Planetary Splitter Transmission for Load-Free Gear Changes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing range-change transmission devices face inefficiencies in energy usage and require synchronization with internal combustion engines, leading to increased wear and power loss during gear changes, particularly in dual clutch transmissions.
Innovation Solution
A range-change transmission device with a planetary gear set and torque adjustment device, featuring coaxial coupling of transmission elements with the input and output shafts, and switching units that allow for direct coupling between the countershaft and input shaft, enabling gear changes without power flow interruption through torque reduction using an electric machine or hydraulic system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If dual clutch transmission is used to enable gear changes, then switching speed is improved, but energy efficiency deteriorates due to switching energy being converted into heat
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful energy loss in dual clutch transmissions into a beneficial process by using a torque adjustment device to reduce torque during gear changes. This allows the switching energy to be managed controllably rather than wasted as heat, enabling efficient gear changes while maintaining energy efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a torque adjustment device as an intermediary between the input shaft and transmission elements. This mediator enables controlled torque reduction during gear changes, facilitating smooth switching without the energy waste associated with direct clutch engagement in dual clutch transmissions.
2Reliability
If synchronization with internal combustion engine is used during gear changes, then power transmission is maintained, but wear increases due to friction-based synchronization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical friction-based synchronization system with a torque adjustment device that controls torque through reduction rather than friction. This substitution eliminates the wear associated with traditional synchronization while maintaining continuous power transmission.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multi-plate clutches or brakes are used for gear changes, then gear selection flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the complex multi-plate clutch and brake systems from the transmission. By eliminating these components and replacing them with a simpler torque adjustment device, the patent maintains gear selection flexibility while significantly reducing structural complexity.
4Device complexity
If traditional gear change mechanism is used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but power flow interruption occurs during switching
Solution Approach 1:
The patent ensures continuous power flow during gear changes by using a torque adjustment device that maintains torque transmission while enabling smooth switching between transmission elements. This eliminates power flow interruption while keeping the structural design relatively simple.
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
This design enhances energy efficiency, reduces switching times, eliminates the need for dual clutches and multi-plate clutches, and allows for wear-free starting and slow maneuvering, enabling load interruption-free gear changes and recuperative energy production during braking.
Implementation Method 1
The countershaft (13) is coupled to the torque adjustment device (14)... torque reduction using an electric machine or hydraulic system
Implementation Method 2
by means of braking action, in particular by an e-machine... a braking action by means of an electric machine signifies energy production
Implementation Method 3
in the form of an electric machine and/or an energy storage system, for example, by means of a hydraulic system
Data Source
AI summary
A range-change transmission device, which is a splitter transmission, includes an input shaft, an output shaft, a countershaft, at least one planetary gear set, and a torque adjustment device. A first transmission element of the planetary gear set is arranged coaxially to the output shaft. A second transmission element of the planetary gear set is or can be directly coupled to the countershaft. A third transmission element of the planetary gear set is permanently coupled to the input shaft in a rotationally fixed manner. The countershaft is or can be coupled to the torque adjustment device. The range-change transmission device has a first switching unit, which is provided to couple the countershaft to the output shaft.