Straddle-type all terrain vehicle with progressive differential
US6491126B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 24, 1999 |
| Grant date | Dec 10, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 24, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60Y2200/124
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A four-wheel drive straddle-type all-terrain vehicle has a progressive limited-slip differential that functions as an open differential when the wheel speed differential is less than a predetermined threshold, or cutting point, and functions as a progressive limited-slip differential when the wheel speed differential exceeds the cutting point. The progressive limited-slip differential is able to transfer torque to the wheel with greater traction as a generally linear function of the wheel speed differential, meaning that the more one wheel slips with respect to the other, the more torque is transferred from the slipping wheel to the wheel with traction. The progressive limited-slip differential comprises a rotary shear pump that drives a piston against a pack of clutch plates. The force of the piston against the clutch pack locks the left and right axles together to provide optimal traction in slippery conditions. Since the rotation of the pump is caused by relative wheel spin, the progressive limited-slip differential is said to be speed-sensitive in that it is responsive to wheel speed differential and exerts a locking force directly proportional to speed differential.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.