Theoretical Study of the Operational Characteristics of a Passenger Bus with Optimization of Gearbox Ratios
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.32515/2664-262X.2026.14(45).305-313Keywords:
transmission, gear ratio, traction characteristics, dynamic characteristics, fuel consumption, optimizationAbstract
The aim of the article is to conduct a theoretical study of the influence of gearbox ratios on the operational characteristics of a passenger bus and to determine a rational method for forming a gear range. Particular attention is paid to assessing the influence of different methods for calculating gear ratios on the traction and speed properties and fuel economy of the vehicle. In addition, the task is set to compare the effectiveness of existing approaches to optimizing the transmission.
The paper has conducted a theoretical study of a Van Hool 915 Acron passenger bus with a manual gearbox. The gear ratios of an 8-speed gearbox have been calculated using the Leiderman, Chudakov, Tokarev and arithmetic progression methods. Gear ranges have been formed for each option and their comparative analysis has been performed. Based on the data obtained, a comprehensive calculation of the speed, traction and fuel economy characteristics of the bus at different engine operating modes, including nominal, partial and limit load modes. Graphical dependences of driving speed, traction force on the drive wheels and specific fuel consumption on the engine crankshaft rotation frequency were constructed, which made it possible to clearly assess the influence of the gear train structure on the operational performance of the vehicle. It was established that different methods of forming the gear train have different effects on the efficiency of using engine power. In particular, methods with higher gear ratios provide better traction properties, while methods with a more uniform distribution contribute to reducing fuel consumption. The results obtained were compared with the characteristics of a standard gearbox.
As a result of the study, it was found that the choice of the gear ratio selection method significantly affects the operational performance of the bus. The best fuel efficiency indicators were obtained when using the Chudakov method, while the Tokarev method provides increased traction capabilities. The Leiderman method allows you to achieve a compromise between dynamic and economic characteristics. It has been proven that gear range optimization is an effective tool for increasing the energy efficiency of vehicles and can be used in the design and modernization of bus transmissions.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Olena Zakharcuk
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