Variable Angle Joint Transfer Case Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle transfer cases with fixed angle joints are limited in their ability to accommodate varying vehicle sizes, as the reduced length of the front shaft increases the angle between the propeller shaft and the output shaft, making them unsuitable for a range of vehicle sizes.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a variable angle constant velocity joint within the transfer case, allowing for angular movement between the inner and outer races, enabling the transfer case to adapt to different vehicle sizes by adjusting the angle of the output shaft.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the front shaft length is decreased to reduce vehicle size, then the vehicle size is reduced, but the angle between the propeller shaft and output shaft increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a variable angle constant velocity joint that allows dynamic adjustment of the transmission angle between the propeller shaft and output shaft. The joint mechanism enables the output shaft to pivot relative to the propeller shaft, accommodating varying angles caused by different vehicle sizes and shaft lengths while maintaining constant velocity transmission.
2Device complexity
If a fixed angle joint is used in the transfer case, then the structure is simple, but the transfer case can only be configured for one vehicle size
Solution Approach 1:
The variable angle constant velocity joint provides multi-functionality by enabling the same transfer case design to accommodate multiple vehicle sizes and configurations. The joint's ability to pivot and adjust to different angles allows a single transfer case design to be universally applied across various vehicle platforms without requiring size-specific customization.
Data Source
AI summary
A torque transfer device for a vehicle may include a housing and a variable angle constant velocity joint integrated with the housing. The joint may be connected between a drive mechanism and an output shaft for transmitting torque from the drive mechanism to the output shaft.