Plural Planetary Units Patents (Class 475/330)
  • Publication number: 20140094334
    Abstract: A gear-train for transferring torque from multiple power sources includes first, second, and third input members, and an output member. The first and second input members rotate about a first axis, the third input member rotates about a second axis, and the output member rotates about a third axis. The gear-train additionally includes a first gear-set connected to the first input member. The gear-train also includes a second gear-set connected to the second input member. The gear-train additionally includes an intermediate shaft that rotates about a fourth axis. Furthermore, the gear-train includes a third gear-set connected to the intermediate shaft. In the third gear-set, first member is connected to the intermediate shaft and to the third input member, second and third members are set coaxially relative to the intermediate shaft and configured for asynchronous rotation with each other, and the third member is also connected to the output member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2013
    Publication date: April 3, 2014
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Goro Tamai, Shawn H. Swales, Norman Schoenek
  • Patent number: 8678973
    Abstract: An automatic transmission includes an input shaft, a first planetary gear mechanism, a second planetary gear mechanism, a third planetary gear mechanism, a fourth planetary gear mechanism, a first engagement device, a second engagement device, a third engagement device, a fourth engagement device, a fifth engagement device, a sixth engagement device, and a seventh engagement device. Ten forward gears of the automatic transmission are established by bringing at least three of the first to seventh engagement devices into the engagement state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kohei Iizuka, Soichi Sugino
  • Patent number: 8672797
    Abstract: A geared power train (100) for use in a wind turbine application to maximize a step-up ratio within a radial space that is defined by the planetary gearing system ring gear size. The geared power train (100) is configured as a split-compound planetary gearing system with a closed-carrier flex-pin planetary system in a high-torque stage (Stage 1) for receiving driving torque via an input shaft (IN) from a wind turbine, and an open-carrier flex-pin planetary system in a low-torque stage (Stage 2) coupled to the high-torque stage (Stage 1) for delivering the driving torque to an electrical generator via an output shaft (OUT).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: The Timken Company
    Inventor: Gerald P. Fox
  • Patent number: 8668617
    Abstract: A transmission system having an input shaft for receiving/imparting rotation into the transmission system and an output shaft for delivering rotation from the transmission system, a flywheel component which has a ring gear portion and planet gear portion, wherein rotation of the input shaft causes rotation of the flywheel component, a first transmission shaft and a first transmission component, wherein rotation and/or orbital motion of the flywheel component is affected by the rotation or non-rotation of the first transmission shaft and by the rotation or non-rotation of the first transmission component, a second transmission shaft, wherein the first transmission component rotates if the second transmission shaft rotates, a second transmission component which rotates if the second transmission shaft rotates, wherein rotation or non-rotation of the second transmission component and rotation or non-rotation of the first transmission shaft affect the overall/net output shaft rotation, at least one modulator shaf
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Assignee: VRT Innovations Limited
    Inventor: Stephen John Durnin
  • Patent number: 8657718
    Abstract: An automatic transmission includes an input shaft, a first planetary gear set, a second planetary gear set, a third planetary gear set, a fourth planetary gear set, and an engagement mechanism. The engagement mechanism includes first to seventh engagement devices. Nine or more forward transmission gear ratios are established by setting each of at least three engagement devices among the first to seventh engagement devices in an engagement mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kohei Iizuka, Soichi Sugino
  • Patent number: 8651993
    Abstract: A bicycle drive unit is provided that includes a motor, a crank axle, a power transmission axle and an output part. The motor includes a crank axle receiving hole. The crank axle is rotatably disposed in the crank axle receiving hole of the motor. The power transmission axle is separate from the crank axle and arranged to transmit rotation of the crank axle. The output part is operatively coupled to the motor and the power transmission axle to combine a rotational output of the motor and a rotational output of the transmission mechanism together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: Shimano Inc.
