Quiet and smooth, positive acting, no-slip differential
US5901618A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 31, 1997 |
| Grant date | May 11, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 31, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T74/19005
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A quiet and smooth, positive acting, no-slip differential which automatically connects the two axles together to provide optimum traction for the vehicle, yet releases one axle when the vehicle is proceeding around a curve without drive wheel slippage, whereby only a single axle is engaged through the drive system. The quiet and smooth, positive acting, no-slip differential includes a movable member which, for the disengaged wheel, will shift to a position preventing the driver and coupler teeth from engaging in the normal manner, thereby eliminating the noise and harsh operating characteristic known as "cycling" associated with locking types of differentials. This moveable member does not prevent all engagement, however, so that re-engagement of the driver and coupler will automatically occur to provide the desired differential locking when called upon to do so. A preferred and an alternate embodiment are disclosed.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.