Gearbox with gearbox control, and associated methods

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for operating a gearbox (1), in particular a gearbox (1) and a unit, in particular a drivetrain, in particular of a vehicle, the method comprising: acquiring (S10) gearbox data for the gearbox, the gearbox data indicating at least one parameter of the gearbox; determining (S20) wear data, the wear data indicating at least one wear condition of at least one component of the gearbox, based on the acquired gearbox data, and / or a wear condition of at least one unit connected to the gearbox; and / or acquiring and / or determining (S30) operating-state data, the operating-state data indicating at least one parameter of a drivetrain comprising the gearbox, based on the acquired gearbox data; and determining (S40) control data, the control data indicating at least one control command for the gearbox and / or at least one control command for the at least one unit connected to the gearbox, based on the wear data and / or the operating-state data.

Description

[0001] 120729P504PC 1 / 27 Renk GmbH

[0002] Description

[0003] Transmissions with transmission control and associated methods

[0004] The present invention relates to a transmission, a transmission control, and a transmission with the transmission control, in particular a method for operating the transmission control, and further in particular a computer program or computer program product.

[0005] Engine control units (ECUs), transmission control units (TCUs), and / or combined control units (powertrain control units; PCUs) are typically electronic control modules that manage the functions of modern internal combustion engines, drive or power generation and / or transmission machines, or similar devices. An engine control unit typically receives input from various sensors and uses this information, in particular, to optimize fuel injection, ignition timing, and other parameters in order to achieve, for example, maximum power output, efficiency, and compliance with emissions regulations.

[0006] The object of the present invention is, in particular, to improve the autonomy, automation, and especially the route planning and / or navigation function, particularly of (land-based) tracked vehicles. A further object of the invention is, in particular, to increase the flexibility and / or adaptability of vehicles, especially tracked vehicles and / or military land vehicles.

[0007] The object of the present invention is in particular to improve the prediction of maintenance or the estimation of a time for maintenance, especially predictive maintenance.

[0008] This problem is solved by a method with the features of claim 1. Claims 8 to 10 provide protection for a system, claim 11 for a 120729P504PC 2 / 27 Renk GmbH

[0009] A computer program or computer program product for carrying out a method described herein. The dependent claims relate to advantageous embodiments.

[0010] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a method for operating a transmission and / or an assembly, in particular a drive, in particular a drive train, and further in particular a vehicle, further in particular a chain-based or chain-driven vehicle, is provided. In one embodiment, the method includes the acquisition of transmission data, in particular of the transmission. In one embodiment, the transmission data describes or represents at least one parameter, in particular a parameter value, of the transmission. In one embodiment, the transmission data is acquired by, in particular supplied by, at least one sensor. In one embodiment, the method includes the determination of wear data.In one embodiment, the wear data describes at least one wear state, in particular a wear prediction, of at least one component of the transmission and / or a wear state, in particular a wear prediction, of at least one assembly associated with or connected to the transmission. In one embodiment, the determination of the wear data is based on the acquired transmission data. Alternatively or additionally, in one embodiment, the method includes the acquisition, in particular the determination, of operating state data. In one embodiment, the operating state data describes at least one parameter of a drive train, which in particular includes the transmission. In one embodiment, the acquisition, in particular the determination, of the operating state data is based on the acquired transmission data. In one embodiment, the method includes the determination of control data.In one embodiment, the control data describes at least one control command for the transmission and / or at least one control command for the at least one component connected to the transmission, in particular for torque transmission. In one embodiment, the determined control data is based on the determined wear data and / or the recorded or determined operating condition data. In one embodiment, the method includes operation of the transmission and / or the component, in particular based on the determined control data.

[0011] The term "transmission parameter or parameter value" as used herein refers, in one embodiment, to the power and / or speed applied to a transmission input, the power and / or speed applied to a transmission output, and / or (particularly in tracked vehicles) the power and / or speed applied to another transmission output. In another embodiment, the term refers (additionally or alternatively) to (at least one of) a temperature, a pressure, a displacement / position, particularly of an actuator / actuator, a current, a voltage, a fill level, an operating time, an event counter, a speed, and / or an acceleration, particularly in the transmission and / or a part / component thereof. In yet another embodiment, the term refers (additionally or alternatively) to a combination of two or more of the aforementioned parameters / parameter values.Based on these parameters or parameter values, as described herein, a mobility reserve of the transmission, the drive train and / or the (entire) vehicle can be determined in one version, and thus, in particular, a decision can be made (advantageously) regarding risks, selected routes and / or driving speeds or the like.