    Inventor: Etsuyoshi Watarai
  • Patent number: 8647228
    Abstract: A gear train of an automatic transmission for vehicles has the advantages of simplifying structures of the automatic transmission and improving power delivery performance and fuel economy as a consequence of realizing at least nine forward speeds and one reverse speed by combining three simple planetary gear sets with four clutches and three brakes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventor: Hyu Tae Shim
  • Patent number: 8628447
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a shifting device for a transmission unit of a vehicle, in particular a vehicle that is driven by muscle force. The transmission unit has a first shaft, which is formed as a hollow shaft, on which a plurality of free gears is mounted. The free gears are in engagement with a corresponding plurality of gearwheels, which are mounted on a second shaft, wherein the free gears are connectable to the first shaft by means of selecting devices. The selecting devices can be actuated by means of a camshaft arranged coaxially in the first shaft, wherein the camshaft is connected to a driving device in order to be rotated relative to the first shaft to actuate the selecting means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignee: Pinion GmbH
    Inventors: Michael Schmitz, Christoph Lermen
  • Patent number: 8622867
    Abstract: A differential with torque distribution comprises two differentials. The two differentials can be connected in serial with one of the side gear of the first differential driving the housing of the second differential, and one of the side gear of the second differential being connected to the other side gear of the first differential, and vise versa. Hence the torque on the two output shafts of the differential with torque distribution are different. The rotational speeds on the respective two output shafts are independent of the change of torque on the two output shafts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Inventor: Lei Yang
  • Patent number: 8585532
    Abstract: An independently controllable transmission mechanism includes a first planetary gear train, a second planetary gear train, a first transmission-connecting set and a second transmission-connecting set. The first planetary gear train and the second planetary gear train are serially connected to form a series type. The independently controllable transmission mechanism has a first power output end, a transmission control end, a first power input end and a free-transmission end. The first power output end is provided on the first planetary gear train and the transmission control end is provided on the second planetary gear train. The first power input end is provided on the first transmission-connecting set and the free-transmission end is provided on the second transmission-connecting set. The transmission control end controls the free-transmission end to be functioned as a second power input end or a second power output end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: National Sun Yat-Sen University of Kaohsiung
    Inventors: Guan-Shyong Hwang, Der-Min Tsay, Jao-Hwa Kuang, Tzuen-Lih Chern
  • Patent number: 8585531
    Abstract: An independently controllable transmission mechanism with an identity-ratio series type includes a first planetary gear train and a second planetary gear train mechanically connected therewith. The transmission mechanism has a power output end, a transmission control end, a power input end and a free transmission end. The power output end and the transmission control end are provided on the first planetary gear train and the second planetary gear train, respectively. The power input end is provided on the first planetary gear train or the second planetary gear train while the free transmission end is provided on the second planetary gear train or the first planetary gear train. The transmission control end is operated to freely shift the free transmission end as a power input end or a power output end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: National Sun Yat-Sen University
    Inventors: Guan-Shyong Hwang, Der-Min Tsay, Chung-Chi Lin, Jao-Hwa Kuang, Tzuen-Lih Chern
  • Patent number: 8585530
    Abstract: An independently controllable transmission mechanism includes a first planetary gear set, a second planetary gear set, a first transmission-connecting set and a second transmission-connecting set. The first planetary gear set includes a first power output end, the second planetary gear set includes a transmission control end, the first transmission-connecting set includes a first power input end and the second transmission-connecting set includes a free transmission end. The transmission control end controls the free transmission end to function as a second power input end or a second power output end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: National Sun Yat-Sen University of Kaohsiung
    Inventors: Guan-Shyong Hwang, Der-Min Tsay
  • Patent number: 8585533
