extending in an axial direction (X), - the gear (2) arranged to be rotationally fixed to the shaft (4), the gear (2) including a plurality of gear teeth (22) circumferentially arranged around the gear (2) relative to the rotational axis (A), - a first ring member (5, 5'), the first ring member being coaxially and rotationally fixed to the shaft (4) adjacent to the gear (2), wherein the first ring member (5, 5') has an axial end face (52) including a circumferential portion (54) protruding in the axial direction (X) towards the gear (2) such that an inner circumferential surface (542) is formed on the circumferential portion (54), wherein the inner circumferential surface (542) of the circumferential portion (54), the axial end face (52) of the first ring member (5, 5'), the gear (2), and the shaft (4) define a space (S), - A lubricant distribution ring member (6) for supplying lubricant to a gear valley (24) between corresponding adjacent gear teeth (22) of the gear (2), wherein the lubricant distribution ring member (6) is arranged inside the space (S), and wherein at least one of the first ring members (5, 5'), the gear (2), and the lubricant distribution ring member (6) is configured such that the lubricant distribution ring member (6) is axially press-fitted between the gear (2) and the first ring member (5, 5').

[0062] Example 2: The assembly (1) according to Example 1, wherein the circumferential portion (54) of the first ring member (5, 5') is in axial contact with the gear teeth (22) of the gear (2).

[0063] Example 3: The assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the lubricant distribution ring member (6) has a first radially outer peripheral surface (62) adjacent to the gear (2), and wherein the inner peripheral surface (542) of the circumferential portion (54) and the first radially outer peripheral surface (62) of the lubricant distribution ring member (6) are configured such that a radial gap (g) is formed therebetween, and wherein the radial gap (g) is arranged for supplying lubricant to the gear valley (24).

[0064] Example 4: The assembly (1) according to Example 3, wherein the gear (2) has a root diameter (D1), which is defined as the diameter of a circle that contacts the bottom of the gear valley (24), and wherein the diameter (D2) of the first radially outer peripheral surface (62) is greater than the root diameter (D1).

[0065] Example 5: The assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the lubricant distribution ring member (6) includes at least one radially extending opening (64), and the at least one radially extending opening fluidly connects a part of the space (S) inside the lubricant distribution ring member (6) to the gear valley (24).

[0066] Example 6: The assembly (1) according to Example 5, wherein the lubricant distribution ring member (6) includes a circumferentially extending lubricant reservoir (66), and the lubricant reservoir fluidly connects the at least one radially extending opening (64) to the gear valley (24).

[0067] Example 7: The assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the shaft (4) includes a lubricant pipe (42) that is in fluid communication with the space (S).

[0068] Example 8: The component (1) according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein the lubricant distribution ring member (6) is radially guided or radially press-fitted in the space (S).

[0069] Example 9: The component (1) according to Example 8, wherein the lubricant distribution ring member (6) has a second radially outer peripheral surface (68), and wherein the inner peripheral surface (542) of the circumferential portion (54) of the first ring member (5, 5') and the second radially outer peripheral surface (68) of the lubricant distribution ring member (6) are configured such that the second radially outer peripheral surface (68) is radially guided or radially press-fitted against the inner peripheral surface (542) of the circumferential portion (54) of the first ring member (5, 5').

[0070] Example 10: The component (1) according to any one of Examples 8 to 9, wherein the lubricant distribution ring member (6) has a radially inner peripheral surface (70), and wherein the gear (2) has a radially outer peripheral surface (26) disposed inside the space (S), and wherein the radially inner peripheral surface (70) of the lubricant distribution ring member (6) and the radially outer peripheral surface (26) of the gear (2) are configured such that the radially inner peripheral surface (70) of the lubricant distribution ring member (6) is radially guided or radially press-fitted against the radially outer peripheral surface (26) of the gear (2).

[0071] Example 11: The component (1) according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein the axial press-fit of the lubricant distribution ring member (6) between the gear (2) and the first ring member (5, 5') is arranged such that axial protrusions (56, 28) (such as axial protrusions of the first ring member (5, 5'), the gear (2) and / or the lubricant distribution ring member (6)) deform the lubricant distribution ring member (6) in the axial direction (X).

[0072] Example 12: The component (1) according to Example 11, wherein the axial protrusions (56, 28) are located close to the inner peripheral surface (542) of the circumferential portion (54) of the first ring member (5, 5').

[0073] Example 13: The component (1) according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein the lubricant distribution ring member (6) is U-shaped as seen in a cross-section defined by the rotational axis (A) and the radial direction relative to the rotational axis (A).

[0074] Example 14: The component (1) according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein the gear (2) is the sun gear (2) of a planetary gear (PG).

[0075] Example 15: The component (1) according to Example 14, wherein the first ring member (5) is an engagement ring for selectively connecting the ring gear (8) of the planetary gear (PG) to the shaft (4) in terms of rotation direction.

[0076] Example 16: The component (1) according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein the gear (2) is a separate member relative to the shaft (4) or is integrated with the shaft (4).

[0077] Example 17: The component (1) according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein the first ring members (5, 5') are separate members relative to the shaft (4) or are integrated with the shaft (4).

[0078] Example 18: The component (1) according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein the lubricant distribution ring member (6) is made of at least two separate parts divided by a cross-section perpendicular to the rotation axis (A).

[0079] Example 19: A transmission (3) for a vehicle (100), comprising the component (1) according to any one of the foregoing examples.

[0080] Example 20: A vehicle (100), comprising the component (1) according to Examples 1 to 18 or the transmission (3) according to Example 19.

