Lubrication system with deflector plate

Abstract

Transmission, which includes: a solid casing; a first wheel that is housed in the fixed casing; a second wheel that is housed in the fixed casing; a line that is attached to the gearbox, and a deflector plate positioned between the first wheel and the second wheel, wherein the line is configured to transport a fluid to the first wheel, wherein the deflector plate is configured to transport fluid from the first wheel to the second wheel, and wherein the deflector plate is attached to the fixed housing.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] This description relates to a baffle lubricant distribution system that passively distributes lubricant. BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY

[0002] Vehicles, such as electrified vehicles, may have a transmission that switches between sets of wheels or wheel-like components with different gear ratios, where sets with different gear ratios produce different output torques and speeds for the same input torque. The transmission may house at least one wheelset, which may include wheels or wheel-like components. Each wheel may be supported by and rotatably connected to a shaft or other rotating member to receive or transmit torque to the shaft or other rotating member. The wheelset may include at least a first wheel and a second wheel.The components of the gear set, including a first and a second gear, are lubricated to reduce friction, mitigate temperature increases or decreases, prevent jamming, and avoid deterioration. The gear set may be lubricated with a lubricant, such as oil. The gear set may passively transport working fluid to other components of the transmission, such as by dripping and / or splashing. The gear set may be a gear set, in which each of the wheels or wheel-like components may be a gear; the first gear may be a first gear and the second gear a second gear. However, it should be understood that the gear set may also be another type of gear set, such as a set of belts and pulleys.

[0003] For example, the first gear and second gear may be passively lubricated. The first gear may be immersed in a sump of working fluid, with the immersion coating and lubricating the first gear. The first gear may splash working fluid onto the second gear and other components of the transmission, for example, when the first gear is rotated. Working fluid splashed onto components of the transmission can lubricate those components. However, immersing the gear set in the working fluid and causing the working fluid to splash can lead to power losses in the rotating elements of the transmission, including the first gear. In addition, immersion and splashing can consume more working fluid than more targeted distribution methods, such as spraying using spray equipment. The increased working fluid for lubrication can increase the volume of the oil sump and thus the transmission.Another example is the use of a sprayer or multiple sprayers to apply lubricant by targeted spraying to the lowest wheel or multiple wheels of the wheel set. However, the use of a sprayer increases the complexity of the system, which may result in greater interference with the sprayers or other moving components. The sprayer also uses pressure and / or another form of non-passive power to lubricate a wheel. Likewise, the transmission may not have a packing space enclosed by the transmission housing for the sprayer or multiple sprayers.

[0004] The inventors have recognized these and other problems with such gear lubricants and found a way to at least partially solve them. In one example, a transmission includes a gear comprising: a fixed housing; a first gear; a second gear; a conduit, wherein the conduit is fixed; and a baffle, wherein the baffle is disposed between the first gear and the second gear, the conduit transporting fluid to the first gear, the baffle transporting fluid from the first gear to the second gear, and the baffle being attached to the fixed housing.

[0005] In this way, the baffle can allow for passive distribution of oil between the first wheel and the second wheel. In some examples, the baffle can remove and collect working fluid from an undercut groove of the first wheel, such as when the first wheel is rotating. The baffle can direct the working fluid toward the second wheel. The baffle can be stationary, reducing the number of moving parts and reducing the complexity of the system. The baffle can be mounted by a snap-in connection or by snapping into place, allowing for easy installation. Both the line and the baffle can reduce the amount of working fluid used, as the line can allow for targeted transport of the working fluid from the sump to the first wheel and the baffle can allow for targeted transport of the working fluid from the first wheel to the second wheel.Multiple baffles can be used to fluidly couple a series of wheels, with each baffle transporting fluid from a lower wheel to an upper wheel.

[0006] It should be understood that the above summary is intended to introduce, in simplified form, a selection of concepts that are further explained in the detailed description. It is not intended to identify the most important or essential features of the claimed subject matter, the scope of which is clearly defined by the claims that follow the detailed description. Furthermore, the claimed subject matter is not limited to implementations that address the disadvantages noted above or elsewhere in this disclosure. SHORT DESCRIPTION OF THE CHARACTERS Fig. 1 shows an example of a schematic representation of a vehicle that may include a transmission according to the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 2 shows a sectional view of a gearbox with a gear set with a lubricant for the application. Fig. 3 shows a side view of a deflector plate for the application. Fig. 4 shows a side view of the deflector plate for the application. Fig. Figure 5 shows a side view of a baffle for the application before the baffle is punched. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0007] The following description relates to a lubricant distribution system for a gear set of a transmission. The transmission may be a simple transmission with at least one gear set comprising at least two wheels: a first wheel and a second wheel. The transmission may comprise a first reservoir and a second reservoir. A barrier, e.g., a partition, may separate the first reservoir from the second reservoir. The first reservoir and the second reservoir may be fluidly coupled via a conduit. The first reservoir may be a static reservoir containing working fluid and lubricant, such as oil. At least one wheel of the gear set may be housed in the second reservoir. The working fluid housed in the second reservoir may have such a low surface area that it does not come into contact with any wheel of the gear sets.The line can direct the working fluid from the first reservoir to a specific location on the wheel, e.g. the first wheel.

[0008] The first wheel can be arranged below the second wheel. The wheels of the wheel set can each have an undercut groove, the first wheel having a first undercut groove and the second wheel having a second undercut groove. The line can guide the working fluid onto the surface of an undercut groove of a wheel, e.g., onto the first undercut groove of the first wheel. The first wheel and the second wheel can each be arranged around and rotatably coupled to a shaft, e.g., a first shaft and a second shaft, respectively. The shafts complementary to the first wheel and the second wheel can be supported by bearings. The bearings can be arranged around the shafts, e.g., so as to enclose the shafts. The shafts can drive the first wheel and the second wheel to rotate.Additionally or alternatively, the first gear and the second gear may be driven by other rotating elements rotatably connected to the first gear and the second gear. Rotation of a gear may force working fluid on a surface of the undercut groove of the gear radially outward and around the lower groove. Centripetal force may cause the working fluid deposited in the first undercut groove to coat the first undercut groove and the inner surfaces of the first gear. The gearbox may include a fixed baffle disposed between the first gear and the second gear such that the first gear and the second gear can rotate while the baffle remains stationary. The baffle may be attached by a snap connection or by snapping into place with a component of the gearbox that is stationary relative to the rotating elements, e.g., the gearbox housing.The baffle can passively collect working fluid from the first undercut groove of the first wheel. The baffle can direct the working fluid collected from the first wheel to the second undercut groove of the second wheel. The centripetal force from the rotation of the second wheel can cause the working fluid to coat the second undercut groove and the surfaces of the second wheel. Working fluid can be splashed or dripped from a wheel onto other components due to the centripetal force, e.g., for lubrication.