    Abstract: An independently controllable transmission mechanism includes a first planetary gear train and a second planetary gear train. The first planetary gear train and the second planetary gear train are mechanically connected in parallel to form a parallel type. The controllable transmission mechanism has a first power output end, a transmission control end, a first power input end and a free-transmission end. The first power output end is provided on the first planetary gear train and the transmission control end is provided on the second planetary gear train. When the first power input end is provided on the first planetary gear train or the second planetary gear train, the free-transmission end is provided on the second planetary gear train or the first planetary gear train. The transmission control end controls the free-transmission end to be functioned as a second power input end or a second power output end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: National Sun Yat-Sen University of Kaohsiung
    Inventors: Guan-Shyong Hwang, Der-Min Tsay, Jao-Hwa Kuang, Tzuen-Lih Chern
  • Patent number: 8579749
    Abstract: A transmission device 100 with an input 101 and output planetary set 102 connected by two co-axial shafts 110 and 111 such that the combination of a gear and speed ratio is possible without interrupting the torque path between the engine or prime mover and the wheel using an electromechanical control apparatus comprising of two motor generators 117 and 118 that also provides electric torque to complement the mechanical torque. The current powerflow is increased by the planetary configuration and continuous power regeneration during torque and inertia phases. Where the carrier 108 can engage the engine to the transmission 100 and where the hybrid torque is transmitted by engaging the vehicle load to the transmission.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Inventor: Ugochukwu Shedrach Nwoke
  • Patent number: 8574114
    Abstract: The invention concerns an automatic transmission of planetary structure, comprising a drive input shaft (AN), a drive output shaft (AB), first, second, third and fourth planetary gear sets (RS1, RS2, RS3, RS4) and six shifting element (A, B, C, D, E, F). By the selective engagement of three of a total of six shifting elements (A to F), ten forward gears and up to two reverse gears can be engaged without range shifts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Martin Brehmer, Gabor Diosi, Josef Haupt
  • Patent number: 8556764
    Abstract: A generating system includes a workbench, a propeller shaft, at least two first gears, and at least one pair of swinging devices. Each of the swinging devices includes an annular gear fixed on the workbench, two rotation disks each rotatably mounted on the propeller shaft, a plurality of spindles each mounted between the rotation disks, a plurality of second gears each rotatably mounted on the respective spindle and each intermeshing with the respective first gear and the annular gear, and a plurality of weights each mounted on the respective spindle. The propeller shaft is connected with an external power and a generator. Thus, the weights of each of the swinging devices produce a successive torque by an inertia action to operate the generator so as to generate an electric power successively so that the generator outputs the electric power stably without interruption.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Inventor: Fu-Hung Ho
  • Patent number: 8556758
    Abstract: A transmission includes a first planetary gearset and a second planetary gearset, each having a respective first planetary member, a respective second planetary member, and a respective third planetary member. The planetary members of the first planetary gearset are coaxially disposed on, and selectively rotatable about, a first axis. The planetary members of the second planetary gearset are coaxially disposed on, and selectively rotatable about, a second axis. An axis transfer mechanism including meshing gears transmits torque between the first and second planetary gearsets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Norman Schoenek, Elizabeth I. Wooden, Shawn H Swales
  • Patent number: 8550950
    Abstract: A gearbox assembly includes a yoke operably connectable to an input shaft and rotatable about a stationary gear located at a central axis. A planetary gear is rotatably located in the yoke and is meshable with the stationary gear such that rotation of the yoke about the stationary gear drives rotation of the planetary gear, via the mesh between the planetary gear and the stationary gear, about a pin axis. An intermediate gear is located substantially coaxially with the planetary gear and is operably connected to the planetary gear such that rotation of the planetary gear about the pin axis drives rotation of the intermediate gear about the pin axis. At least one output gear is located at the central axis and is operably meshed to the intermediate gear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation
    Inventor: Guthrie Bagdonis
  • Patent number: 8540600
