Configuration synthesis of two-mode hybrid transmission systems with nine-link mechanisms

A systematic framework based on a creative mechanism design methodology and the lever analogy method is proposed for the synthesis of two-mode hybrid transmission systems comprising 3 planetary gears, 9 links and 14 joints. In the proposed approach, the topological characteristics of existing hybrid transmissions are examined and processes of generalization and number synthesis are performed to construct an atlas of generalized kinematic chains. The atlas of feasible kinematic chains is then obtained by applying the specified design requirements and constraints. Based on the required operating modes of the hybrid transmission, the lever analogy method is employed to determine all possible placements of the inputs, output, clutches and brakes of the synthesized configurations. Finally, existing configurations are eliminated in order to obtain the final atlas of new hybrid transmission designs. Utilizing the GM hybrid transmission system for existing hybrid transmissions, a total of 17 novel two-mode hybrid transmissions are obtained. The feasibility of the proposed methodology is demonstrated by performing a detailed kinematic analysis of one of the synthesized transmissions.