Bayonet Coupling for Axial Target Element in Differential Drive
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing differential assemblies with coupling systems in electric vehicle drivelines face challenges in securely mounting and axially engaging the target element, leading to potential deformation and inefficient torque transmission.
Innovation Solution
A bayonet coupling mechanism is introduced, where the target element is fixed to the second coupling part using axial projections with groove portions and radially inward tongue portions, allowing secure axial engagement and minimizing deformation through a form-fitting connection that can be easily produced and assembled.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the target element is fixed to the second coupling part using a conventional mounting method, then the assembly process is simple, but the connection is not secure and deformation occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The connection interface is segmented into axial projections on the second coupling part and corresponding groove portions on the target element. This segmentation allows the target element to be divided into segments that can be independently engaged with the axial projections, providing secure mounting while maintaining ease of assembly through a modular connection approach.
Solution Approach 2:
The target element is nested onto the second coupling part through a bayonet coupling mechanism where the target element is inserted axially and then rotated to engage the groove portions with the axial projections. This nesting approach provides a secure connection that is both easy to manufacture and assemble, resolving the contradiction between connection security and manufacturing ease.
2Power
If the target element is rigidly connected to the second coupling part, then torque transmission is efficient, but deformation occurs during actuation
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between the target element and second coupling part is designed with local quality variations through the bayonet coupling mechanism. The axial projections and groove portions provide localized form-fitting engagement that ensures efficient torque transmission at the connection interface, while the overall design allows for controlled deformation characteristics that prevent excessive stress concentration.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of rigidly connecting the target element to the second coupling part, the invention uses a bayonet coupling that allows for controlled movement and deformation. The axial insertion followed by rotational engagement creates a connection that transmits torque efficiently while accommodating deformation through the geometric design of the coupling interface, effectively inverting the conventional rigid connection approach.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the target element is axially movable relative to the second coupling part, then the coupling can switch positions, but the axial connection is not secure
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between the target element and second coupling part is designed to be dynamic rather than static. The bayonet coupling allows the target element to move axially during actuation while maintaining a secure form-fitting connection through the engagement of groove portions with axial projections. This dynamic connection provides both switching capability and axial connection security, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling assembly comprises a coupling which is arranged between a driving gear and a differential drive; a controllable actuator for actuating the coupling; a sensor for determining switching positions of the coupling; and a target element which cooperates with the sensor, wherein the target element is axially moved upon actuation of the actuator; wherein a first coupling part of the coupling is connected to a differential carrier of the differential drive and wherein a second coupling part of the coupling is held in a rotationally fixed and axially movable way relative to a differential housing of the differential drive, and wherein the target element is secured to the second coupling part by a bayonet-type connection.