    Abstract: A multi-speed transmission includes an input member, an output member, a stationary member, and a first and a second compound planetary gear set. The first compound planetary gear set has a first, a second, a third, a fourth, and a fifth member. The second compound planetary gear set has a first, a second, a third, and a fourth member. The first member of the second compound planetary gear set is continuously connected for common rotation with the output member. An interconnecting member continuously connects the first member of the first compound planetary gear set for common rotation with the second member of the second compound planetary gear set. The transmission has seven torque-transmitting mechanisms, including three brakes and four rotating-type clutches, that are engagable to establish up to fourteen forward speed ratios between the input member and the output member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Alexander Filippovich Kraynev, Vladimir Konstantinovich Astashev, Konstantin Borisovich Salamandra, Madhusudan Raghavan
  • Publication number: 20130203541
    Abstract: A torsional vibration damping arrangement includes an input region to be driven in rotation around an axis of rotation and an output region. A first torque transmission path and parallel thereto a second torque transmission path and a coupling arrangement for superposing the torques transmitted via the torque transmission paths are provided between the input region and the output region. A first phase shifter arrangement is provided in the first torque transmission path for generating a phase shift of rotational irregularities transmitted via the first torque transmission path relative to rotational irregularities transmitted via the second torque transmission path.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2011
    Publication date: August 8, 2013
    Applicant: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Daniel Lorenz, Thomas Weigand, Cora Carlson
  • Patent number: 8500591
    Abstract: A vehicle final drive includes a fixed spindle about which a wheel hub is mounted for rotation by wheel bearings, and within which a park and service brake assembly is mounted including a stack of Belleville springs carried by an input quill mounted within an inner end region, and a disc brake pack mounted within an outer end region. Located in the hub outboard of the spindle is a two-stage planetary reduction transmission. A reaction plate is fixed to an outer end face of the spindle cylindrical portion and holds the disc brake pack and a hub of a double ring gear of the transmission in place and preloads the wheel bearings. A fluid distribution manifold is defined by a passage in the spindle for distributing flow for cooling and/or lubricating an input thrust bearing, input drive shaft coupling splines, the brake disc pack, the wheel bearings, and the first stage planet gear bearings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Jeffrey S. Turner, Mark J Besler
  • Patent number: 8465390
    Abstract: An automatic planetary transmission comprising a drive input shaft (AN), a drive output shaft (AB), first, second, third and fourth planetary gearsets (RS1,RS2,RS3, RS4) and six shifting elements (A, B, C, D, E, F). By the selectively engagement, in each case, three of the six shifting elements (A, B, C, D, E, F), ten forward gears and up to two reverse gears can be engaged without any range shifts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Martin Brehmer, Gabor Diosi, Josef Haupt
  • Patent number: 8452500
    Abstract: A powertrain includes an engine and a continuously variable transmission including a planetary gear arrangement and a variator. An input drives the variator and the planetary gears. A first planetary output gear is connected to the first output of the planetary gear arrangement. A second planetary output gear is connected to the first output, and a third planetary output gear is connectable by a first clutch to a second output of the planetary gear arrangement. A first output member is connected to the third planetary output gear, a second clutch releasably connects the first output member with the first planetary output gear, a third clutch connects the first output member with the second planetary output gear, a fourth clutch connects the second output member with the first planetary output gear, and a fifth clutch connects the second output member with the second planetary output gear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventor: John M. Seipold
  • Patent number: 8444525
    Abstract: A transmission comprising four planetary gear sets, eight shafts and six shift elements. The sun gear of gear set (P1) is fixed via brake (04), the carrier of gear set (P1) is fixed via brake (03) and the drive via clutch (13), and shaft (6) via clutch (36). Sixth shaft (6) is connected to the ring gear of gear set (P2) and the sun gear of gear set (P4), the drive is connected to the sun gear of gear set (P2) and is connectable to the carrier of gear set (P3). Seventh shaft (7) is connected to the ring gear of gear set (P1) and the carrier of gear set (P2), and is connectable to the sun gear of gear set (P3). The ring gear of the fourth gear set (P4) is connectable to the housing via brake (05). The output is connected to the ring gear of third gear set (P3) and the carrier of fourth gear set (P4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Gerhard Gumpoltsberger, Christian Sibla, Stefan Beck, Josef Haupt, Gert Bauknecht, Peter Ziemer
  • Patent number: 8425371
