Embedded Files
Two ratios. One coordinated shift system.
A planetary transmission concept for electric vehicle drives, combining two selectable ratios, a shared output and a single shift actuator.
The engineering challenge
A fixed ratio must reconcile starting torque and high-speed operation. The patent addresses two quickly selectable ratios in a compact mechanical arrangement, with simpler actuation as a design objective.
How it works
Two planetary gear sets share an output carrier. Holding one of the two ring gears selects the corresponding ratio. Two synchronised dog clutches are operated by one sliding sleeve and one actuator.
The sleeve releases the currently selected gear.
A friction cone reduces the speed difference before the teeth engage.
The selected clutch engages positively, establishing the other ratio.
A neutral position with no torque transmission is provided. Torque interruption during a shift depends on the detailed design and control sequence; uninterrupted shifting and specific shift times are not guaranteed.
Application and development
The concept addresses electric vehicle drivetrains. A project assessment should consider ratios, motor characteristics, loads, thermal conditions, packaging and actuation. This overview contains no measured efficiency, durability or production-readiness claims.
Watch the operating principle
English technical animation · Deutsche technische Animation
Patent and register information
Official German title: Zweiganggetriebe für Elektromotoren
Inventor: Bernd-Robert Höhn
Registered proprietor: Höhn GmbH
German application: DE 10 2019 128 160.1 · 18 October 2019
Grant publication: DE102019128160B3 · 19 November 2020
Corrected specification: DE102019128160B9 · 21 January 2021
German register: “anhängig/in Kraft”, checked 21 October 2026.
International family: PCT/EP2020/079280; WO2021074428A1. Other grant publications: EP4045818B1 (12 July 2023), US11892063B2 (6 February 2024), JP7399516B2 (18 December 2023). Their current national status is not confirmed here. A PCT publication is not a worldwide patent.
Original documents
DPMA register — current German status
German B9 specification — PDF
European grant specification — PDF
US grant specification — PDF
The claims and national registers determine the scope and status of protection. Licensing and third-party rights require separate review.
Discuss your application
Outline your drive system, intended function and engineering constraints.
Send a technical enquiry to Höhn GmbH
Google Sites
Report abuse