Scientific Support from Idea to Innovation: Line Traction 3 (LT3)

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A technology emerges – from practice to research
The “Line Traction 3” (LT3) drive technology is an outstanding example of successful cooperation between industry and science. The idea and the patent originate from Werner Müller, owner of Müller Landmaschinen GmbH in Bonndorf. With the aim of fundamentally improving the drive technology of mobile machines, Mr. Müller approached our institute more than ten years ago – with a vision that we have been intensively supporting scientifically ever since.

The idea
At the heart of the system is a hydraulically controlled superimposed gearbox that replaces conventional differentials and enables individual control of torque and speed for each wheel. This allows the system to deliver optimum power to the ground with any central drive, regardless of its drive technology (combustion engine, battery-electric drive, etc.). Advantages for users include a wider range of applications for the machine, greater safety thanks to improved directional stability and increased traction, and significantly reduced operator workload thanks to the automated drive train.

From idea to innovation
In a research process spanning several years, LT3 technology was scientifically monitored from the theoretical idea through simulations and trials with prototypes to pre-series production readiness. The research work was supported by our high-performance infrastructure, including a specially equipped drive system test bench and a 4WD-Acoustic-Chassis-Dynometer, which allow realistic trials under variable operating conditions. The results of this research and development are now being incorporated into a product for the first time thanks to the cooperation between Müller Landmaschinen GmbH and vehicle manufacturer Aebi Schmidt. Scientific methods and expert knowledge, as well as the close integration of theory and practice, have turned this idea into an innovation.

Research projects related to LT3
During the scientific support, new, previously unanswered questions arose repeatedly, giving rise to several independent research projects:

LT3 Antriebstechnik
The first project focused on verifying the idea using scientific methods, simulation, and a physical prototype. The aim was to find out whether the functional principle of the LT3 idea works, whether it can be controlled, and how it can be used in mobile machines. The project confirmed that it can be controlled continuously using a demonstrator in a disassembled design. Great potential for use in mobile machines was identified.

EEHSMA
The EeHsmA project builds directly on LT3 technology and expands it to include intelligent hydrostatic control. The aim was to optimize the installation space and increase the system pressure to 60 MPa in order to boost the drive's performance and flexibility and adapt the system to the requirements of mobile machinery. The effectiveness of this expansion was successfully demonstrated using a HiL prototype.

Peak Compensator
The Peak Compensator project aimed to detect external load peaks in the powertrain at an early stage and actively neutralize them before they cause damage. Through a combination of sensor technology, real-time control, and wheel-mounted actuators, the system is able to distinguish between normal torque requirements and critical external load peaks and neutralize them. This reduces the stress on components, allowing them to be smaller in size, while also improving driving dynamics.

Brake Compensator
The Brake Compensator project focused on researching an intelligent all-wheel braking system for slope equipment carriers with variable steering modes. The aim was to adjust the braking force individually to each wheel in order to increase driving stability and prevent damage to the ground, particularly when braking on steep slopes. The differential speed-controlled deceleration significantly improves off-road capability, directional stability, and safety. A test vehicle confirmed the system's performance both on the test bench and in real-world use.

Research meets industry
LT3 technology is now being brought to market by Müller Landmaschinen in collaboration with Aebi Schmidt. The close integration of university research and industrial development - supported by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy - has produced a pioneering drive solution that has the potential to bring about lasting change in the market for mobile machinery.

Winner of the 2025 AGRITECHNICA Innovation Award in Gold
LT3 technology was selected from numerous international entries to receive the 2025 AGRITECHNICA Innovation Award in Gold – one of the most prestigious awards in the agricultural industry. The award recognizes practical technical innovations and underscores the importance of modern agricultural technology for the future of agriculture. The decision was made by an independent commission of experts from the DLG after intensive examination and discussion.

You can find out more about the technology and its possible applications at AGRITECHNICA 2025 in Hall 02 at Stand 02F38.

More information about the system from Müller Landmaschinen GmbH.

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