Vehicle Axle Hub Lock Selective Coupling Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle axles lack efficient mechanisms for selectively coupling and decoupling power transfer between shafts and wheel hubs, particularly in all-wheel drive configurations, which limits dynamic power distribution and control between wheels.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle axle design incorporating a differential, first and second wheel hubs, first and second shafts, a hub lock, and a plug assembly, where the hub lock engages and disengages the splined end of the shaft to couple and decouple the shaft to and from the wheel hub, and the plug assembly secures the second wheel hub and shaft in a fixed arrangement, allowing for selective power transfer and rotation in unison.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a fixed coupling mechanism is used between shaft and wheel hub, then structural simplicity is improved, but dynamic power distribution capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a locking mechanism that can dynamically transition between locked and unlocked states, transforming a static coupling system into a dynamic one. This allows the axle to adapt between fixed coupling (for structural simplicity) and selective decoupling (for dynamic power distribution), resolving the contradiction by making the coupling state changeable rather than permanent
2Adaptability or versatility
If a selective coupling mechanism is used between shaft and wheel hub, then dynamic power distribution capability is improved, but device complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into distinct components including the locking element, engagement surfaces, and actuation elements. This segmentation allows each component to perform a specific function independently, making the complex selective coupling mechanism more manageable and easier to implement while maintaining the desired adaptability
3Adaptability or versatility
If all wheel hubs are selectively coupled, then all-wheel drive capability is improved, but manufacturing complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed as a universal component that can be applied to any wheel hub in the drivetrain. This multi-functional design allows the same mechanism to provide both selective coupling for individual wheels and coordinated operation for all-wheel drive, simplifying manufacturing by using identical components throughout the system rather than custom solutions for each wheel
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle axle includes first and second wheel hubs, first and second shafts, a hub lock, and a plug assembly. The first and second shafts extend into the first and second wheel hubs, respectively. The hub lock is configured to selectively couple the first shaft to the first wheel hub. The plug assembly is fixedly coupled to the second wheel hub and is fixedly coupled to the second shaft such that the second wheel hub, the second shaft, and the plug assembly rotate in unison.