Gear Lash Control Member for Differential Gear Sets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drive train components in electric vehicles are energy-intensive due to their weight and frictional loading, which hinders the efficiency of electric motors and reduces operational time.
Innovation Solution
A differential gear set with a gear lash control member that maintains a desired gear lash between planet and side gears, reducing energy consumption by optimizing gear engagement and spacing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If traditional drive train components are used, then the vehicle can operate, but the weight and frictional loading increase energy consumption and reduce operational time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by precisely controlling gear lash (clearance) between meshing gears through a dedicated control member. By optimizing this geometric parameter, the gear engagement becomes more efficient with reduced friction and energy loss, directly addressing the energy consumption issue while extending operational time in electric vehicles
2Ease of manufacture
If gear clearance is increased for assembly and maintenance, then ease of assembly and maintenance is improved, but gear lash increases causing energy loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a gear lash control member as an intermediary component between the gears and the gear housing. This mediator precisely controls the gear lash, allowing for optimal clearance that minimizes energy loss while still permitting assembly and maintenance operations. The control member acts as a mediator that reconciles the conflicting requirements of ease of assembly and energy efficiency
Data Source
AI summary
A differential gear set including a gear housing and a first planet gear rotatably mounted to the gear housing and includes a first end portion having a plurality of planet gear teeth. A second planet gear is rotatably mounted to the gear housing and includes a first end portion having a plurality of planet gear teeth. A side gear is rotatably mounted in the gear housing and includes a plurality of side gear teeth that mechanically engage with the plurality of planet gear teeth of the first planet gear and the plurality of planet gear teeth of the second planet gear. A gear lash control member is interposed between the first and second planet gears and the side gear. The gear lash control member maintains a desired gear lash of the plurality of planet gear teeth and to the plurality of side gear teeth.