Planetary Gearing Or Element Patents (Class 475/331)
  • Publication number: 20120077637
    Abstract: A manipulator arm mechanism includes a pedestal, a driving member, a speed reducer, and an output rocker arm. The driving member is mounted on the pedestal and has an output shaft. The speed reducer is assembled to the pedestal and connects with the output shaft of the driving member. The speed reducer includes a first transmission assembly, a second transmission assembly, and a third transmission assembly engaging each other in turn. The third transmission assembly is a planetary gear set and includes a sun gear rotated by the second transmission assembly, a ring gear, and a plurality of planetary gears. The ring gear is coaxially sleeved on the sun gear. The planetary gears are assembled between and rotatably mesh with the sun gear and the ring gear. The output rocker arm is fixed with the plurality of planetary gears.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2011
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Applicants: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO., LTD.
    Inventor: WEN-SHENG CHEN
  • Patent number: 8142318
    Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed to adjust input to output ratios with a planetary gear system. The apparatus comprises a sun gear that receives rotational force from a first input. A plurality of planet gears encircle the sun gear and operably connect with the sun gear. A planet gear carrier connects to the planet gears and transfers rotational energy to an output. A ring gear encircles the planet gears. The ring gear is a stator of an electric motor and rotational motion of the stator is a second input. The ring gear contains permanent magnets that align with the coils of the stator. The interaction of the permanent magnets and the coils provide the second input which adjusts rotational input to output torque and speed ratios.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Inventor: Denis L. Palmer
  • Publication number: 20120071288
    Abstract: The present invention relates to methods for modifying automatic transmissions and gear trains. In particular, the instant invention relates to methods for modifying an automatic transmission gear train in order to improve resistance to deterioration. The modified gear grain of the instant invention comprises eight pinion gears assembled into one carrier utilizing a forward and a rear sun gear, a ring gear, a band drum and a one way roller clutch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2011
    Publication date: March 22, 2012
    Applicant: Axiom Automotive Technologies, Inc
    Inventors: Scott R. Dalenberg, Theodore V. Kachel, John W. Creighton
  • Publication number: 20120071293
    Abstract: There is disclosed a mechanical two-speed drive system/gearbox for household appliances such as a blender or food processor. The gearbox comprises a motor, a motor shaft, a drive-outlet, and the installation of one-way bearings in suitable places in the gear-train. The drive-outlet can be driven at two different speeds in the same rotational direction. By operating the motor in the clockwise direction and counter-clockwise direction, a change in the drive-outlet rpm is achieved. When operating in the hi-speed mode, the drive-outlet is directly driven by the motor. When operating in the lo-speed mode, the drive-outlet is driven via the gear-train, with a resulting increase in torque. This gearbox is simple to construct, and operable without expensive control electronics. In particular applications with electronic motor speed and directional control, a much broader and useable drive-outlet speed range is achieved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2011
    Publication date: March 22, 2012
    Applicant: Huiyang Allan Plastic & Electric Industries Co., Limited
    Inventors: Shu Wan Cheung, Shu Sang Cheung, To Yin Pang
  • Patent number: 8128529
    Abstract: An assembly for stabilizing a gear unit of a transmission for an automotive vehicle includes a first component fixed against displacement along an axis, a carrier facing the first component, supported for rotation about the axis, and supporting planet pinion thereon, and springs located between the first component and the carrier, producing axial forces distributed angularly around the axis and applied to the carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Bradley R. Heuver
  • Patent number: 8128528
    Abstract: A planetary gear set includes a sun gear; pinions that are positioned around the sun gear and that mesh with the sun gear; and a ring gear that is positioned on the outer side of the pinions and that meshes with the pinions. Each pinion has a plurality of teeth on the outer surface thereof. Each tooth has a first tooth surface and a second tooth surface on opposite sides of the tooth, which can contact tooth surfaces of the sun gear and the ring gear. The deviation of the first tooth surface from the corresponding reference surface differs from the deviation of the second tooth surface from the corresponding reference surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Kenji Tanabe, Yota Mizuno, Hiroshi Hata
  • Publication number: 20120051915
    Abstract: A planetary gear train is provided with a planetary gear and a planetary pin inserted into the planetary gear. The planetary gear includes: a gear member having teeth on the outer face and a through hole; an intermediate housing inserted into the through hole and having an insert hole into which the planetary pin is inserted; and a plurality of sliding bearing members jointed onto the insert hole of the intermediate housing. The plurality of sliding bearing members form a sliding bearing which sustains the planetary pin and the planetary gear to be rotatable with each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: MITSUBISHI HEAVY INDUSTRIES, LTD.
