Output Transfer Group Torque Splitting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing output transfer groups for mobile machines are large, heavy, and require multiple high-torque coupling mechanisms, increasing costs and not allowing simultaneous drive of front and rear axles at different speeds.

Innovation Solution

An output transfer group with a housing, input and output yokes, and a gear train that creates torque reduction and includes a lockable differential to split torque between the front and rear axles, allowing for adjustable speed ratios and reduced size and weight.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If a traditional output transfer group design is used, then torque can be transmitted to multiple axles, but the device becomes large, heavy, and complex requiring multiple high-torque coupling mechanisms

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetorque transmission capabilityVSAvoidoutput transfer group weight
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSWeight of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the differential mechanism and torque distribution functions into a single integrated housing structure. The gear train with planetary gears integrates both the differential action for speed variation and the torque splitting to front and rear axles, eliminating the need for separate coupling mechanisms and reducing overall weight.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The output transfer group housing serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as the structural enclosure, the differential mechanism housing, the torque distribution system, and the mounting structure for multiple output shafts. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components and reduces weight.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Power

If a traditional output transfer group design is used, then torque can be transmitted to multiple axles, but the device becomes large and requires multiple high-torque coupling mechanisms

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetorque transmission capabilityVSAvoidcoupling mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the differential mechanism and torque distribution functions into a single integrated housing structure. The gear train with planetary gears integrates both the differential action for speed variation and the torque splitting to front and rear axles, eliminating the need for separate coupling mechanisms and reducing overall weight.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Power

If a traditional output transfer group design is used, then torque can be transmitted to axles, but the axles cannot rotate at different speeds simultaneously

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetorque transmission to multiple axlesVSAvoidspeed variation capability
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates a differential mechanism that dynamically allows the front and rear axles to rotate at different speeds while maintaining torque distribution. The planetary gear system automatically adjusts the speed ratio between axles based on operational requirements, providing adaptability for both locked (same speed) and unlocked (different speeds) conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The solution results in a more compact, lightweight output transfer group that can efficiently manage torque distribution between axles, enabling simultaneous drive at different speeds and improving handling and propulsion, while reducing capital and operating costs.

Implementation Method 1

The gear train may create a torque reduction between the input yoke and the first and second output yokes

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGear: Gear

Data Source

PatentUS9541183B2Output transfer group for mobile machine powertrain
Publication Date: 2017.01.10 CATERPILLAR INC
  • US9541183B2 patent drawing
  • US9541183B2 patent drawing
  • US9541183B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An output transfer group is disclosed for use with a mobile machine. The output transfer group may have a housing, an input yoke extending from the housing and configured to receive an input torque, a first output yoke extending from the housing and configured to provide a first output torque, and a second output yoke extending from the housing and configured to provide a second output torque. The output transfer group may also have a gear train disposed within the housing and connecting the input yoke to the first and second output yokes. The gear train may create a torque reduction between the input yoke and the first and second output yokes, and includes a lockable differential located downstream of the torque reduction.