Differential Module Sliding Sleeve for Selective Torque Coupling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing differential modules in vehicle transmission systems are complex and inefficient, with coupling mechanisms that are not compact and lack additional functionalities.

Innovation Solution

A differential module with a sliding sleeve that axially moves along a first axis of rotation, featuring form-cooperative links for selective coupling and decoupling of wheel drive shafts, including planetary gears and a simplified structure that allows for efficient torque transmission and position transitions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a sliding sleeve is used for selective coupling between input and output elements, then the differential module can selectively make wheels free or driven, but the structure becomes complex and less compact

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveselective coupling capabilityVSAvoidstructure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the sliding sleeve with the second planetary pinion into a single integrated component. The sliding sleeve is fixed in rotation to the second planetary pinion, eliminating the need for separate coupling mechanisms and reducing structural complexity while maintaining selective coupling capability through axial movement.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The sliding sleeve serves multiple functions: it acts as both a coupling mechanism for selective engagement and a rotational link to the planetary pinion. By integrating these functions into one component, the design achieves versatility without proportionally increasing complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Power

If traditional coupling means are used, then torque transmission is achieved, but mechanical losses and friction are increased

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetorque transmissionVSAvoidmechanical losses

Core Design Contradiction:

PowerVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional multi-component mechanical coupling mechanisms with a simplified sliding sleeve design that uses form-cooperation links. This substitution reduces the number of moving parts and contact surfaces, thereby reducing friction and mechanical losses while maintaining effective torque transmission.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Adaptability or versatility

If additional functionalities are added to the differential module, then versatility is improved, but the structure becomes less compact

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadditional functionalitiesVSAvoidmodule compactness

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The sliding sleeve is positioned within the planetary gear assembly, nesting the coupling mechanism within the existing structural framework. This nesting approach allows additional functionality (selective coupling) to be integrated without significantly increasing the overall volume of the differential module.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Data Source

PatentEP4678446A1Differential module

Publication Date: 2026.01.14 VALEO EMBRAYAGES SAS

Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6

AI summary

The invention relates to a differential module (2) having a first axis of rotation (X1) and comprising: - a planet carrier (9); - a planetary pinion (11) pivotally mounted on the planet carrier (9); - a first and a second planetary pinions (12,13) pivoting about the first axis of rotation (X1); - a first and a second wheel drive shafts (3,4), the first wheel drive shaft (3) being rotationally linked to the first planetary pinion (12); and - a sliding sleeve (8) movable between two axial positions; a first form cooperation link being arranged between the sliding sleeve and the second planetary pinion, the first form cooperation link being configured so that the sliding sleeve is permanently rotationally linked to the second planetary pinion and slides axially between the two axial positions.