    Inventors: Kazutaka suzuki, Kazufumi TAKAYANAGI, Takafumi YOSHIDA, Hideaki NISHIDA, Motohisa UESATO, Masahiro KUSAKA
  • Patent number: 8122932
    Abstract: The present application pertains to a system for adjusting the height of a covering, such as window or a wall covering formed of two or more covering segments that are axially aligned. The system includes a link that selectively transmits rotation between two adjacent coverage thereby allowing the two coverings to be controlled, e.g., raised or lowered, simultaneously. The link includes a clutch that allows one of the segments to be rotated with respect to the other so that the bottom end of one of the coverings can be adjusted and aligned horizontally independently of the other. Optionally, the clutch includes an internal member that provides a mechanical advantage while the one covering is adjusted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Assignee: RollEase, Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph Cannaverde
  • Publication number: 20120046142
    Abstract: A reduction gear unit incorporatable in an image forming apparatus includes planetary gear mechanisms each including a sun gear, an outer gear, planetary gears arranged between the outer gear and the sun gear at equal intervals and meshing with the sun gear and the outer gear, and a carrier rotatable coaxially with the sun gear and the outer gear to rotatably support the planetary gears. An extreme upstream mechanism in the drive transmission direction includes an input element connected to a drive source. An extreme downstream mechanism includes an output element connected to a member outputting the drive force to a rotary member. Any mechanism other than the extreme downstream mechanism includes an output element connected to an input element of an adjacent mechanism located downstream of any other mechanism. The sun gear of the extreme downstream mechanism has a larger pitch diameter than any other mechanisms.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2011
    Publication date: February 23, 2012
    Inventors: Katsuaki MIYAWAKI, Hiromichi Matsuda, Tetsuo Watanabe, Nobuo Iwata
  • Patent number: 8118701
    Abstract: In an outboard motor, a speed reduction mechanism includes an inner gear connected with an input shaft (i.e., second output shaft), a planetary gear that meshes with the inner gear and that rolls inside the inner gear, and a sun gear that meshes with the planetary gear and that is not rotatable. A shaft portion of a carrier that supports the planetary gear, and a shaft core portion of the sun gear, preferably have a cylindrical or substantially cylindrical shape. The shaft portion of the carrier is inserted and arranged to overlap with the shaft core portion of the sun gear in a direction perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the shaft. The output shaft (i.e., drive shaft) is inserted and coupled to the shaft portion of the carrier. Accordingly, this provides an outboard motor that makes it possible to prevent the size of a speed change device from increasing in size when a speed reduction mechanism is added.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Assignee: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yoshihiko Okabe, Hirotoshi Yamauchi
  • Patent number: 8109854
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a new improved large planetary gear system used on the input stage of wind turbine power generators. This improved planetary gear system reduces or eliminates lubricant debris traditionally generated from the gear teeth, thereby eliminating an initiating source for bearing failure. To achieve these results, some and preferably all of the gear teeth within the planetary gear system are superfinished using chemically accelerated vibratory finishing to a surface roughness of approximately 0.25 micron or less. Several objects and advantages of the invention are to provide a gearbox with reduced metal debris, improved bearing life, reduced wear, reduced vibro-frictional noise, improved contact fatigue, improved fretting resistance, improved lubrication, to simplify the run-in process, and to enhance the durability and efficiency of the gearbox.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Assignees: REM Technologies, Inc., OSRO GmbH
    Inventors: Mark Michaud, Edward David Summers
  • Publication number: 20120028755
    Abstract: A pin for coupling a planet gear to a carrier in a planetary gear system is disclosed. The pin includes a first end, a second end, and an outer surface extending between the first end and the second end. In some embodiments, the pin further includes means for modifying the compliance of the pin at an interface between the pin and the carrier. In other embodiments, the pin further include a compliance feature defined in the outer surface, the compliance feature allowing greater compliance of the pin in the tangential direction than in the radial direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2011
    Publication date: February 2, 2012
    Applicant: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Daniel Jason Erno, Darren Lee Hallman, Fulton Jose Lopez
  • Publication number: 20120028754
    Abstract: A carrier for use in a planetary gear system. The carrier has a plurality of openings or slots offset from a midline thereof. The carrier includes alignment mechanisms positioned in each of the plurality of openings or slots to substantially align each planet gear about the midline of the carrier. The carrier may be used in a planetary gear system for use in a wind turbine. One aspect incorporates eccentric rings in the openings. Another aspect incorporates inserts in the slots. Each of the rings and inserts has openings that, when properly positioned, will substantially bisect the carrier midline.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2011
