Power-Split Axle Drive With Variable Ratio Torque Matching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing power-split axle drives for agricultural vehicles are complex in design and insufficient for efficient torque and speed transmission, leading to inefficient operation and braking issues.

Innovation Solution

A power-split axle drive system that includes a primary drive element, a power-splitting transmission, and additional drive elements connected via shafts and gear sets, allowing for adjustable torque transmission and efficient operation by enabling a lead motion of the vehicle axles.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If the additional drive element is connected directly to the power-split transmission, then the drive can provide torque, but the rotating speed and torque transmission is insufficient due to mismatched parameters

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetorque transmission capabilityVSAvoidconstruction complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

A torque transmission device with variable transmission ratio is introduced as an intermediary between the additional drive element and the power-split transmission. This device mediates the parameter mismatch by providing adjustable torque and speed conversion, enabling efficient power transmission without direct rigid connection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The torque transmission device features a variable transmission ratio that can be dynamically adjusted based on operating conditions. This dynamic adaptability allows the system to optimize torque and speed transmission in real-time, resolving the parameter mismatch between the additional drive element and the power-split transmission.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If the torque transmission capability of the clutch is adjustable, then the drive state can be optimized, but the construction becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedrive state adaptabilityVSAvoidclutch mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The torque transmission device serves multiple functions: it acts as a clutch for torque transmission, provides variable speed/torque conversion, and enables different drive modes (two-wheel drive, four-wheel drive, differential lock). This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate mechanisms, achieving adaptability without proportionally increasing complexity.

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

3Power

If the additional drive element operates at high rotating speed and force, then it can provide sufficient power, but the transmission to the power-split axle drive becomes inefficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadditional drive outputVSAvoidtorque transmission efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The torque transmission device changes the transmission ratio parameter dynamically to match the output parameters of the additional drive element with the input requirements of the power-split transmission. This parameter adjustment optimizes energy transmission efficiency by minimizing mismatches in rotating speed and torque levels.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS12330501B2Power-split axle drive, agricultural vehicle, and method for operating a power-split axle drive
Publication Date: 2025.06.17 DEERE & CO
  • US12330501B2 patent drawing
  • US12330501B2 patent drawing
  • US12330501B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A power-split axle drive for an agricultural vehicle including a first additional drive element, a first vehicle axle, a second vehicle axle, and a primary drive element for providing a torque which via a first shaft is able to be transmitted to a primary transmission. The primary transmission is connected to the second vehicle axle, and at least the second vehicle axle via the primary transmission is able to be driven by the torque of the primary drive element. The power-split axle drive includes a power-splitting transmission. The power-splitting transmission via a first gear set is connected to the second vehicle axle and the primary transmission and via a second shaft is connected to the first vehicle axle. The first additional drive element via a first switching element is able to be connected to the power-splitting transmission.