Differential assembly and axle assembly

Abstract

The present application relates to a differential assembly and an axle assembly. Aspects of the invention relate to a differential assembly. The differential assembly comprises a differential housing having a first housing part and a second housing part, the differential housing being configured to hold a differential having a spider gear assembly. A central plane of the spider gear assembly is perpendicular to an axis of rotation of a ring gear of the differential, wherein the first housing part is connected to the second housing part by at least one removable fastener. The connection of the first housing part to the second housing part is offset with respect to the central plane. Furthermore, the invention relates to an axle assembly.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to differential assemblies and axle assemblies. Aspects of the invention relate to differential assemblies and axle assemblies. background

[0002] In some applications, it may be necessary to mount the driver-controlled differential lock (DCDL) clutch on the gear side of the differential housing. When the vehicle requires the DCDL, the DCDL provides maximum traction potential to each wheel end of the axle.

[0003] However, manufacturing robust housings for these differentials can be challenging and requires laser welding or forging, which can be costly.

[0004] The present invention aims to provide one or more improvements that are superior to the prior art. Invention Overview

[0005] The aspects and embodiments of the present invention provide differential assemblies and axle assemblies as claimed in the appended claims.

[0006] According to one aspect of the invention, a differential assembly is provided, the differential assembly including a differential housing having a first housing portion and a second housing portion, the differential housing being configured to hold a differential having a spider gear assembly, wherein the central plane of the spider gear assembly is perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the ring gear of the differential, wherein the first housing portion is connected to the second housing portion by at least one removable fastener, and wherein the connection between the first housing portion and the second housing portion is offset relative to the central plane.

[0007] A differential assembly can be considered a system that allows for a difference in distance or rotational speed between two wheels or other rotating parts. A differential can be configured to distribute engine torque to the wheels, allowing each wheel to rotate at a different speed, especially during cornering. A differential can also be configured to lock the axle, forcing two wheels or other rotating parts to rotate at the same speed.

[0008] A ring gear (also known as a crown gear) is a gear in a differential assembly. The ring gear meshes with the drive pinion to transmit power from the drive shaft to the differential. The primary function of the ring gear can be considered as changing the axis of rotation by 90 degrees and providing a reduction in the gear ratio. The latter is achieved by making the pinion have fewer teeth than the ring gear.

[0009] The ring gear can be attached to the differential housing.

[0010] The cross shaft gear (also known as the differential pinion) can be located inside the differential housing and can be mounted on a common bracket called the cross shaft. These gears can mesh constantly with the side gears, which are connected to the half-shafts leading to the wheels or another rotating component.

[0011] The ring gear can be positioned on the outer edge of the differential housing. The cross gear can be positioned centrally within the housing.

[0012] The differential bracket housing can be considered a volumetric body configured to house the internal components of the differential, and in particular, to act as a protective barrier against external factors such as dirt or debris. It can be configured to securely hold the differential in place, thereby ensuring the smooth operation of the differential assembly.

[0013] The first housing portion and the second housing portion can be parts of the differential housing or can form the differential housing. In other words, the differential housing can be formed by the first portion and the second portion, or can include both portions. The differential housing may also have other portions. These portions may be primarily configured to protect the differential, particularly the cross shaft gear assembly, from environmental influences. The differential housing may have components that do not directly enhance its function of protecting the differential from environmental influences, and these components may not be considered housing portions.

[0014] The first and second parts can have different dimensions. Furthermore, the first and second parts can protect different percentages of the differential, particularly different percentages of the cross shaft gear assembly. This ratio can be between 10:90 and 55:45, and especially between 40:60 and 20:80.

[0015] The center plane of the cross shaft gear assembly can be considered to be located between the sun gears, which transmit torque from the pinion to the two components of the axle that can rotate at different speeds. Planetary gears can be formed at the ends of each component of the axle that does not have rotating elements (especially wheels).

[0016] The center plane of the cross shaft gear can also be described as being defined by the rotation of the planetary gears along a circular path, in which the planetary gears interact with the sun gear to transmit torque to the two components of the axle.