    Publication date: February 2, 2012
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Fulton Jose Lopez, Daniel Jason Erno, Erik Karl Jacobson, Edwin Hidding
  • Patent number: 8105201
    Abstract: In a power driver, a shifter assembly includes: a housing; a ring gear mounted for rotation on the housing; a shift collar mounted for rotation on the housing; an elongated shifter structure coupled to the ring gear and the shift collar, the shifter structure including a misalignment compensator to compensate for misalignment between the ring gear and a feature cooperating with the ring gear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel Puzio
  • Publication number: 20120021867
    Abstract: Certain embodiments of a system for reducing backlash include a mechanical input, a mechanical output, and first and second mechanical couplers each connected to the mechanical input and the mechanical output. An exemplary system includes an elastic element connected in series between the first mechanical coupler and the mechanical output to bias the first mechanical coupler in a first direction and an elastic element connected in series between the second mechanical coupler and the mechanical output to bias the second mechanical coupler in a second direction, where the second direction is opposite from the first direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2010
    Publication date: January 26, 2012
    Inventor: Josiah Rosmarin
  • Publication number: 20120017723
    Abstract: A planet shaft for supporting a planet gear has a supporting portion extending along a central axis and having a first outer diameter. A flange is formed at one end of the supporting portion, which has a smaller section formed about a portion of a circumference around the central axis, and an enlarged portion extending away from the central axis for a greater distance than the smaller portion. A hole to receive a lock member is formed in the enlarged portion. A planetary gear assembly including such a planet shaft is disclosed as is an air turbine starter including the planetary gear system. Further, a method of installing a planet gear and planet shaft is also disclosed and claimed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2010
    Publication date: January 26, 2012
    Inventors: Jeffrey M. Makulec, Matthew Slayter
  • Publication number: 20120018984
    Abstract: A rear dual wheel direct drive axle assembly (30) for a vehicle having a longitudinal frame rail (28) includes a spindle shaft (1) attached to the frame rail and having an axis of rotation generally in the same vertical plane as the longitudinal frame rail. The assembly (30) also includes a dual wheel drive axle (13, 14) transversely and pivotally mounted on the spindle shaft (1). The axle (13, 14) is configured to pivot about the spindle shaft (1).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2011
    Publication date: January 26, 2012
    Applicant: NAVISTAR CANADA, INC.
    Inventor: Leo P. Oriet
  • Publication number: 20120021868
    Abstract: An automatic multi-speed gear system including an input axle, a first arm configured to couple with the input axle allowing for independent rotational movement of the input axle along the input axle axis, a first axle configured to couple with the first arm allowing for independent rotational movement of the first axle along a first axle axis, a second arm configured to couple with the first axle allowing for independent rotational movement of the first axle along the first axle axis, a second axle configured to couple with the second arm allowing for independent rotational movement of the second axle along a second axle axis, and an output axle. The first arm and the second arm are configured to move from a high-speed misalignment position to a low-speed alignment position where the second axle orbits the first axle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2011
    Publication date: January 26, 2012
    Inventor: Samir MOUFAWAD
  • Publication number: 20120015771
    Abstract: A transmission unit for a driven vehicle wheel comprising an input shaft having a pinion and an output shaft having a ring gear which are parallel so that the input and the output shafts can move transverse relative to one another. At least one planetary gearwheel engages the pinion and the ring gear and is supported by a planetary carrier such that the carrier, the pinion and the ring gear are coaxial with one another. A second carrier is supported coaxial with the ring gear such that the planetary gearwheel is axially arranged between the first and second carriers. The transmission unit enables transverse decoupling between the input and the output, and transmission of large torques. The transmission unit decouples wheel-hub motors from the wheel suspension, in relation to deflection movement of the driven wheel, which facilitates the reduction of the unsprung masses of a wheel-hub drive.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2010
    Publication date: January 19, 2012
    Applicant: ZF FRIEDRICHSHAFEN AG
    Inventor: Felix Haeusler
  • Patent number: 8096917