[0012] The term "assembly," as used herein, is preferably to be understood as an arrangement, particularly a structured one, of interconnected and / or interacting components, wherein the interacting components in particular form a functional system. These components may, in one embodiment, be mechanical, electrical, and / or electronic elements and are in particular designed or configured such that, in their interaction, especially as a whole, they fulfill a specific task and / or achieve a specific technical objective, in particular for the propulsion of a vehicle, in particular a track-based vehicle (120729P504PC 4 / 27 Renk GmbH). In one embodiment, an assembly is a machine, in particular an electric machine and / or an internal combustion engine.

[0013] The term "powertrain," as used herein, shall preferably be understood as a mechanical and / or electrical system of, and in particular within, a vehicle, which, in various configurations, serves to transmit the power generated by a drive motor to the vehicle's output, in particular to the tracks and / or other moving or driven parts of the vehicle. The powertrain typically comprises, in various configurations, assemblies or components such as a motor, a transmission, drive shafts, etc. These components work together to transmit energy efficiently and to achieve the desired driving dynamics.

[0014] In one embodiment, "operating state data" describes, in particular, real-time sensor data of the powertrain, state data and / or position data (position or pose of the transmission and / or the vehicle, especially with respect to at least one coordinate system), chassis data, vehicle speed, cornering and / or curve radii, and / or pre-parameterized data, especially operator data, wherein the data, in particular, relate or can relate to functions of the powertrain, furthermore, in particular, based on the acquired transmission data. The inventors have recognized that, in the case of driving and steering transmissions, operating state data, in particular based on transmission data, can advantageously be determined and are advantageously more precise than data aggregation from different sources of the powertrain with, in particular, different interfaces and / or protocols or (data) formats.This allows the data described herein to be determined more accurately, in particular based on transmission data.

[0015] Advantageously, in one embodiment, this enables the realization of a transmission-centric control system for a vehicle, particularly for vehicle components and / or its drivetrain, specifically a transmission-centric control system for a tracked vehicle, especially a heavy and / or armored one. Furthermore, in one embodiment, this allows for more precise control of the drive system, particularly for a tracked vehicle. Advantageously, in another embodiment, this enables more accurate registration and / or implementation of the navigation or movement of the (tracked) vehicle, allowing for more accurate assessment or determination of the vehicle's condition and thus, in particular, the determination of a mobility reserve, especially for military (tracked) vehicles.Particularly in tracked vehicles, this allows, in one embodiment, for a more precise and / or better adjustment of operation, especially to the specific journey, particularly through rough terrain, and especially to journeys not undertaken on paved roads or tracks. In one embodiment, this also allows for the determination of the drivetrain's utilization. Furthermore, in one embodiment, this allows for a more precise risk assessment, particularly regarding the availability of sufficient reserve capacity for specific maneuvers. In one embodiment, this also advantageously enables predictive maintenance for the transmission, especially for the components connected to the transmission and / or the vehicle itself.Furthermore, in one implementation, operating conditions that are not known in advance, especially in tracked vehicles, but only arise from the vehicle's operation, can be determined or predicted more accurately or better. This allows, in one implementation, maintenance of the transmission and / or components to be carried out only when actually needed, and not according to predetermined maintenance intervals, which saves time and money.

[0016] In one embodiment, the transmission includes a drive and steering transmission; in particular, the transmission is a drive and steering transmission, especially an integrated one, or is designed as such, especially for, further 120729P504PC 6 / 27 Renk GmbH, especially military land vehicles, especially tracked vehicles. In one embodiment, the transmission includes a drive and steering transmission for a heavy and / or armored, especially tracked, vehicle.

[0017] Advantageously, this allows, in one implementation, the determination of the mobility utilization and / or mobility reserve of individual components, subsystems, and / or the overall system, in particular the transmission and / or the vehicle on which the transmission is located. Based on the mobility utilization and / or mobility reserve, route planning, condition monitoring, range determination, and / or predictions can be generated, especially predictions or forecasts for maintenance times. Advantageously, in one implementation, wear indicators can be generated / determined using the wear data, in particular for individual components and / or the overall system.