[0009] The baffle may comprise vanes, at least three extensions, and a shoulder. The three extensions may be connected to and extend from the shoulder. The three extensions include at least two deflectors and a lip. The vanes may extend towards the baffle and connect it to fixed points on the gearbox. There could be at least one pair of vanes. The vanes may attach the baffle to a part of the gearbox, such as the housing. The vanes may, for example, bear against a part of the gearbox and be attached, for example by a snap connection or a click. The two deflectors may collect lubricant from the first wheel. The lip may transport lubricant from the two deflectors to the second wheel, for example into the second undercut groove of the second wheel.

[0010] For example, the first gear may be a final drive gear and the second gear may be an idler gear. The gears of the transmission, including the first gear and the second gear, may be gears. As gears, the first gear and the second gear may mesh with each other and transmit torque to other rotating elements, such as gears. As gears, the first gear and the second gear may each be part of a separate gear set, where the first gear may mesh with a gear of a first gear set that is not the second gear, and the second gear may mesh with a gear of a second gear set that is not the first gear.

[0011] It should be understood that the transmission is not limited and that there may be more than two wheels of a wheel, and that the transmission may include a plurality of wheel sets. A plurality of deflectors may be used, with each deflector disposed between a pair of wheels of a plurality of wheels. Each of the deflectors may direct working fluid from a lower wheel to a higher wheel of the wheel pair.

[0012] Fig. 1 shows an exemplary schematic representation of a vehicle that may include the transmission of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 2 shows a sectional view of a gearbox with a gear set with a lubricant for the application. Fig. 3 shows a side view of a deflector plate for the application. Fig. 4 shows a side view of the deflector plate for the application. Fig. 4 also shows schematically drawn grooves to which the baffle can be fluidically coupled. Fig. Figure 5 shows a side view of a baffle for the application before the baffle is punched. Fig. 5 shows a plurality of punch sections that may be removed or bent during punching of the baffle.

[0013] It should also be understood that the specific arrangements and systems illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described in the following description are exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined herein. For purposes of explanation, the drawings will be described together. Thus, like elements may be referred to by like reference numerals and need not be repeated.

[0014] Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of an example configuration with relative positioning of the various components. Fig. 2-5 show example configurations with approximate positions. Fig. Figures 2-5 are drawn approximately to scale, but other relative dimensions may be used. The term "approximately" means plus or minus five percent of the range, unless otherwise noted.

[0015] Furthermore, Fig. 1-5 show example configurations with the relative arrangement of the various components. When these elements are in direct contact with each other or are directly coupled, they may be referred to as being in direct contact or directly coupled, respectively, at least in one example. Similarly, elements shown side by side or adjacent to each other may be adjacent to each other or adjacent to each other, at least in one example. For example, components that are in surface-to-surface contact with each other may be referred to as being in surface-to-surface contact. As another example, in at least one instance, elements that are separated from each other with only a space between them and that do not have any other components may be referred to as such.In yet another example, elements depicted above / below, on opposite sides, or to the left / right of each other may be referred to as such, relative to each other. Further, in at least one example, as depicted in the figures, a topmost element or point of an element may be referred to as a "top" of the component, and a bottommost element or point of the element may be referred to as a "bottom" of the component. As used herein, the terms top / bottom, upper / lower, above / below may refer to a vertical axis of the figures and may be used to describe the positioning of elements of the figures relative to each other. Thus, in one example, elements displayed above other elements are arranged vertically above the other elements.As another example, the shapes of the elements depicted in the figures may be referred to as such (e.g., circular, straight, flat, curved, rounded, beveled, angled, or the like). Furthermore, in at least one example, depicted elements that intersect each other may be referred to as intersecting elements or as intersecting elements. Furthermore, an element depicted inside or outside another element may be referred to as such. Furthermore, the components may be described with respect to the reference axes included in the drawings.

[0016] Features described as axial may be approximately parallel to a datum axis unless otherwise specified. Features described as reverse may be approximately perpendicular to the datum axis unless otherwise specified. Features described as radial may circumferentially surround or extend outwardly from an axis, such as the datum axis, or a component or feature previously described as radial to a datum axis, unless otherwise specified.

[0017] Features described as longitudinal can be approximately parallel to a long axis. A transverse axis can be perpendicular to the long axis and to a vertical axis, and the vertical axis can be perpendicular to the long axis. Features described as lateral can be approximately parallel to the transverse axis and perpendicular to the long axis and the vertical axis. Features described as vertical can be parallel to a vertical axis and perpendicular to the long axis and the transverse axis.

[0018] In Fig. 1, a vehicle 100 is illustrated that includes a powertrain 101 and a transmission train 103. The vehicle 100 may have a front end 132 and a rear end 134 located on opposite sides of the vehicle 100. Objects, components, and features of the vehicle 100 referred to as being near the front may be closest to the front end 132 compared to the rear end 134. Objects, components, and features of the vehicle 100 referred to as being near the rear may be closest to the rear end 134 compared to the front end 132. The powertrain 101 includes a prime mover 106 and a transmission 108. The prime mover 106 may be an internal combustion engine (ICE) or an electric motor. The prime mover 106 may be operated to provide rotational power to the transmission 108. The transmission 108 may be any type of transmission, such asa manual transmission, an automatic transmission, or a continuously variable transmission. The transmission 108 receives the rotational power generated by the prime mover 106 as input and outputs the rotational power to the transmission train 103 according to a selected gear ratio or setting. In addition to the prime mover 106, there may be additional drives in the vehicle. If the prime mover 106 is an internal combustion engine, there may be at least one second drive with an input to the transmission 108, where the second drive may be an electric machine such as an electric motor. In one example, the vehicle 100 may be a hybrid vehicle if there are one or more second drives in addition to the prime mover 106, with multiple torque inputs to the transmission 108. The vehicle 100 may have a longitudinal axis 130.The drive train 101 and the transmission train 103 may have a length parallel to the longitudinal axis 130.

[0019] The prime mover 106 may be powered by energy from an energy storage device 105. In one example, the energy storage device 105 is a battery configured to store electrical energy. An inverter 107 may be disposed between the energy storage device 105 and the prime mover 106 and configured to convert direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC). The inverter 107 may include a variety of components and circuits with thermal requirements that affect the efficiency of the inverter.

[0020] The vehicle 100 may be a commercial vehicle, a light-duty, medium-duty, or heavy-duty vehicle, a passenger vehicle, an off-highway vehicle, and / or an off-highway vehicle. Additionally or alternatively, the vehicle 100 and / or one or more of its components may be used in industrial, locomotive, military, agricultural, and / or aerospace applications. In one example, the vehicle 100 is an all-electric vehicle or a vehicle with an all-electric mode of operation, such as a plug-in hybrid vehicle. Thus, the prime mover 106 is an electric machine. In one example, the prime mover 106 is an electric motor / generator.