    Abstract: A gearbox is provided having multiple sun gears and one or more planet stages. The planet stages can include a first planet stage and a second planet stage. A first sun gear is connected to the first planet stage, and a second sun gear is connected to the second planet stage. The torque transmitted from the planet stages is at least partially distributed among the first sun gear and the second sun gear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Pedro L. Benito
  • Publication number: 20120010039
    Abstract: The invention relates to rotary units and rotary mechanisms that are suitable for use in numerous applications. Rotary units typically include rotational components that are configured to rotate. In some embodiments, for example, multiple rotary units are assembled in rotary mechanisms such that neighboring pairs of rotational components counter-rotate or contra-rotate relative to one another during operation of the rotary mechanisms. Rotational components generally include one or more implements that are structured to perform or effect one or more types of work as the rotational components rotate relative to one another in a given rotary mechanism. In certain embodiments, implements are configured to rotate and/or to effect the movement of other components as rotational components rotate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2011
    Publication date: January 12, 2012
    Inventor: Christopher C. Sappenfield
  • Publication number: 20120010040
    Abstract: The invention relates to rotary units and rotary mechanisms that are suitable for use in numerous applications. Rotary units typically include rotational components that are configured to rotate. In some embodiments, for example, multiple rotary units are assembled in rotary mechanisms such that neighboring pairs of rotational components counter-rotate or contra-rotate relative to one another during operation of the rotary mechanisms. Rotational components generally include one or more implements that are structured to perform or effect one or more types of work as the rotational components rotate relative to one another in a given rotary mechanism. In certain embodiments, implements are configured to rotate and/or to effect the movement of other components as rotational components rotate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2011
    Publication date: January 12, 2012
    Inventor: Christopher C. Sappenfield
  • Publication number: 20120004065
    Abstract: An electric generator unit comprises a front flywheel, a back flywheel, a gear accelerating assembly, a planetary decelerating assembly, a middle shaft and a tail shaft. The electric generator unit forms the effect of energy increasing by degrees based on the nonlinear coupling theory and the assembly of mass, acceleration and lever. When a small driving force is continuously given from the outside, the electric generator unit can achieve energy increasing by degrees.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2010
    Publication date: January 5, 2012
    Applicant: Fast Intellectual Proeperty Law, LLC
    Inventors: Wenxiu Li, Zhenquan Wang
  • Publication number: 20110315450
    Abstract: A technique facilitates control over the orientation of a bottom hole assembly. A planetary gearbox assembly incorporates a sun wheel which cooperates with planet wheels at a plurality of levels along the planetary gear box assembly. The sun wheel and the planet wheels cooperate to convert rotational input to rotational output through an output carrier. Torsional rigidity characteristics of the sun wheel and the output carrier are selected to distribute torque loading across the plurality of levels of the planetary gear box assembly. The distributed forces reduce the potential for component failure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2010
    Publication date: December 29, 2011
    Inventor: Joachim Sihler
  • Publication number: 20110312467
    Abstract: A planetary gear set for a transmission may include a sun gear, a carrier, and a ring gear, wherein an inner circumference of the ring gear is formed in an ellipse shape.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2010
    Publication date: December 22, 2011
    Applicant: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventors: Hyunku Lee, Hyunseung Suh, Moosuk Kim
  • Publication number: 20110306457
    Abstract: In one example, a moon gear assembly is provided that includes a moon arm assembly having a driving moon gear. A pivot pin is connected to the moon arm assembly, and an adjustment arm is connected to the moon arm assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2011
    Publication date: December 15, 2011
    Applicant: VMT TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Gary D. Lee, William M. Decker, Brian M. Olsen, Eric E. Aston, Brian T. Barnum, Steven R. Aposhian, Andrew J. Orme, Isaac R. Jones, Peter J. Jones, Regis A. David
  • Patent number: 8075442
    Abstract: Various power transmission and generation systems and assemblies are provided for a wind turbine. In one embodiment, a power generation system is provided including a transmission having an input axially aligned with an output, the input configured to receive rotary motion generated by a wind driven rotor head, the input located downwind of the output, an electromagnetic apparatus having an input configured to be coupled to the transmission output, and a bearing configured to radially support both the transmission output and the electromagnetic apparatus input. In this way, a common bearing may support both the transmission and electromagnetic apparatus, allowing for a more compact and efficient design while retaining service and repair capabilities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Robert Ciszak, Timothy Kuzma
