Axial Cam Differential Limiter Thrust Offset
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing differential limiters have complex and large structures due to the occupation of inner space by the differential mechanism, leading to increased size and weight, particularly in housing components that bear thrust forces from the cam mechanism.
Innovation Solution
A differential limiter design featuring a differential mechanism with an input member, first and second output members, and a differential gear, along with a first cam mechanism and a frictional clutch, where the first and second axial thrust forces from the cam mechanism press the clutch from opposing ends, reducing the need for additional structural support and minimizing size and weight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the differential mechanism occupies the inner space from shaft core to radial outer side, then the differential limiting function is achieved, but the space for cam mechanism is limited and the structure becomes complicated and large in size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repositions the cam mechanism from a radial arrangement to an axial arrangement. The cam mechanism is disposed between the housing and the differential mechanism in the axial direction, allowing the cam lobe to press the pressure plate axially rather than radially. This dimensional change resolves the space conflict and simplifies the overall structure.
2Reliability
If the housing has side wall plates to bear thrust forces from the cam mechanism, then the clutching function is achieved, but the housing needs to increase strength and becomes heavy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the thrust force bearing function into the differential mechanism itself. The differential mechanism's side gear or case serves as the thrust bearing surface for the cam mechanism, eliminating the need for separate reinforced housing side wall plates. This integration reduces housing weight while maintaining clutching reliability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The design achieves a compact and efficient differential limiting function by offsetting thrust forces within the differential mechanism, reducing the complexity and size of the limiter while maintaining effective torque sensitivity and control over the clutching force.
Implementation Method 1
a first cam mechanism including: i) a first cam face formed on the first output member, and ii) a second cam face formed on the shaft member, the first cam face and the second cam face are so connected with each other as to oppose each other in an axial direction, to thereby cause respectively a first axial thrust force and a second axial thrust force according to the driving torque
Implementation Method 2
a frictional clutch disposed between any two of the input member, the first output member and the second output member, and transmitting a differential limit torque
Data Source
AI summary
A differential limiter, including: differential mechanism, including: input member, first output member, second output member, and differential gear connecting the above three members so that the above three members differentially rotate; shaft member connected to the first output member and serving as output member of driving force; first cam mechanism including: first cam face on the first output member, and second cam face on the shaft member, the first cam face and second cam face are oppositely connected with each other in axial direction, to cause first axial thrust force and second axial thrust force according to driving torque; and frictional clutch between two of the above three members, and transmitting a differential limit torque. The first axial thrust force of the first output member presses the frictional clutch from first axial end. The second axial thrust force of the shaft member presses the frictional clutch from second axial end.