Torque Proportioning Differential with Tapered Hubs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing torque proportioning differentials face inefficiencies in mechanical interaction and torque delivery, particularly when one tire is slipping and the other is solidly supported, leading to immobilization of the vehicle.
Innovation Solution
A differential gear mechanism with a gear case and gear set that includes output gears with tapered hubs and chamfered openings, allowing for frictional torque translation engagement under specific conditions to bias torque to the solidly supported tire, increasing efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If an open differential gear set is used, then the differential allows tires to rotate at different speeds during turning, but when one tire is on a slippery surface, all power is transferred to the slipping tire causing vehicle immobilization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the mechanical parameter of torque distribution by introducing frictional engagement surfaces (tapered hub and chamfered opening) that automatically adjust torque proportioning based on traction conditions. When one tire slips, the differential mechanism redistributes torque to favor the tire with better traction, resolving the immobilization problem while maintaining differential operation during turning
2Reliability
If torque proportioning mechanisms are added to prevent immobilization, then vehicle mobility under mixed traction conditions is improved, but mechanical interaction losses increase and torque delivery efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic torque proportioning mechanism where the frictional engagement between the tapered hub and chamfered opening automatically adjusts torque distribution based on real-time traction conditions. This dynamic adjustment minimizes mechanical losses by engaging the torque biasing function only when needed (during mixed traction conditions), rather than maintaining constant mechanical interaction
Solution Approach 2:
The frictional engagement surfaces act as an intermediary mechanism that smoothly transfers torque between the differential sides. This intermediary approach reduces harsh mechanical interactions and associated losses by providing a progressive, friction-based torque redistribution rather than abrupt mechanical locking
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
Enhances torque delivery to the solidly supported tire, improving vehicle traction and reducing the likelihood of immobilization by increasing torque proportioning efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The gear case and gear set cooperate to move the output gear such that the tapered portion is disposed in frictional, torque translating engagement with the chamfered portion on an adjacent corresponding opening
Data Source
AI summary
A differential gear mechanism including a gear case having a body defining a gear chamber having a pair of opposed openings with a pair of output gears rotatably supported in the gear chamber adjacent to the openings. At least one of the output gears has a hub with a tapered portion facing an adjacent opening. At least one of the openings includes an inner chamfer portion that corresponds to an adjacent tapered portion. The gear case and gear set cooperate to move the output gear such that the tapered portion is disposed in frictional, torque translating engagement with a chamfered portion to bias torque translated through the differential to the output shafts under predetermined conditions.