Power divider lubrication in tandem drive axles
US7258641B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 8, 2005 |
| Grant date | Aug 21, 2007 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 17, 2026 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16H57/0471
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A drive axle assembly is provided that improves lubrication of the bearing surfaces of the inter-axle differential gears, the side gears meshed with the differential gears, and the input and output shafts. Lubricant splashed from the ring gear is collected and is then distributed by a bearing supporting the output side gear for rotation within the housing for the assembly. The bearing directs lubricant to the differential gears where seals and/or close tolerances retain the lubricant an allow it to flow to the surfaces of the input shaft and the helical side gear disposed about the input shaft. The output side gear disposed about the output shaft may also include a passage allowing lubricant to flow through the gear to the bearing surfaces of the output shaft and output side gear.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.