The drivetrain and the steering mechanism for the twin engines tracked vehicle

The kinematic plan of the double flow transmission and the steering mechanism for the twin engines tracked vehicle is proposed. It could be used for the compact remotely operated vehicle or autonomous tracked chassis with twin electric engines. However, the plan is applied for skid steering wheeled vehicles or heavy transport vehicles. This plan makes it possible to use the parallel/series type hybrid propulsion system. In this case the powertrain is divided into two separate flows: heat engine with a gearbox and the reversible traction electric engine. The principle could be adapted for designing ships with diesel-electric hybrid propulsion system (it is possible to use internal combustion engine instead of electric engine), for the reduction unit modernization in the motor boat, and for special purpose ships design. Simplicity, portability, engine duplication, potential for energy recuperation during breaking/turning and providing turning around the center of gravity are the main advantages of this plan. The last two points are true for skid steering wheeled vehicles. The operating modes, the main kinematic and power aspects are provided. The required power of the electric engine traction in the hybrid transport tracked vehicle (weighing 45-50 tons) is estimated. The production of the hybrid propulsion system with proposed transmission based on Russian components is considered. (paper)