With Manually Operated Means For Disengaging Drive To One Or More, But Fewer Than All, Of The Four Wheels Patents (Class 180/247)
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Patent number: 6834738Abstract: In a power transmitting system of a four-wheel drive vehicle in which driving force provided from a transmission coupled to a laterally mounted front drive engine is distributed to front and rear wheels through a transfer disposed behind the engine, the transfer comprises a pair of bevel gears which change a transmission direction of the driving force; a first and second gears which shift an axis of a pinion shaft in parallel; and an output shaft which is rotatably inserted into the second gear. A hydraulic multi plate clutch couples the second gear and the output shaft so that engagement and disengagement are freely allowed, and is disposed on the axis of the second gear and more closely to the engine 1 side than the second gear. Additionally, a spline shaft formed at a top of an input shaft of the propeller shaft is spline-fitted into the second output shaft. Thereby, back-and-force shift is allowed. A steering gear box is located in downward of the front side input shaft.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2001Date of Patent: December 28, 2004Assignee: Fuji Jukogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Toshio Kobayashi
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Publication number: 20040251070Abstract: Providing a drive transmission apparatus for vehicle capable of ensuring the adaptability of an electric motor to a high-temperature environment and increasing the degree of freedom for apparatus layout. The drive transmission apparatus for vehicle serves to distribute a drive force generated by a rotary drive source 2 between drive wheels 6, 12, and includes: an input member 7 applied with the drive force from the rotary drive source 2; an output member 9 for outputting the drive force to the drive wheels 12; a hydraulic clutch 21 for hydraulically performing drive transmission/transmission cut-off between the input member 7 and the output member 9; an oil pump 31 for applying a hydraulic pressure to the hydraulic clutch 21; and a sensorless brushless motor for driving the oil pump.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 11, 2003Publication date: December 16, 2004Inventors: Takatoshi Sakata, Kouji Yoshinami, Kazuo Kanazawa, Mamoru Murakami
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Patent number: 6830142Abstract: A transfer case for a vehicle having two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive operating modes operatively established by a drive transfer mechanism that is selectively employed to interconnect a main power drive shaft construction for the drive of a first set of wheels with an auxiliary drive shaft for the drive of a second set of wheels. The drive transfer mechanism includes a clutch assembly package comprising a control rod supported for movement in a direction coaxial to the longitudinal axis of the auxiliary drive shaft. The clutch assembly includes a clutch collar supported within the auxiliary drive shaft on the control rod for movement therewith to alternately connect and disconnect the power shaft with the auxiliary drive shaft. For multi-ratio case operation, the power shaft construction may have an input and output power shaft sections that are selectively interconnected by a planetary gear set and a speed shift collar.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2002Date of Patent: December 14, 2004Assignee: Borgwarner, Inc.Inventor: David Robert Weilant
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Patent number: 6820712Abstract: A vehicle has a lockable differential. The lockable differential generally comprises an actuator and a locking mechanism. The vehicle also has a motor. The actuator, the motor or both are controlled according to a control routine that reduces wear on the components by reducing the likelihood that a locked differential will be requested when locking is not very practical. In one arrangement, actuation only occurs below a preset threshold speed and can occur through a specified range defined between the preset threshold and a second threshold. In another arrangement, the motor speed is controlled when actuation is desired such that motor speed is reduced to a lockable speed range.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2001Date of Patent: November 23, 2004Assignee: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Kazuo Nakamura
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Patent number: 6811007Abstract: A transfer mechanism is provided for controlling a magnitude of clutch engagement force exerted on a multi-plate clutch assembly operably disposed between input and output members. The transfer clutch includes an actuator fixed for rotation with the input member, a piston slidably disposed within a piston chamber of the actuator and selectively engaging the multi-plate clutch assembly, a pump in fluid communication with the piston chamber, and operably engaged with the input member and the output member. A rotational speed differential between the input member and the output member induces pumping action for pumping a magnetorheological fluid through the piston chamber. An electromagnetic coil is operably disposed between the piston chamber and the pump. The electromagnetic coil is selectively energized for manipulating a viscosity of the magnetorheological fluid to induce a back pressure within the piston chamber, thereby inducing axial movement of the piston for engaging the clutch pack.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 2004Date of Patent: November 2, 2004Assignee: New Venture Gear, Inc.Inventor: James P. Dolan