[0021] In some examples, such as Fig. 1, the geartrain 103 includes a first axle assembly 102 and a second axle assembly 112. The first axle assembly 102 may be configured to drive a first set of wheels 104, and the second axle assembly 112 may be configured to drive a second set of wheels 114. In one example, the first axle assembly 102 is located near a front of the vehicle 100 and therefore includes a front axle, and the second axle assembly 112 is located near a rear of the vehicle 100 and therefore includes a rear axle. The geartrain 103 is shown in an all-wheel drive configuration, although other configurations are possible. For example, the geartrain 103 may include rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Additionally, the geartrain 103 may include one or more tandem axle assemblies.Thus, the transmission train 103 may have other configurations without departing from the scope of this disclosure, and the configurations shown in . Fig. 1 is for illustrative purposes and is not limiting. In addition, the vehicle 100 may include additional wheels that are not connected to the transmission train 103.

[0022] In some all-wheel drive configurations, such as Fig. 1, the transmission train 103 includes a transfer case 110 configured to receive the rotary power output from the transmission 108. A first input shaft 113 is drivingly connected to a first output 111 of the transfer case 110, while a second input shaft 122 is drivingly connected to a second output 121 of the transfer case 110. The first input shaft 113 (e.g., a front input shaft) transfers the rotary power from the transfer case 110 to a first differential 116 of the first axle assembly 102 to drive the first set of wheels 104, while the second input shaft 122 (e.g., a rear input shaft) transfers the rotary power from the transfer case 110 to a second differential 126 of the second axle assembly 112 to drive the second set of wheels 114.For example, the first differential 116 is drivingly coupled to a first set of axleshafts 118 connected to the first set of wheels 104, and the second differential 126 is drivingly coupled to a second set of axleshafts 128 connected to the second set of wheels 114. It is understood that the first set of axleshafts 118 and the second set of axleshafts 128 may be disposed within a housing. The first drive shaft 113 and the second drive shaft 122 may be arranged to extend parallel to the longitudinal axis 130. In one example configuration of the vehicle 100, the second drive shaft 122 may be centered about the longitudinal axis 130.

[0023] The first differential 116 may provide some front-wheel drive to the vehicle 100 as part of the rotational power transmitted via the first drive shaft 113. Similarly, the second differential 126 may provide rear-wheel drive to the vehicle 100 as part of the rotational power transmitted via the second drive shaft 122. The first differential 116 and the second differential 126 may provide front-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive, respectively, as part of an all-wheel drive mode for the vehicle 100.

[0024] In some examples, the vehicle 100 may additionally or alternatively be a hybrid vehicle that includes both a motor and an electric machine, each configured to power one or more of the first axle assembly 102 and the second axle assembly 112. At least one motor or electric machine may be the prime mover 106. For example, one or both of the first axle assembly 102 and the second axle assembly 112 may be capable of operating on the power from the electric machine in a first operating mode in which the electric machine is not operating to provide power (e.g., a motor-only mode), on the power from the electric machine in a second operating mode in which the motor is not operating to provide power (e.g., an electric-only mode), and on the power from both the motor and the electric machine in a third operating mode (e.g.,an electric assist mode). In another example, one or both of the first axle assembly 102 and the second axle assembly 112 may be an electric axle assembly configured to be driven by an integrated electric machine.

[0025] In some embodiments, the transmission 108 may additionally or alternatively be a first transmission, with the vehicle 100 further including a second transmission disposed on the second set of axle shafts 128. In this context, the transmission 108 may also be referred to as a gear transmission.

[0026] A set of reference axes 201 is provided for comparison between views shown in Fig. 2-5. The reference axes 201 indicate a y-axis, an x-axis, and a z-axis. In one example, the z-axis may be parallel to a direction of gravity and the xy-plane may be parallel to a horizontal plane upon which a gear 204 or a baffle 262 may rest. When indicating direction, positive may refer to the direction of the arrows of the y-axis, x-axis, and z-axis. When indicating direction, negative may refer to the opposite direction of the arrow of the y-axis, x-axis, and z-axis. A filled circle may represent an arrow and an axis pointing toward, or positive to, a view. An open circle may represent an arrow and an axis pointing away from, or negative to, a view.

[0027] Fig. 2 shows a first view 200 of a transmission 204. The first view 200 may be a sectional view of the transmission 204. The transmission 204 may be the transmission 108 of Fig. 1 act.

[0028] The transmission 204 may include components such as shafts and other rotating elements arranged about a first axis 206 and a second axis 208. The first axis 206 and the second axis 208 may be parallel. The second axis 208 may be above the first axis 206 with respect to gravity and the z-axis of the reference axes 201. The first axis 206 and the second axis 208 may be longitudinal. The transmission 204 includes a first housing 212 and a second housing 214. The first housing 212 and the second housing 214 may be physically coupled at an interface 216. A notch 218 may be formed between the first housing 212 and the second housing 214, where the notch 218 may be located above the interface 216. A sump 220 may be housed within the first housing 212 and the second housing 214. The sump 220 may be located above the interface 216 and the notch 218.The first housing 212 and the second housing 214 may be fixed housings that can remain stationary relative to the rotating elements of the transmission 204. When physically coupled at the interface 216, the first housing 212 and the second housing 214 may form a composite housing, which may be a fixed housing.

[0029] A barrier, such as a partition 226, may be fitted into the notch 218 and divide the sump 220 into a first reservoir 222 and a second reservoir 224. The partition 226 may be fluid-tightly connected to the notch 218 so that the first reservoir 222 and the second reservoir 224 can be fluidly separated. The partition 226 may include multiple sections extending at different angles. The shape of the first reservoir 222 may be defined by a plurality of interior surfaces of the first housing 212 and the partition 226. Likewise, the shape of the second reservoir 224 may be defined by a plurality of interior surfaces of the first housing 212 and the partition 226.

[0030] The first reservoir 222 may be a quiescent reservoir containing the working fluid 230. The working fluid 230 may be a lubricant, such as oil. As a quiescent reservoir, the first reservoir 222 may contain working fluid, and the working fluid in the first reservoir 222 may not be circulated by mechanical components such as gears. The first reservoir 222 may have a fluid-free surface 228 where the working fluid 230 is subject to approximately zero parallel shear stress, e.g., due to turbulence or swirling from a moving component of the transmission 204. The second reservoir 224 may be a turbulent reservoir in which the rotating elements may come into contact with the working fluid 230. The rotating elements may be partially housed in the second reservoir 224. The working fluid in the second reservoir 224 may be removed, e.g., by draining.