  • Publication number: 20110299975
    Abstract: The invention relates to a brake system for a wind turbine having a machine house rotatably mounted in horizontal plane on a tower, at least one stop brake (60) for locking the machine house and an electrical azimuth drive (40), wherein the stop brake (60) is connected to the azimuth drive (40) via means (50) for transferring moments and/or forces and/or movements in such a way that it can be actuated by means of a torsional moment generated by the azimuth drive (40) in order to yaw the machine house and/or a force and/or movement generated for this reason.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2010
    Publication date: December 8, 2011
    Applicant: SUZLON ENERGY GMBH
    Inventor: Georgios Pechlivanoglou
  • Patent number: 8070640
    Abstract: A fluctuating gear ratio limited slip differential assembly is provided that includes a differential case and a pair of side gears disposed within the differential case. Each of the side gears may have a tooth with a first tooth flank. The differential assembly may further include a pinion shaft disposed within the differential case and a plurality of pinions supported by the pinion shaft. The pinions may be configured for engagement with the pair of side gears and each of the pinions may have a tooth with a second tooth flank. The first and second tooth flanks are configured to cause movement of the plane of action defining all contact points between the first tooth flank of the side gears and the second tooth flank of the pinions in a predetermined and/or controlled manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventor: Stephen P. Radzevich
  • Publication number: 20110290052
    Abstract: The invention relates to rotary units and rotary mechanisms that are suitable for use in numerous applications. Rotary units typically include rotational components that are configured to rotate. In some embodiments, for example, multiple rotary units are assembled in rotary mechanisms such that neighboring pairs of rotational components counter-rotate or contra-rotate relative to one another during operation of the rotary mechanisms. Rotational components generally include one or more implements that are structured to perform or effect one or more types of work as the rotational components rotate relative to one another in a given rotary mechanism. In certain embodiments, implements are configured to rotate and/or to effect the movement of other components as rotational components rotate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2011
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Inventor: Christopher C. Sappenfield
  • Publication number: 20110293328
    Abstract: A rotary drive device to drive a rotary body included in an image forming apparatus. The rotary drive device includes a drive source and a planetary gear mechanism to control torque from the drive source. The planetary gear mechanism includes a sun gear rotated by the torque, an annular gear coaxial to the sun gear and having inward-facing teeth, multiple planetary gears provided within the annular gear, and a carrier rotatable coaxially to the sun gear and the annular gear to rotatably support the multiple planetary gears. The annular gear is formed by injecting molten resin into a mold having a cylindrical cavity with teeth shapes along an inner circumference of the cavity from multiple pin gates provided to the mold at equal intervals along a circumference of the cavity. A number of pin gates is a non-integer multiple of a number of planetary gears.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2011
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Applicant: Ricoh Company, Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiromichi Matsuda, Katsuaki Miyawaki, Tetsuo Watanabe, Nobuo Iwata
  • Publication number: 20110287887
    Abstract: The present application provides a clamping device for a cutting member having a rotating sleeve and a quick clamping body. The clamping device has a first sun gear arranged in the center of the rotating sleeve, a first stage planetary gear having multiple planetary gears cooperating with the first sun gear, and a second stage planetary gear having multiple planetary gears cooperating with a second sun gear arranged on the planetary carrier. An inner ring gear may also be arranged outside of the first and second stage planetary gears and the head of the quick clamping body. Also, the clamping device of the present application does not need a special tool to remove the saw blade, which may lower the required effort to allow for the clamp to clamp the saw blade more quickly and more reliably.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2011
    Publication date: November 24, 2011
    Inventor: Hongtao Zhou
  • Patent number: 8062168
    Abstract: An arrangement of a planetary gearset (2) with an axially adjacent shift element in a housing (1) of a transmission of a vehicle. The planetary gearset (2) is connected to the shift element in a detachable manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Peter Ziemer, Hermann Maier, Jörg Brockstieger
  • Patent number: 8062167
