Differential with lubricant control
US9920828B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 27, 2016 |
| Grant date | Mar 20, 2018 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 27, 2036 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16H57/0483
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A system for regulating lubricant temperature within a vehicle axle is provided. A differential housing has a primary chamber that contains the differential, and a secondary chamber separated from the primary chamber. A sump is in the primary chamber for collecting lubricant. An inlet to the secondary chamber allows the lubricant to flow from the primary chamber into the secondary chamber. An outlet to the secondary chamber allows the lubricant stored therein to be purged into the sump. When the lubricant is below a certain threshold temperature, a temperature-responsive valve is configured to close to inhibit the fluid to travel through the outlet. When the temperature of the lubricant rises to exceed the threshold, the valve is configured to open and permit the fluid to travel through the outlet.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.