Differential mechanism and vehicle

Abstract

The utility model belongs to the technical field of vehicle manufacturing, and particularly relates to a differential mechanism and a vehicle. The differential mechanism comprises a shell assembly, a clutch mechanism, a slip limiting mechanism and a transmission gear assembly. A shell cavity is formed in the shell assembly; the clutch mechanism and the slip limiting mechanism are arranged on the two axial sides of the shell assembly. The transmission gear assembly is contained in the shell cavity and comprises a differential jaw ring, a planetary gear train arranged in the differential jaw ring and half axle gears located on the two axial sides of the differential jaw ring and meshed with the planetary gear train. The clutch mechanism and the jaw of the differential jaw ring can be switched between embedding and disengagement, and the slip limiting mechanism and the jaw of the slip limiting half axle gear can be switched between embedding and disengagement. According to the differential mechanism, the clutch mechanism and the differential mechanism jaw ring are switched to be embedded or disengaged, and power transmission or disconnection is achieved. On the premise that the engagement and disengagement of the clutch mechanism and the differential jaw ring are met, the slip limiting function is switched through switching engagement or disengagement of the slip limiting mechanism and the slip limiting half axle gear.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application belongs to the field of vehicle manufacturing technology, and in particular relates to a differential and a vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] The differential is a key component of a vehicle's transmission system. It is usually installed on the vehicle's drive axle to adjust the speed difference between the left and right wheels, ensuring that the vehicle can travel smoothly when turning.

[0003] Currently, common differentials on the market include those with clutch functionality and those with limited-slip differential functionality. Differentials with clutch functionality are mainly used in vehicles with a four-wheel drive driving mode to switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive driving modes. Limited-slip differentials typically prevent wheel spin by locking the wheels on both sides, thus improving the vehicle's ability to get out of difficult situations.

[0004] However, existing differentials are difficult to integrate with both clutch and limited-slip functions. Utility Model Content

[0005] This application provides a differential and a vehicle to solve the technical problem that existing differentials are difficult to integrate with clutch and limited-slip functions.

[0006] According to one aspect of this application, a differential is provided, including a housing assembly, a clutch mechanism, a limited-slip mechanism, and a transmission gear assembly. A cavity is formed within the housing assembly; the clutch mechanism and the limited-slip mechanism are disposed on opposite axial sides of the housing assembly; the transmission gear assembly is housed within the cavity and includes a differential toothed ring, a planetary gear train, and half-shaft gears. The planetary gear train is disposed within the differential toothed ring, and the half-shaft gears are located on opposite axial sides of the differential toothed ring and mesh with the planetary gear train. The differential toothed ring has a toothed engagement at one axial end, and one of the half-shaft gears on either side, the one furthest from the differential toothed ring, is a limited-slip half-shaft gear. The limited-slip half-shaft gear has a toothed engagement at one axial end. The clutch mechanism can switch between engaging and disengaging with the toothed engagement of the differential toothed ring, and the limited-slip mechanism can switch between engaging and disengaging with the toothed engagement of the limited-slip half-shaft gear.

[0007] In an optional embodiment of this application, the clutch mechanism includes a first drive module, a clutch jaw disc, and a first elastic element; the first drive module, the clutch jaw disc, and the first elastic element are connected sequentially along the axial direction, and a jaw clutch is provided at one axial end of the clutch jaw disc, and the first elastic element is located between the clutch jaw disc and the differential jaw clutch ring; the first drive module can drive the clutch jaw disc and overcome the resistance of the first elastic element to move axially toward the differential jaw clutch ring, so that the jaw clutch of the clutch jaw disc engages with the jaw clutch of the differential jaw clutch ring; the first elastic element can allow the clutch jaw disc to move axially away from the differential jaw clutch ring, so that the jaw clutch of the clutch jaw disc disengages from the jaw clutch of the differential jaw clutch ring.

[0008] In an optional embodiment of this application, the first drive module includes a first electromagnetic drive unit and a clutch push ring; the first electromagnetic drive unit is configured to drive the clutch push ring to push the clutch toothed disc to move axially toward the differential toothed disc when energized.

[0009] In an optional embodiment of this application, the housing assembly is provided with a plurality of first limiting holes, which are located on the axial side of the housing assembly away from the limited slip half-shaft gear and are arranged circumferentially at intervals; the clutch tooth disc is provided with a plurality of first protrusions, which are inserted into the first limiting holes one by one and at least partially protrude from the housing assembly, and the clutch push ring is connected to the first protrusions.