[0031] The transmission 204 may include a first shaft 232 and a second shaft 234. The first shaft 232 may be centered about the first axis 206 such that the first shaft 232 may be positioned approximately radially about the first axis 206. The second shaft 234 may be centered about the second axis 208 such that the second shaft 234 may be positioned approximately radially about the second axis 208. At least one first bearing 236 may be disposed around and support the first shaft 232. The first bearing 236 may enclose the first shaft 232. Likewise, at least one second bearing 238 may be disposed around and support the second shaft 234. The first bearing 236 may be disposed radially around the first shaft 232 and the second bearing 238 may be disposed radially around the second shaft 234. The second bearing 238 may enclose the second shaft 234. One or more fixed supports, such as a fixed support 240, may support the first bearing 236 and the second bearing 238.The fixed support 240 may abut and be clamped between the first bearing 236 and the second bearing 238. The second housing 214 may be coupled to or encompass the fixed support 240.

[0032] A first wheel 242 may be positioned around the first shaft 232, e.g., radially around the first shaft 232. A second wheel 244 may be positioned around the second shaft 234, e.g., radially around the second shaft 234. The first wheel 242 may be rotatably connected to the first shaft 232 such that the first wheel 242 can rotate with the first shaft 232. The second wheel 244 may be rotatably connected to the second shaft 234 such that the second wheel 244 can rotate with the second shaft 234. For example, the first wheel 242 may be physically connected to the first shaft 232. The second wheel 244 may be disposed above the first wheel 242, where the second wheel 244 may be an upper wheel relative to the first wheel 242 and the first wheel 242 may be a lower wheel relative to the second wheel 244. The first wheel 242 may be a final drive wheel, e.g., a final drive wheel, and the second wheel 244 may be an intermediate drive wheel, e.g., an intermediate wheel.The first gear 242 may be partially housed within the second reservoir 224, with the first gear 242 disposed between the partition 226 and the second housing 214. The first reservoir 222 and the second reservoir 224 may be in fluid communication via a conduit 252. The working fluid 230 may be supplied directly to the first gear 242 via the conduit 252. During rotation of the first gear 242, working fluid 230 coating the surfaces of the first gear 242 may be ejected to coat and lubricate the second reservoir 224 and other rotating elements, such as the first shaft 232 and the first bearing 236. The working fluid 230 may also be transported upwardly from the first gear 242 to the second gear 244. The working fluid 230 that coats the surfaces of the second wheel 244 may be spun to coat and lubricate other rotating elements, such as the second shaft 234 and the second bearing 238.

[0033] In some examples, the first gear 242 and the second gear 244 may be gears. As gears, the first and second gears 242, 244 may mesh with other rotating elements of the transmission. When engaged with another component, the first gear 242 or the second gear 244 may be drivingly coupled to the other component, for example, to transfer power to and drive the other component. For example, the first gear 242 may mesh as a gear with a gear 250. The gear 250 may be a final drive gear. The first gear 242 may be a final drive gear, e.g., a final drive gear. The second shaft 234 may physically couple or encompass the gear 250. Therein, the first gear 242 may drive the second shaft 234 via the gear 250.

[0034] The first wheel 242 may include a first rim 246, a first groove 254, a second groove 256, a first collar member 264, and a first shoulder 268. The first edge 246 may be positioned around the first shoulder 268, for example, radially around the first shoulder 268. The first edge 246 may be physically connected to the first shoulder 268. The first edge 246 may be located around the first groove 254 and the second groove 256 such that it extends radially around the first groove 254 and the second groove 256. The first edge 246 may enclose the first groove 254 and the second groove 256. The first groove 254, the second groove 256, and the first shoulder 268 may be positioned around the first collar component 264 such that they are positioned radially around the first collar component 264.The first groove 254, the second groove 256, and the first shoulder 268 may surround and curve around the first collar component 264 such that they radially surround and curve around the first collar component 264. The first shoulder 268 may physically couple the first collar component 264. The first shoulder 268 may extend radially outward from the first collar component 264 to the first edge 246. The first shoulder 268 may separate the first groove 254 from the second groove 256, where the first groove 254 may be on the opposite side of the first shoulder 268 from the second groove 256. The first shoulder 268 may be a land of the first gear 242.

[0035] The first groove 254 can be an undercut groove of the first wheel 242, e.g., a first undercut groove. The second groove 256 is an undercut groove of the first wheel 242, e.g., a second undercut groove. The first groove 254 and the second groove 256 can be radially and circumferentially surrounded by the first edge 246. As an undercut groove, the first groove 254 can have a first surface 290 formed by the first edge 246. Likewise, the second groove 256, as an undercut groove, can have a second surface 292 formed by the first edge 246. The first surface 290 and the second surface 292 can be radially curved and form the periphery of the first groove 254 and the second groove 256, respectively. The first surface 290 may be the deepest part of the first groove 254, wherein the first surface 290 is the greatest distance of the first groove 254 radially outward from the centerline of the first wheel 242.The second surface 292 may be the deepest part of the second groove 256, wherein the second surface 292 is the greatest distance of the second groove 256 radially outward from the centerline of the first wheel 242.

[0036] The second wheel 244 may include a second rim 248, a third groove 258, a fourth groove 260, a second collar portion 266, and a second shoulder 270. The second edge 248 may be positioned around the second shoulder 270, for example, radially around the second shoulder 270. The second edge 248 may be physically connected to the second shoulder 270. The second edge 248 may be positioned around the third groove 258 and the fourth groove 260 so as to be radially located around the third groove 258 and the fourth groove 260. The second edge 248 may enclose the third groove 258 and the fourth groove 260. The third groove 258, the fourth groove 260, and the second shoulder 270 may be located around the second collar component 266, for example, radially around the second collar component 266.The third groove 258, the fourth groove 260, and the second shoulder 270 may surround and curve around the second collar component 266 such that they radially surround and curve around the second collar component 266. The second shoulder 270 may physically couple the second collar component 266. The second shoulder 270 may extend radially outward from the second collar component 266 to the second edge 248. The second shoulder 270 may separate the third groove 258 from the fourth groove 260, where the third groove 258 may be on the opposite side of the second shoulder 270 from the fourth groove 260. The second shoulder 270 may be a land of the second gear 244.

[0037] The third groove 258 is an undercut groove of the second gear 244, e.g., a third undercut groove. The fourth groove 260 may be an undercut groove of the second gear 244, e.g., a fourth undercut groove. The third groove 258 and the fourth groove 260 may be radially and circumferentially surrounded by the second edge 248. As an undercut groove, the third groove 258 may have a third surface 294 formed by the second edge 248. Likewise, as an undercut groove, the third groove 258 may have a fourth surface 296 formed by the first edge 246. The third surface 294 and the fourth surface 296 may be radially curved and form the periphery of the third groove 258 and the fourth groove 260, respectively. The third surface 294 may be the deepest part of the third groove 258, wherein the third surface 294 is the greatest distance of the third groove 258 radially outward from the centerline of the second wheel 244.The fourth surface 296 may be the deepest part of the fourth groove 260, wherein the fourth surface 296 is the greatest distance of the fourth groove 260 radially outward from the centerline of the second wheel 244.