[0018] In one embodiment, the acquisition of operational state data includes the acquisition of environmental data and / or external data; in particular, in one embodiment, the operational state data describes at least one parameter of the environment (environmental data) and / or a parameter that is or can be received from an external source.

[0019] The term “environmental parameter”, as used herein, shall preferably be understood as a parameter that describes or represents the environment, in particular that can be detected or detected by means of a sensor, such as a camera, a LiDAR sensor, a radar sensor or the like, wherein the parameter in particular describes a characteristic of the environment, such as soil moisture, the firmness of the subsoil, the characteristics of the surroundings (proportion of rocks, trees, bushes, etc.), a terrain characteristic, such as the slope of the surrounding terrain; temperatures, precipitation, and / or visibility conditions, or the like.

[0020] The terms “external data” and “parameters from an external source,” as used herein, are preferably to be understood as data or parameters received by means of a wireless signal. In one interpretation, external data represents information originating from outside the system, in particular weather data and / or environmental parameters, which are or can be acquired, in particular, by means of sensors that do not belong to the vehicle; furthermore, in particular, data concerning other units and / or armed forces; or the like.

[0021] In one embodiment, the determination of control data includes the determination of navigation data. In one embodiment, the navigation data describes at least one route, particularly with the transmission, and further, particularly with the vehicle, and / or a route or distance traveled. In one embodiment, the determination of navigation data is based on (at least one of) the recorded transmission data, the determined wear data, and / or the recorded or determined operating condition data, preferably, in one embodiment, on the determined wear data and / or a combination of determined wear data and recorded, in particular determined, operating condition data. In one embodiment, the navigation data additionally or alternatively describes a distance or route yet to be traveled, in particular based on the recorded transmission data, the determined wear data, and / or the recorded or determined operating condition data.determined operating condition data, preferably in one version, based on the determined operating condition data.

[0022] Advantageously, in one embodiment, this enables the recording of a route or journey using the transmission and, in particular, the drive power(s) transmitted by the transmission. Specifically, the transmission (and / or its means) can be used for this purpose. In one embodiment, this advantageously enables the recording of a route, especially one located off paved roads, using (transmission-centric) data.

[0023] In one embodiment, the determined control data are configured in such a way that the transmission can be operated semi-automatically, in particular autonomously, using this data; furthermore, in particular, that a 120729P504PC 8 / 27 Renk GmbH

[0024] Vehicle that has the transmission, can be operated semi-automatically, in particular autonomously.

[0025] Advantageously, this allows for more precise navigation, particularly driving, in one embodiment. In another embodiment, it enables the reconstruction of a route traveled by the transmission, especially by the transmission and its associated components, based on data acquired from the transmission, particularly wear and / or operating condition data. In yet another embodiment, the acquired control data can be used for repeatedly driving the same route, at least substantially.

[0026] In one implementation, the acquisition of operating status data involves recording, in particular storing, the data, especially the operating status data.

[0027] Advantageously, this allows the data, in particular the recorded and / or determined data, to be reused repeatedly, especially for a transmission, assemblies, and / or drivetrain of another, particularly (at least substantially) comparable vehicle, or, in particular, (only) for the same vehicle. In one embodiment, the data can be used for vehicles in a convoy; in one embodiment, this allows a vehicle to pass on its "experiences" to following vehicles, and for these following vehicles to base their navigation, in particular their route, on the determined wear data and / or the determined operating condition data.In one embodiment, the method involves providing data, in particular transmission data, wear data, operating condition data, control data and / or navigation data, especially for at least one other vehicle, for at least one other transmission and / or for at least one other powertrain. (See 120729P504PC 9 / 27 Renk GmbH.)

[0028] In one implementation, the determined control data, in particular including navigation data, is transmitted to another or additional vehicle, specifically for operating the other or additional vehicle and / or for operating the drivetrain and / or the transmission of the other or additional vehicle. In another implementation, the data described herein is transmitted to a data network and / or a server.

[0029] In one embodiment, the determination of control data includes the determination of retreat data. In this embodiment, the retreat data describes at least one set of commands, in particular control data, by means of which the transmission and / or the vehicle is enabled to move back, in particular along the previously traveled route, in particular semi-automatically and / or autonomously. In another embodiment, the retreat data describes at least one set of commands for a retreat or retreat operation of the vehicle, in particular autonomously, based in particular on the operating state data.