[0010] In an optional embodiment of this application, the limited-slip mechanism includes a second drive module, a limited-slip toothed disc, and a second elastic element; the second drive module, the limited-slip toothed disc, and the second elastic element are connected sequentially along the axial direction, one axial end of the limited-slip toothed disc is provided with a toothed insert, and the second elastic element is located between the limited-slip toothed disc and the limited-slip half-shaft gear; the second drive module can drive the limited-slip toothed disc to move axially toward the limited-slip half-shaft gear and overcome the resistance of the second elastic element, so that the toothed insert of the limited-slip toothed disc engages with the toothed insert of the limited-slip half-shaft gear; the second elastic element can allow the limited-slip toothed disc to move axially away from the limited-slip half-shaft gear, so that the toothed insert of the limited-slip toothed disc disengages from the toothed insert of the limited-slip half-shaft gear.

[0011] In an optional embodiment of this application, the second drive module includes a second electromagnetic drive unit and a limited-slip push ring; the second electromagnetic drive unit is configured to drive the limited-slip push ring to push the limited-slip toothed disc to move axially toward the limited-slip half-shaft gear when energized.

[0012] In an optional embodiment of this application, the housing assembly is provided with a second limiting hole, and a plurality of second limiting holes are located on the axial side of the housing assembly near the sliding half-shaft gear and are arranged at intervals along the circumference; the sliding tooth insert is provided with a plurality of second protrusions, and the plurality of second protrusions are inserted into the second limiting holes one by one and at least partially protrude from the housing assembly, and the sliding push ring is connected to the second protrusions.

[0013] In an optional embodiment of this application, the planetary gear train includes a first planetary gear, a second planetary gear, and a planetary gear shaft; the two ends of the planetary gear shaft are connected to the differential gear ring, the first planetary gear and the second planetary gear are respectively disposed at the two ends of the planetary gear shaft and located in the differential gear ring, the first planetary gear meshes with the half-shaft gears on both sides, and the second planetary gear meshes with the half-shaft gears on both sides.

[0014] In an optional embodiment of this application, the housing assembly includes a left housing and a right housing, which are axially connected.

[0015] According to another aspect of this application, a vehicle is provided, including the differential described above, wherein at least one of the front drive axle and the rear drive axle of the vehicle is provided with a differential.

[0016] In summary, the differential and vehicle provided in this application have at least the following beneficial effects:

[0017] In the differential provided in this application, power transmission or disconnection is achieved by switching the clutch mechanism with the differential toothed ring. When the clutch mechanism is engaged with the differential toothed ring, the planetary gear train can rotate on its own when there is a speed difference between the left and right vehicles, without affecting the differential function.

[0018] Provided that the clutch mechanism and the differential toothed ring are engaged, the differential toothed ring is locked to the housing assembly via the clutch mechanism, and the limited-slip half-shaft gear is locked to the housing assembly via the limited-slip mechanism. This locks the transmission gear assembly to the housing assembly, allowing the half-shafts on both sides to rotate synchronously, achieving differential locking. In other words, with the clutch mechanism and differential toothed ring engaged, the limited-slip function is switched by alternating engagement and disengagement of the limited-slip mechanism and the limited-slip half-shaft gear.

[0019] Meanwhile, vehicles equipped with this differential can switch between two-wheel drive sport mode and four-wheel drive sport mode, and can lock the differential in four-wheel drive sport mode, i.e., limited slip function. Attached Figure Description

[0020] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the specific embodiments of this application or the prior art, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the specific embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of this application; those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings based on these drawings without any creative effort.

[0021] Figure 1 An exploded view of a differential according to one embodiment of this application;

[0022] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the differential in the middle;

[0023] Figure 3 for Figure 2 One of the enlarged views of the location of the clutch mechanism;

[0024] Figure 4 for Figure 2 A magnified view of the location of the center limiting slip mechanism;

[0025] Figure 5 for Figure 2Second enlarged view of the location of the clutch mechanism;

[0026] Figure 6a for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the area near the clutch disc from another perspective;

[0027] Figure 6b for Figure 1 A partial sectional view of the area near the location of the central clutch infeed;

[0028] Figure 7a for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the area near the mid-limit sliding tooth insert from another perspective;

[0029] Figure 7b for Figure 1 A partial sectional view of the area near the location of the middle-limit sliding tooth insert.

