Dual disconnect drive assembly
US6517462B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 11, 2001 |
| Grant date | Feb 11, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 11, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16H48/30
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A dual disconnect differential assembly for four-wheel drive (4WD) vehicle is disclosed. This disconnect differential assembly connects/disconnects both axle shafts of a differential assembly simultaneously from the side gears of the differential assembly. Both axle shafts are interconnected to provide simultaneous sliding along an axial direction. A clutch mechanism associated with the two differential side gears (which may be otherwise conventional) and with the axle shafts is provided for simultaneous connection and simultaneous disconnection of the axle shafts. The dual disconnect differential assembly herein is simple, compact, and reliable. It overcomes the disadvantages associated with single axle disconnect mechanisms presently in use. It also provides a simpler, more compact, and more reliable dual disconnect differential mechanism than any such mechanism presently known.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.