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a carrier cup of a planet carrier that improves strength thereof and reduces noise occurring in an automatic transmission by changing an interior circumferential shape of a leg. The carrier cup of a planet carrier according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention at which pinion gears are mounted such that the pinion gears are rotatably supported thereby may include a carrier plate provided with a carrier hole for mounting a carrier shaft and a plurality of pinion holes for mounting the pinion gears, and a plurality of legs extending perpendicularly from one side surface of the carrier plate, wherein radial thickness of the leg is changed along a circumferential direction thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Wang Kweon Lee, Hyun Ku Lee, Sang Bum Baek, Ki Jung Han, Seock Chan Kang, Jae Hyuk Choi, Kisoo Huh, Hyu Tae Shim, Woo Jin Chang
  • Patent number: 8062165
    Abstract: An outer needle bearing race and thrust washer assembly provides improved lubrication for a pinion gear of a planetary gear assembly. The bearing race and thrust washer assembly are used in pairs with the bearing races disposed within the planet or pinion gear and the thrust washers disposed adjacent the end faces of the planet or pinion gear. Each assembly includes a cylindrical bearing portion having a crowned, i.e., convex, inner surface which is secured at one end to a thrust washer. The outside face of the washer includes a plurality of shallow radial channels or grooves. A plurality of oil passageways extend from the grooved surface of the washer to its opposite surface inside the cylindrical bearing portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Joseph Young-Long Chen, Jack M Gayney, Angela P Willis, Hun J Kim
  • Patent number: 8062166
    Abstract: A planetary transmission with at least one planetary gearset including planetary gears supported on a planetary gear carrier. The planetary carrier has inner teeth, which engage outer teeth of a shaft to form a lock tooth array. To secure the planetary carrier axially on the shaft, the planetary carrier is placed with one axial end against a stop on the shaft and the opposite axial end is fixed axially with a circlip fit into a circlip groove in the shaft. At least one axially adjacent component is supported against the planetary carrier such that an axial bearing is arranged radially and axially adjacent to the circlip and includes a roller group guided in a cage and a first check-disk. A second check-disk is arranged radially opposite and at a distance from the circlip in such manner that when assembled, the circlip cannot escape from the circlip groove in the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Gabor Diosi, Josef Haupt, Martin Brehmer
  • Publication number: 20110281684
    Abstract: A left and right wheels drive system includes: a first drive source and a second drive source; a left drive wheel and a right drive wheel; and a gear mechanism interposed between the first and second drive sources and the left and right drive wheels, the gear mechanism including: a pinion set in which a plurality of pinion gears are installed on one shaft; and an element group which is linked with the pinion set and which includes a first element, a second element, a third element and a fourth element. When the first element is held stationary, the second, third and fourth elements rotate in the same direction. When the first element is held stationary, the second element rotates at a higher speed than the third and fourth elements. One of the first and second drive sources is connected to the first element, and the other of the first and second drive source is connected to the second element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2011
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Inventors: Yuichi USHIRODA, Kaoru SAWASE
  • Publication number: 20110281682
    Abstract: A speed changer assembly for changing the rotational speed of an engine's (or other prime mover's) output to that required by the input of a process machine. In operation, a first gear is in meshing engagement with an idler gear, which in turn, is in meshing engagement with a second gear. When operation of the speed changer assembly is halted, the idler gear is pivotable about one of the first and second gears. A centre distance between the idler gear and the gear about which the idler gear is pivoted remains constant while the centre distance between the idler gear and the other gear is varied. The idler gear is taken out of meshing engagement with the other gear, permitting replacement of said other gear. The idler gear is then pivoted to establish meshing engagement with the replacement gear and the speed changer is configured with a new speed ratio.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2010
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Inventor: Vladimir Scekic
  • Publication number: 20110281694
    Abstract: A planetary gear system in an exercise machine featuring a flywheel; an axle shaft positioned through the center of the flywheel, a sun gear disposed on the axle shaft and fixedly attached to the flywheel, a housing disposed on the axle shaft, a planet carrier fixedly attached to the axle shaft and disposed in the housing, and a ring gear fixedly attached in the housing. One or more planet gear wheels are rotatably attached to the planet carrier. The planet gear wheels can rotate independently of the planet carrier. Rotation of the axle shaft in a first direction rotates the planet carrier in the first direction, thereby causing the planet gear wheel to rotate in a second direction within the ring gear. Rotation of the planet gear wheel in the second direction causes the sun gear and the flywheel to together rotate in the first direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2011