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Patent number: 6808037Abstract: A torque transfer mechanism is provided for controlling the magnitude of a clutch engagement force exerted on a multi-plate clutch assembly that is operably disposed between a first rotary and a second rotary member. The torque transfer mechanism includes a clutch actuator for generating and applying a clutch engagement force on the clutch assembly.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 2003Date of Patent: October 26, 2004Assignee: New Venture Gear, Inc.Inventor: Joseph G. Mueller
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Patent number: 6793055Abstract: A torque cam mechanism comprises first and second cam members disposed relatively rotatably around a common axis and cam balls adapted to fit in first and second cam grooves formed, respectively, in confronting surfaces of the first and second cam members. The depth of the first cam grooves is made larger than the radius of the cam balls, whereas the depth of the second cam grooves is made smaller than the radius of the cam balls, whereby even though a centrifugal force is applied to the cam balls which rotate together with the first and second cam members, the generation of thrust forces for separating the confronting surfaces of the first and second cam members can be suppressed by receiving the centrifugal force so applied to the cam balls by the first cam grooves which are deeper.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2002Date of Patent: September 21, 2004Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Tomoaki Kasuya, Kentaro Arai, Kazuhiro Wada, Kenichiro Hayashi, Ryuichi Murakami, Katsuhiro Kitamura
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Patent number: 6786293Abstract: A two-wheel-drive/four-wheel-drive switching system for a vehicle wherein a switching mechanism is securely fixed and functions of the switching mechanism can be secured, preventing noise from being made. An outside flange is provided to an electromagnetic coil forming a switching mechanism for switching two wheel drive and four wheel drive. A fitting section having a difference in a level to which the outside flange touches is formed in a casing in which the switching mechanism is installed. A fitting groove is formed on the inside face at an interval equal to or larger than the thickness of the outside flange from the fitting section. A circlip opposite to the outside flange is inserted into the circular groove and the outside flange is pressed on the fitting section by inserting a circular elastic member between the circlip and the outside flange.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2002Date of Patent: September 7, 2004Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Akio Handa
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Publication number: 20040168845Abstract: A transfer case for AWD/4WD vehicle that employs a bushing positioned within a transfer case housing. The bushing is formed to the housing when the housing is cast. The bushing includes one or more axial notches formed in an outer surface of the bushing that fill with the housing metal during the casting process that prevents the bushing from rotating in response to a load from a slip yoke. A helical groove is formed in the inner surface of the bushing and a slot is formed through a housing wall along the bushing that allows lubricant from within the housing to flow through the bushing.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 28, 2003Publication date: September 2, 2004Inventors: Peter J. Bellich, Bryan D. Mclntyre, Ray F. Hamilton, John H. Price, David R. Weilant, Ivan C. Poor, Jim Sells
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Publication number: 20040168875Abstract: A transfer mechanism is provided for controlling a magnitude of clutch engagement force exerted on a multi-plate clutch assembly operably disposed between input and output members. The transfer clutch includes an actuator fixed for rotation with the input member, a piston slidably disposed within a piston chamber of the actuator and selectively engaging the multi-plate clutch assembly, a pump in fluid communication with the piston chamber, and operably engaged with the input member and the output member. A rotational speed differential between the input member and the output member induces pumping action for pumping a magnetorheological fluid through the piston chamber. An electromagnetic coil is operably disposed between the piston chamber and the pump. The electromagnetic coil is selectively energized for manipulating a viscosity of the magnetorheological fluid to induce a back pressure within the piston chamber, thereby inducing axial movement of the piston for engaging the clutch pack.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 9, 2004Publication date: September 2, 2004Inventor: James P. Dolan
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Patent number: 6779641Abstract: The present invention is directed to a power transfer system for a four-wheel drive vehicle equipped with a torque transfer coupling which includes a clutch pack and a ball-screw actuator. The ball-screw actuator functions to axially translates an apply plate to operatively engage the clutch pack and vary the frictional engagement. This arrangement yields numerous operational advantages over the prior art including, but not limited to, establishing a direct drive between the motor output shaft and the apply plate, concentric mounting of the actuator elements with the motor output shaft, and a simplified mechanical arrangement that reduces the number of frictional elements increasing operational efficiency and decreasing motor requirements.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 2002Date of Patent: August 24, 2004Assignee: New Venture Gear, Inc.Inventors: Carl H. Vonnegut, Mozaffar Khazaee, Sankar K. Mohan, Eric A. Bansbach, Daniel J. Miller
