Stackable Reversible Planetary Assembly With Identical Planet Gears
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Solution Overview
Problem
Complex planetary assemblies in agricultural machines are costly and complex due to the need for different-sized gears, leading to torque capacity limitations and increased complexity.
Innovation Solution
A complex planetary assembly design that uses identical planet gears and idler gears across stages, with a shared ring gear, to achieve higher torque capacity and reduce part count and cost, by stacking planet gears and utilizing the same geometry for all gears.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If different-sized gears are used in complex planetary assemblies, then torque capacity is limited, but gear geometry complexity increases and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies homogeneity by using identical planet gears throughout the assembly - all planet gears have the same module, diameter, thickness, and number of gear teeth. This eliminates the need for multiple gear sizes and geometries while maintaining the required torque capacity through proper gear arrangement and engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the planet gears universal by designing them to serve multiple functions and positions within the assembly. The same gear geometry is used across different stages and positions, allowing a single gear design to fulfill multiple roles rather than requiring specialized gears for each position.
2Strength
If different-sized gears are used in complex planetary assemblies, then torque capacity is limited, but part count and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
By using identical planet gears throughout the assembly with standardized dimensions and geometry, the patent reduces the variety of parts required. This homogeneity allows for fewer unique part numbers and simplified inventory management while maintaining adequate torque capacity through proper gear selection and arrangement.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal planet gear design enables a single part to be used in multiple positions and stages within the planetary assembly, reducing the total part count. The same gear can be positioned differently to serve various functional requirements without requiring specialized variants.
3Strength
If complex planetary assemblies use multiple gear sizes, then torque capacity is constrained, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent simplifies manufacturing by standardizing all planet gears to identical specifications - same module, diameter, thickness, and tooth count. This homogeneity allows for streamlined manufacturing processes, tooling, and quality control procedures, eliminating the need to produce and manage multiple gear sizes.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal planet gear design reduces manufacturing complexity by creating a single standardized component that can be produced in volume using optimized processes. This eliminates the need for multiple production lines or tooling sets required for different gear sizes.
Data Source
AI summary
A complex planetary assembly includes an input, an output, a ring gear, a first stage planetary assembly and a second stage planetary assembly. The first stage planetary assembly includes a first sun gear, a first carrier including a first plurality of pins extending therefrom, and a first plurality of planet gears. Each of the first plurality of planet gears is rotatably coupled to one of the first plurality of pins. The second stage planetary assembly includes a second sun gear, a second carrier including a second plurality of pins extending therefrom, and a second plurality of planet gears. Each of the second plurality of planet gears is rotatably coupled to one of the second plurality of pins. At each of the first or second plurality of pins on the first or second carrier, at least two planet gears of the first or second plurality of planet gears are coupled and coaxially arranged adjacent to one another.