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Inventors: Marko Vujicic, Mark Chiles, Greg Wallace
  • Publication number: 20110281679
    Abstract: Provided are alternative hybrid transmission systems for marine, or two wheeled land vehicles, as well as propulsion systems and vehicles comprising such transmission systems, to improve various propulsion systems using a combination of at least two power sources with the option for simultaneous or alternating power input from two or more power sources, while providing desired characteristics or components. Such characteristics or components can include, but are not limited to: power, torque, acceleration, cruising speed or power, fuel efficiency, battery charging, endurance, power sizing, weight, capacity, efficiency, speed, mechanically and/or electrically added system requirements, design, fuel selection, functional design, structural design, lift to drag ratio, weight, and/or other desired characteristic or component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2010
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Applicant: The Regents of the University of Colorado, a body corporate
    Inventors: Daniel Larrabee, Thomas Northrop Wormer, Matt Rhode, Eric Serani, Josh Marshman, Cody Humbarger, Daniel Gaide, Derek Hillery, Alec Velazco, Eric Petersen, Jean Nicolas Koster
  • Publication number: 20110281683
    Abstract: A model helicopter includes a drive mechanism, the drive mechanism comprising a battery powered motor comprising a toothed motor shaft; a main rotor comprising a main shaft aligned with the motor shaft, the main shaft including a main gear; and a reduction gear assembly comprising four lower first gears arranged around the motor shaft, a lower outer ring gear meshed with the first gears, four lower second gears each being smaller than the first gear and fixed to top of the first gear, four upper third gears, an upper outer ring gear meshed with the third gears, four upper fourth gears each being smaller than the third gear and fixed to top of the third gear, the fourth gears being meshed with the main gear, and four shafts each axially passing through the fourth gear, the third gear, the second gear, and the first gear.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2010
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Inventor: Shu-Mei Tseng
  • Publication number: 20110275476
    Abstract: The movable barrier operator 10 is a shaft-mounted movable barrier operator that operates a garage door 20. Such an operator includes a motor 22 operably connected to shaft 26 such that motor 22 may move door 20 between the open and closed position. Shaft 26 may include axle 36 and wheels 38. The movable barrier 10 further includes a rotational drive unit 46 with a sun gear 52 having an open center 49 into which the axle 36 extends. Further, the rotational drive unit may have an annularly shaped portion 47 and a removable portion 48 such that the operator 10 may be installed onto a previously mounted garage door. The movable barrier operator may also include protection plates or a finger guard 90.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2010
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Applicant: CHAMBERLAIN AUSTRALIA PTY. LTD.
    Inventor: Scott J. Nicholson
  • Publication number: 20110275477
    Abstract: A planetary gear speed reducer includes a gear bracket having a center hole and first, second and third locating portions arranged in parallel along the center hole, a sun gear mounted in the center hole of the gear bracket, first gears rotatably mounted in between the first and second locating portions of the gear bracket and meshed with the sun gear, second gears rotatably mounted in between the second and third locating portions of the gear bracket and meshed with the sun gear, and two annular gears respectively meshed with the first gears and the second gears. Enabling the two annular gears to mesh with the first and second gears respectively avoids installation inconvenience due to phase difference between the first and second gears and eliminates interference during rotation of the two annular gears. By means of changing the number of teeth of each gear, the planetary gear speed reducer can provide a low, medium or high reduction ratio.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2010
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Applicant: NATIONAL FORMOSA UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Long-Chang Hsieh, An-Chen Lee, Tzu-Hsia Chen, Hsiu-Chen Tang
  • Publication number: 20110272332
    Abstract: A shale shaker comprises a base and at least one deck coupled to the base. The deck is configured to support a mud screen. The shake also comprises a support frame coupled to the base and further includes an asymmetric planetary drive assembly coupled to the support frame for vibrating the support frame and the deck. The asymmetric planetary drive assembly comprises a flywheel gearbox a planetary gear and at least one eccentric weight coupled to the planetary gear. The planetary gear comprises a central axis bore that receives a planetary gear shaft through a central hole in the planetary gear. The gearbox receives a main shaft through a central hole in the flywheel gearbox. The planetary gear shaft is offset from the main shaft. The eccentric weight is coupled to the planetary gear offset from the main shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2010
