Selectable differential drive for a vehicle
US11498431B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 26, 2021 |
| Grant date | Nov 15, 2022 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 26, 2041 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60L2260/26
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A drive system includes a first drive train and a second drive train coupled by a differential assembly. Each drive train include a motor, an output gear, and a clutch assembly that engages and disengages the output gear from respective halfshafts. The differential assembly is configured to couple the first and second halfshafts, and connect/disconnect the first output gear and the first halfshaft. The differential assembly includes, for example, side gears, a spider gearset, and an actuator for engaging and disengaging the differential casing from the first output gear. A control system is configured to actuate actuators of clutch assemblies and/or a differential assembly to achieve one or more drive modes for each drive axis. The control system determines the first drive mode, controls the clutch assemblies and differential assemblies, and controls one or more motors. The drive modes include, for example, torque vectoring, fully locked, single motor, and neutral.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.