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Patent number: 6780132Abstract: A transfer case for use in motor vehicles for transferring drive torque from a powertrain to first and second drivelines includes a first output shaft that is connected to the powertrain of the vehicle and is adapted to transmit drive torque from the powertrain to the first driveline. A second output shaft is adapted to transmit drive torque to the second driveline, and a transfer clutch is adapted to transfer drive torque from the first output shaft to the second output shaft. A ball screw assembly is adapted to actuate the transfer clutch.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2002Date of Patent: August 24, 2004Assignee: Visteon Global Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Dennis Cook, Richard Michael Krzesicki
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Patent number: 6769505Abstract: A two/four-wheel drive switching device capable of avoiding interference with other components as far as possible at the time of installation of the device. All portions of a two/four-wheel drive switching device which portions are connected to a final reduction unit for front wheels are positioned below an upper surface of the device body.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2001Date of Patent: August 3, 2004Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Akio Handa
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Publication number: 20040129476Abstract: A mode establishing section of a differential limiting control apparatus for a four wheel drive vehicle commands an automatic mode control section or a manual mode control section to output calculated clutch torques according to a signal from a mode switch operated by a driver. In an initial condition of an ignition switch turned on, the execution command is issued to the automatic mode control section, until the driver newly selects the manual mode through the mode switch. Further, when the vehicle travels at a speed higher than a preestablished threshold value, the execution command is outputted to the automatic mode control section, irrespective of the signal from the mode switch.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 23, 2003Publication date: July 8, 2004Applicant: Fuji Jukogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Koji Matsuno, Hideharu Tatsumi, Atsushi Fukuda
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Patent number: 6758297Abstract: A two-wheel-drive/four-wheel-drive switching system for a vehicle wherein noise is reduced and a state of drive can be securely indicated. A two-wheel-drive/four-wheel-drive switching system for a vehicle is provided with a switching unit provided to either of power transmission mechanisms connecting an engine and front wheels, and the engine and rear wheels via final reduction gear units for enabling or disabling the transmission of power in the power transmission mechanism. An indication control member is provided for detecting that the transmission of power is made in the power transmission mechanism and illuminates an indicator wherein the indication control means detects a phase difference in revolutions between a pair of final reduction gear units and illuminates or turns off the indicator when the phase difference is in a predetermined range.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2002Date of Patent: July 6, 2004Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Akio Handa, Hiroaki Tomita, Shinji Goto, Akio Senda
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Patent number: 6752232Abstract: The drive unit for a motor vehicle, has an input drive shaft connected to a starting element, which unit has an automatic transmission connected to the starting element and also possesses a first output drive shaft, which is connected to the rear wheel drive of a motor vehicle and has a second output drive shaft which is connected to the front wheel drive of the motor vehicle and further possesses a torsion damping mechanism. The second output shaft (1) is located in the motor side area of the drive unit and, seen in the direction of travel, is disposed in front of the starting element (3), transverse to the input drive shaft, while the torsion damping mechanism (2) is placed in front of the second output drive (1).Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2002Date of Patent: June 22, 2004Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AGInventor: Markus Hoher
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Patent number: 6745879Abstract: A transfer mechanism is provided for controlling a magnitude of clutch engagement force exerted on a multi-plate clutch assembly operably disposed between input and output members. The transfer clutch includes an actuator fixed for rotation with the input member, a piston slidably disposed within a piston chamber of the actuator and selectively engaging the multi-plate clutch assembly, a pump in fluid communication with the piston chamber, and operably engaged with the input member and the output member. A rotational speed differential between the input member and the output member induces pumping action for pumping a magnetorheological fluid through the piston chamber. An electromagnetic coil is operably disposed between the piston chamber and the pump. The electromagnetic coil is selectively energized for manipulating a viscosity of the magnetorheological fluid to induce a back pressure within the piston chamber, thereby inducing axial movement of the piston for engaging the clutch pack.Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 2003Date of Patent: June 8, 2004Assignee: New Venture Gear, Inc.Inventor: James P. Dolan