[0017] A cross gear assembly can be a set of gears located at the differential (particularly at its center). The cross gear assembly is configured to redirect rotational energy from the drive shaft to the wheels and allow the wheels to rotate at different speeds when the vehicle is turning. The cross gear assembly can include, in particular, four planetary gears, which do not rotate on their axes when the resistance from two rotating components (e.g., wheels) is equal. The cross gear assembly can also include (particularly two) sun gears, which are configured to transmit torque to the two components of the axle connected via the differential.

[0018] Removable fasteners can be components that can be removed and reattached, thereby allowing the connection and disconnection of the first housing portion and the second housing portion. Removable fasteners can be configured to connect the first and second portions and can be optionally removed and reused without damaging them.

[0019] The connection between the first and second housing parts is offset relative to the central plane, which can be understood as the connection point between the two parts being a specified distance from the central plane. In other words, the connection point between the first and second housing parts is not located in the central plane.

[0020] The connection can be of any suitable form. In particular, it can be a ring. The connection can define at least one connecting plane located away from the central plane.

[0021] The first and second housing sections can be easily connected and disconnected with removable fasteners. This allows for cost-effective maintenance of the differential assembly, as faulty components can be replaced individually without replacing the entire assembly. The offset connection allows for easier separation of differential housing components, facilitating access to the cross shaft gear assembly for maintenance. For example, the larger of either the first or second housing section can be removed to access most of the differential components, while the smaller components of either section remain in place, thus maintaining the differential. Alternatively, the smaller section can be removed while the larger section remains in place. Removing the smaller section requires less effort and time, making maintenance more efficient. In summary, the offset connection between the first and second housing sections relative to the center plane allows for flexible and efficient access to the differential and improved maintenance.

[0022] Alternatively, the differential assembly may include a first housing portion that is connected to the second housing portion only by at least one removable fastener.

[0023] In other words, what can be provided is to connect the first and second parts using only removable fasteners.

[0024] What can be provided is that a connecting device suitable for permanently connecting the first and second parts of the housing is not used. Examples of such permanent connection methods include welding, brazing, riveting, and gluing.

[0025] Using only removable fasteners simplifies disassembly and reassembly, making it easier to replace faulty parts. Fewer tools are needed, especially just one, to disconnect the differential housing if the connection is established solely through removable fasteners.

[0026] Optionally, the differential assembly may include at least one removable fastener on the shaft facing the cross shaft gear.

[0027] The shaft of a cross-shaft gear can be a rod-shaped component that houses the gear within the differential housing.

[0028] To allow at least one removable fastener to face the shaft of the cross-shaft gear, the first and / or second portions of the housing may have through holes. When the removable fastener is removed, the through holes can serve as maintenance openings.

[0029] Therefore, the removable fastener facing the cross shaft gear axis ensures a secure positioning while allowing for direct gear replacement.

[0030] Optionally, the differential assembly may include a second housing portion having splines configured to engage with a differential lock.

[0031] Because a spline can be considered as a ridge or tooth that matches a groove in the mating part and transmits torque to it, thus maintaining the angular correspondence between them.

[0032] A differential lock can be configured to lock the shaft. In other words, a differential lock can force two wheels or other rotating elements connected via the differential to rotate at the same speed.

[0033] In other words, the second housing portion may have ridges or teeth that engage with corresponding grooves in the differential lock.

[0034] In this way, the second housing portion can directly engage with the differential lock, which improves the mechanical stability and durability of the connection. Furthermore, the splined connection allows for easy disassembly for maintenance.

[0035] Alternatively, the splines can be induction hardened.

[0036] Induction hardening can be considered a type of surface hardening in which a metal part, particularly a spline or a portion of a spline including a second housing, is induction heated and then quenched. The quenched metal undergoes a martensitic phase transformation, increasing the hardness of the part. This has the advantage that not the entire part must be treated, so the hardening only affects the spline.

[0037] Optionally, the first housing portion may have a gear mounting flange.

[0038] A gear mounting flange can be understood as a flange configured to mount a component having a gear. The gear mounting flange may be located at one end of the first housing portion, particularly the end opposite to the cross shaft gear assembly.

[0039] Alternatively, the first housing portion may be gearless.

[0040] In other words, the first housing part may not directly engage with other gears, teeth, grooves, etc.

[0041] In this way, the first housing section may not have any parts that require rigid materials. Instead, lighter or more cost-effective materials can be used. This also improves maintenance costs.