[0030] Advantageously, in one embodiment, this enables a vehicle, particularly a semi-automated and / or autonomous vehicle, to travel a distance, especially based on data from the transmission, particularly during operation. This includes the ability to travel a previously traveled route in reverse, particularly in reverse. In one embodiment, this can be advantageous, especially when a driver is no longer able to operate the vehicle and / or when the vehicle crew is engaged in other tasks and wishes to withdraw to a safer position, without having to relinquish their duties or be burdened by driving the vehicle.

[0031] In one embodiment, the method involves transmitting the recorded and / or determined data (in particular transmission data, wear data, operating condition data, control data and / or navigation data) to another vehicle, in particular to its means, and further in particular to a 120729P504PC 10 / 27 Renk GmbH

[0032] The other vehicle's transmission control unit is used. In one embodiment, the navigation of the other vehicle is based, at least substantially, on the received data, preferably (in one embodiment) on the recorded transmission data and / or the determined control data.

[0033] In one embodiment, the method involves receiving data (in particular transmission data, wear data, operating condition data, control data and / or navigation data) from another vehicle, especially by the transmission, and in particular by the transmission control unit. In another embodiment, the vehicle's navigation is based, at least substantially, on the received data, preferably (in one embodiment) on the transmission data, wear data, operating condition data, control data and / or navigation data of the other vehicle.

[0034] Advantageously, this allows a vehicle convoy to be controlled and coordinated more easily. Furthermore, in one implementation, it enables the "master" vehicle to coordinate one or more other vehicles more easily, and in particular, allows the "master" vehicle's experience to be shared with the other vehicle(s). Advantageously, in another implementation, it also optimizes navigation and / or route planning for the vehicle equipped with the transmission, specifically predicting and suggesting a faster, more fuel-efficient, lower-risk, and less-weary route, and enabling semi-automated and / or autonomous driving.In particular, this allows, in one configuration, a different route, at least in sections, to be selected for a different vehicle, provided that, especially based on the determined operating status data of the vehicle ahead, it is determined or can be determined that the terrain can (only) be traversed with comparatively high power and / or that there are obstacles on the path / route. 120729P504PC 11 / 27 Renk GmbH.

[0035] In one embodiment, the data described herein can be read by a diagnostic device, specifically one designed for this purpose, so that the data described herein can be made available at an interface, and in particular displayed or visualized. In one embodiment, the data display includes optical, acoustic, haptic, and / or olfactory components, particularly with the aid of the diagnostic device.

[0036] Advantageously, this allows a gearbox, and especially a vehicle, to be serviced more easily and, in particular, to be diagnosed more easily, all in one design.

[0037] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a system for operating and / or monitoring a transmission, in particular a transmission and an assembly, and further, in particular, a vehicle, especially a track-based vehicle, is provided. In one embodiment, the system comprises means for acquiring transmission data, in particular (at least) one sensor, which is further, in particular, arranged in and / or on the transmission. In one embodiment, the system comprises (at least) one external sensor, which is in particular, or may be arranged in a part of the vehicle and / or the drive system that is distinct from the transmission. In one embodiment, the system comprises means for acquiring data that is acquired outside the transmission and / or outside the vehicle, in particular a data connection for receiving and / or transmitting data.

[0038] In one embodiment, the system includes means for operating the transmission, in particular a transmission control unit.

[0039] In one embodiment, the means for operating the transmission, in particular the transmission control unit, is configured as, at least substantially, a central, and furthermore specifically as a controller / master control unit, and in particular the assemblies connected to the transmission, in particular the means for operating the assemblies, are configured as peripherals / slaves. 120729P504PC 12 / 27 Renk GmbH

[0040] Advantageously, in one embodiment, this makes it possible to perform navigation and route planning tasks more easily using the means for operating the transmission, in particular using the transmission control unit, which in embodiments is configured to carry out a procedure described herein.

[0041] In one embodiment, the means are designed as "plug & play" means. In one embodiment, the system has a system means, in particular for this purpose, wherein the system means is or can be designed, in particular, at least substantially, by a transmission control unit, or wherein the system means is or can be designed, in particular, at least partially, by the transmission control unit. In one embodiment, the system means is configured to provide a, in particular, central, software platform for the vehicle, in particular for connecting at least one further means, in particular at least one (further) unit and / or at least one (further) component. In one embodiment, a steering system of the vehicle has at least one hardware- and / or software-designed means, wherein the means, in one embodiment, is configured to communicate with a...In one embodiment, a brake, in particular a service brake or a parking brake, of the vehicle comprises at least one hardware- and / or software-designed means, wherein, in one embodiment, the means is configured to be connected to a transmission control unit via data communication, wherein, furthermore, the means is furthermore, in particular ...In one embodiment, a clutch position of the vehicle has at least one hardware and / or software-engineered means, wherein the means, in one embodiment, is configured to communicate with a transmission control unit in 120729P504PC 13 / 27 Renk GmbH.