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Publication number: 20040040760Abstract: A vehicle apparatus is provided to enable a clutch to be re-engaged without creating a shock when there is rollback of the wheels, which are driven by an electric motor via the clutch. The vehicle apparatus comprises a travel direction command determining section, a travel direction command determining section and a wheel rotational direction determining section. The travel direction command determining section is configured to determine whether a forward travel command or a reverse travel command has been issued. The travel direction command determining section is configured to detect a counterelectromotive force of an electric motor that drives a wheel of a vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 15, 2003Publication date: March 4, 2004Applicant: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Keiji Kadota
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Patent number: 6698541Abstract: A four-wheel drive vehicle in which the engine output is transmitted to front wheels and to rear wheel through a transfer clutch. The control unit determines a road gradient from the output value of a longitudinal acceleration sensor at a stop, sets a lower limit on the basis of the road gradient and is prepared for a start by outputting a drive signal corresponding to lower limit to a clutch control valve for controlling the applying force of the transfer clutch. Thus, the applying force is set according to the road gradient so that the main drive wheels at the slope can be prevented from slipping by the minimum transmission torque.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 2003Date of Patent: March 2, 2004Assignee: Fuji Jukogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Ryuzo Sakakiyama
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Patent number: 6699151Abstract: A hydraulic coupling assembly is provided for an auxiliary drive axle of an all wheel drive motor vehicle. The hydraulic coupling assembly comprises a rotatable casing, first and second output shafts axially outwardly extending from said casing, at least one hydraulically operated, selectively engageable friction clutch assembly for operatively coupling the casing to at least one of the output shafts, and at least one hydraulic clutch actuator. The hydraulic actuator includes a hydraulic pump located within the casing and adapted to generate a hydraulic pressure to frictionally load the friction clutch assembly, and a variable pressure relief valve assembly fluidly communicating with the hydraulic pump to selectively control the hydraulic pressure generated by the pump. The variable pressure relief valve assembly includes an electro-magnetic actuator selectively for varying a release pressure of the pressure relief valve assembly based on a magnitude of an electric current applied thereto.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2002Date of Patent: March 2, 2004Assignee: Torque-Traction Technologies, Inc.Inventors: John A. Grogg, Wayne L. Borgen, Martin Kaplan
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Publication number: 20040038775Abstract: A driving force control apparatus is provided for a vehicle capable of preventing a shock from being generated by disengaging a clutch disposed between a subordinate drive source and subordinate drive wheels during vehicle travel. When a transition determination is made in which the clutch will be released, e.g., from a four-wheel drive state to a two-wheel drive state, a clutch release section disengage the clutch, upon the drive torque of the drive source substantially reaching a target drive torque in which a difference between an output torque of the clutch and an input torque of the clutch is smaller than a prescribed value in response to the transition determination.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 7, 2003Publication date: February 26, 2004Applicant: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Kouichi Shimizu, Keiji Kadota, Ping Chen, Tatsuya Kamata, Hiroyuki Ohya, Yasuaki Iwata
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Patent number: 6695740Abstract: A differential assembly having first structure, which is configured to rotate along a differential axis in response to receipt of a rotational input, a second structure, which is supported for rotation on the differential axis, a third structure which is support for rotation on the differential axis and disposed between the first and second structures and operable in an engaged condition that transmits torque between the first and second structures and a disengaged condition that inhibits torque transmission between the first and second structures, a differential gear set, which is coupled to and rotatably supported within the second structure, and a biasing mechanism, which biases the third structure in the disengaged condition. The third structure is placed in the engaged condition if a torsional magnitude of the rotational input exceeds a rotational force exerted through the differential gear set. A vehicle drive train is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2003Date of Patent: February 24, 2004Assignee: American Axle & Manufacturing, Inc.Inventors: John Clinton Hibbler, David Marshall Morse, Rajendra G. Kumashi