[0030] The attached figures are labeled as follows:

[0031] 100. Differential;

[0032] 10. Housing assembly; 11. Left housing; 12. Right housing; R, housing cavity; H1, first limiting hole; H2, second limiting hole;

[0033] 20. Clutch mechanism; 21. First drive module; 211. First electromagnetic drive unit; 212. Clutch push ring; 213. Rotary bearing; 22. Clutch jaw disc; 221. First boss; 222. Jaw disc; 23. First elastic element;

[0034] 30. Limited-slip mechanism; 31. Second drive module; 311. Second electromagnetic drive unit; 312. Limited-slip push ring; 313. Rotary bearing; 32. Limited-slip toothed disc; 321. Second boss; 322. Toothed disc; 33. Second elastic element;

[0035] 40. Transmission gear assembly; 41. Differential toothed clutch ring; 411. Toothed clutch; 42. Planetary gear train; 421. First planetary gear; 422. Second planetary gear; 423. Planetary gear shaft; 43. Half-shaft gear; 431. Limited-slip half-shaft gear; 4311. Toothed clutch. Detailed Implementation

[0036] In the description of this application, features specified with "first" or "second" are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Features specified with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of the specified features. The use of the term "multiple" generally means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0037] In this application, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, terms such as "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0038] In the description of this specification, the terms "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that the specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of this application. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0039] In the description of this application, "axial direction" refers to the length direction of the vehicle's half-shaft, the width direction of the vehicle, and the left-right direction.

[0040] Figure 1 An exploded view of a differential 100 provided according to one embodiment of this application. Figure 2 for Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the differential 100. See also... Figure 1 and Figure 2 The differential 100 includes a housing assembly 10, a clutch mechanism 20, a limited-slip mechanism 30, and a transmission gear assembly 40. A housing cavity R is formed within the housing assembly 10, and the clutch mechanism 20 and the limited-slip mechanism 30 are disposed on both axial sides of the housing assembly 10.

[0041] The transmission gear assembly 40 is housed within the housing cavity R and includes a differential toothed ring 41, a planetary gear train 42 disposed within the differential toothed ring 41, and half-shaft gears 43 located on both axial sides of the differential toothed ring 41 and meshing with the planetary gear train 42.

[0042] Among them, the differential toothed ring 41 has a toothed clutch 411 at one axial end, and the half-shaft gear 43 on both sides is a limited-slip half-shaft gear 431, which is away from the toothed clutch 411 of the differential toothed ring 41. The limited-slip half-shaft gear 431 has a toothed clutch 4311 at one axial end. The clutch mechanism 20 can switch between engaging and disengaging with the toothed clutch 411 of the differential toothed ring 41, and the limited-slip mechanism 30 can switch between engaging and disengaging with the toothed clutch 4311 of the limited-slip half-shaft gear 431.

[0043] In this embodiment, the housing assembly 10 is used to protect the transmission gear assembly 40 installed in the housing cavity R and to transmit torque to the transmission gear assembly 40. It should be noted that a differential gear ring (not shown in the figure) is generally installed on the housing assembly 10. The differential gear ring acts as a drive gear, which can drive the housing assembly 10 to rotate and transmit torque to the transmission gear assembly 40.

[0044] The axial sides of the housing assembly 10 allow the left and right half-shafts (not shown) of the vehicle to pass through and have a clearance fit with the half-shafts. That is, the housing assembly 10 can rotate relative to the half-shafts. The ends of the left and right half-shafts are splinedly connected to the half-shaft gears 43 on both sides, so that the half-shaft gears 43 rotate together with the half-shafts.

[0045] The differential gear ring 41 provides support for the planetary gear train 42 and can rotate relative to the housing assembly 10. The planetary gear train 42 is located between and meshes with the half-shaft gears 43 on both sides. Thus, the left half-shaft and the right half-shaft are connected through the transmission gear assembly 40, and the differential function can be realized under the action of the planetary gear train 42.

[0046] Specifically, a clutch mechanism 20 and a limited-slip mechanism 30 are respectively provided on both axial sides of the housing assembly 10. The clutch mechanism 20 can switch between engaging and disengaging with the differential toothed ring 411. Figure 3 for Figure 2 One of the enlarged partial views of the location of the clutch mechanism 20, where the bold black arrows indicate the power transmission path when the clutch mechanism 20 and the differential toothed ring 41 are engaged.

