Differential Gear Lock Mechanism Miniaturization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing differential gears with differential lock mechanisms are complex and large, making them unsuitable for miniaturization, which is necessary for vehicle size reduction while maintaining functionality for both driving and parking modes.
Innovation Solution
A differential gear design that incorporates a differential lock mechanism mechanically connected to two manipulators, utilizing a collecting member and transmission member to simplify the switching mechanism, with a spring biasing the system to a non-differential state and elongated holes preventing operation unless both manipulators are activated, along with cable adjusters and a casing to house the components, ensuring compactness and maintainability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a differential lock mechanism is mechanically connected to two manipulators (drive mode manipulator and parking manipulator) with separate cables, then the differential gear can be locked during both driving and parking, but the structure becomes complicated and large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the control functions of two manipulators into a single integrated differential lock mechanism. The mechanism uses a unified structure where the drive mode manipulator and parking manipulator both act on the same differential lock mechanism through a shared cable connection, eliminating the need for two separate cable connections and reducing structural complexity while maintaining the ability to lock during both driving and parking modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The differential lock mechanism is designed to serve multiple functions through a single structure. It can be operated by either the drive mode manipulator or the parking manipulator, allowing the same mechanism to handle both driving mode locking and parking mode locking requirements, thereby reducing the need for separate dedicated mechanisms for each function.
2Reliability
If a differential lock mechanism is mechanically connected to two manipulators with separate cables, then the differential gear can be locked during both driving and parking, but the overall size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the cable connections into a single integrated system where both manipulators connect to the differential lock mechanism through a unified cable arrangement. This consolidation eliminates redundant cable routing and connection points, reducing the space required for cable management and allowing for miniaturization of the overall differential gear assembly.
3Adaptability or versatility
If cables are extended from both manipulators to the differential lock mechanism with two connection portions, then both drive mode and parking mode control is achieved, but the structure becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the two separate cable connections into a single connection point on the differential lock mechanism. Both the drive mode manipulator and parking manipulator connect to this unified interface, simplifying the connection structure while preserving the ability to control both drive mode and parking mode operations through the shared connection point.
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 miniaturization of the differential gear with a differential lock mechanism, maintaining a locked state even when cables are slackened, enhancing maintainability and preventing accidental release of the differential lock during mode changes, while keeping the system compact and protected from environmental factors.
Implementation Method 1
the switching means includes a spring which always biases the differential mechanism to a non-differential state side
Data Source
AI summary
A differential mechanism regulating device which is mechanically connected to two manipulators is miniaturized. When a first cable and a second cable are pulled, a collecting member moves its position. As a result of this movement, the collecting member tilts a portion of an arm by way of a rod. As a result, a differential lock is released. The operation of the first cable and the operation of the second cable can be merged by the collecting member, and it is sufficient to connect only a collecting transmission member to the arm. The connection between the arm and the collecting transmission member can be simplified thus realizing the miniaturization of the differential mechanism.