[0081] The terms used herein are for the purpose of describing particular aspects only and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. As used herein, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, the singular forms "a" and "the" are also intended to include the plural forms. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It should also be understood that the terms "comprises" and / or "comprising," when used herein, specify the presence of stated features, integers, acts, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, acts, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0082] It should be understood that although the terms first, second, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. For example, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, the first element may be referred to as the second element, and similarly, the second element may be referred to as the first element.

[0083] Relative terms such as "below" or "above" or "upper" or "lower" or "horizontal" or "vertical" may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element to another element, as shown in the figures. It should be understood that these terms, as well as those discussed above, are intended to cover different device orientations in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. It should be understood that when an element is referred to as being "connected" or "coupled" to another element, the element can be directly connected or directly coupled to the other element, or intervening elements may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly connected" or "directly coupled" to another element, no intervening elements are present.

[0084] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. It should also be understood that the terms used herein should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of this specification and the relevant art, and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

[0085] It should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the aspects described above and shown in the figures; rather, those skilled in the art will recognize that many changes and modifications can be made within the scope of the present disclosure and the appended claims. In the figures and the specification, the aspects have been disclosed for purposes of illustration only and not for purposes of limitation, and the scope of the disclosure is set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

1. An assembly (1) for lubricating a gear (2) of a transmission (3), the assembly (1) comprising: - a shaft (4) arranged to rotate about an axis of rotation (A) extending in an axial direction (X), - the gear (2) being arranged rotationally fixed on the shaft (4), the gear (2) comprising a plurality of gear teeth (22) being arranged circumferentially around the gear (2) relative to the rotation axis (A), - a first ring member (5, 5') coaxially and rotationally fixed to the shaft (4) adjacent to the gear (2), wherein the first ring member (5, 5') has an axial end face (52), the axial end face includes a circumferential portion (54), the circumferential portion protrudes toward the gear (2) in the axial direction (X), so that an inner circumferential surface (542) is formed on the circumferential portion (54), wherein the inner circumferential surface (542) of the circumferential portion (54), the axial end face (52) of the first ring member (5, 5'), the gear (2) and the shaft (4) define a space (S), - a lubricant distribution ring member (6) for providing lubricant to the gear valleys (24) between respective adjacent gear teeth (22) of the gear (2), wherein the lubricant distribution ring member (6) is arranged inside the space (S), and wherein at least one of the first ring member (5, 5'), the gear (2) and the lubricant distribution ring member (6) is configured such that the lubricant distribution ring member (6) is axially press-fitted between the gear (2) and the first ring member (5, 5').

2. The assembly (1) according to claim 1, wherein the circumferential portion (54) of the first ring member (5, 5') is in axial contact with the gear teeth (22) of the gear (2).

3. An assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lubricant distribution ring member (6) has a first radial outer peripheral surface (62) close to the gear (2), wherein the inner peripheral surface (542) of the circumferential portion (54) and the first radial outer peripheral surface (62) of the lubricant distribution ring member (6) are configured so that a radial gap (g) is formed therebetween, wherein the radial gap (g) is arranged to provide lubricant to the gear valley (24).

4. The assembly (1) of claim 3, wherein the gear (2) has a root diameter (D1), the root diameter being defined as the diameter of a circle contacting the bottom of the gear valley (24), wherein the diameter (D2) of the first radially outer peripheral surface (62) is greater than the root diameter (D1).

5. An assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lubricant distribution ring member (6) includes at least one radially extending opening (64), which fluidly connects a portion of the space (S) inside the lubricant distribution ring member (6) with the gear valley (24).

6. The assembly (1) of claim 5, wherein the lubricant distribution ring member (6) includes a circumferentially extending lubricant reservoir (66) fluidly connecting the at least one radially extending opening (64) with the gear valley (24).

7. Assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the shaft (4) comprises a lubricant duct (42) in fluid communication with the space (S).

8. Assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lubricant distribution ring member (6) is radially guided or radially press-fitted in the space (S).

9. An assembly (1) according to claim 8, wherein the lubricant distribution ring member (6) has a second radially outer peripheral surface (68), wherein the inner peripheral surface (542) of the circumferential portion (54) of the first ring member (5, 5') and the second radially outer peripheral surface (68) of the lubricant distribution ring member (6) are configured so that the second radially outer peripheral surface (68) is radially guided or radially press-fitted against the inner peripheral surface (542) of the circumferential portion (54) of the first ring member (5, 5').

10. An assembly (1) according to any one of claims 8 to 9, wherein the lubricant distribution ring member (6) has a radial inner peripheral surface (70), and wherein the gear (2) has a radial outer peripheral surface (26) arranged inside the space (S), wherein the radial inner peripheral surface (70) of the lubricant distribution ring member (6) and the radial outer peripheral surface (26) of the gear (2) are configured so that the radial inner peripheral surface (70) of the lubricant distribution ring member (6) is radially guided or radially press-fitted against the radial outer peripheral surface (26) of the gear (2).

11. An assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the axial press fit of the lubricant distribution ring member (6) between the gear (2) and the first ring member (5, 5') is arranged so that axial protrusions (56, 28), such as axial protrusions of the first ring member (5, 5'), the gear (2) and / or the lubricant distribution ring member (6), deform the lubricant distribution ring member (6) in the axial direction (X).

12. The assembly (1) according to claim 11, wherein the axially protruding portion (56, 28) is located close to the inner peripheral surface (542) of the circumferential portion (54) of the first ring member (5, 5').

13. Assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lubricant distribution ring member (6) is U-shaped as seen in a cross section defined by the rotation axis (A) and a radial direction relative to the rotation axis (A).

14. A transmission (3) for a vehicle (100) comprising an assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims.

15. A vehicle (100) comprising an assembly (1) according to claims 1 to 13 or a transmission (3) according to claim 14.

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