[0047] Please see Figure 3 Power is transmitted to the clutch mechanism 20 via the differential gear ring mounted on the housing assembly 10. The clutch mechanism 20 rotates synchronously with the housing assembly 10. Since the clutch mechanism 20 engages with the differential toothed ring 411, it can rotate together with the differential toothed ring 41 around the axis of the half-shaft. In other words, the differential toothed ring 41, clutch mechanism 20, and housing assembly 10 rotate synchronously around the axis of the half-shaft. Furthermore, the planetary gear train 42 drives the half-shaft gears 43 on both sides to rotate, thereby transmitting power to the wheels on both sides.

[0048] It should be noted that in this engaged state, the clutch mechanism 20 acts on the differential gear ring 41, and the planetary gear train 42 rotates around the axis of the half-shaft to transmit power to the half-shaft gears 43 on both sides. Therefore, the planetary gear train 42 is capable of rotation and has differential function. That is, the differential function is not affected when power is transmitted through the clutch mechanism 20.

[0049] Figure 4 for Figure 2 A partial enlarged view of the location of the middle limiting slip mechanism 30, where the black bold arrow indicates the power transmission path when the limiting slip mechanism 30 and the limiting slip half shaft gear 431 are engaged.

[0050] Please see Figure 4 The power is transmitted to the limited-slip mechanism 30 via the differential gear ring mounted on the housing assembly 10. The limited-slip mechanism 30 rotates synchronously with the housing assembly 10. Since the limited-slip mechanism 30 is engaged with the toothed clutch 4311 of the limited-slip half-shaft gear 431, the limited-slip mechanism 30 and the limited-slip half-shaft gear 431 rotate synchronously.

[0051] It should be noted that the limited-slip function requires the clutch function to be engaged, specifically the clutch mechanism 20 and the differential toothed ring 41 to be engaged. In other words, the differential toothed ring 41 is locked to the housing assembly 10 via the clutch mechanism 20, and the limited-slip half-shaft gear 431 is locked to the housing assembly 10 via the limited-slip mechanism 30. This locks the transmission gear assembly 40 to the housing assembly 10, allowing the half-shafts on both sides to rotate synchronously, achieving differential locking. This transfers useful torque from the half-shaft connected to the idle wheel to the half-shaft of the wheel with traction, thus limiting wheel slippage.

[0052] Figure 5 for Figure 2 The second enlarged view of the location of the clutch mechanism 20 shows the power transmission path when the clutch mechanism 20 and the differential toothed ring 411, as well as the limited slip mechanism 30 and the limited slip half shaft gear 4311, are all disengaged.

[0053] Please see Figure 5 In the disengaged state, the differential gear ring on the housing assembly 10 is not driven, so the wheel acts as a follower wheel. The reverse drag force on the wheel is transmitted to the planetary gear train 42 and the differential gear ring 41 through the half shaft and half shaft gear 43, causing the planetary gear train 42 and the differential gear ring 41 to rotate around the axis of the half shaft, but cannot be transmitted to the clutch mechanism 20.

[0054] Understandably, the planetary gear train 42 can still rotate in the disengaged state, meaning that the differential function will not be affected in the disengaged state.

[0055] As can be seen, the clutch mechanism 20 and the differential toothed ring 411 are switched to engage or disengage to achieve power transmission or disconnection without affecting the differential function. With the clutch mechanism 20 engaged with the differential toothed ring 41, the limited-slip mechanism 30 and the limited-slip half-shaft gear 431 are switched to engage or disengage to switch the limited-slip function. Therefore, the differential 100 provided in this application combines clutch and limited-slip functions.

[0056] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2 In some alternative embodiments, the planetary gear train 42 includes a first planetary gear 421, a second planetary gear 422, and a planetary gear shaft 423.

[0057] The two ends of the planetary gear shaft 423 are connected to the differential toothed ring 41. The first planetary gear 421 and the second planetary gear 422 are respectively disposed at the two ends of the planetary gear shaft 423 and located in the differential toothed ring 41. The first planetary gear 421 meshes with the half-shaft gears 43 on both sides, and the second planetary gear 422 meshes with the half-shaft gears 43 on both sides.

[0058] In this embodiment, the planetary gear train 42 is composed of a planetary gear shaft 423 and a first planetary gear 421 and a second planetary gear 422 installed at both ends of the planetary gear shaft 423. The rotation of the planetary gear train 42 refers to the rotation of the first planetary gear 421 and the second planetary gear 422 around the planetary gear shaft 423.