[0042] The system comprises a means of data communication, in particular being connected to the transmission control unit. In one embodiment, a vehicle component (in particular an electric machine, motor, generator, pump, or the like) has at least one hardware- and / or software-designed means, in one embodiment being configured to be connected to the transmission control unit via data communication. In one embodiment, the system, in particular its means, has a common, in particular interoperable, data and / or communication structure. In one embodiment, the system has a data bus, in particular a CAN bus-like data bus, for this purpose. In one embodiment, the system or its means has a means for acquiring transmission data from the transmission.In one embodiment, the system or its means includes a means for determining wear data. In one embodiment, the system or its means includes a means for acquiring and / or determining operating state data. In one embodiment, the system or its means includes a means for determining control data. In one embodiment, the system or its means includes a means for acquiring environmental data and / or external data. In one embodiment, the system, in particular the transmission-centric system and / or its means, and further in particular the transmission control unit, is configured to provide a (software) architecture, in particular corresponding interfaces.In one embodiment, the system comprises a system element configured to act as a central element, in particular as a central platform for the other elements and / or external elements (in particular of another vehicle, wherein the external elements correspond, at least substantially, to the elements of the (initial) vehicle). In one embodiment, the system is implemented, at least substantially, on a transmission control unit. In one embodiment, the system element comprises a computing unit and / or a storage unit and is configured, in particular, for acquiring, determining, storing, and / or managing mobility data and / or mobility applications, wherein, in one embodiment, these relate to, and in particular include, the data described herein. 120729P504PC 14 / 27 Renk GmbH.

[0043] Advantageously, this allows for easier maintenance, particularly replacement, of a single component in one design. This also makes it possible, in one design, to require fewer interfaces and / or fewer communication means, especially networks such as cables and / or wireless connections and / or interfaces, or the like, particularly compared to vehicles that, at least in essence, have control units for each component / assembly, each of which is configured as a master.

[0044] A means according to the present invention can be configured as hardware and / or software, in particular comprising at least one processing unit, preferably a microprocessor unit (CPU), graphics processing unit (GPU), or the like, preferably connected to a storage and / or bus system via data or signals, and / or comprising one or more programs or program modules. The processing unit can be configured to execute instructions implemented as a program stored in a storage system, to acquire input signals from a data bus, and / or to output signals to a data bus. A storage system can comprise one or more, in particular different, storage media, in particular optical, magnetic, solid-state, and / or other non-volatile media. The program can be configured to embody the methods described herein.is capable of performing such processes, so that the processing unit can carry out the steps of such procedures and thus, in particular, operate the transmission, especially the, furthermore, especially chain-based, vehicle.

[0045] According to one embodiment, a transmission, in particular a drive and steering transmission, is provided for a vehicle. In one embodiment, the transmission is configured to carry out a procedure described herein, in particular to control or monitor a (described herein) unit and / or a drive train described herein, and / or to operate 120729P504PC 15 / 27 Renk GmbH. In one embodiment, the transmission has means, in particular for this purpose, as described herein.

[0046] Advantageously, in one embodiment, this makes it possible to use information that can be detected or recorded on the gearbox using sensors for a control system, in particular a semi-automated and / or semi-autonomous or automated and / or autonomous system, especially by the gearbox or using the gearbox (and / or its means); furthermore, in one embodiment, this makes it possible to realize a gearbox-centric control system.

[0047] A computer program product may, in one embodiment, include a storage medium, in particular a computer-readable and / or non-volatile medium, for storing a program or instructions, or with a program or instructions stored thereon. In one embodiment, the execution of this program or these instructions by a system or a controller, in particular a computer or an arrangement of several computers, causes the system or the controller, in particular the computer(s), to execute a procedure described herein or one or more of its steps, or the program or instructions are configured for this purpose.