[0042] Optionally, the first shell portion and the second shell portion are at least partially formed as solid of revolution and are arranged concentrically with each other.

[0043] A solid of revolution can be understood as a volume that can be defined by a two-dimensional path that rotates around an axis. Examples of solids of revolution are cylinders (defined by rectangles), spheres (defined by semicircles), etc.

[0044] Rotary bodies can be produced by turning, but they can also be obtained by other means.

[0045] The housing portion designed as a rotating body may include a portion slightly offset from the main body of the rotating body, especially when components have already been attached to it.

[0046] The concentric design of the rotating body ensures balanced rotation, reduces wear, and thus increases the length of time between maintenance.

[0047] Optionally, the differential assembly may include a first connecting portion concentric with the second connecting portion.

[0048] The concentric connection ensures precise alignment, thereby reducing the risk of misalignment during reassembly.

[0049] Optionally, the differential assembly may include a first connecting portion and a second connecting portion, the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion being configured to at least partially abut against each other when the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion are connected to each other.

[0050] The flat connection surface provides a stable and secure fit, making it easier to separate and reassemble the housing parts.

[0051] The first connecting portion and / or the second connecting portion may include at least one seal.

[0052] The seals further improve the protection of the differential from environmental influences, and can be easily replaced when the first and second parts of the housing are separated for maintenance.

[0053] Optionally, the differential assembly may include at least a first connecting portion or a second connecting portion having a ring.

[0054] The circular surface facilitates smooth rotation and makes alignment easier during maintenance.

[0055] Optionally, the differential assembly may include a first housing portion having a flange configured to connect to a ring gear.

[0056] The connection between the flange and the ring gear allows for easy removal and replacement of the ring gear during maintenance.

[0057] Optionally, the differential assembly may include a flange concentric with the axis of rotation of the ring gear.

[0058] Concentric flanges and rotation axes ensure proper alignment and simplify the reassembly process.

[0059] Alternatively, the differential assembly may include a first housing portion made of a different material than the second housing portion.

[0060] The use of different materials for the housing portion allows for cost-effective manufacturing and targeted material use based on stress requirements.

[0061] Another advantage is that removable fasteners are particularly well-suited for joining two different materials because they do not require chemical or physical interaction with the materials. If chemical interaction is necessary, such as when joining a first and second part by welding, a welding process specifically designed for both materials might be required, which could be impossible in some cases.

[0062] One of the two materials may undergo additional steps to enhance its mechanical properties, such as hardening, particularly induction hardening.

[0063] This allows expensive materials to be used where they are actually needed, which reduces costs during manufacturing and when these parts must be replaced.

[0064] Optionally, the differential assembly may include a first housing portion that is at least partially made of ductile iron.

[0065] Ductile iron, also known as ductile cast iron, is a type of iron-rich cast iron. Due to its spheroidal graphite inclusions, ductile cast iron has high impact resistance and fatigue resistance.

[0066] Using ductile iron for the first housing section provides durability and strength where needed, while still allowing for cost-effectiveness.

[0067] Alternatively, the differential assembly may include a second housing portion that is at least partially made of steel.

[0068] The steel can be, in particular, one of alloy steel, stainless steel or tool steel.

[0069] Alloy steels that can be alloyed with elements other than iron in total amounts of 1.0% to 50% by weight provide high strength and wear resistance.

[0070] Stainless steel, which can be considered as iron containing at least chromium and one other element (such as molybdenum, carbon, nickel, or nitrogen), not only has high strength but is also very strong against rust and corrosion.

[0071] Tool steel can be considered as steel with a carbon content between 0.5% and 1.5% and containing at least one alloying element (particularly at least one of tungsten, chromium, vanadium or molybdenum).

[0072] Typically, the steel used for the second housing section provides robustness and lifespan, thereby reducing the frequency of maintenance.

[0073] If the second housing portion is smaller than the first housing portion, the total cost of the component can be reduced if only the second housing portion is made of an expensive material such as steel and the first housing portion is made of a cheaper material such as ductile iron.

[0074] The spline engagement with the differential lock ensures a secure lock, which can be easily disengaged for maintenance.

[0075] Optionally, the differential assembly may include a second housing portion connected to the differential lock.

[0076] The connection to the differential lock allows for direct disconnection and maintenance of the lock mechanism.

