Drive assembly for machine

US9410598B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Caterpillar Inc. · US

Inventors

• Keith A. Kabrick · Springfield, US
• Christopher P. Braet · Nashville, US
• Trent Thum · Wexford, US
• Brandon D. Mann · Decatur, US
• Vanyo N. Kirov · Milwaukee, US
• Timothy S. Stoakes · Naperville, US
• Brian Boguski · Milford, US
• Daniel J. Reed · Corvallis, US
• Timothy F. Nusz · Wyoming, US

Key dates

• Filing date: May 19, 2015
• Grant date: Aug 9, 2016
• Expiry date: May 19, 2035

Classification

• Technology area (CPC F): Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
• CPC primary: F16H2057/127
• WIPO field: Mechanical elements
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A final drive assembly for a machine includes an input shaft drivably coupled to a prime mover. The input shaft is coupled to and drives a first stage gear assembly. The first stage gear assembly further drives a second stage gear assembly. The first and second stage gear assemblies drive a ring gear which is coupled to a wheel of the machine. The first and second stage gear assemblies are disposed between a first bearing assembly and a second bearing assembly. A spring member preloads the first bearing assembly to limit an axial movement of the first and second stage gear assemblies.