Power distribution mechanism for the transmission of forest tracked and wheeled vehicles

Abstract

The article schematically considers a proposal for development and application of a controlled power distribution mechanism for machines involved in timber industry and agriculture. Use of the mechanism will increase energy efficiency of skidder and forwarder on tractor chassis, improve steering quality of tracked vehicles and improve controllability of wheeled vehicles. For articulated vehicles, use of a controlled power distribution mechanism is expected to reduce stresses on swing mechanism. The article presents analysis results of literary sources on problem of using controlled power distribution mechanisms in transmissions of tracked and wheeled vehicles. Advantages of using such mechanisms in transmissions of tractors and forest vehicles on their chassis are shown. References are given to publications containing descriptions of mechanisms that are similar in characteristics to the developed one and known methods for determining main parameters of power distribution mechanisms, approaches to kinematic, force analysis and energy balance construction of such mechanisms. Kinematic diagram of a new controlled mechanism of power distribution is considered, main parameters, control technologies, and areas of its application are determined. Links between the project and currently developed capabilities of Russian production are outlined. Development prospects of technology for controlling distribution of power in transmissions of tracked and wheeled vehicles in the field of transport engineering are indicated. A reference is given to the research complex created and used at the Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, as allowing to conduct comprehensive tests of experimental models of transmissions of transport and traction vehicles.