[0077] Optionally, the differential assembly may include a removable fastener configured as at least one of bolts, nuts, and studs.

[0078] Bolts provide a strong and secure connection that can be easily removed and reinstalled, allowing quick access to internal components. Nuts can be easily unscrewed and reused, facilitating the disassembly and reassembly of the differential housing for maintenance. Studs provide anchor points for alignment, allowing for direct and accurate reconnection of differential housing components after internal parts have been replaced.

[0079] According to one aspect of the invention, an axle assembly is provided, the axle assembly including a differential assembly, the differential assembly including a differential housing having a first housing portion and a second housing portion, the differential housing being configured to retain a differential having a cross shaft gear assembly, wherein the central plane of the cross shaft gear assembly is perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the ring gear of the differential, wherein the first housing portion is connected to the second housing portion by at least one removable fastener, wherein the connection between the first housing portion and the second housing portion is offset relative to the central plane, and at least a half shaft, an axle housing configured to at least partially surround the half shaft, a differential bracket, or an input yoke.

[0080] A half-shaft can be configured to transmit torque from a power source to the wheels or another rotating element of a vehicle. The half-shaft can be coupled to a differential, particularly via a spline connection.

[0081] The axle housing can be considered as a body configured to at least partially surround the half-shaft, thereby protecting the differential assembly, particularly components that may not be inside the differential gears (such as the ring gear), from environmental influences.

[0082] A differential bracket can be mounted to the axle housing. The differential bracket can support components of the differential assembly. For example, the differential bracket can have one or more bearing supports that can receive or support roller bearing assemblies that can rotatably support the differential assembly.

[0083] An input yoke can be considered as a device connected to a drivetrain component (such as a drive shaft) that can be connected to the output of a vehicle's transmission or transfer case, which in turn can receive torque from a vehicle's power source (such as an engine or motor). Alternatively, the input yoke can be operatively connected to the output of another axle assembly.

[0084] The first and second housing sections can be easily connected and disconnected with removable fasteners. This allows for cost-effective maintenance of the differential assembly, as faulty components can be replaced individually without replacing the entire assembly. The offset connection allows for easier separation of the housing sections, facilitating access to the crossshaft gear assembly for maintenance. For example, the larger of either the first or second housing section can be removed to access most of the components in the differential, while the smaller components of either the first or second housing section remain in place, thus maintaining the differential. Therefore, the axle assembly provides the same advantages described with the combined differential assembly. Furthermore, the axle assembly provides additional components for transmitting torque from the source to the target (e.g., the wheels).

[0085] Axle assemblies may include other components associated with a vehicle, particularly those that can be connected to the axle assembly and / or differential assembly. For example, an axle assembly may include a frame configured to hold the assembly in place within the vehicle. Another example is a machine that generates torque, particularly a motor.

[0086] Optionally, the axle assembly may include an axle housing, which includes at least a first housing portion and a second housing portion.

[0087] The separate housing portion for the axle housing allows for easier access to and maintenance of the half-shafts. In other words, the two-part housing design of the axle assembly allows for easy separation of the axle housing, facilitating maintenance of the entire assembly.

[0088] Optionally, the axle assembly may include a first housing portion and a second housing portion connected by at least one removable housing fastener.

[0089] Removable housing fasteners simplify the process of removing the bridge housing for maintenance. They provide a simple and cost-effective way to disconnect the first housing portion from the second housing portion.

[0090] Optionally, the axle assembly may include a connection plane formed by the connection of a first housing portion and a second housing portion, the connection plane being perpendicular to the center plane.

[0091] The vertical connection plane ensures stable and robust assembly, making it easier to separate and reassemble the housing components during maintenance.

[0092] Another aspect of the invention can be a vehicle having an axle assembly according to the invention and / or a differential assembly according to the invention. This vehicle has the same advantages as described in detail with the axle assembly and / or differential assembly.

[0093] Within the scope of this application, it is expressly intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples, and alternatives set forth in the foregoing paragraphs, in the claims, and / or in the following description and drawings, and in particular their respective features, may be employed individually or in any combination. All embodiments and / or features of any embodiment may be combined in any manner and / or combination unless such features are incompatible. The applicant reserves the right to amend any originally filed claim or correspondingly file any new claim, including the right to modify any originally filed claim to include any feature subordinate to and / or incorporated into any other claim, although not originally claimed in that manner.