[0038] In one example of a radial profile, the second groove 256 and the third groove 258 may be U-shaped. Stated differently, the second surface 292 of the second groove 256 may form a concave arc when viewed in a radially outward direction (e.g., away from the first axis 206). Likewise, state differently, the third surface 294 of the third groove 258 may form a concave arc when viewed in a radially outward direction (e.g., away from the second axis 208).

[0039] If the first wheel 242 is a gear, the first rim 246 may have a plurality of first teeth. If the second wheel 244 is a gear, the second rim 248 may also have a plurality of second teeth. The first teeth and the second teeth may extend radially outward from the first edge 246 and the second edge 248, respectively. The first teeth and the second teeth of the first rim 246 and the second rim 248, respectively, may each mesh with complementary teeth or components of another rotating element. For example, the first teeth of the first rim 246 may mesh with complementary teeth of the gear 250.

[0040] The baffle 262 may be disposed between the first wheel 242 and the second wheel 244. The baffle 262 may be longitudinally disposed between the first shoulder 268 and the second shoulder 270. The second groove 256 and the third groove 258 may be disposed around portions of the baffle 262. A first portion of the baffle 262 may be disposed below a portion of the second groove 256 closest to the top of the first wheel 242 (e.g., an upper portion of the second groove 256). A second portion of the baffle 262 may be disposed above a portion of the third groove 258 closest to the bottom of the second wheel 244 (e.g., a lower portion of the third groove 258). The first portion and the second portion of the baffle 262 may be opposite one another. The first portion may be the uppermost portion of the baffle 262. The second portion may be a lowermost portion of the baffle 262. The second groove 256 may have a first lip 274.The first lip 274 may curve radially inward from the second groove 256. The second surface 292 may be continuous with the first lip 274, and the second surface 292 may be continuous with a surface of the first shoulder 268. The first lip 274 and the surface of the first shoulder 268 may have curves that coincide with the curvature of the second surface 292 and form the U-shape of the second groove 256. The third groove 258 may have a second lip 276, where the second lip 276 may curve with the third groove 258. The second lip 276 may curve radially inward from the third groove 258. The first lip 274 and the second lip 276 may be disposed around portions of the baffle 262. The third surface 294 may be continuous with the second lip 276 and the third surface 294 may be continuous with a surface of the second shoulder 270.The second lip 276 and the surface of the second shoulder 270 may have curvatures that coincide with the curvature of the third surface 294 and form the U-shape of the third groove 258.

[0041] The baffle 262 may be attached to the transmission 204, for example, to a stationary part of the transmission 204. When attached, the baffle 262 may remain immobile relative to the rotating elements of the transmission 204. The baffle 262 may be attached to a fixed housing, for example, to the first housing 212 or to the second housing 214. In some examples, the baffle 262 may be attached to both the first housing 212 and the second housing 214, for example, when the first housing 212 and the second housing 214 are physically coupled as a composite housing. The first wheel 242 and the second wheel 244 may rotate about the baffle 262. The conduit 252 may have a diameter of 272. Diameter 272 may be an inner diameter of conduit 252, where diameter 272 is the diameter of a passage 278 of conduit 252. The fluid may be transported through conduit 252 via passage 278.The distance of diameter 272 may depend on the hydrostatic pressure of the liquid-free surface 228 so that the conduit 252 can lubricate the first wheel 242 with the lubricant 230 and minimize power losses below a first power threshold, e.g., below 7 kilowatts (kW) of power.

[0042] The hydrostatic head and power losses may depend on the size and dimensions of the transmission 204, including the volume and surface area available to the transmission 204. In a variety of embodiments for the first reservoir 222, the liquid-free surface 228 may have a hydrostatic head in a range of 50 to 300 millimeters (mm). In one embodiment, the transmission 204 produces a nominal power of 100 kW, and the power losses at full speed without the first reservoir 222, the bulkhead 226, and the conduit 252 (e.g., pure splash) may be 7 kW or more. When the first reservoir 222, the bulkhead 226, and the conduit 252 are deployed, and when the second reservoir 224 is drained or has a liquid head that is not in contact with the first wheel 242, the power losses at full speed may be reduced to approximately 1 kW.

[0043] The working fluid 230 may exit the first reservoir 222 via a flow path 282. The flow path 282 may be schematically represented by a plurality of dashed lines with arrows. The working fluid 230 may exit the first reservoir 222 and be conducted via the conduit 252 to the first wheel 242. The working fluid 230 from the conduit 252 may deposit on the surfaces of the second groove 256. The first wheel 242 may rotate, e.g., when torque is applied to the first wheel 242 via the first shaft 232. The rotation of the first wheel 242 may distribute the working fluid 230 over the surfaces of the second groove 256 and the first shoulder 268. Forces from the rotation of the first wheel 242, such as centripetal force, may drive the working fluid radially outward, e.g., B. closer to the first rim 246 from the first collar component 264.The first lip 274 can prevent the working fluid 230 from splashing out of the second groove 256. The working fluid can collect between the first lip 274 and the first shoulder 268. The baffle 262 can transport working fluid between the first wheel 242 and the second wheel 244. The baffle 262 can collect the working fluid 230 in the upper part of the second groove 256, e.g., by wiping. The working fluid 230 collected by the baffle 262 can be pushed downward by passive forces, e.g., by gravity and adhesion. The working fluid 230 collected by the baffle 262 can also be driven downward by a second impulse of the working fluid 230. The second impulse of the working medium 230 deviates from a first impulse of the working medium 230, wherein the first impulse of the working medium 230 is the centripetal force of the first wheel 242.The second pulse is diverted from the first pulse of the working fluid 230 via the shape and features of the baffle 262. The shape and features of the baffle 262 can direct the working fluid 230 from the first wheel 242 via the second pulse of the working fluid 230 to the second wheel 244 without gravity or adhesion forces. The baffle 262 can passively direct the working fluid 230 collected by the second groove 256 to the third groove 258. The working fluid 230 can be applied to the surfaces of the third groove 258 via the baffle 262.

[0044] The flow path 282 may continue through the second gear 244. The second gear 244 may rotate, for example, when torque is transmitted to the second gear 244 via the second shaft 234. The rotation of the second gear 244 may distribute the working fluid 230 over the surfaces of the third groove 258 and the second shoulder 270. Forces from the rotation of the second gear 244, such as centripetal force, may drive the working fluid 230 radially outward, for example, closer to the second rim 248 from the second collar component 266. The second lip 276 may prevent the working fluid 230 from splashing out of the third groove 258. The working fluid 230 may collect between the second shoulder 270 and the second lip 276. The working fluid 230 may leak out of the third groove 258, for example, B. by splashing or dripping.The working fluid 230 may exit the third groove 258 when the height of the working fluid 230 rises above a second height 286 of the second lip 276. Upon returning to the second groove 256, the working fluid 230 may exit the second groove 256, e.g., by splashing, when the height of the working fluid 230 rises above a first height 284 of the first lip 274. The working fluid 230 exiting the uppermost portion of the third groove 258 (e.g., closest to the top of the second rim 248) may be at a height 287 above the axle 208. The height 287 is large enough so that the components coupled to the second axle 208, such as the second shaft 234, the second bearing 238, and the gear 250, can be lubricated by gravity. Components of the transmission 204 below the uppermost part of the third groove 258 can be lubricated via the working fluid 230 from the uppermost part of the third groove 258 and gravity.