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Patent number: 6691815Abstract: An all terrain vehicle includes an engine located under a hingably mounted seat, the seat providing ready access to the engine for maintenance and repair. The vehicle includes an engine having a clutch housing and a clutch cover sealably connected to the clutch housing. At least one of the clutch housing and the clutch cover include a bottom wall having at least one coolant-fillable cooling channel within the thickness of the bottom wall provided to cool oil above the clutch housing and the clutch cover. The vehicle also includes a frame having a plurality of engine mounting points. The engine is supportable by the frame and includes a crankcase and a plurality of mounting points adapted to engage the plurality of engine mounting points on the frame. The plurality of mounting points include at least one uppermost mounting point, wherein the at least one uppermost mounting point is positioned on the crankcase.Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignee: Bombardier Inc.Inventors: Roger Rioux, Claude Gagnon, Johann Holzleitner
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Publication number: 20040020700Abstract: An on demand vehicle drive system monitors vehicle performance and operating conditions and controls torque delivery to the vehicle wheels. The system includes a plurality of speed and position sensors, a transfer case having primary and secondary output shafts driving primary and secondary axles and a microcontroller. The sensors include a vehicle speed sensor, a pair of primary and secondary drive shaft speed sensors, and brake and driveline status sensors.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 1, 2003Publication date: February 5, 2004Applicant: BorgWarner, Inc.Inventors: Will Watson, Alan L. Miller, Drew A. Sundquist, Roger T. Simpson, Diane K. Ducklow, Joseph W. Beckerman, Dan J. Showalter
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Publication number: 20040020742Abstract: A differential assembly for an automotive vehicle includes a differential housing and a differential gear assembly mounted within the differential housing. A connector plate is adapted to connect to a drive shaft of the vehicle and a clutch pack is mounted within the differential housing that interconnects the differential gear assembly and the connector plate. A ball screw assembly is adapted to selectively apply axial force to the clutch pack, thereby engaging the connector plate and the differential gear assembly such that rotational movement of the connector plate is transferred through the clutch pack to the differential gear assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 2, 2002Publication date: February 5, 2004Applicant: Visteon Global Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Dennis Cook, Richard Michael Krzesicki
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Publication number: 20040016585Abstract: A four-wheel drive vehicle provides a torque distribution clutch mechanism which directly transmits the driving force generated from the engine to one of tow front wheels or two rear wheels, and which transmits it to the other wheels therethrough in order to control the engaging force in accordance with a traveling status of the four-wheel drive vehicle. The vehicle further comprises a tight corner judging means, a normal mode setting means, a low friction road judging means and a tight mode setting means. The tight corner judging means judges whether the vehicle travels at a large turning angle or not, and the normal mode setting means sets a normal mode to control the engaging force when it is judged by the tight corner judging means that the vehicle does not travel at the large turning angle.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 23, 2003Publication date: January 29, 2004Applicant: TOYODA KOKI KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Hisaaki Wakao, Fukami Imai
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Patent number: 6679348Abstract: A vehicular two-wheel/four-wheel drive switching device for selectively transmitting power or disconnecting the transmission of rotary power to a power transmission system having a driving shaft connected to the drive side and a driven shaft fitted to the driving shaft via respective inner and outer rings having an annular clearance therebetween. Plural connecting/disconnecting members provided in the clearance between the inner and outer rings for connecting or disconnecting the driving shaft and the driven shaft are fitted or disconnected to/from respective opposite surfaces in response to a switching mechanism for selectively positioning the connecting/disconnecting members in a position in which the driving shaft and the driven shaft are connected and in a position in which they are disconnected. A casing encloses the switching device, and an oil seal is provided in two locations at an interval in the longitudinal direction of the driven shaft.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2002Date of Patent: January 20, 2004Assignees: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha, NTN CorporationInventors: Akio Handa, Noriaki Takano, Bunzo Seki
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Patent number: 6675677Abstract: A transfer case is provided and includes a first output shaft driven by a powertrain and operably interconnected with a first pair of wheels, a second output shaft selectively driven by the first output shaft and operably interconnected with a second pair of wheels and a transfer gear assembly operably disposed between the first output shaft and the second output shaft for transferring drive torque from the first output shaft to the second output shaft. The transfer gear assembly includes a first transfer gear in selective drive connection with the first output shaft, a second transfer gear in meshed engagement with the first transfer gear, a third transfer gear in drive connection with the second transfer gear and the second output shaft. A clutch pack is operably disposed between the first output shaft and the first transfer gear for selectively establishing drive connection therebetween.Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 2002Date of Patent: January 13, 2004Assignee: New Venture Gear, Inc.Inventors: Gareth Thomas, Paul Cowsill, Thomas C. Bowen, Dale L. Pennycuff, Malcolm E. Kirkwood, John D. Zalewski
