Disconnecting differential side gear mechanism
US12352345B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 28, 2025 |
| Grant date | Jul 8, 2025 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 28, 2045 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16H2048/405
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A disconnectable differential assembly has a reduced axial length and a side gear disconnectable from an axle shaft via a clutch unit. Various components of the disconnect mechanism are axially aligned and concentric to reduce the axial length. An output hub splined on the axle shaft and is actuatable, via an axially shiftable armature, into toothed engagement with the side gear via respective axially extending teeth. The output hub and armature include radially extending flanges that are axially adjacent and radially aligned with the teeth so that force is transmitted to the teeth at the same diameter. A thrust bearing is disposed between the flanges so that the output hub rotates relative to the armature. The side gear is supported for rotation on the axle shaft, and a bearing is disposed radially therebetween to improve radial alignment of the second side gear with the output hub.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.