[0045] The flow path 282 may continue after exiting the third groove 258 and the second gear 244. Upon exiting the second gear 244, the working fluid 230 may be sprayed or dripped onto the second shaft 234. Likewise, the working fluid 230 may be sprayed or dripped from the second gear 244 onto components around and / or coupled to the second shaft 234, such as the second bearing 238 and the gear 250. The working fluid 230 may lubricate the second shaft 234, the second bearing 238, and the gear 250. The working fluid 230 may drip or be sprayed from the second shaft 234 onto the components located below the second shaft 234. For example, the working fluid 230 may be sprayed or dripped from the second shaft 234 onto the first gear 242. In addition, the working fluid 230 can be sprayed from the gear 250 onto the first wheel 242 or can be conveyed via the engagement from the gear 250 to the first wheel 242.Working fluid from the second wheel 244, the second shaft 234, and / or the gear 250 can coat and lubricate features of the first wheel 242, such as the first rim 246. The working fluid 230 can be projected from the first rim 246 into the second reservoir 224.

[0046] The partition 226 may be curved, with multiple sections of the partition 226 extending at different angles from a line at the interface. The sections of the partition 226 may curve around one or more rotating elements. The dimensions of the partition 226 are not limited and may be shaped to be positioned around the second reservoir 224, allowing space for various configurations of rotating elements.

[0047] It should be understood that in addition to the first wheel and the second wheel, there may be other wheels and additional baffles in the configuration of baffle 262 in the transmission 204. Each additional baffle having the same configuration as baffle 262 may be disposed between a lower wheel and an upper wheel, with the upper wheel disposed above the lower wheel. A baffle having the configuration of baffle 262 may fluidly couple the lower wheel to the upper wheel so that fluid can be transported from a groove of the lower wheel via the baffle to a groove of the upper wheel. For example, a third wheel may be disposed above the second wheel 244. The baffle 262 or a baffle having the same configuration may be mounted between the second wheel and the third wheel.A groove of the second wheel 244, such as the third groove 258, and a groove of the third wheel may be disposed on opposite sides of the baffle 262. The first portion of the baffle 262 may be disposed below the upper portion of the groove of the second wheel 244. The second portion of the baffle 262 may be disposed above the lower portion of the groove. The baffle may collect fluid from the groove of the second wheel 244. The baffle may direct the collected fluid into the groove of the third wheel.

[0048] Fig. 3 shows a second view 300 of the deflector 262. The second view 300 may be a side view of the deflector 262, wherein the second view 300 does not favor any axis of the reference axes 201 (e.g., is not perpendicular thereto). The second view 300 may alternatively be described as an isometric view. The deflector 262 may have a first side 304, a second side 306, a third side 308, and a fourth side 310. The first side 304 and the second side 306 may be opposite each other. The third side 308 and the fourth side 310 may be opposite each other.

[0049] The deflector 262 may include a vane assembly 312 and a deflector assembly 314. The deflector 262 may be a singular and unitary structure. The vane assembly 312 and the deflector assembly 314 may be formed and folded from a common structure made of the same material. The deflector 262 may be manufactured, for example, by stamping. The vane assembly 312 and the deflector assembly 314 may be formed by stamping.

[0050] The vane assembly 312 may attach the deflector 262 to a stationary component of the transmission 204 of Fig. 3, such as the first or second housing 212, 214. The vane assembly 312 may include at least a pair of vanes, e.g., a first vane 332 and a second vane 334. The first vane 332 may extend toward the first side 304, with a portion of the first vane 332 enclosed by the first side 304. The second vane 334 may extend toward the second side 306, with a portion of the second vane 334 enclosed by the second side 306. The vane assembly 312 may have surfaces on the third side 308 and on the fourth side 310. The vane assembly 312 may have a first surface 340 on the third side 308. The vane assembly 312 may have a gap 336. The gap 336 may be a volume centered between the first vane 332 and the second vane 334. The gap 336 may be located above a beam 338.The first wing 332 may be connected to the second wing 334 via the support 338. The first surface 340 may be continuous between the first wing 332, the second wing 334, and the support 338.

[0051] The deflection assembly 314 may include a slope 342 and a plurality of extensions, wherein the slope 342 may support and be connected to the plurality of extensions. The deflection assembly 314 may include the first part (e.g., the uppermost part) and the second part (e.g., the lowermost part) of the deflector 262, wherein the first part and the second part of the deflector 262 are described above with reference to Fig. 2. The first part of the deflector 262 may include a plurality of projections connected to the slope 342, wherein the projections may be surrounded by a groove and disposed between a lip and a shoulder of the groove. The groove may be the second groove 256, and the lip and shoulder may be the first lip 274 and the first shoulder 268, respectively, of Fig. 2. The slope 342 may be a platform that is flat and parallel to a plane. The extensions may be connected to the slope 342, and the extensions may include a plurality of deflectors and at least one lip. For example, the slope 342 may be level with and continuous with a lip 344. The lip 344 may be a first extension extending away from the slope. The second part of the baffle 262 may include the lip 344. The slope 342 and the lip 344 may be flat, such that the slope 342 and the lip 344 may have a surface parallel to a common plane. The slope 342 and the lip 344 may be continuous, such that they have at least one continuous surface. The lip 344 may extend toward the third side 308 and the other parts of the slope 342 may extend toward the fourth side 310.The slope 342 can be connected to both a first deflector 346 and a second deflector 348. The first deflector 346 and the second deflector 348 can be second and third extensions, respectively, adjacent to and connected to the slope 342. The first part of the deflector plate 262 includes the first deflector 346 and the second deflector 348. The first and second deflectors 346, 348 can be flat and planar structures, such as fins. The first deflector 346 can be a first fin and the second deflector 348 can be a second fin. The first deflector 346 and the second deflector 348 can have edges and corners that are not beveled, rounded, or smoothed. The first deflector 346 and the second deflector 348 may be disposed above the slope 342 and extend upwardly therefrom. A wedge 350 may separate the first deflector 346 from the second deflector 348.The wedge 350 may be a volume between the first and second deflectors 346, 348 and may have a square shape. The volume of the wedge 350 may be connected to a groove 351. The groove 351 may be a volume that pushes through the slope 342 and extends from the fourth side 310 to the third side 308. The deflector assembly 314 may be a single and unitary structure, with the slope 342, the lip 344, the first deflector 346, and the second deflector 348 being formed and folded from the same material.