[0094] Other benefits and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description of at least one exemplary embodiment for carrying out the invention, with reference to the accompanying drawings. Brief description of the attached diagram

[0095] One or more embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an axle assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a perspective view of a differential assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional side view of a differential assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a side view of a differential assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 This is another cross-sectional side view of a differential assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 This is an exploded view of a differential assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention; and Figure 7 yes Figure 2 Another cross-sectional view of the differential assembly. Detailed description

[0096] refer to Figure 1 An example of axle assembly 100 is shown. Axle assembly 100 can be installed in motor vehicles (such as trucks, buses, farm equipment, mining equipment, military transport or military vehicles, or cargo loading equipment for land, air or sea vessels).

[0097] In one or more embodiments, the motor vehicle may include a trailer for transporting goods.

[0098] Axle assembly 100 may be a component of a vehicle's drivetrain that provides torque to one or more traction wheel assemblies, which may include tires mounted on wheels. One or more axle assemblies 100 may be provided for a vehicle. For example, axle assembly 100 may be a single drive axle assembly, or it may be configured as part of a tandem axle configuration or a multi-axle configuration that may include multiple axle assemblies that can be connected in series.

[0099] For reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the axle assembly 100 includes a differential assembly 10 and may also include at least one of a half shaft 110, an axle housing 120 configured to at least partially surround the half shaft 110, a differential bracket 130, or an input yoke 140.

[0100] The half-shaft 110 can be configured to transmit torque from a power source to the wheels of a vehicle or another rotating element. For example... Figures 3 to 7 As shown, the half-shaft 110 can be connected to the differential 30. The half-shaft 110 may have two parts, each of which is connected at one end to a wheel or a rotatable part (not shown) and at the other end to a differential side gear.

[0101] like Figure 1 As shown, the axle housing 120 may be a body configured to at least partially surround the half-shaft 110, thereby protecting the differential assembly 10 (particularly components that may not be inside the differential gears, such as the ring gear 34) from environmental influences.

[0102] exist Figure 1 In this case, the axle housing 120 does not completely surround the half-shaft 110. Instead, the axle housing 120 has a spherical portion 121 surrounding the differential assembly 10 and two elongated portions 122 connected to the spherical portion 121, which surround a portion of the half-shaft 110.

[0103] like Figure 1 As shown, the differential bracket 130 can be mounted to the housing of the axle 120, particularly to the spherical portion 121. The differential bracket 130 can support components of the differential assembly. For example, the differential bracket 130 can have one or more bearing supports that can receive or support roller bearing assemblies that can rotatably support the differential assembly.

[0104] exist Figure 1 In the middle, the differential bracket 130 is arranged on the side of the differential assembly 10 perpendicular to the two ends of the axle and facing the input yoke 140.

[0105] Input yoke 140, especially as Figure 1 As shown, this can be considered a device connected to a drivetrain component (such as a drive shaft), which can be connected to the output of a vehicle's transmission or transfer case, which in turn can receive torque from a vehicle's power source (such as an engine or motor). Alternatively, the input yoke 140 can be operatively connected to the output of another axle assembly.

[0106] Now combine Figures 2 to 7 The differential assembly 10 is described in more detail.

[0107] Figure 2 A differential assembly 10, including a differential housing 20, is shown. Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the differential assembly 10, having a first housing portion 21 and a second housing portion 22, is shown. The differential assembly 10 is configured to retain a cross shaft gear assembly 32. Figures 5 to 7 Differential 30 (shown). Figure 3 The center position of the cross shaft gear assembly 32 is marked with a circle. The center plane 31 of the cross shaft gear assembly 32 is perpendicular to the ring gear 34 of the differential (the ring gear 34 is in...). Figures 4 to 7 The axis of rotation 33 (as shown in the diagram). Figure 3 In the middle, the first housing portion 21 and the second housing portion 22 are not yet connected. Figure 4 In this configuration, the first housing portion 21 is connected to the second housing portion 22 via at least one removable fastener 40. For example, in... Figure 3 and Figure 4 As can be seen, the connection between the first housing portion 21 and the second housing portion 22 is offset relative to the central plane 31.

