4WD Transfer Gear Damping for Resonance and Torque Capacity

The power transmission path is segmented into multiple damping stages. The first shear damper (low rigidity) handles low-torque ranges to suppress resonance, while the second shear damper (higher rigidity) engages in high-torque ranges to provide sufficient transmission torque capacity. This segmentation allows each damper to be optimized for its specific torque range.

The damping system transitions dynamically from the first shear damper to the second shear damper as torque increases. The splines with different backlash values enable this dynamic transition, where the low-rigidity path is active at low torque and the high-rigidity path engages at high torque, providing adaptive damping characteristics.

The system dynamically selects the appropriate damping rigidity based on torque levels. At low torque levels, the first shear damper with low rigidity is active, shifting the natural frequency away from resonant ranges to prevent tooth hammering noise. At high torque levels, the second shear damper with higher rigidity engages to provide sufficient transmission torque capacity.

The system changes the effective rigidity parameter of the damping system based on operating conditions. By using splines with different backlash values, the system transitions between two distinct rigidity states, optimizing the damping characteristic for each torque range to prevent noise at low torque and ensure power transmission at high torque.

The damping function is segmented into two distinct systems: the first shear damper for low-torque resonance suppression and the second shear damper for high-torque power transmission. This segmentation allows the system to maintain low effective rigidity when needed for resonance suppression while providing high rigidity when power transmission is required.

The spline connections with different backlash values act as intermediaries that enable the transition between the two damping systems. The first spline with larger backlash allows the first shear damper to function independently at low torque, while the second spline with smaller backlash engages the second shear damper at high torque, ensuring sufficient power transmission capacity.

The patent uses simple shear-type dampers with basic elastic members instead of complex compression-type dampers with multiple elastic members and stopper mechanisms. The shear damper design is simpler, more cost-effective, and sufficient for the application requirements when configured in a dual-stage system.

Instead of using a single complex damper design, the system segments the damping function into two simple shear dampers with different rigidity characteristics. This segmentation allows each damper to be designed simply while collectively providing the full range of required performance from low-torque resonance suppression to high-torque power transmission.