Dual-Function CVT Driveline for Off-Highway Vehicles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Off-highway vehicles require a driveline system that can efficiently utilize the output of a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for both wheel driving and accessory power, while existing systems often limit the CVT output to only one function.
Innovation Solution
A dual-function CVT driveline system incorporating a planetary gear train that allows the CVT output to power both the vehicle wheels and accessory drives, with adjustable gear ratios to accommodate varying operational needs, including the use of a PTO shaft for accessory power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the CVT output is connected to only one function (either wheels or accessory drive), then the system is simple and reliable, but the versatility and adaptability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The CVT output is designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously through a planetary gear train configuration. The single CVT output shaft connects to both the wheel drive system and the accessory drive system, allowing one component to perform multiple functions. This multi-functionality enables the vehicle to operate with enhanced versatility without requiring separate power sources for different functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the wheel drive path and accessory drive path into a single integrated system through the planetary gear train. Instead of having separate transmissions or power sources, both the wheels and accessories are driven from the same CVT output, combining multiple drive functions into one unified driveline architecture.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the CVT output powers both wheels and accessory drives, then the versatility is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The planetary gear train acts as an intermediary mechanism between the single CVT output and the multiple drive functions. This intermediary device enables the CVT output to be distributed to both wheel drives and accessory drives while maintaining independent control over each function's power delivery, thus managing complexity through a specialized intermediate component.
Solution Approach 2:
The planetary gear train itself is designed as a multi-functional component that can simultaneously provide different gear ratios and power distribution to multiple outputs. This universal mechanism handles multiple drive functions within a single compact assembly, preventing excessive system complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If switching means are used to connect the PTO to either the drive shaft or CVT output, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity and loss of time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains continuous power delivery to both the wheels and accessory drives simultaneously without requiring switching operations. The planetary gear train enables continuous, uninterrupted power distribution to all functions at once, eliminating the time loss associated with switching between different connection configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using switching means to alternately connect the PTO to different components, the system merges all drive functions into a single continuous power flow from the CVT through the planetary gear train. This eliminates the need for switching operations and the associated time losses while maintaining adaptability through the gear train's inherent flexibility.
Data Source
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AI summary
A driveline for vehicles provided with a dual function CVT is described herein. The driveline includes a dual function CVT that can be used both to power the ground engaging wheels of the vehicle and to power an accessory drive thereof.