[0108] The first housing portion 21 and the second housing portion 22 can be easily connected and disconnected with removable fasteners 40. This allows for cost-effective maintenance of the differential assembly 10, as faulty components can be replaced individually without replacing the entire assembly 10. The offset connection allows for easier separation of housing portions 21, 22, facilitating access to the cross shaft gear assembly 32 for maintenance. For example, the larger of the first housing portion 21 or the second housing portion 22 can be removed to access most of the components in the differential 30, while the smaller component of either housing portion 21 or the second housing portion 22 remains in place, thus maintaining the differential 30. Alternatively, the smaller portion can be removed while the larger portion remains in place. Removing the smaller portion requires less effort and time, making maintenance more efficient. In summary, the offset connection of the first housing portion 21 and the second housing portion 22 relative to the center plane 31 allows for flexible and efficient access to the differential 30 and improved maintenance.

[0109] For example in Figure 1 and Figure 2 As can be seen, the differential housing 20 may have a spherical shape, wherein two parts 21 and 22 form the larger and smaller portions of the spherical shape.

[0110] The shape can be aligned around the cross shaft gear assembly 32, at least inside or outside the differential housing 20.

[0111] Optionally, the differential assembly 10 may include a first housing portion 21 connected to the second housing portion 22 only by at least one removable fastener 40. Figure 4 In the embodiment shown, the first housing portion 21 is connected to the second housing portion 22 only by a plurality of removable fasteners 40.

[0112] Using only the removable fastener 40 simplifies disassembly and reassembly, making it easier to replace faulty parts. If the connection is established solely through the removable fastener 40, fewer tools (especially just one tool) are needed to disconnect the differential housing 20.

[0113] like Figure 2 and Figures 4 to 7 As shown, a plurality of removable fasteners 40 may be provided. These removable fasteners 40 may be arranged in an annular shape around the region where the first housing portion 21 and the second housing portion 22 are connected to each other.

[0114] Now go to Figure 6 The exploded view shows that the ring gear 34 can be connected to the first part 21 via the ring gear connector 41, which can also be configured to be removable in the same manner as the removable fastener 40. Figure 4 and Figure 5 The connected ring gear 34 is shown in the figure.

[0115] Optionally, the differential assembly 10 may include at least one removable fastener 40 on the shaft 35 facing the cross gear 36. This is in Figure 6 and Figure 7 It is best shown in the middle.

[0116] To allow at least one removable fastener 40 to face the shaft 35 of the cross gear 36, the first portion 21 and / or the second portion 22 of the housing 20 may have a through hole 41. Figure 6 In this context, the through-hole 41 refers only to the second housing portion 22, but it may also exist in the first housing portion 21. When the removable fastener 40 is removed, the through-hole 41 can be used as a maintenance opening for maintenance.

[0117] The removable fastener 40 facing the cross shaft gear 35 ensures secure positioning while allowing for direct gear replacement.

[0118] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the differential assembly 10 may include a second housing portion 22 having a spline 27 configured to engage with a differential lock 28.

[0119] Because spline 27 can be considered as a ridge or tooth, it matches the groove in the mating part and transmits torque to it, thus maintaining the angular correspondence between them.

[0120] Optionally, the second housing portion 22 may have a spline 27 configured to engage with the differential lock 28.

[0121] In other words, the second housing portion 22 may have ridges or teeth that engage with corresponding grooves in the differential lock 28.

[0122] In this way, the second housing portion 22 can directly engage with the differential lock 28, which improves the mechanical stability and durability of the connection. Furthermore, the connection via the spline 27 allows for easy disassembly for maintenance.

[0123] Alternatively, spline 27 can be induction hardened.

[0124] Induction hardening can be considered a type of surface hardening in which a metal part, particularly spline 27 or a portion of the second housing portion 22 including spline 27, is induction heated and then quenched. The quenched metal undergoes a martensitic phase transformation, increasing the hardness of the part. This has the advantage that not the entire part must be treated, so the hardening only affects spline 27.

[0125] While not absolutely necessary, hardening spline 27 increases its mechanical resistance when engaged with differential lock 28, thereby ensuring smooth movement and long service life.

[0126] Optionally, the first housing portion 21 may have a gear mounting flange 29, such as Figure 7 As shown.