[0048] The computer program can be stored, in particular, on a non-volatile data carrier. Preferably, this is a data carrier in the form of an optical data carrier or a flash memory module. This can be advantageous if the computer program itself is to be handled independently of a processor platform on which the one or more programs are to be executed. In another implementation, the computer program can exist as a file on a data processing unit, in particular on a server, and be downloadable via a data connection, for example, the Internet or a dedicated data connection, such as a proprietary or local network. Furthermore, the computer program can consist of a plurality of interacting individual components.

[0049] The modules may be configured, or at least usable, in such a way as to be executed on different devices (computers or processor units) that are geographically separated and connected via a data network, in the sense of distributed computing.

[0050] In one embodiment, one or more, in particular all, steps of the procedure are fully or partially computer-implemented, or one or more, in particular all, steps of the procedure are fully or partially automated, in particular by the system or its means.

[0051] The term "acquire" encompasses, for example (within the context of a (computer-implemented) procedure), the scenario in which the data are determined by the (computer-implemented) procedure or program. Determining data includes, for example, measuring physical quantities and converting the measured values ​​into data, such as digital data, and / or calculating (and, in particular, outputting) the data using a computer, and especially within the context of the procedure described herein. A step of "determining," as described herein, comprises, in one execution, issuing a command to perform the determination described herein or consists of the execution itself.For example, the step includes or consists of issuing a command to cause a computer, for example, a remote computer, in particular a remote, especially external, server, especially in the cloud, to perform the determination. Alternatively or additionally, the "determination" as described herein includes or consists in particular of receiving the data resulting from the determination described herein, in particular receiving the resulting data from the remote computer, in particular from the remote computer that was caused to perform the determination. The meaning of "receive" also includes, in particular, the scenario in which the data is received or retrieved by the (computer-implemented) procedure or program (e.g.,by input), in particular from another program, a previous process step, or a data storage medium, especially for further processing by the (computer-implemented) method or program. The generation of the data to be acquired can, in one embodiment, but need not be, part of the method according to the invention. The expression "acquisition of data" can therefore, in one embodiment, also mean waiting for the receipt of data and / or receiving the data. The received data can, for example, be entered via an interface. The expression "acquisition of data" can also mean that the (computer-implemented) method or program performs steps to (actively) acquire the data from a data source, for example, a data storage medium (such as a ROM, RAM, a database, a hard drive, etc.), or via the interface (e.g.,to receive or retrieve data from another computer or a network). In one embodiment, the data acquired by the disclosed method or device can be acquired from a database in a data storage device connected to a computer for data transmission between the database and the computer, in particular from the database to the computer. In one embodiment, the computer acquires the data for use as input, in particular for determining data. The determined data can be output again to the same or a different database for storage for later use. In one embodiment, the database used to implement the method can be located on a network data storage device or a network server (e.g., a network computer or a network server).a cloud data storage device or a cloud server) or a local data storage device (in particular a mass storage device that is (operationally) connected to at least one computer that executes the disclosed method). The data can be, in one embodiment, by performing an additional step before the acquisition step.

[0052] to be made "ready for use". According to this additional step, the data is generated in one execution to be recorded. The data is, for example, detected or recorded (especially by an analysis device and / or sensor). Alternatively or additionally, the data is entered in one execution, especially via an interface. The generated 120729P504PC 18 / 27 Renk GmbH

[0053] Data can be entered (in particular into the computer) in one instance. According to the additional step (which precedes the acquisition step), the data can also be made available in one instance, by storing the data in a data storage medium (such as, in particular, a ROM, RAM, a CD, and / or a hard drive) so that it is ready for use within the procedure or program described herein. The step of "acquiring (data)" can therefore also include instructing a unit, device, and / or component to receive and / or make available the data to be acquired. In one embodiment, acquiring data involves, in particular, simply making data available, especially for (further) processing, and furthermore, especially internally and / or externally.In one embodiment, this can involve or be the sending of data, in particular from the transmission control unit, to a data connection, in particular a CAN bus, and in particular may include.

[0054] In one version, the system features a vehicle, in particular a chain-driven one.

[0055] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a chain-driven vehicle is provided. In one embodiment, the vehicle has a system described herein and / or is equipped to carry out a method described herein.

[0056] Advantageously, this can result in a vehicle with improved maintenance (in terms of time and / or cost) or improved diagnostics, especially compared to vehicles that are not equipped to perform the procedure described herein.