[0052] The deflection assembly 314 may be connected to and adjacent to the wing assembly 312 via a first connector 352 and a second connector 354 around the first and second wings, respectively. The first connector 352 and the second connector 354 may flank the gap 336 on opposite sides. The first connector 352 may be closest to the first side 304 from the gap 336. The second connector 354 may be closest to the second side 306 from the gap 336.

[0053] The first wing 332 may have a first edge 362 and the second wing 334 may have a second edge 364. The first edge 362 is located on the first side 304 and the second edge 364 is located on the second side 306. The first edge 362 and the second edge 364 may be curved around the first wing 332 and the second wing 334, respectively. The first edge 362 and the second edge 364 may each mate with or interlock with complementary features, such as grooves or slots, of a gear, such as the gear 204. The first edge 362 and the second edge 364 may be mate with features that are stationary (e.g., fixed) relative to the rotating elements of the gear. For example, the first edge 362 may be adapted to a first complementary feature and the second edge 364 may be adapted to a second complementary feature of the transmission 204.The first complementary feature and the second complementary feature may be physically coupled to or enclosed as part of a stationary housing, such as the first housing 212 and / or the second housing 214 of FIG. Fig. 2. The first edge 362 and the second edge 364 can secure the deflector 262 to the transmission 204 when received by and mate with the first complementary feature and the second complementary feature. The first edge 362 can be connected to the first complementary feature by a snap-fit ​​connection or a snap-fit. Likewise, the second edge 364 can be connected to the second complementary feature by a snap-fit ​​connection or a snap-fit. The first and second complementary features can be features of the same housing, e.g., the first housing 212 or the second housing 214.

[0054] Fig. 4 shows a third view 400 of the deflector 262. The third view 400 may be a side view of the deflector 262. The third view 400 is a longitudinal view perpendicular to the y-axis of the reference axes 201. The third view 400 schematically shows a first groove 422 and a second groove 424.

[0055] The first groove 422 may be a groove positioned so that the first and second deflectors 346, 348 direct working fluid, such as the working fluid 230 from Fig. 2, can collect. The working fluid can collect at the slope 342 from the first and second deflectors 346, 348. The second groove 424 can be a groove that can be positioned to receive working fluid from the deflector assembly 314. The working fluid can be directed over the lip 344 into the second groove 424. The first and second grooves 422, 424 are each undercut grooves of separate wheels. The first groove 422 can be the second groove 256 of Fig. 2. The second groove 424 may be the third groove 258 of Fig. 2 be.

[0056] The first groove 422 can rotate in a first direction 426 or a second direction 428. The first direction 426 can be counterclockwise and the second direction 428 can be clockwise. The first deflector 346 can collect fluid from the first groove 422, e.g., when the first groove 422 rotates in the first direction 426. The second deflector 348 can collect fluid from the first groove 422, e.g., when the first groove 422 rotates in the second direction 428.

[0057] The first groove 422 may be separated from the baffle assembly 314 by a first distance 432 and a second distance 434. The first distance 432 may be a minimum distance between the first groove 422 and each of the first and second baffles 346, 348. The second distance 434 may be a maximum distance between the first groove 422 and each of the first and second baffles 346, 348. The first distance 432 may be a clearance that allows the first and second baffles 346, 348 to collect fluid without coming into contact with a surface of the first groove 422. The first distance 432 may also be a distance between a surface of the first groove 422 and the first and second baffles 346, 348, the surface being where the undercut of the first groove 422 is deepest. When the first groove 422 is the second groove 256, the first distance 432 is a distance between the second surface 292 of Fig. 2 and the first and second deflectors 346, 348. The second distance 434 may be between a first edge 442 of the first deflector 346 and the first groove 422. The second distance 434 may be between a second edge 444 of the second deflector 348 and the first groove 422. The first edge 442 and the second edge 444 may be on opposite sides of the wedge 350. The first edge 442 and the second edge 444 may not be curved and may extend straight from the groove 351 to the top of the first and second deflectors 346, 348, respectively. The first deflector 346 may extend at a first angle 452 from the slope 342. Likewise, the second deflector 348 may extend from the slope 342 at a second angle 454. The first angle 452 and the second angle 454 may be approximately equal.In one example embodiment of the deflector 262, the first angle 452 and the second angle 454 may include an angular range between 0 and 90 degrees.

[0058] The first deflector 346 and the second deflector 348 may be angled from and connected to the slope 342 via a third connector 462 and a fourth connector 464. The third connector 462 may extend from the slope at a third angle 466, where the third angle 466 may be a different angle than the first angle 452. The fourth connector 464 may extend from the slope at a fourth angle 468, where the fourth angle 468 may be a different angle than the second angle 454. The third angle 466 and the fourth angle 468 may be between 0 and 90 degrees. Likewise, the third angle 466 and the fourth angle 468 may be the same.

[0059] When the first groove 422 is the second groove 256, the first and second deflectors 346, 348 may be below the second surface 292 of Fig. 2 near the top of the first wheel 242. The first and second deflectors 346, 348 may be disposed between the first lip 274 and the first shoulder 268 of Fig. 2. If the second groove 424 is the third groove 258, the lip 344 may be disposed above the third surface 294 near the underside of the second wheel 244. The lip 344 may be located between the second lip 276 and the second shoulder 270.

[0060] Fig. 5 shows a fourth view 500 of the deflector 502. The fourth view 500 may be a side view of the deflector 502. The fourth view 500 is a longitudinal view perpendicular to the y-axis of the reference axes 201. The deflector 502 may be the deflector 262 of Fig. 2-4 before punching.

[0061] The deflector 262 may include a first stamping section 512, a second stamping section 514, a third stamping section 516, a fourth stamping section 518, and a fifth stamping section 520. The deflector 502 may include a slot 522 located between the first deflector 346 and the second deflector 348. Prior to stamping, all portions of the deflector 502 may be on the same plane. Prior to the deflector 502, the vane assembly 312 and the deflector assembly 314 may each have surfaces parallel to a plane formed by the x- and y-axes of the reference axes 201. Prior to stamping the deflector 502, the first deflector 346 and the second deflector 348 may be flush with the slope 342 and have parallel surfaces.

[0062] The first punch portion 512 may form the gap 336 when punched and removed from the baffle 262. The first embossed portion 512 may be separated and removed from the wing assembly 312 and the lip 344. The second embossed portion 514 and the third embossed portion 516 may form the gap 336 during embossing and pressing. The second punch portion 514 may be inserted into the first connector 352 of Fig. 3. The third punched section 516 can be inserted into the second connector 354 of Fig. 3. The first deflector 346 and the second deflector 348 can be bent at the fourth stamping section 518 and the fifth stamping section 520, respectively. The first deflector 346 and the second deflector 348 can be bent away from the bevel 342 at the fourth stamping section 518 and the fifth stamping section 520, respectively. The slot 522 can extend to the wedge 350 of Fig.3-4, e.g., when the first and second deflectors 346, 348 are bent at the fourth and fifth stamping sections 518, 520, respectively. The fourth stamping section 518 can be bent by stamping into the third connector 462. The fifth stamping section 520 can be bent by stamping into the fourth connector 464.

