System for controlling the temperature of a vehicle driveline component utilizing forced air flow
US6896108B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 4, 2002 |
| Grant date | May 24, 2005 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 21, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T74/2189
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A system for controlling the temperature of a vehicle driveline component assembly includes using forced air to cool lubricant within the assembly. As heat builds up during braking applications, for example, a controller determines when additional cooling may be needed. An air source is activated to induce air flow through at least one flow passage supported relative to the housing so that the air flowing through the passage can absorb heat from the lubricant. In one example, the air flow passage is supported within the component housing. In another example, the air flow passage is associated with a heat exchanger supported external to the component housing in a strategic location on the vehicle or the housing, for example. A pump responsible for causing the air flow preferably also causes lubricant flow in a desired manner to facilitate heat dissipation.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.