Coupling Assembly for Multiple Spider Planetary Gear Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transmission assemblies with multiple speed-change gear mechanisms require a large number of shifting elements and installation space to achieve a limited number of gears, leading to complex construction and control.
Innovation Solution
A coupling assembly for a multiple spider planetary gear mechanism with three shifting elements that allow for the selection of three gears using two speed-change gear mechanisms, utilizing a combination of brakes and clutches to enable efficient gear shifting with minimal installation space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a large number of shifting elements and speed-change gear mechanisms are used to achieve multiple gears, then the number of selectable gears increases, but the device complexity and installation space increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two speed-change gear mechanisms into a single integrated transmission assembly where the spider of the first planetary gear mechanism is coupled to the internal gear of the second planetary gear mechanism, and the spider of the second planetary gear mechanism is coupled to the internal gear of the first planetary gear mechanism. This merging allows multiple gears to be achieved through coordinated operation of fewer components rather than using separate gear mechanisms for each gear ratio.
Solution Approach 2:
The shifting elements are designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously. Each shifting element can block different components (sun gear, spider, or internal gear) of either planetary gear mechanism, allowing a single shifting element to control multiple gear ratios across both mechanisms. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of shifting elements needed compared to traditional single-mechanism designs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple planetary gear mechanisms are used to increase the number of gears, then more gear ratios can be selected, but the installation space required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested configuration where the first and second planetary gear mechanisms are interlocked through their spiders and internal gears. The spider of one mechanism is coupled to the internal gear of the other mechanism, creating a compact nested structure. This nesting allows both gear mechanisms to occupy overlapping spatial volumes, significantly reducing the total installation space compared to sequential or parallel arrangements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If more shifting elements are added to enable more gears, then gear selection capability improves, but the control system becomes more complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into three independent shifting elements, each responsible for blocking a specific component (sun gear, spider, or internal gear). This segmentation allows each shifting element to be controlled independently and simplifies the control logic, as each element has a clear, dedicated function rather than requiring complex coordinated control of multiple interdependent elements.
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling assembly is provided for a transmission assembly, in particular for a multiple spider planetary gear transmission, wherein the transmission assembly has two speed-change gear units coupled to each other. A first shaft and a second shaft are coupleable with one of the speed-change gear units, wherein by blocking of one of the shafts two shifting stages of the transmission assembly are shiftable. A third shaft is provided as well as a first shifting element and a second shifting element, each of which couples the first shaft and the second shaft with the third shaft. A third shifting element is provided which can brake and/or block the third shaft.