Electromechanical Dual-Wheel Differential Locking System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current dual-wheel differential locking mechanisms are unsatisfactory as they require operators to leave the vehicle and manually actuate difficult-to-reach nuts to lock differential components, which is inconvenient and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A user-actuatable differential locking system that includes a mechanically coupled inner and outer hub with a locking mechanism, such as a radially or axially translating locking pin, which can be actuated electromechanically, pneumatically, or hydraulically, allowing for convenient locking and unlocking of the hubs from within the vehicle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual locking mechanisms with difficult-to-reach nuts are used, then the differential components can be locked, but the operator must leave the vehicle and manually actuate the locking mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical actuation with an electromechanical actuation system. The locking pin is moved from a manually operated nut mechanism to an electromechanical actuator that can be controlled from inside the vehicle, eliminating the need for the operator to physically reach difficult-to-access components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary electromechanical actuator between the control input and the locking pin. This actuator translates electrical signals into mechanical motion to move the locking pin, serving as a mediator that allows remote operation from inside the vehicle without direct manual manipulation of the locking mechanism.
2Reliability
If manual locking mechanisms are used, then the differential can be locked, but the operator must exit the vehicle to actuate the locking mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical locking system with an electromechanical system that maintains the reliability of the locking function while dramatically improving ease of operation. The electromechanical actuator ensures positive locking engagement while allowing the operator to initiate the locking sequence from inside the vehicle.
3Productivity
If traditional locking mechanisms with nuts are used, then the differential components can be locked, but the actuation is difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the complex manual nut-and-thread mechanism with a simpler electromechanical actuator system. While the actuator adds electrical components, it eliminates the need for manual manipulation of multiple fastening elements, thereby improving operational efficiency and reducing the complexity of user interaction.
Solution Approach 2:
The electromechanical actuator system performs the locking action automatically once activated by the operator. The system self-actuates the locking pin movement, eliminating the need for the operator to manually manipulate fasteners or perform multiple manual operations to achieve locking.
Data Source
AI summary
A dual-wheel differential system includes an in inner hub, an outer hub, and a differential assembly mechanically coupled between the inner hub and the outer hub to allow the inner hub and the outer hub to rotate at different angular speeds. A user-actuatable locking system is configured to mechanically lock the inner hub to the outer hub. The user-actuatable locking system may include at least one axially-translating or radially-translating locking pin configured to engage at least one of the inner hub and the outer hub. The locking system may be pneumatically, hydraulically, or electromechanically actuated.