Transmission module and transmission assembly method

摘要

There is provided transmission module (10) for a tractor which is selectively configurable between a CVT arrangement and a multi-ratio powershift transmission arrangement. The module comprises an epicyclic unit (13) in which a first gear element of the epicyclic is driven mechanically from the input shaft (11) and a second gear element of the epicyclic acts as an output of the transmission module. By simply connecting either a CVT unit (24) or a pair of clutches (80) between the input shaft and a third gear element the module (10) can be converted to the desired transmission arrangement. This delivers benefits in a factory for example whereby a large proportion of the assembly can be completed before tailoring the transmission to a customers requirements, thus reducing lead times on delivery.

主权项

1. A transmission module comprising an input shaft, an epicyclic gearing in which a first gear element of the epicyclic gearing is driven mechanically from the input shaft and a second gear element of the epicyclic gearing acts as an output of the transmission module, the epicyclic gearing further comprising a third gear element, wherein the module:
(a) is configured to be used in a first configuration as part of a continuous variable transmission (CVT) arrangement wherein a continuous variable connection connects the input shaft with the third gear element to drive the third gear element, and wherein the third gear element drives an output shaft; and, (b) is configured to be used in a second configuration as part of a multi-ratio powershift transmission arrangement wherein a first clutch and a second clutch are connected between the input shaft and the third gear element to either drive the third gear element from the input shaft or hold the third element fixed depending on which clutch is operated.