Speed Reducer Lubrication Manifold for Obstructed Gear Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lubrication systems for speed reducers, whether active or passive, face inefficiencies in distributing lubricant effectively, particularly when obstructed by transmission elements, leading to insufficient lubrication in critical areas.
Innovation Solution
A speed reducer with an integrated lubrication system that utilizes a manifold with reservoirs and troughs connected by gutters, guided by gravity, and a deflector to recover and distribute lubricant efficiently, enhancing passive lubrication by ensuring lubricant flow despite obstructions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a pump is used to circulate lubricant through a lubrication circuit, then lubrication coverage is improved, but energy consumption increases and vertical space is occupied
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the rotational motion of the first gear itself to generate centrifugal force that throws lubricant outward along the cylindrical surface, eliminating the need for an external pump. The gear's rotation naturally circulates the lubricant through the lubrication circuit.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical pump system with a centrifugal mechanism driven by the gear's rotation. The cylindrical surface portion acts as a centrifugal pump, using rotational dynamics instead of mechanical pumping to achieve lubricant circulation.
2Use of energy by stationary object
If ramps are formed within the casing to promote upward movement of lubricant, then passive lubrication is achieved, but lubricant flow is insufficient when transmission shafts obstruct the path
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of relying on vertical ramps that can be blocked by shafts, the patent uses the radial dimension by forming a cylindrical surface portion that extends around the gear. This allows lubricant to be distributed in all radial directions, bypassing obstructions that would block vertical flow paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The cylindrical surface is positioned at a specific location where it can effectively receive lubricant from the gear teeth and distribute it to multiple areas. The surface's geometry and positioning create localized zones of lubricant accumulation and redistribution that are not susceptible to shaft obstructions.
3Quantity of substance
If the manifold is positioned to receive lubricant spray from gears, then lubricant recovery is improved, but the system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The cylindrical surface portion serves multiple functions: it acts as a collection surface for lubricant thrown by gear rotation, a distribution channel for delivering lubricant to various areas, and a structural element integrated into the housing. This multi-functionality increases lubricant recovery without proportionally increasing system complexity.
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 system effectively recovers and distributes lubricant within the speed reducer, maintaining efficient lubrication without the need for pumps, ensuring comprehensive coverage of lubrication areas and reducing energy consumption.
Implementation Method 1
the first toothed wheel (11) rotating about a first axis of rotation (X) so as to project a lubricant from teeth of the first gear towards a base of the lubricant receiving and distribution manifold (50)
Implementation Method 2
the first tank (51) and the second tank (52) are connected by means of a first trough (56) that carries the lubricant from the first reservoir to the second reservoir under the effect of gravity
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a speed reducer (1) for a powertrain, comprising in an orthogonal frame (XYZ): - a reduction device (10) comprising a first shaft (110) extending along a first axis of rotation (X) and coaxially carrying a first toothed wheel (11), - a hollow-shaped housing (60) comprising a base (61) and a peripheral wall (62) formed of the same material as the base, the peripheral wall partially surrounding the reduction device, - a lubricant receiving and distribution manifold (50) disposed in the housing (60) between the peripheral wall (62) and the first axis of rotation (X), in which the manifold (50) comprises a first reservoir (51) and a second reservoir (52) disposed on either side of the first toothed wheel.