Transverse Power Train for Motor Grader Retrofitting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power train systems face challenges in fitting within the existing envelopes of older vehicles, particularly when retrofitting, as conventional designs often require costly redesigns and struggle to accommodate components like bogie wheels.
Innovation Solution
A transverse power train apparatus with a power source and transmission oriented perpendicular to the vehicle's front-to-back axis, utilizing a differential with parallel output shafts and gearing configurations that eliminate the need for angled gear sets, allowing for a compact and cost-effective integration of power train components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If conventional power train designs are used, then the system can provide adequate power transmission, but the system requires a large envelope and costly redesign for retrofitting existing vehicles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reorients the power train from a longitudinal arrangement (front-to-back) to a transverse arrangement (side-to-side), changing the spatial dimension of component layout. This dimensional shift allows the power train to fit within the width of existing vehicle envelopes rather than requiring length, enabling retrofitting without costly structural modifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent integrates the transmission and differential into a single transaxle assembly, merging previously separate components. This consolidation reduces the overall envelope volume required and simplifies the drivetrain layout, making it more suitable for retrofitting existing vehicles while maintaining adequate power transmission capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional longitudinal power train orientation is used, then power transmission is straightforward, but the system requires costly redesign of vehicle structures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs transverse orientation of the engine and transmission, shifting from the traditional longitudinal front-to-back arrangement to a side-to-side configuration. This dimensional change enables the power train to adapt to existing vehicle structures without requiring costly redesigns, while the patent addresses the increased configuration complexity through specific gear train arrangements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediate gear trains and shafts as mediators to transmit power from the transverse engine to the longitudinal wheels. These intermediary components bridge the orientation mismatch between the transverse power train and the longitudinal drivetrain, enabling vehicle compatibility while managing the complexity of the power transmission path.
3Volume of moving object
If transverse power train orientation is used, then the envelope is reduced and retrofitting is easier, but angled gear sets are traditionally required which increases complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent maintains the space-saving transverse orientation of the power train while resolving the gearing complexity issue by using parallel shafts and straight gear teeth arrangements. Instead of requiring angled bevel gears to change power transmission direction, the patent utilizes a series of parallel shafts connected by simple spur or helical gears, thereby preserving the compact envelope without the complexity of angled gear sets.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the power transmission path into multiple stages using intermediate shafts and gear trains. By dividing the power transmission into discrete segments (engine output shaft → intermediate shafts → final drive shafts), the patent achieves the necessary power direction changes using simple parallel-axis gears rather than complex angled gear sets, maintaining both compactness and mechanical simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
A power train apparatus and motor grader are described. The apparatus or motor grader includes a power source for providing rotational mechanical power. A first output interface of the power source is driven by the rotational mechanical power from the power source and rotates around a first axis A differential includes at least one output shaft rotating around a second axis offset from and parallel to the first axis. A first gear is included in the differential, the first gear rotating around the second axis and providing rotational mechanical power to the at least one output shaft of the differential. A second gear rotates around the first axis, the second gear receiving rotational mechanical power from the output interface to the power source and providing rotational mechanical power to the first gear.