External Shift Control Device for Axle Coupling Disconnection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle axle assemblies with electric motors and transmissions lack efficient mechanisms for disconnecting the wheels from upstream components during towing or non-powered movement, particularly when the vehicle control system is inoperative.
Innovation Solution
A shift control device is externally connected to the vehicle to command an actuator, moving a coupling to a neutral position, thereby disconnecting the electric motor from the wheel hub and optionally the transmission and differential assembly, using an external power supply to operate the actuator and lubricant pump.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the vehicle control system is used to control the coupling, then the control is integrated and automated, but the system cannot operate when the vehicle control system is inoperative
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an external shift control device as an intermediary between the operator and the axle assembly actuator. This external device can independently control the coupling mechanism without relying on the vehicle's internal control system, thereby providing operational reliability when the vehicle control system is inoperative while maintaining controlled complexity through a dedicated external controller
2Adaptability or versatility
If the coupling is disconnected to enable towing, then towing capability is achieved, but the wheel hub becomes disconnected from power transmission
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic coupling mechanism that can selectively connect or disconnect the wheel hub from upstream components based on operational requirements. The actuator enables the coupling to transition between engaged and neutral positions, allowing the system to adapt between power transmission mode and towing mode, thereby achieving both power transmission continuity during normal operation and towing capability when needed
3Ease of operation
If the actuator is commanded to move the coupling without power, then external control is possible, but the actuator requires electrical energy to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical intervention with an electrically controlled actuator system. The external shift control device sends electrical commands to the actuator, which then mechanically moves the coupling. This substitution enables precise external control while eliminating the need for manual mechanical manipulation, and the electrical energy consumption is managed through the external power supply integrated into the control device
Data Source
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AI summary
A shift control device and method of controlling an axle assembly of a vehicle. The method includes electrically connecting a shift control device to the vehicle and commanding, with the shift control device, an actuator to move a coupling of the axle assembly to a neutral position, thereby disconnecting an electric motor from a wheel hub.