[0063] In this manner, a baffle can collect fluid from a lower wheel and passively deliver it to an upper wheel. The baffle is stationary and attached to a portion of the transmission, e.g., the fixed housing. The baffle can comprise a vane assembly and a deflector assembly, wherein the vane assembly can attach the baffle to a device and the deflector assembly can collect fluid from the lower wheel. The deflector portion can also distribute the fluid to the upper wheel after collection. The deflector portion has a platform supporting a plurality of projections, at least a first projection can distribute the fluid to the upper wheel and a pair of projections can collect fluid from features of the lower wheel. Both the lower wheel and the upper wheel have at least one undercut groove in which the fluid can collect.The fluid that collects in a first of the lower wheels can be collected by the deflector section. The fluid collected by the deflector section can be directed into a second groove of the upper wheel.

[0064] Although various embodiments have been described above, they are to be considered as examples and not as limitations. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the disclosed subject matter may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit of the subject matter. The embodiments described above are, therefore, to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive. Thus, the configurations and routines disclosed herein are exemplary, and the specific examples are not to be considered as limiting, as numerous variations are possible. For example, the technology described above may be applied to powertrains that include various types of power sources, including various types of prime movers, internal combustion engines, and / or transmissions.The subject matter of the present disclosure includes all novel and non-obvious combinations and sub-combinations of the various systems and configurations, as well as other features, functions and / or properties disclosed herein.

[0065] It should be understood that the configurations and routines disclosed herein are exemplary in nature, and that these specific embodiments are not intended to be limiting, as numerous variations are possible. Unless expressly stated otherwise, the terms "first," "second," "third," etc., are not intended to denote any order, position, quantity, or importance, but are used merely to distinguish the individual elements. The subject matter of the present disclosure includes all novel and non-obvious combinations and sub-combinations of the various systems and configurations, as well as other features, functions, and / or characteristics disclosed herein.

[0066] The following claims particularly point out certain combinations and subcombinations that are considered novel and non-obvious. These claims may refer to "a" element or "a first" element, or the equivalent thereof. Such claims are to be construed as including the inclusion of one or more such elements, neither requiring nor excluding two or more such elements. Other combinations and subcombinations of the disclosed features, functions, elements, and / or properties may be claimed by amending the present claims or by filing new claims in this or a related application. Such claims, whether broader, narrower, equal, or different in scope than the original claims, are also to be considered included within the subject matter of the present disclosure.

Claims

[1] Gearbox that includes: a solid housing; a first wheel housed in the fixed housing; a second wheel housed in the fixed housing; a line attached to the gearbox, and a deflector plate arranged between the first wheel and the second wheel, wherein the conduit is configured to transport a fluid to the first wheel, wherein the baffle is configured to transport fluid from the first wheel to the second wheel, and wherein the baffle is attached to the fixed housing. [2] The transmission of claim 1, wherein the first gear has a first undercut groove and the second gear has a second undercut groove. [3] The transmission of claim 2, wherein the conduit is configured to transport fluid to the first undercut groove. [4] The transmission of claim 3, wherein the baffle is configured to transport fluid from the first undercut groove to the second undercut groove. [5] The transmission of claim 4, wherein the fixed housing is configured to comprise a still reservoir and a turbulent reservoir, the still reservoir and the turbulent reservoir being separated by a partition wall attached to the fixed housing, the conduit fluidly coupling the still reservoir to the turbulent reservoir, the conduit being attached to the partition wall, the first gear being housed in the turbulent reservoir. [6] A transmission according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the first gear is rotatably connected to a first shaft and the second gear is rotatably connected to a second shaft. [7] A transmission according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the baffle has a plurality of projections configured to collect lubricant from the first undercut groove. [8] The transmission of claim 7, wherein the baffle has an uppermost portion including the plurality of projections, the uppermost portion being surrounded by the first undercut groove, the uppermost portion being disposed between a lip and a shoulder of the first undercut groove, the uppermost portion of the baffle being separated by a minimum distance to be almost in contact with a surface of the first undercut groove that is the deepest, the minimum distance being a distance between the projections and the surface. [9] The transmission of claim 8, wherein the baffle has a first extension configured to distribute lubricant from the baffle to the second undercut groove. [10] The transmission of claim 9, wherein the baffle further comprises a second extension and a third extension, the second extension and the third extension being part of the uppermost part, the second extension collecting lubricant from the first undercut groove when the first wheel rotates in a first direction, and the third extension collecting lubricant from the first undercut groove when the first wheel rotates in a second direction. [11] A transmission according to any one of claims 7 to 10, wherein the deflector comprises a vane assembly comprising at least a first and a second vane, the vane assembly physically coupling and securing the deflector to the fixed housing. [12] A transmission according to claim 11, wherein the vane assembly is attached to the fixed housing via a snap connection, the first vane snapping onto the fixed housing and the second vane snapping onto the fixed housing. [13] A transmission according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first wheel is a first gear and the second wheel is a second gear. [14] Baffle, comprising: a platform; a first extension sharing a continuous surface with the platform; a first fin extending at a first angle across the platform; a second fin extending at a second angle across the platform; and a wing assembly having a first wing and a second wing; wherein the baffle is arranged between a first wheel and a second wheel, the first vane and the second vane have curved edges, and the baffle is configured to transport fluid from an undercut groove of the first wheel to the second wheel, the first fin and the second fin are configured to collect fluid from the undercut groove, the first extension is configured to distribute fluid from the baffle to the second wheel, and the baffle is attached to a fixed housing via the vane assembly. [15] The baffle of claim 14, wherein an uppermost portion of the baffle comprising the first fin and the second fin is surrounded by the undercut groove, the uppermost portion of the baffle being disposed between a lip and a shoulder of the undercut groove, the uppermost portion of the baffle being separated by a minimum distance from a surface of the undercut groove, the surface being the deepest of the undercut groove, the first fin and the second fin being adjacent to the platform via a first connector and a second connector, respectively, the first fin and the second fin being adjacent to the platform via a first connector and a second connector, respectively, the first connector and the second connector being spaced from the platform at a third angle and a third depth, respectively.a fourth angle and the third angle and the fourth angle are equal, the first angle and the second angle are equal, the first angle is not equal to the third angle and the second angle is not equal to the fourth angle, and the first fin and the second fin are separated by a wedge, the wedge being flanked by a first edge of the first fin and a second edge of the second fin.

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