[0059] In addition, since the planetary gear shaft 423 can rotate with the differential gear ring 41, it can drive the first planetary gear 421 and the second planetary gear 422 at both ends to rotate together around the axis of the half shaft.

[0060] In some alternative embodiments, housing assembly 10 includes a left housing 11 and a right housing 12, which are axially connected.

[0061] In this embodiment, the housing assembly 10 is formed by axially connecting a left housing 11 and a right housing 12. In an optional embodiment, the clutch mechanism 20 is located on one side of the left housing 11, and the limited-slip mechanism 30 is located on one side of the right housing 12. In the illustrated embodiment, both the left housing 11 and the right housing 12 are flange-like structures, wherein the flange is for easy docking and assembly of the differential gear ring.

[0062] Figure 6a for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the area near the location of the central clutch disc 22 from another perspective. Figure 6b for Figure 1 A partial sectional view of the area near the location of the central clutch disc 22. (See also...) Figure 6aand Figure 6b and combined Figure 1 and Figure 2 In some alternative embodiments, the clutch mechanism 20 includes a first drive module 21, a clutch tooth disc 22, and a first elastic element 23.

[0063] The first drive module 21, the clutch toothed disc 22, and the first elastic element 23 are connected in sequence along the axial direction. One end of the clutch toothed disc 22 is provided with a toothed disc 222, and the first elastic element 23 is located between the clutch toothed disc 22 and the differential toothed disc ring 41.

[0064] The first drive module 21 can drive the clutch tooth disc 22 and overcome the resistance of the first elastic element 23 to move axially toward the differential tooth ring 41, so that the tooth 222 of the clutch tooth disc 22 engages with the tooth 411 of the differential tooth ring 41.

[0065] The first elastic element 23 allows the clutch toothed disc 22 to move axially away from the differential toothed ring 41, so that the toothed disc 222 of the clutch toothed disc 22 disengages from the toothed ring 411 of the differential toothed ring 41.

[0066] In this embodiment, the clutch tooth disc 222 on one axial end can engage with the toothed clutch 411 on the differential toothed ring 41. The first drive module 21 can provide thrust to the clutch tooth disc 22 and move the clutch tooth disc 22 toward the differential toothed ring 41 so that the toothed clutches on both can engage, thus realizing the engagement of the clutch mechanism 20 with the toothed clutch 411 on the differential toothed ring 41.

[0067] During the process of the clutch toothed disc 22 moving toward the differential toothed ring 41, the first elastic element 23 is squeezed into a compressed state. If the thrust provided by the first drive module 21 disappears, the first elastic element 23 needs to be reset so that the clutch toothed disc 22 moves away from the differential toothed ring 41, thereby disengaging the toothed discs and thus disengaging the clutch mechanism 20 from the toothed disc 411 on the differential toothed ring 41.

[0068] In a further optional embodiment, the first drive module 21 includes a first electromagnetic drive unit 211 and a clutch push ring 212. The first electromagnetic drive unit 211 is configured to drive the clutch push ring 212 to push the clutch jaw disc 22 axially toward the differential jaw disc 41 when energized.

[0069] In this embodiment, the first electromagnetic drive unit 211, when energized, can generate electromagnetic force to drive the clutch push ring 212 to move, thereby pushing the clutch jaw disc 22 toward the differential jaw disc 41. It should be understood that the first electromagnetic drive unit 211 cannot provide electromagnetic force when not energized.

[0070] exist Figure 6a In the embodiment shown, the clutch mechanism 20 cooperates with the left housing 11, which includes a cylindrical part and a disc part. The first electromagnetic drive unit 211 has a ring structure and is sleeved on the cylindrical part of the left housing 11 along with the clutch push ring 212. Moreover, the first electromagnetic drive unit 211 and the clutch push ring 212 cooperate through a rotating bearing 213, so that the clutch push ring 212 has a degree of rotational freedom and can rotate synchronously with the clutch tooth disc 22.

[0071] In a further optional embodiment, the housing assembly 10 is provided with a plurality of first limiting holes H1, which are located on the axial side of the housing assembly 10 away from the sliding half-shaft gear 431 and are arranged circumferentially at intervals.