[0127] The gear mounting flange 29 can be understood as a flange configured to mount a component having a gear. For example... Figure 7 As shown, the gear mounting flange 29 can be arranged on one end of the first housing portion 21, particularly the end opposite to the cross shaft gear assembly 32.

[0128] Alternatively, the first housing portion 21 may be gearless.

[0129] In other words, the first housing portion 21 may not directly engage with other gears, teeth, grooves, etc.

[0130] In this way, the first housing portion 21 may not have any parts that require rigid materials. Instead, lighter and / or more cost-effective materials can be used. This can also improve maintenance costs.

[0131] Optionally, the differential assembly 10 may include a first housing portion 21 and a second housing portion 22, which are at least partially designed as rotating bodies and arranged concentrically with each other.

[0132] The concentric design of the rotating body ensures balanced rotation, reduces wear, and simplifies maintenance.

[0133] In the illustrated embodiment, the differential housing 20 is spherical. However, other shapes, such as cylindrical or elliptical, are also possible.

[0134] Back Figure 3 and Figure 4 It can be provided that the differential assembly 10 includes a first housing portion 21 having a first connection portion 24 configured to connect to a second connection portion 25 of a second housing portion 22.

[0135] The clearly defined connection parts make it easier to align and connect the housing parts 21 and 22, thereby simplifying the maintenance process.

[0136] like Figure 5 As can be seen, when the first housing part 21 and the second housing part 22 are connected, the connecting parts 24 and 25 can be laid flat against each other.

[0137] like Figure 3 As shown, the differential assembly 10 may include a first connecting portion 24 concentric with the second connecting portion 25.

[0138] The concentric connecting portions 24 and 25 help ensure precise alignment, thereby reducing the risk of misalignment during reassembly. It may also be provided that the first connecting portion 24 and the second connecting portion 25 include a recess on one portion and a corresponding protrusion on the other portion, the recess and protrusion being configured to interlock when the components are connected. This further improves the mechanical stability of the connection and facilitates connecting the two housing portions 21 and 22 before assembly or when separated for maintenance.

[0139] Optionally, the differential assembly 10 may include a first connecting portion 24 and a second connecting portion 25, the first connecting portion 24 and the second connecting portion 25 being configured to at least partially abut against each other when the first connecting portion 24 and the second connecting portion 25 are connected to each other.

[0140] The flat connection surface provides a stable and secure fit, making it easier to separate and reassemble the housing parts.

[0141] Optionally, the differential assembly 10 may include at least a first connecting portion 24 or a second connecting portion 25 having an annulus, which can be Figure 6 I saw it in the middle.

[0142] The circular surface facilitates smooth rotation and makes alignment easier during maintenance.

[0143] exist Figure 6 and Figure 4 The diagram also shows that the differential assembly 10 may include a first housing portion 21 having a flange 26 configured to connect to a ring gear 34.

[0144] The connection between flange 26 and ring gear 34 allows for easy removal and replacement of ring gear 34 during maintenance.

[0145] Optionally, the differential assembly 10 may include a flange 26 concentric with the axis of rotation 33 of the ring gear 34.

[0146] Concentric flanges 26 and rotation axis 33 ensure proper alignment, thereby simplifying the reassembly process.

[0147] Alternatively, the differential assembly 10 may include a first housing portion 21 made of a different material than the second housing portion 22.

[0148] The use of different materials for the housing portion allows for cost-effective manufacturing and targeted material use based on stress requirements.

[0149] Optionally, the differential assembly 10 may include a first housing portion 21 made at least partially of ductile iron.

[0150] Using ductile iron for the first housing portion 21 provides durability and strength where needed, while still allowing for cost-effectiveness.

[0151] Optionally, the differential assembly 10 may include a second housing portion 22 made at least partially of steel.

[0152] The steel used for the second housing portion 22 provides robustness and lifespan, thereby reducing maintenance frequency. Furthermore, if the second housing portion 22 is smaller than the first housing portion 21, the overall cost of the assembly can be reduced if only the second housing portion 22 is made of steel and the first housing portion 21 is made of a cheaper material such as ductile iron.

[0153] Optionally, the differential assembly 10 may include a second housing portion 22 connected to the differential lock 28.

