Dual-Differential Drive Layout for Multi-Mode Wheel Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drive devices for vehicles face complexity in configuration when attempting to realize multiple operation modes, such as differential lock, parking lock, and zero turn, due to the need for additional configurations and increased mechanical components.
Innovation Solution
A drive device incorporating a first and second differential mechanism, along with a switching mechanism that allows for connection and non-connection states between various elements, including support members, shaft elements, and differential mechanisms, to enable multiple operation modes while minimizing device complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If additional configurations are provided to realize multiple operation modes (differential lock, parking lock, zero turn), then operational versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling the second differential mechanism to perform multiple operations: differential operation (first mode), direct connection (second mode), and fixed-to-ground (third mode). This allows a single mechanism to replace what would traditionally require multiple separate mechanisms, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining operational versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamics by making the connection state of the second differential mechanism changeable through a switching mechanism. The second element, shaft element, and fifth element can be dynamically switched between connection and non-connection states, allowing the system to adapt between different operation modes (differential lock, parking lock, zero turn) without requiring fixed additional configurations for each mode.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a coupling device uses a pair of differential devices with switching means, then starting assist and turning assist functions are achieved, but the configuration becomes complicated when additional modes are needed
Solution Approach 1:
The second differential mechanism is designed to be multi-functional, capable of performing differential operation, direct connection, and fixed-to-ground operations. This universal design allows the same mechanism to serve multiple purposes that would traditionally require separate dedicated mechanisms for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of multiple operation modes into a single second differential mechanism. By combining differential operation, direct connection capability, and fixed-to-ground capability in one mechanism, the overall configuration complexity is reduced compared to using separate mechanisms for each function.
3Adaptability or versatility
If switching mechanism connects second element, shaft element, and fifth element, then direct connection state is achieved for differential lock, but mechanical complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The switching mechanism provides dynamic control over the connection state of the second element, shaft element, and fifth element. This dynamic switching capability allows the system to achieve differential lock (direct connection state) on demand without requiring permanent mechanical linkages, thereby reducing overall mechanical complexity while maintaining the required functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
A drive device capable of suppressing the complication of the device configuration in order to realize a plurality of operation modes is provided.A drive device includes a drive source, a first differential mechanism, a second differential mechanism, a switching mechanism, and a casing. The differential mechanism includes a first side gear connected to a left wheel, a first case connected to the drive source, and a second side gear. The second differential mechanism includes a third side gear connected to a right wheel, a second case, and a fourth side gear connected to the second side gear. The switching mechanism switches the casing, the first case, the second side gear, and the fourth side gear to a connection state and a non-connection state.