[0072] The clutch tooth disc 22 is provided with a plurality of first protrusions 221, which are inserted into the first limiting hole H1 in a corresponding manner and at least partially protrude from the housing assembly 10. The clutch push ring 212 is connected to the first protrusions 221.

[0073] Please see Figure 6b The side of the housing assembly 10 away from the limited-slip half-shaft gear 431 corresponds to the left housing 11. Accordingly, the left housing 11 has a plurality of first limiting holes H1. A plurality of first protrusions 221 on the clutch tooth disc 22 are located in the first limiting holes H1, so that the clutch tooth disc 22 can only move along the axial direction, while also ensuring that it can rotate synchronously with the left housing 11.

[0074] exist Figure 6b In the embodiment shown, the clutch disc 22 has an annular structure, with four first protrusions 221 spaced apart circumferentially. Correspondingly, there are also four first limiting holes H1 spaced apart circumferentially, thus ensuring that the two can be inserted into each other, that is, the number of first protrusions 221 and first limiting holes H1 are the same and can be aligned.

[0075] Figure 7a for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the area near the location of the middle-limit sliding tooth insert 32 from another perspective. Figure 7b for Figure 1 A partial sectional view near the location of the middle-limit sliding tooth insert 32. See also... Figure 7a and Figure 7b and combined Figure 1 and Figure 2 The limited-slip mechanism 30 includes a second drive module 31, a limited-slip toothed disc 32, and a second elastic element 33.

[0076] The second drive module 31, the limited-slip toothed disc 32, and the second elastic element 33 are connected in sequence along the axial direction. One end of the limited-slip toothed disc 32 is provided with a toothed disc 322, and the second elastic element 33 is located between the limited-slip toothed disc 32 and the limited-slip half-shaft gear 431.

[0077] The second drive module 31 can drive the limited-slip toothed disc 32 and overcome the resistance of the second elastic element 33 to move axially toward the limited-slip half-shaft gear 431, so that the toothed disc 322 of the limited-slip toothed disc 32 engages with the toothed disc 4311 of the limited-slip half-shaft gear 431.

[0078] The second elastic element 33 allows the limited-slip toothed disc 32 to move axially away from the limited-slip half-shaft gear 431, so that the toothed disc 322 of the limited-slip toothed disc 32 disengages from the toothed disc 4311 of the limited-slip half-shaft gear 431.

[0079] In this embodiment, the toothed disc 322 on one axial end of the limited-slip toothed disc 32 can engage with the toothed disc 4311 on the limited-slip half-shaft gear 431. The second drive module 31 can provide thrust to the limited-slip toothed disc 32 and move the limited-slip toothed disc 32 toward the limited-slip half-shaft gear 431 so that the toothed discs on the two engage, thus realizing the engagement of the limited-slip mechanism 30 with the toothed disc 4311 of the limited-slip half-shaft gear 431.

[0080] During the movement of the limited-slip toothed disc 32 toward the limited-slip half-shaft gear 431, the second elastic element 33 is compressed. If the second drive module 31 provides a thrust message, the second elastic element 33 needs to be reset so that the limited-slip toothed disc 32 moves away from the limited-slip half-shaft gear 431, thereby disengaging the toothed discs of the two. In this way, the limited-slip mechanism 30 is disengaged from the toothed disc 4311 of the limited-slip half-shaft gear 431.

[0081] It should be noted that, in specific applications, the first elastic element 23 and the second elastic element 33 can be, for example, springs, sheet metal, etc., but are not limited to these.

[0082] In a further optional embodiment, the second drive module 31 includes a second electromagnetic drive unit 311 and a limited-slip push ring 312. The second electromagnetic drive unit 311 is configured to drive the limited-slip push ring 312 to push the limited-slip toothed disc 32 to move axially toward the limited-slip half-shaft gear 431 when energized.

[0083] In this embodiment, the second electromagnetic drive unit 311, when energized, can generate electromagnetic force to drive the limited-slip push ring 312 to move, and via the limited-slip push ring 312, push the limited-slip toothed disc 32 toward the limited-slip half-shaft gear 431. It should be understood that the second electromagnetic drive unit 311 cannot provide electromagnetic force when not energized.

[0084] exist Figure 7aIn the embodiment shown, the limited-slip mechanism 30 cooperates with the right housing 12, which includes a cylindrical portion and a disc portion. The second electromagnetic drive unit 311 has a ring structure and is sleeved on the cylindrical portion of the right housing 12 along with the limited-slip push ring 312. Furthermore, the second electromagnetic drive unit 311 and the limited-slip push ring 312 are cooperated with each other through a rotating bearing 313, so that the limited-slip push ring 312 has a degree of rotational freedom and can rotate synchronously with the limited-slip push ring 312.