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Applicant: KEM-TRON TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventor: Lingo CHANG
  • Patent number: 8047946
    Abstract: It is an object of the present invention to provide a differential case for a vehicle and a differential device for a vehicle restricting change and movement of an intermeshing of a pair of side gears and a pair of pinion gears to achieve stable differential restriction force. The differential case or the differential device for the vehicle comprises a case body 50 accommodating a pair of side gears 5R, 5L and a pinion gear 3 or 4 engaging in mesh with the side gears 5R, 5L, and a pinion gear supporter 53 accommodated in said case body 50 and having a pinion gear supporting portion 56 or 57 to install said pinion gear 3 or 4 in recess space 60, 61 of said pinion gear supporter 53 and to support slidably an outer peripheral surface of said pinion gear 3 or 4 for rotation of said pinion gear 3 or 4.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: JTEKT Corporation
    Inventors: Shinichiro Nakajima, Hiroshi Takuno
  • Patent number: 8050832
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for determining the rotational speed of the main shaft (3) of a transmission in which the main shaft (3) is connected to an output shaft (4) via a shiftable planetary gear (17), whereby the main shaft (3) is connected in a rotationally fixed manner to the sun gear (18) and the output shaft (4) is connected in a rotationally fixed manner to the planet carrier (20). The steps of the method are picking up the rotational speed (nHohlrad) of the ring gear (22), picking up the rotational speed (nAbtrieb) of the output shaft or the planet carrier (20), and computing the rotational speed (nHauptwelle) of the main shaft (3) from the rotational speed (nHohlrad) of the ring gear and the rotational speed (nAbtrieb) of the output shaft or the planet carrier (20). The present invention further relates to a transmission having a rotational speed pickup device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Kim Fuhrer, Thomas Puth, Frank Gessler
  • Patent number: 8043193
    Abstract: A gear mechanism for the drive assembly of a heald shaft (1), wherein the gear mechanism (6, 6a, 6b, 6c) comprises an input shaft (7, 7b, 7c) and an output shaft (5, 5b, 5c). The gear mechanism (6, 6a, 6b, 6c) generates a differential angle of rotation between the input shaft (7, 7b, 7c) and the output shaft (5, 5b, 5c) that is superimposed on the angle of rotation and, in dependence on the angle of rotation, is subjected to an oscillating change. This oscillating change can differ from a harmonic oscillation as a result of the non-circular design of the planet gears (11a, 12a, 13a) of the gear mechanism (6, 6b, 6c), thereby making it possible to realize almost any optional movements for the heald shaft (1), with low strain on the gears and the bearings. A simple production method and a compact design are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2011
    Assignee: Groz-Beckert KG
    Inventor: Gerhard Pohl
  • Patent number: 8037606
    Abstract: A method for fabricating a rotational-to-linear motion conversion mechanism which can avoid a planetary shaft from being tilted with respect to a sun shaft when the conversion mechanism is assembled. The method includes fabricating a subassembly with the planetary shaft being held in parallel to the sun shaft. The subassembly includes the sun shaft having a first and second sun gear at its opposing ends and a male thread at its center, the planetary shaft having a first planetary gear at its one end and a male thread at its center, a ring shaft having a female thread, and a first and second ring gear. The method also includes mating the second planetary gear with the second sun gear and the second ring gear while the second planetary gear is being fitted over the outer circumferential surface of the other end of the planetary shaft in the subassembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Kiyoharu Nakamura
  • Publication number: 20110251015
    Abstract: A system and method for altering the axial thrust load path within an automobile transmission eliminates the component end play in the transmission's roller clutch inner race and induces component end play in the transmission's rear sun gear. The resulting configuration moves portions of the axial thrust load path to across the roller clutch inner race and away from at least the transmission's sun gear and the reaction shell splines of the reaction shell. The system may include a kit in which an axially shortened roller clutch inner race and an appropriately sized bearing are provided. Additional kit components may include an axially shortened reaction shell. Alternatively, the roller clutch inner race and/or reaction shell may be shortened manually. A method of altering a preexisting transmission to have a new axial thrust load path is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2010
    Publication date: October 13, 2011
    Applicant: Sonnax Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Gregg A. Nader
  • Publication number: 20110251010
    Abstract: A planetary gear, in particular a multi-stage planetary gear, includes at least two sun wheels, which are disposed coaxially one behind the other. A hydrodynamic axial bearing is arranged between the sun wheels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2009
    Publication date: October 13, 2011
    Inventor: Andreas Grimm