Low-Bulk Steering Differential with Epicyclic Gear Train
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mechanical differentials in vehicles face issues with bulkiness and increased mechanical stress on constant-velocity transmission joints, particularly in vehicles with varying track widths, leading to reduced maneuverability and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
A low-bulk mechanical differential steering system utilizing a bevel differential with an epicyclic gear train architecture, where the ring gear is secured to a freely rotating third bevel gear, reducing bulk and stress on joints, and allowing for precise steering control through a cascade of gears along the vehicle's longitudinal axis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional mechanical differentials are used with wheel-axis installation, then steering control is achieved, but bulkiness increases and forces on constant-velocity transmission joints increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent relocates the epicyclic gear train from the wheel axis to the vehicle's longitudinal axis, changing the spatial dimension of the steering mechanism. This dimensional shift reduces bulk along the wheel axis while maintaining steering control functionality through the alternative arrangement of gears and planet carrier along the longitudinal axis.
2Measurement precision
If epicyclic gear trains are installed on the wheel axis for steering, then steering precision is improved, but the number of parts increases and mechanical stress on joints increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the steering function with the existing differential mechanism by integrating the epicyclic gear train into the longitudinal axis architecture. This combines multiple functions (steering and differential operation) into a unified system, reducing the number of separate components while maintaining steering precision through the coordinated action of the planet carrier and gears.
3Reliability
If limited-slip differential is used to compensate for traction variation, then torque distribution is improved, but maneuverability in turns is impaired
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic torque distribution system where the epicyclic gear train allows selective engagement and disengagement of differential action. The mechanism can adapt its behavior based on operating conditions - providing limited-slip functionality when needed while allowing free differential operation during turns, thus maintaining both traction control and maneuverability through dynamic adjustment of the torque distribution characteristics.
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 solution reduces mechanical stress on transmission joints, enhances steering precision, and allows for efficient torque distribution between wheels, improving vehicle control during turns without the need for excessive motor power, especially in vehicles with varying track widths.
Implementation Method 1
an epicyclic gear train comprising: a second sun gear (2) secured to the input shaft (A), at least three planet gears (3) cooperating with the second sun gear (2) and secured together by a planet carrier (11) on which they are pivotably mounted, and a ring gear (4) cooperating with the at least three planet gears (3)
Implementation Method 2
an input shaft (A) comprising at its end a first bevel gear (1) secured to the input shaft (A), and a third bevel gear (5) freely rotating about the input shaft (A), a first output shaft (B) comprising a fourth bevel gear (6) secured to the first output shaft (B) and cooperating with the third bevel gear (5)
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a low-bulk steering system with mechanical differential for eliminating at least some of the disadvantages of the prior art by proposing a steering system with mechanical differential having architecture proposing reduced bulk in particular in the axis of the wheels enabling installation in vehicles having a smaller path.