[0057] Any terms used herein, such as "comprises," "includes," "includes," "has," "with," or any other variant thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a method or apparatus that includes or has a list of elements is not necessarily limited to those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent in such method or apparatus.

[0058] Furthermore, unless explicitly stated otherwise, "or" refers to an inclusive or and not an exclusive "or". For example, a condition A or B is satisfied by one of the following: A is true (or present) and B is false (or not present), A is false (or not present) and B is true (or present), and both A and B are true (or present).

[0059] The terms "ein" or "eine," as used here, are defined as "one or more." The terms "ein anderer" and "ein Weitere," as well as any other variant thereof, are to be understood as "at least one more."

[0060] The terms "configured" or "set up" to perform a specific function (and their respective variations), as used here, mean that a device or component thereof already exists in a configuration or setting capable of performing the function, or at least is adjustable—i.e., configurable—so that it can perform the function after appropriate adjustment. Configuration can be achieved, for example, by adjusting process parameters or by using switches or similar devices to activate or deactivate functionalities or settings. In particular, the device may have several predefined configurations or operating modes, allowing configuration by selecting one of these.

[0061] Further advantages and features will become apparent from the dependent claims and the exemplary embodiments. These are shown, in part schematically:

[0062] Fig. 1: shows a system with a gearbox according to an embodiment of the present invention; 120729P504PC 20 / 27 Renk GmbH

[0063] Fig. 2: a flowchart illustrating one embodiment of the method of the present invention; and

[0064] Fig. 3: shows a system with a gearbox according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] The elements depicted in the figures are not necessarily shown to scale. Rather, the various elements shown in the figures are represented in such a way that their function and general purpose are understandable to a person skilled in the art. Connections and couplings between functional units and elements shown in the figures can, unless expressly stated otherwise, also be implemented as indirect connections or couplings. Functional units can, in particular, be implemented as hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0066] Fig. 1 shows a driving and steering transmission 1 (hereinafter referred to as transmission 1), in particular without limiting generality. The transmission 1 has a drive on the left and right sides for operating a chain. A transmission control unit 2 is also shown. Fig. 1 further shows a drive 10, which in particular in embodiments comprises an electric motor and / or an internal combustion engine. In addition, an engine control unit 11 is shown in Fig. 1, which is configured to control the drive 10. Furthermore, sensors 20 are shown in Fig. 1, which are configured to acquire data at various points in the drivetrain. From this, it can be seen in particular that information about the drivetrain as well as about the vehicle itself can be acquired and determined at the transmission 1; in particular, in such a transmission as described in particular herein, a driving function is not separated from a steering function, so that functions at the transmission 1 that determine position orChanges in the vehicle's position, particularly during operation, can cause or may cause these changes. Therefore, in certain configurations, a transmission-centric control system for the vehicle is advantageously implemented, particularly based on data 1 (120729P504PC 21 / 27 Renk GmbH) or data derived or determined from it. This is illustrated by the arrows, specifically by sensors 20 acquiring transmission data (S10), which, in certain configurations, can be processed by the transmission control unit 2. Based on the acquired transmission data, wear data and / or operating condition data (S20) can be determined. These data include, in certain configurations, predictions, particularly regarding wear of the transmission and / or the assemblies or components connected to the transmission (mechanically and / or via data communication).

[0067] Fig. 2 schematically shows a flowchart illustrating one implementation of the method. S10 refers to acquiring transmission data, S20 to determining wear data, S30 to acquiring and / or determining operating state data, and S40 to determining control data. The method can, in one implementation, be repeated continuously, at least in its essentials, and / or be performed as needed or upon request (by a user and / or a resource, particularly the system resource).

[0068] Fig. 3 schematically shows another embodiment of a system with a transmission 1, a transmission control unit 2, a drive / motor 10, an engine control unit 11 and sensors 20. Fig. 3 shows in particular that the transmission control unit 2 can be used as a system component, in particular in such a way that the system, in particular the transmission control unit, can be used in embodiments to perform and / or provide mobility functions, in particular to provide data for this purpose, in particular (for) autonomous driving functions A, in particular as a virtual driver, route planning functions and / or navigation functions B, in particular as a navigation control unit, and / or provides or can provide functions of an on-board computer C and / or can be used for this purpose.For this purpose, the transmission control unit 2, in one version, can receive and / or be provided with further data, in particular external data, as described herein, 120729P504PC 22 / 27 Renk GmbH, such as environmental data. In one version, the transmission control unit 2 can provide data, in particular determine (and provide) data, such as data on (drive) system utilization, data on remaining mobility prediction, and / or wear data, in particular damage data. In other versions, the data can be used to control a drive / motor 10.

