Differential Lock Sleeve Layout for Reduced Axial Space
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing differential locks for motor vehicle differential gearboxes are not space-efficient due to the axial arrangement of spring elements outside the differential, which occupies considerable space and affects the locking mechanism's performance.
Innovation Solution
A space-saving differential lock design where a radially arranged spring element is positioned inside a sliding sleeve connected to the drive output shaft, allowing for a nested configuration that reduces axial length and optimizes the locking mechanism by using a shell-shaped sliding sleeve and coaxial arrangement with the drive output shaft, enabling efficient locking torque transmission and reduced fitting space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the spring element is arranged outside the differential (axial arrangement), then the differential lock can be designed with a simple structure, but the axial fitting space is considerably increased
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element is arranged radially inside the sliding sleeve, creating a nested configuration where the spring is positioned within the radial space of the sliding sleeve rather than occupying axial space outside the differential. This nesting approach reduces the axial length of the differential lock while maintaining structural functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring element is repositioned from an axial arrangement (outside the differential) to a radial arrangement (inside the sliding sleeve). This dimensional change moves the spring from the axial dimension to the radial dimension, thereby reducing axial fitting space while maintaining structural simplicity through the radial nesting configuration.
2Length of moving object
If the sliding sleeve is made shell-shaped with coaxial arrangement, then the nested configuration is optimized and fitting space is reduced, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The shell-shaped sliding sleeve is designed with the spring element nested inside its radial space, creating a compact coaxial arrangement. This nesting optimizes the use of available space within the differential lock, reducing axial fitting space while the modular shell design facilitates manufacturing through standardized components.
3Length of moving object
If the internal diameter of the differential cage is increased to accommodate the spring element inside, then the spring can be positioned radially inside the sliding sleeve, but the differential cage dimensions are increased
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element is nested within the radial space of the sliding sleeve, which itself is positioned within the differential cage. This nested arrangement allows the spring to be accommodated without significantly increasing the differential cage's internal diameter, as the spring occupies radial space within the existing structural envelope rather than requiring additional axial or radial clearance.
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 proposed design achieves a significantly more compact differential lock with enhanced locking performance and optimized contact patterns, ensuring efficient locking torque transmission while minimizing space requirements.
Implementation Method 1
the sliding sleeve is acted upon by pressure, for example by means of compressed air or the like. To produce as space-saving an arrangement as possible, it is provided that the spring element is arranged at least partially radially inside the sliding sleeve
Implementation Method 2
for the axial movement of the sliding sleeve which is prestressed against at least one spring element, the sliding sleeve is acted upon by pressure, for example by means of compressed air or the like
Data Source
AI summary
A differential lock is configured for locking compensation movements between drive output shafts (4) in a differential gearbox of a vehicle. In the locking condition, at least one of the drive output shafts (4) is connected with interlock to a differential cage (2) connected to a drive input, by means of a sliding sleeve (5) which is connected rotationally fixed to the drive output shaft (4) and can be displaced axially, For axial movement of the sliding sleeve (5), which is prestressed against at least one spring element (7), the action of a pressure (6) is provided. The spring element (7) is arranged, at least partially, radially inside the sliding sleeve (5). In addition a differential gearbox with the differential lock is proposed.