    Abstract: A transmission is provided having an input member, an output member, three planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes first, second and third members. The torque transmitting devices include clutches and brakes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: James M. Hart, Andrew W. Phillips, Scott H. Wittkopp, Clinton E. Carey
  • Patent number: 8425370
    Abstract: In a transmission, particularly a motor vehicle transmission, having a first, a second, a third, and a fourth planetary gear unit disposed along a main axis of rotation and having six clutch units providing for nine forward gears to be engaged, a drive unit is connected for rotation with a sun gear of the second planetary gear unit and a fourth planetary carrier of the fourth planetary gear transmission and further a power output unit is rotationally fixedly connected to a third planetary carrier of the third planetary gear unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Daimler AG
    Inventors: Mirko Leesch, Thomas Listner, Jörg Müller, Rico Resch, Klaus Riedl
  • Patent number: 8414447
    Abstract: A transmission device for distributing drive torque between two output shafts. The device comprises three planetary gearsets (2, 3, 11). An input shaft is connected to a first element of gearsets (2, 3). The output shafts each couple a second element of gearsets (2, 3). A third element of gearset (2) couples a first element of gearset (11) and is connectable, via brake (14), to the housing. A third element of gearset (3) is connectable, via brake (17), to the housing and, via a claw shifting element (24), to a second element of gearset (11). A third element of gearset (11) couples the housing. Claw shifting elements (24, 18) couple the brakes (14, 17) such that, to engage brakes (14, 17), the claw shifting elements are first coupled to the first element of gearset (11) or the third element of gearset (3), and then the brakes are engaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventor: Thomas Rosemeier
  • Patent number: 8403803
    Abstract: A multi-stage transmission comprising planetary gearsets (P1, P2, P3, P4), shafts and shift elements. The sun gear of gearset (P1) couples drive shaft (1). The carrier of gearset (P1) couples shaft (3) which can couple housing (G) via brake (03), shaft (1) via clutch (13), which couples the carrier of gearset (P4), and shaft (6), via clutch (36). Shaft (6) couples the ring gear of gearset (P2) and the sun gears of gearsets (P3, P4). Shaft (7) couples the ring gear of gearset (P1) and the carrier of gearset (P2). The sun gear of set (P2) couples shaft (4), which can couple housing (G) via brake (04). The ring gear of gearset (P3) couples shaft (5), which can couple housing (G) via brake (05) and output shaft (2) operatively couples the ring gear of gearset (P4), is connected to the carrier of gearset (P3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Gerhard Gumpoltsberger, Christian Sibla, Stefan Beck, Josef Haupt, Gert Bauknecht, Peter Ziemer
  • Publication number: 20130056694
    Abstract: A gear reduction assembly may include a main input shaft, a carrier coupled to the main input shaft, and at least one carrier shaft coupled to the carrier and spaced from the main input shaft. The gear reduction assembly may also include at least one spur gear pair including a first spur gear coupled to the carrier shaft, and a second spur gear, wherein the first and second spur gears are coupled to one another such that they rotate together. The gear reduction assembly also includes a first internal gear engaged with the first spur gear, a second internal gear engaged with the second spur gear, and a hub associated with the first internal gear. The first internal gear has a first number of teeth, the second internal gear has a second number of teeth, and the first and second numbers of teeth differ by from one to five teeth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2012
    Publication date: March 7, 2013
    Inventors: Stephen P. Wilkins, Larry C. Wilkins
  • Patent number: 8388488
    Abstract: An automatic transmission includes four planetary gear sets, a plurality of friction and synchronizing clutches and two drive assemblies. Input torque is provided to four clutches which selectively provide torque to various elements of the first and second planetary gear assemblies. Similarly, various elements of the first and second planetary gear assemblies provide power to the two drive assemblies which may either be chain drive or gear assemblies. The outputs of the drive assemblies drive sun gears of the third and fourth planetary gear assemblies. The transmission output is connected to and driven by the planet carriers of the third and fourth planetary assemblies. Sequenced operation of the friction and synchronizing clutches provides eight, nine or ten forward speeds or gear ratios.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Andrew W. Phillips, Clinton E. Carey
  • Patent number: 8376892
    Abstract: A transmission is provided having an input member, an output member, three planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes first, second and third members. The torque transmitting devices include clutches and brakes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Andrew W. Phillips, Scott H. Wittkopp, James M. Hart, Clinton E. Carey