[0154] The connection to the differential lock 28 allows for direct disconnection and maintenance of the lock mechanism.

[0155] Although the embodiments in the accompanying drawings show a screw with a nut as a removable fastener 40, the differential assembly 10 may typically include a removable fastener 40 configured as a bolt or at least one of a nut and a stud.

[0156] Bolts provide a strong and secure connection that can be easily removed and reinstalled, allowing quick access to internal components. Nuts can be easily unscrewed and reused, facilitating the disassembly and reassembly of the differential housing 20 for maintenance. Studs provide fixing points for alignment, allowing for direct and accurate reconnection of portions 21 and 22 of the differential housing 20 after replacement of internal components.

[0157] When the word "or" appears, it should be interpreted as meaning "and / or". This makes the items mentioned not necessarily mutually exclusive and can be used in any appropriate combination. In a list of items, the second-to-last item in the list may not be separated by a comma, but it still means that it is part of the list.

[0158] The invention has been described above with reference to one or more specific embodiments. However, this description is not exhaustive, and the invention is not limited to the described embodiments. Various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the claims. For example, the differential assembly may be at least partially made of plastic. Furthermore, removable fasteners may be configured as clamping mechanisms or bayonet mounts.

Claims

1. A differential assembly (10), comprising: A differential housing (20) having a first housing portion (21) and a second housing portion (22) is configured to hold a differential (30) having a cross shaft gear assembly (32). The central plane (31) of the cross shaft gear assembly (32) is perpendicular to the rotation axis (33) of the ring gear (34) of the differential (30). The first housing portion (21) is connected to the second housing portion (22) by at least one removable fastener (40), and The connection between the first housing portion (21) and the second housing portion (22) is offset relative to the central plane (31).

2. The differential assembly (10) according to claim 1. in, The first housing portion (21) is connected to the second housing portion (22) only by the at least one removable fastener (40).

3. The differential assembly (10) according to claim 1 or 2. in, The second housing portion (22) has a spline (27) configured to engage with a differential lock (28).

4. The differential assembly (10) according to claim 3. in, The spline (27) is induction hardened.

5. The differential assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims. in, The first housing portion (21) has a gear mounting flange (29).

6. The differential assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims. in, The first housing portion (21) is gearless.

7. The differential assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims. in, The first housing portion (21) and the second housing portion (22) are at least partially designed as rotating bodies and arranged concentrically with each other.

8. The differential assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims. in, The first housing portion (21) has a first connecting portion (24), which is configured to connect to a second connecting portion (25) of the second housing portion (22). In particular, Wherein, the first connecting portion (24) and the second connecting portion (25) are concentric, and / or The first connecting portion (24) and the second connecting portion (25) are configured to at least partially abut each other when the first connecting portion (24) and the second connecting portion (25) are connected to each other.

9. The differential assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims. in, At least the first connecting portion (24) or the second connecting portion (25) has an annulus.

10. The differential assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims. in, The first housing portion (21) has a flange (26) configured to connect to the ring gear (34), specifically, The flange (26) is concentric with the rotation axis (33) of the ring gear (34).

11. The differential assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims. in, The first housing portion (21) is made of a different material than the second housing portion (22).

12. The differential assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims. in, The first housing portion (21) is at least partially made of ductile iron, and / or The second housing portion (22) is at least partially made of steel.

13. The differential assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims. in, The second housing portion (22) is connected to the differential lock (28).

14. The differential assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims. in, The removable fastener (40) is configured as a bolt, or at least one of a nut and a stud.

15. An axle assembly (100), comprising: Differential assembly (10), particularly the differential assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, The differential assembly (10) includes a differential housing (20) having a first housing portion (21) and a second housing portion (22). The differential housing (20) is configured to hold a differential (30) having a cross-shaft gear assembly (32), wherein the central plane (31) of the cross-shaft gear assembly (32) is perpendicular to the axis of rotation (33) of the ring gear (34) of the differential (30). The first housing portion (21) is connected to the second housing portion (22) by at least one removable fastener (40), wherein the connection between the first housing portion (21) and the second housing portion (22) is offset relative to the central plane (31). At least a half shaft (110), an axle housing (120) configured to at least partially surround the half shaft (110), a differential bracket (130), or an input yoke (140).

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