[0085] In practical applications, both the first electromagnetic drive unit 211 and the second electromagnetic drive unit 311 use electromagnetic coils, which can generate electromagnetic force to act on the push ring when energized.

[0086] In a further optional embodiment, the housing assembly 10 is provided with a second limiting hole H2, and a plurality of second limiting holes H2 are located on the axial side of the housing assembly 10 near the sliding half shaft gear 431 and are arranged circumferentially at intervals.

[0087] The sliding tooth insert 32 is provided with a plurality of second protrusions 321, which are inserted into the second limiting hole H2 in a corresponding manner and at least partially protrude from the housing assembly 10. The sliding push ring 312 is connected to the second protrusions 321.

[0088] Please see Figure 7b The side of the housing assembly 10 closest to the sliding half-shaft gear 431 corresponds to the right housing 12. Accordingly, the right housing 12 has multiple second limiting holes H2. Multiple second protrusions 321 on the sliding tooth disc 32 are located in the second limiting holes H2, so that the sliding tooth disc 32 can only move along the axial direction, while also ensuring that it can rotate synchronously with the right housing 12.

[0089] exist Figure 7b In the embodiment shown, the sliding tooth insert 32 has an annular structure, and the number of second protrusions 321 is 4 and they are arranged at intervals along the circumference. Correspondingly, the number of second limiting holes H2 is also 4 and they are arranged at intervals along the circumference. This ensures that the two can be inserted, that is, the number of second protrusions 321 and second limiting holes H2 is the same and they can be aligned.

[0090] Another aspect of this application provides a vehicle having the aforementioned differential 100, wherein at least one of the front drive axle and the rear drive axle of the vehicle is provided with the differential 100.

[0091] It should be understood that the drive axle drives the power to the wheels. In this embodiment, the vehicle can be a new energy vehicle, preferably a dual-motor four-wheel drive new energy vehicle, that is, the front drive axle and the rear drive axle of the vehicle are each equipped with a motor.

[0092] Taking the front-wheel drive as the main electric drive system as an example, the differential 100 mentioned above is installed only on the rear drive axle. When the rear drive motor participates in the operation of the electric drive system, the clutch mechanism 20 engages with the jaw 411 on the differential jaw ring 41 to realize power transmission, that is, to realize the switching from two-wheel drive mode to four-wheel drive mode.

[0093] After the rear drive motor stops running, the clutch mechanism 20 disengages from the jaw clutch 411 on the differential jaw clutch ring 41, power is interrupted, and the four-wheel drive mode is switched to the two-wheel drive mode.

[0094] In four-wheel drive mode (i.e., the rear drive motor participates in the electric drive system), when the vehicle is driving on loose or uneven road conditions and one wheel slips and spins freely, causing the vehicle to stop, the limited slip function is activated. The limited slip mechanism 30 engages with the toothed clutch 4311 on the limited slip half-shaft gear 431 to lock the differential and limit wheel slip.

[0095] It should be understood that the differential 100 is not limited to being mounted on the rear drive axle, but may also be mounted on the front drive axle or on both the front and rear drive axles.

[0096] Although embodiments of this application have been shown and described above, it is understood that the above embodiments are exemplary and should not be construed as limiting this application. Those skilled in the art can make changes, modifications, substitutions and variations to the above embodiments within the scope of this application.

Claims

1. A differential characterized in that, The application relates to a differential mechanism. The differential mechanism comprises a housing assembly (10) in which a housing cavity (R) is formed; a clutch mechanism (20) and a limited slip mechanism (30) arranged on the axial sides of the housing assembly (10); a transmission gear assembly (40) accommodated in the housing cavity (R) and comprising a differential ring (41), a planetary gear train (42) arranged in the differential ring (41), and half shaft gears (43) arranged on the axial sides of the differential ring (41) and meshing with the planetary gear train (42); wherein one end of the differential ring (41) is provided with a ring gear, one of the half shaft gears (43) far away from the ring gear of the differential ring (41) is a limited slip half shaft gear (431), one end of the limited slip half shaft gear (431) is provided with a ring gear, the clutch mechanism (20) can switch between meshing and disengaging with the ring gear of the differential ring (41), and the limited slip mechanism (30) can switch between meshing and disengaging with the ring gear of the limited slip half shaft gear (431). The clutch mechanism (20) comprises a first driving module (21), a clutch ring gear disc (22), and a first elastic member (23). The first driving module (21), the clutch ring gear disc (22), and the first elastic member (23) are sequentially connected in the axial direction, one end of the clutch ring gear disc (22) is provided with a ring gear, and the first elastic member (23) is arranged between the clutch ring gear disc (22) and the differential ring (41). The first driving module (21) can drive the clutch ring gear disc (22) to move axially towards the differential ring (41) against the resistance of the first elastic member (23), so that the ring gear of the clutch ring gear disc (22) meshes with the ring gear of the differential ring (41).

