Over-center linkage for engaging a locking differential or other mechanism
US7892133B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 30, 2007 |
| Grant date | Feb 22, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 24, 2028 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T74/20177
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The present invention includes novel apparatus and methods for engaging and disengaging a locking differential. In an embodiment, an assembly for use with a locking differential is provided. The assembly includes an actuator, a housing, a shaft, a pair of biasing members, a side gear, and a locking pin. The actuator is arranged to move the assembly from a first position to a second position. The housing is coupled to the actuator. The first biasing member biases the housing, and the second biasing member biases the housing and shaft. The side gear includes an aperture for engaging the locking pin. The locking pin is coupled to the shaft such that the biasing of the shaft determines whether the locking pin is biased into engagement with the aperture or out of engagement with the aperture.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.