Planetary Transmission Locking for Variable-Speed Drive Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drive arrangements for machines requiring variably adjustable rotational speed, such as compressors or pumps, often incur high costs and inefficiencies due to the use of expensive electric motors with frequency converters or mechanical modulation transmissions.
Innovation Solution
A transmission design that includes a brake or locking device coupling the planet carrier to the transmission housing, allowing the second drive unit to be braked or locked, thereby reducing power loss and increasing efficiency by eliminating the need for continuous energy supply to the modulation motor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If a transmission with mechanical modulation branch or electric motor with frequency converter is used to drive a machine with variably adjustable rotational speed, then the rotational speed can be adjusted, but the cost increases and power loss occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission employs a dynamic modulation mechanism where the planet carrier can be selectively braked or locked. By dynamically switching between different operational states (modulation mode and direct connection mode), the system achieves variable rotational speed output while minimizing energy loss. The brake or locking device enables the planet carrier to be held stationary when direct drive is required, eliminating the need for continuous energy input to the modulation motor.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the second drive unit (modulation motor) continues to rotate without braking, then operational flexibility is maintained, but energy is continuously consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The brake or locking device is activated periodically or as needed based on operational requirements. During periods where direct drive is sufficient, the brake is engaged to hold the planet carrier stationary, stopping energy consumption. During periods requiring speed modulation, the brake is released and the modulation motor operates. This periodic engagement of the brake allows the system to switch between energy-consuming modulation mode and energy-saving direct drive mode.
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 reduces power loss, increases efficiency, and enhances operating flexibility by allowing the second drive unit to be disconnected, thus reducing energy consumption and improving operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a torque on the planet carrier (4) can be braced against the transmission housing (9) via a brake (20)
Data Source
AI summary
A transmission for a drive assembly for driving a working machine at a variable speed of rotation having: a first planet gear set to which a first drive unit can be coupled and a second planet gear set which the working machine can be coupled. The first planet gear set and the second planet gear set each having planet gears which are arranged on at least two common planet shafts which are mounted in a planet carrier. The planet carrier is rotatably mounted in a transmission housing and can be driven by a second drive unit. A torque on the planet carrier can be braced against the transmission housing via a brake or locking mechanism or clutch.