Reversible Gearbox with Counter-Rotational Input Gears

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing gearboxes with parallel-shaft drive configurations do not provide a suitable solution for reversing the rotational direction of an auger for agricultural applications, as they require a dedicated motor and are not compatible with power take-off operations.

Innovation Solution

A reversible gearbox design featuring a gear train with two input gears in counter-rotational relationship, allowing selective coupling to a drive source for reversing the output direction without additional motors, utilizing a ball detent locking mechanism for secure and tool-free attachment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a parallel-shaft gearbox is used with a power take-off driveline, then the gearbox can operate in a predetermined rotational direction, but it cannot reverse the conveying direction of the auger

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedirection reversibilityVSAvoidgearbox configuration

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The gearbox input is segmented into two separate input shafts (first and second input shafts) that can be selectively coupled to the power take-off driveline. Each input shaft is associated with a different gear (first gear and second gear) in the gear train, allowing the operator to select between two different rotational directions by coupling to different input shafts.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The gearbox is designed to perform multiple functions: it can operate in the predetermined rotational direction by coupling to the first input shaft, and it can reverse the conveying direction by coupling to the second input shaft. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate gearboxes or additional motors for reverse operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a dedicated motor is used to reverse the auger direction, then direction reversal is achieved, but the system requires additional motors and is not compatible with power take-off operations

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedirection reversal capabilityVSAvoidnumber of motors

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The single power take-off driveline is made universal by providing two input shafts that can both be coupled to it. The gear train is designed so that regardless of which input shaft is engaged, the output can achieve both clockwise and counter-clockwise rotation, eliminating the need for a second dedicated motor.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of using a single input shaft and adding a reverse mechanism, the invention inverts the approach by providing two input shafts where one shaft's gear arrangement produces the reverse rotation of the other. This allows the power take-off driveline to achieve bidirectional output without additional motors.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

3Reliability

If a locking mechanism is added for secure attachment, then connection reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection securityVSAvoidlocking mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism is designed to be self-actuating through spring-loaded locking pins that automatically engage with recesses in the input shafts when they are inserted into the gearbox. The springs provide the necessary force to push the pins into the locked position without requiring external actuation, making the system self-servicing.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The complex manual locking system is replaced with a simple spring-pin mechanism that uses elastic potential energy from compressed springs to provide reliable locking. This mechanical substitution eliminates the need for complex hydraulic or pneumatic locking systems while maintaining reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS8757023B2Reversible gearbox having user selectable inputs for operation of an output in opposing directions

Publication Date: 2014.06.24 STAR IND MANITOBA

AI summary

A reversible gearbox features a first input gear mounted on for rotation about a first axis and a second input gear mounted for rotation about a second axis parallel to the first axis in a counter-rotational relationship with the first input gear. The input gears are arranged for selective coupling of either one thereof to a drive source rotatable in a predetermined direction, whereby at least one output gear is arranged within the gear train for driven rotation of the output gear in opposite directions depending on which of the first and second input gears is driven in the predetermined direction by the drive source. Accordingly, a unidirectional drive source can be used to drive the gearbox output in either direction by selecting from different input connections. The gearbox may be employed for an agricultural auger to be driven by the power take-off of a tractor.