2. The differential of claim 1, wherein, The first elastic member (23) can drive the clutch ring gear disc (22) to move axially away from the differential ring (41), so that the ring gear of the clutch ring gear disc (22) disengages from the ring gear of the differential ring (41). The first driving module (21) comprises a first electromagnetic driving unit (211) and a clutch push ring (212). The first electromagnetic driving unit (211) is configured to drive the clutch push ring (212) to push the clutch ring gear disc (22) to move axially towards the differential ring (41) in the energized state. The housing assembly (10) is provided with a plurality of first limiting holes (H1) arranged on the axial side of the housing assembly (10) away from the limited slip half shaft gear (431) and spaced apart in the circumferential direction.

3. The differential of claim 2, wherein, The clutch ring gear disc (22) is provided with a plurality of first bosses (221) which are inserted into the first limiting holes (H1) one by one and at least partially protrude out of the housing assembly (10), and the clutch push ring (212) is connected to the first bosses (221). ​ 4. The differential of claim 3 wherein, ​ ​ 5. The differential of claim 1, wherein, The limited slip mechanism (30) comprises a second driving module (31), a limited slip cogging disc (32) and a second elastic member (33); The second driving module (31), the limited slip cogging disc (32) and the second elastic member (33) are sequentially connected in the axial direction, one end of the limited slip cogging disc (32) is provided with a cogging, and the second elastic member (33) is located between the limited slip cogging disc (32) and the limited slip half shaft gear (431). The second driving module (31) can drive the limited slip cogging disc (32) to move in the axial direction towards the limited slip half shaft gear (431) against the resistance of the second elastic member (33), so that the cogging of the limited slip cogging disc (32) is engaged with the cogging of the limited slip half shaft gear (431). The second elastic member (33) can allow the limited slip cogging disc (32) to move away from the limited slip half shaft gear (431) in the axial direction, so that the cogging of the limited slip cogging disc (32) is disengaged from the cogging of the limited slip half shaft gear (431).

6. The differential of claim 5 wherein, The second driving module (31) comprises a second electromagnetic driving unit (311) and a limited slip push ring (312). The second electromagnetic driving unit (311) is configured to drive the limited slip push ring (312) to move the limited slip cogging disc (32) in the axial direction towards the limited slip half shaft gear (431) in a powered state.

7. The differential of claim 6 wherein, The housing assembly (10) is provided with second limiting holes (H2), and a plurality of second limiting holes (H2) are located on the axial side of the housing assembly (10) close to the limited slip half shaft gear (431) and are arranged in a circumferential direction. The limited slip cogging disc (32) is provided with a plurality of second bosses (321), and the plurality of second bosses (321) are inserted into the second limiting holes (H2) one by one and at least partially protrude out of the housing assembly (10), and the limited slip push ring (312) is connected to the second bosses (321).

8. The differential of claim 1, wherein, The planetary gear train (42) comprises a first planetary gear (421), a second planetary gear (422) and a planetary gear shaft (423). Both ends of the planetary gear shaft (423) are connected to the differential cogging ring (41), the first planetary gear (421) and the second planetary gear (422) are respectively arranged at both ends of the planetary gear shaft (423) and located in the differential cogging ring (41), and the first planetary gear (421) is engaged with the half shaft gears (43) on both sides, and the second planetary gear (422) is engaged with the half shaft gears (43) on both sides.

9. The differential according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The housing assembly (10) comprises a left housing (11) and a right housing (12), and the left housing (11) and the right housing (12) are connected in the axial direction.

10. A vehicle characterized by comprising: The differential (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 9 is provided in at least one of front drive axles and rear drive axles of the vehicle.

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