  • Patent number: 8357067
    Abstract: A transmission is provided having an input member, an output member, three planetary gear sets, three external gear sets or sprockets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes first, second and third members. Each of the external gear sets includes first and second gears. The torque transmitting devices include clutches and a brake.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventor: Andrew W. Phillips
  • Patent number: 8323143
    Abstract: A wheel drive assembly includes a rotatable spindle-carrier affixed to a wheel. A fixed housing includes an output ring gear and the spindle-carrier resides generally within the housing. An output sun gear driven by an input carrier drives output planetary gears which, in turn, interengage the output ring gear driving and rotating the spindle-carrier. A fixed drive end housing includes an input ring gear and houses a noise reducing radially floating input carrier and a plurality of input planet gears rotatably mounted in the input carrier. The input sun gear is driven by an electric motor and drives the plurality of input planet gears which mesh with the input ring gear causing rotation of the input carrier about its true center. The input carrier is partially nested within the spindle-carrier and the motor is partially nested within the fixed drive end housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Fairfield Manufacturing Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Benjamin Warren Schoon
  • Patent number: 8303456
    Abstract: A gear train of an automatic transmission includes eight forward speeds and two reverse speeds to improve power delivery performance and to reduce fuel consumption, by controlling two simple planetary gear sets and one compound planetary gear set through four clutches and two brakes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventor: Woo Yeol Kim
  • Patent number: 8277357
    Abstract: A transmission is provided having an input member, an output member, three planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes first, second and third members. The torque transmitting devices include clutches and brakes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Scott H. Wittkopp, Andrew W. Phillips, Clinton E. Carey, James M. Hart
  • Patent number: 8267832
    Abstract: A front wheel drive transmission is provided having a transmission input member, a transmission output member, four planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes a sun gear member, a planet carrier member, and a ring gear member. The torque transmitting devices include clutches and a brake arranged within a transmission housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Clinton E. Carey, Scott H. Wittkopp, James M. Hart, Andrew W. Phillips
  • Patent number: 8251158
    Abstract: A power tool with a housing, a transmission and a switch mechanism. The switch mechanism has an actuator, a rail, a switch and first and second springs. The actuator is non-rotatably but slidably coupled to the housing for movement along a longitudinal axis of the transmission between a plurality of positions to selectively engage one or more members of the transmission at each of the positions such that the transmission operates in one of a plurality of different overall speed ratios. The rail is fixedly coupled to the actuator and is received through the switch such that the switch is slidably mounted on the rail. The first and second springs are configured to bias the switch relative to the actuator in different directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: David C. Tomayko, Qiang Zhang, Mark R. Poetzl, Stephen A. Debellius
  • Patent number: 8226514
    Abstract: Various embodiments of electrically-variable transmissions are provided that have two motor-generators, two planetary gear sets, and two torque-transmitting mechanisms, including a rotating-type clutch and a stationary-type clutch. An input member is connected for common rotation with a ring gear of the first planetary gear set. Carriers of both of the planetary gear sets are connected for common rotation with one another, and with an output member. The first motor/generator is connected for common rotation with the sun gear of the first planetary gear set. The second motor/generator is connected for common rotation with the sun gear member of the second planetary gear set. A drive transfer assembly transfers torque from components establishing the first axis of rotation to components establishing the second axis of rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Edwin T. Grochowski, Scott H. Wittkopp, James B. Borgerson, James M. Hart
  • Patent number: 8226522
    Abstract: A coupling system includes a dynamoelectric device selectively operable as either a generator or an electric motor, a gas turbine engine, a main differential operably connected between the dynamoelectric device and the gas turbine engine, a rotationally powered accessory engaged with the main differential, an epicyclic start differential operatively connected to the main differential, and a brake mechanism. The brake mechanism is configured for selectively braking the epicyclic start differential when the dynamoelectric device operates as an electric motor to direct torque transmission to the gas turbine engine, and is further configured to cease braking the epicyclic start differential when the dynamoelectric device operates as a generator such that the main differential transmits torque to power the rotationally powered accessory and to the dynamoelectric device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation
    Inventor: Glenn C. Lemmers, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8206257
    Abstract: A multi-speed transmission having four gearsets, eight shafts and six shifting elements. The sun gear of gearset (P2) couples, via shaft (5) and brake (05), the housing (G), and, via clutch (15) the drive shaft. The carriers of gearsets (P2, P3) communicate, via shaft (4) and brake (04), with housing (G), and the sun gear of gearset (P3) communicates, via shaft (8) and clutch (18), with the drive shaft. The ring gears of gearsets (P2, P3) communicate, via shaft (6), with the ring gear of gearset (P4) and the sun gear of gearset (P1). The ring gear of gearset (P4) and the sun gear of gearset (P1) are connected with one another. The sun gear of gearset (P4) communicates, via shaft (3) and brake (03), with housing (G). The carriers of gearsets (P1, P4) communicate, via shaft (7) and clutch (17), with the drive shaft and the output shaft couples the ring gear of gearset (P1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Gerhard Gumpoltsberger, Martin Brehmer, Peter Ziemer, Peter Tiesler, Gabor Diosi, Josef Haupt
  • Patent number: 8197376
    Abstract: A multi-stage transmission with nine forward gears and one reverse gear comprising four planetary gear sets, eight rotatable shafts and six shift elements. The sun gear of the first set is connected to fourth shaft which is couplable to a housing by the first brake, the carrier of the first set is connected to the third shaft, which is coupled to the housing by the second brake, which is detachably connectable to the drive shaft, via the first clutch, and via a second clutch is detachably connectable to the seventh shaft. The seventh shaft is connected to the ring gear of the second set and with the sun of the fourth set, and the drive shaft is connected to the sun of the second set and to the carrier of the third set. The sixth shaft is connected to the ring gear of the first set, the carrier of the second set and the sun gear of the third set. The ring gear of the fourth set is connected to the fifth shaft which can be coupled to the housing via the third brake.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Gerhard Gumpoltsberger, Christian Sibla, Stefan Beck, Josef Haupt, Gert Bauknecht, Peter Ziemer
  • Patent number: 8197382
    Abstract: A transmission is provided having an input member, an output member, four planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes first, second and third members. The torque transmitting devices may include clutches and at least one brake. The torque transmitting mechanisms are selectively engageable in combinations of at least two to establish at least eight forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio between the input member and the output member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: James M. Hart, Andrew W. Phillips, Scott H. Wittkopp, Clinton E. Carey
  • Patent number: 8182388
    Abstract: A dual clutch transmission for a front-transverse arrangement including a dual clutch and two partial transmissions (PG1, PG2). Each of the two clutches (K1, K2) of the dual clutch acts on one coaxial transmission input shaft (AW1, AW2), which acts upon a partial transmission (PG1, PG2). The partial transmissions are designed as planetary transmissions (PG1, PG2) that are to be shifted in a positive manner. The output is located on the same side of the transmission as the input and is axially parallel to the input in the same rotational direction. Torque is transmitted through the dual clutch transmission to the output shaft (Ab) by way of at least one intermediate shaft (W1, W2) that is parallel to the transmission input shafts (AW1, AW2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventor: Gerhard Gumpoltsberger
  • Patent number: 8157698
    Abstract: A transmission is provided having an input member, an output member, three planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes first, second and third members. The torque transmitting devices include clutches and brakes. The torque transmitting mechanisms are selectively engageable in combinations of at least three to establish a plurality of forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio between the input member and the output member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Scott H. Wittkopp, Clinton E. Carey, James M. Hart, Andrew W. Phillips
  • Patent number: 8157701
    Abstract: A high ratio epicyclic gear assembly comprising two high torque planetary trains through which power flows via two parallel paths in one or other of which is an intermediate star train (7) with a low torque differential train or gear which transmits the combined power in such a way that the high torque planetary trains share the total torque in a predetermined ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: Orbital 2 Ltd.