[0069] In the present disclosure, "has an X" does not generally imply an exhaustive list, but is a shorthand for "has at least one X" and also includes "has two or more X" as well as "has Y in addition to X". Although exemplary implementations were explained in the preceding description, it should be noted that a multitude of variations are possible. Furthermore, it should be noted that the exemplary implementations are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope of protection, applications, or structure in any way.Rather, the preceding description provides the skilled person with a guide for implementing at least one exemplary embodiment, whereby various modifications, particularly with regard to the function and arrangement of the described components, can be made without leaving the scope of protection as defined by the claims and these equivalent combinations of features.

[0070] 120729P504PC 23 / 27 Renk GmbH

[0071] List of reference signs

[0072] 1 Gearbox (driving and steering gearbox)

[0073] 2 Transmission control unit 10 Drive / Engine

[0074] 11 Engine control unit

[0075] 20 Sensor

[0076] A Functions of autonomous driving

[0077] B Route planning functions and / or navigation functions C Functions of an on-board computer

[0078] S10 Acquisition of transmission data

[0079] S20 Determining wear data

[0080] S30 Acquisition and / or determination of operating status data

[0081] S40 Determining tax data

Claims

120729P504PC 24 / 27 Renk GmbH Patent claims 1. Method for operating a transmission (1), in particular a transmission (1) and an assembly, in particular a drive train, in particular a vehicle, comprising: - Acquisition (S10) of transmission data of the transmission, wherein the transmission data describe at least one parameter of the transmission; - Determining (S20) wear data, wherein the wear data describe at least one wear state of at least one component of the transmission, based on the acquired transmission data and / or one wear state of at least one assembly connected with the transmission and / or acquiring and / or determining (S30) operating state data, wherein the operating state data describe at least one parameter of a drive train comprising the transmission, based on the acquired transmission data; - Determining (S40) control data, wherein the control data describes at least one control command for the transmission and / or at least one control command for the at least one unit connected to the transmission, based on the wear data and / or the operating condition data.

2. Method according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the acquisition (S30) of operating state data includes the acquisition of environmental data and / or external data.

3. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the determination (S40) of control data includes the determination of navigation data, wherein the navigation data describe at least one distance travelled in operation and / or wherein the navigation data describe a distance yet to be travelled.

4. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the determined control data are designed such that the transmission (1) is operated semi-automatically, in particular autonomously, using the determined control data, in particular for covering a distance. 120729P504PC 25 / 27 Renk GmbH 5. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the acquisition (S30) of operating state data comprises recording the data; and / or wherein a determination (S40) of control data comprises determining withdrawal data, wherein the withdrawal data describe at least one instruction set for a, in particular autonomous, withdrawal operation of a vehicle, based on the operating state data.

6. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the determined control data are transmitted to a transmission, in particular a transmission control unit and / or another unit, of another vehicle and / or that the determination of control data is based on received data, in particular transmission data, wear data, operating condition data and / or control data of another vehicle.

7. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the determination of control data includes wear optimization based on the determined wear data and / or the operating condition data.

8. System for operating a transmission (1), in particular a transmission (1) and an assembly, in particular a track-based vehicle, which is equipped and / or comprises for carrying out a method according to one of the preceding claims: Means for recording (S10) transmission data of the transmission (1); Means for determining (S20) wear data and / or means for recording and / or determining (S30) operating condition data; Means for determining (S40) tax data.

9. System according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the system further comprises means for acquiring environmental data and / or external data.

10. System according to the preceding claims 8 or 9, characterized in that the system comprises a system means which is configured to function as 120729P504PC 26 / 27 Renk GmbH central means, in particular as a central platform for the other means and / or external means, to act.

11. Transmission (1) designed as a driving and steering transmission for a vehicle, wherein the transmission (1) is configured to perform a method according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 7, wherein the transmission (1) is further configured to control the assembly and / or the drive train.

12. Computer program or computer program product, wherein the computer program or computer program product, in particular stored on a computer-readable and / or non-volatile storage medium, contains instructions which, when executed by one or more computers or a system according to claim 8, 9 or 10, cause the computer(s), the transmission (1) according to claim 11 or the system to carry out a method according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

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