Hydraulically-Operated Axle Disconnect with Spin-On Filter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing axle assemblies with hydraulically-operated disconnect mechanisms face issues with particulates accumulating in the hydraulic fluid reservoir, which can contaminate the pump and affect performance.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a spin-on hydraulic filter with a filter element and seal member, positioned between the reservoir and the pump inlet, to prevent particulates from entering the pump, combined with a pump configuration that includes separate inlets/outlets with threaded connections for secure engagement and effective fluid communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a hydraulic reservoir is used to store fluid for the actuator, then the actuator can be selectively actuated, but particulates can accumulate in the fluid and contaminate the pump
Solution Approach 1:
The filter is positioned in the fluid path between the reservoir and pump inlet, performing preliminary filtration of particulates before the fluid reaches the pump. This preliminary action prevents contamination before it occurs, allowing the hydraulic system to operate selectively without pump damage from accumulated particulates.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter acts as an intermediary component between the reservoir and pump, mediating the fluid flow by removing harmful particulates while allowing clean fluid to pass through. This intermediary element protects the pump from contamination while maintaining the functional operation of the hydraulic actuator.
2Reliability
If a filter is added to prevent particulate accumulation, then pump contamination is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The filter assembly is integrated with the pump mounting structure, where the filter base combines with the pump inlet housing. The threaded connection and seal member create a unified assembly that reduces the number of separate components, making the filter addition less complex while maintaining reliable pump protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter assembly serves multiple functions: it filters particulates from the hydraulic fluid, provides a sealed connection point, and integrates with the pump mounting structure. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, minimizing the increase in device complexity while achieving reliable pump protection.
3Productivity
If the pump has separate inlet/outlet connections, then fluid communication is effective, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pump is designed with separate, distinct inlet and outlet connections rather than a single integrated port. This segmentation allows for dedicated fluid pathways that improve pumping efficiency and directional flow control, while each connection point can be manufactured and assembled independently, actually simplifying the manufacturing process.
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 solution effectively filters out particulates from the hydraulic fluid, ensuring clean fluid supply to the pump and maintaining the integrity of the hydraulic system, enhancing the reliability and longevity of the axle assembly.
Implementation Method 1
The filter element can be disposed between the reservoir and the first inlet/outlet
Implementation Method 2
The seal member can form a seal between the cylindrical wall and the cylindrical bore when the first and second sets of threads are threadably engaged
Implementation Method 3
The pump can be configured to pump a fluid between the first inlet/outlet and the second inlet/outlet
Implementation Method 4
a pump provides hydraulic fluid from a reservoir to the actuator to selectively operate the actuator
Implementation Method 5
The filter port can define a second set of threads configured to threadably engage the first set of threads
Data Source
AI summary
An axle assembly can include a housing defining a reservoir and cylindrical bore open thereto. A clutch can selectively transmit torque between input and output members. A first inlet/outlet of a pump can be in fluid communication with the reservoir and define first threads coaxial with the cylindrical bore. The pump can be configured to pump fluid from the first inlet/outlet to an actuator of the clutch via a second inlet/outlet. The filter can include a base, port, and filter element. The port can define second threads that threadably engage the first threads. The base can be fixedly coupled to the port and include a cylindrical wall coaxial with the second threads. A seal member can form a seal between the cylindrical wall and the cylindrical bore when the first and second threads are engaged. The filter element can be disposed between the reservoir and the first inlet/outlet.