Electromagnetic Locking Differential With Axial Clutch Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing differential gear mechanisms face difficulties in providing a compact solution for locking and unlocking side gears, which is crucial for differential rotation control.
Innovation Solution
An electric locking differential system utilizing an electromagnet to axially translate an actuation side housing, coupled with a ferrous housing and a chamfered edge, to switch between unlocked and locked configurations, enabling differential rotation control through an electromagnetic field.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a mechanism for locking and unlocking side gears is provided in a small package, then the differential rotation control is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical locking mechanisms with an electromagnetic actuation system. The electromagnet generates an electromagnetic field that acts on ferrous components (actuation side housing and ferrous housing) to achieve locking and unlocking of side gears, eliminating the need for complex mechanical linkages and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining effective differential rotation control
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes changes in magnetic field parameters (presence/absence of electromagnetic field) to control the locking state. By varying the electrical current to the electromagnet, the system transitions between locked and unlocked configurations, providing simple and effective differential rotation control without mechanical complexity
2Speed
If an electromagnet is used to actuate the locking mechanism, then the locking and unlocking speed is improved, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electromagnet operates in periodic cycles, being activated only when locking or unlocking is required rather than continuously running. This allows rapid transitions between states when needed while minimizing overall energy consumption during normal operation, achieving both fast response and energy efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the electromagnetic field's inherent properties to achieve rapid actuation without requiring additional mechanical components or continuous energy input. The electromagnetic field naturally and quickly establishes or dissipates based on electrical current application, providing self-service rapid locking/unlocking with minimal energy expenditure
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 system effectively locks and unlocks side gears using an electromagnetic actuation mechanism, providing efficient differential rotation control in a compact package.
Implementation Method 1
the electromagnet causes an electromagnetic field to couple through the ferrous housing to the actuation side housing when the electromagnet is engaged
Implementation Method 2
the electromagnetic field axially translates the electromagnet towards the actuation side housing
Implementation Method 3
the ferrous housing and the actuation side housing include a chamfered edge through which the electromagnetic field couples
Data Source
AI summary
A locking differential may be an electric locking differential with an electromagnet which actuates a clutch plate. The electric locking differential may include a final drive gear. The electromagnet may not rotate with the final drive gear. The electric locking differential may also include an actuation side housing. The actuation side housing may be affixed to the final drive gear. The electromagnet may cause an electromagnetic field to couple from a ferrous housing of the electromagnet to the actuation side housing. The electromagnetic field may axially translate the electromagnet relative to the actuation side housing. The ferrous housing and the actuation side housing may include a chamfered edge through which the electromagnetic field couples.