Differential Cross-Pin Assembly Merging Pinion Shafts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing differential assemblies face complexity and cost challenges in securing multiple pinion shafts relative to the differential housing efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A differential assembly with a cross-pin assembly that includes pin members with cylindrical bodies and fingers, where the fingers converge to non-rotatably couple the pin members together, and a retainer member is used to secure them, allowing for robust and cost-effective coupling of pinion shafts to the differential housing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple pinion shafts are coupled to the differential housing using traditional methods, then the differential assembly can function properly, but the coupling becomes complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple pinion shafts (first, second, and third pinion shafts) into a single integrated cross-pin assembly that rotates together about a common output axis. This merging of previously separate coupling operations into one unified assembly reduces the number of individual coupling steps and simplifies the overall manufacturing process while maintaining reliable connection of all pinion shafts to the differential housing
Solution Approach 2:
The cross-pin assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it supports and rotates all three pinion shafts, provides a common mounting interface to the differential housing, and enables synchronized rotation of the pinion gears. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate coupling mechanisms for each pinion shaft, thereby reducing complexity and cost
2Reliability
If multiple pinion shafts are coupled to the differential housing using traditional methods, then the differential assembly can function properly, but the coupling becomes costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple pinion shafts (first, second, and third pinion shafts) into a single integrated cross-pin assembly that rotates together about a common output axis. This merging of previously separate coupling operations into one unified assembly reduces the number of individual coupling steps and simplifies the overall manufacturing process while maintaining reliable connection of all pinion shafts to the differential housing
Solution Approach 2:
The cross-pin assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it supports and rotates all three pinion shafts, provides a common mounting interface to the differential housing, and enables synchronized rotation of the pinion gears. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate coupling mechanisms for each pinion shaft, thereby reducing complexity and cost
Data Source
AI summary
A differential includes a cross-pin assembly. The case can rotate about an output axis. First and second side gears can be rotatable about the output axis relative to the case. First, second, and third pinion gears can be meshingly engaged with the first and second side gears. The cross-pin assembly can include first, second, and third pin members, each having a cylindrical body and a finger fixedly coupled to a proximal end of the corresponding cylindrical body. The first, second, and third pinion gears can be rotatably disposed about the corresponding first, second, or third cylindrical body. The first, second, and third fingers can overlap along the output axis to non-rotatably couple the first, second, and third pin members together.