    Inventor: Raymond J. Hicks
  • Patent number: 8152681
    Abstract: A gear train of an automatic transmission for vehicles has the advantages of improving power delivery performance and reducing fuel consumption as a consequence of realizing more than eight forward speeds by combining four planetary gear sets with three clutches and three brakes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Kang Soo Seo, Hyu Tae Shim
  • Patent number: 8152676
    Abstract: A speed change gear includes: a housing that has internal gears having different inside diameters; and a plurality of change gear units that are respectively in mesh with the plurality of internal gears and that change the speed of rotation from an input shaft to an output shaft. Each of the change gear units includes a rotating member that has one of a pin protruding in a direction along an input/output axis and an insertion hole; an eccentric member that centers on an eccentric axis that is eccentric with respect to the input/output axis; and an oscillating member that oscillatingly rotates as the eccentric member rotates about the input/output axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Jtekt Corporation
    Inventors: Tsune Kobayashi, Hideki Shibata
  • Patent number: 8113978
    Abstract: The present invention provides a nine forward speed automatic transmission for a motor vehicle which includes four planetary gear sets, a plurality of friction and synchronizer clutches and two chain drive assemblies. The transmission is arranged along two parallel axes of rotation: a first axis defined by the input shaft and a second axis defined by the output shaft. The chain drive assemblies transfer power between sprockets disposed on the two axes. Various combinations of clutches may be engaged to provide nine forward speed ratios and five reverse speed ratios.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Andrew W. Phillips, James B. Borgerson
  • Patent number: 8113981
    Abstract: A multi-speed transmission includes a first power transmission module driven by an input shaft. A second power transmission module is driven by the first power transmission module. A third power transmission module is driven by the second power transmission module and drives an output shaft. Each power transmission module includes an actuation mechanism and a planetary gearset. Each actuation mechanism controls the output of its respective planetary gearset to one of a first gear ratio and a second gear ratio. One of the actuation mechanisms includes a clutch and a spring biasing a member to rotate and cause a corresponding actuation of the clutch. The clutch causes two members of the respective planetary gearset to rotate at substantially the same speed and provide the first gear ratio. The actuation mechanism selectively restricts the member from rotating and prevent actuation of the clutch to provide the second gear ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: MAGNA Powertrain USA, Inc.
    Inventors: Malcolm E. Kirkwood, Dumitru Puiu
  • Patent number: 8113977
    Abstract: An automatic transmission includes four planetary gear sets, a plurality of friction and synchronizing clutches and two chain drive assemblies. Input torque is provided to four clutches which selectively provide torque to one element of a compound assembly comprising first and second planetary assemblies. The second planetary assembly includes only a sun gear and a planet carrier including elongate, stepped pinion gears which extend into the planet carrier of the adjacent first planetary assembly. The sun and ring gears of the first planetary assembly drive respective chain drive sprockets. A pair of chains transfer torque to respective driven chain sprockets. The chain driven by the first planetary assembly sun gear drives a third planetary assembly sun gear. The chain driven by the first planetary assembly ring gear drives a fourth planetary assembly sun gear. The transmission output is connected to the planet carriers of the third and fourth planetary assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventor: Andrew W. Phillips