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Publication number: 20040003953Abstract: The two-wheel/four-wheel drive switching device including a switching unit provided in either a power transmitting mechanism interposed between an engine and front wheels or a power transmitting mechanism interposed between the engine and rear wheels for switching between the continuation and interruption of power transmission in the power transmitting mechanism, and a control unit for controlling the switching unit. The control unit detects a drive current supplied to the switching unit and performs variable duty control to maintain the drive current at a given value. As a result, the two-wheel/four-wheel drive switching device reduces the generation of noise and greatly suppresses the consumption of power.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 12, 2003Publication date: January 8, 2004Inventors: Shinji Goto, Akio Senda
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Publication number: 20030234130Abstract: A two-wheel-drive/four-wheel-drive switching system for a vehicle wherein noise is reduced and a state of drive can be securely indicated. A two-wheel-drive/four-wheel-drive switching system for a vehicle is provided with a switching unit provided to either of power transmission mechanisms connecting an engine and front wheels, and the engine and rear wheels via final reduction gear units for enabling or disabling the transmission of power in the power transmission mechanism. An indication control member is provided for detecting that the transmission of power is made in the power transmission mechanism and illuminates an indicator wherein the indication control means detects a phase difference in revolutions between a pair of final reduction gear units and illuminates or turns off the indicator when the phase difference is in a predetermined range.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 17, 2002Publication date: December 25, 2003Inventors: Akio Handa, Hiroaki Tomita, Shinji Goto, Akio Senda
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Publication number: 20030226702Abstract: A torque distribution control device for a four-wheel drive vehicle is disclosed having a torque distribution device for distributing the drive power transmitted from an engine to either of the front wheels or the rear wheels as prime drive wheels, to other wheels as sub-drive wheels. In the control device, abnormality judgment means judges whether or not an abnormality is involved in wheel speed signals which are input from wheel speed sensors associated respectively with the front and rear wheels. Means is further provided for altering a normal-state method of calculating a command torque which is applied to the torque distribution device to vary the drive power transmitted to the sub-drive wheels, to an abnormal-state method of calculating the command torque based on data which does not include one wheel speed signal involving the abnormality when the same occurs with one of the wheel speed signals, whereby the vehicle is enabled to continue the four-wheel drive even when the abnormality occurs.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 23, 2003Publication date: December 11, 2003Applicant: TOYODA KOKI KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Fukami Imai, Tatsuya Inagaki, Hisaaki Wakao, Kiyoshige Kato, Satomi Ito
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Patent number: 6659249Abstract: A dual disconnect differential assembly for four-wheel drive (4WD) vehicle is disclosed. This disconnect differential assembly connects/disconnects both output shafts of a differential assembly simultaneously from the respective universal joints of the drive assembly. Both output shafts are interconnected to provide simultaneous sliding along an axial direction. A clutch mechanism associated with the inboard side of each universal joint (which may be a constant velocity joint) and with the output shafts is provided for simultaneous connection and simultaneous disconnection of the output shafts from the outboard side of the universal joint. 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.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2002Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Assignee: Torque-Traction Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Wayne Lee Borgen, William Gordon Hunt, Ernest Campbell
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Publication number: 20030213634Abstract: A two-wheel-drive/four-wheel-drive switching system for a vehicle wherein a switching mechanism is securely fixed and functions of the switching mechanism can be secured, preventing noise from being made. An outside flange is provided to an electromagnetic coil forming a switching mechanism for switching two wheel drive and four wheel drive. A fitting section having a difference in a level to which the outside flange touches is formed in a casing in which the switching mechanism is installed. A fitting groove is formed on the inside face at an interval equal to or larger than the thickness of the outside flange from the fitting section. A cisclip opposite to the outside flange is inserted into the circular groove and the outside flange is pressed on the fitting section by inserting a circular elastic member between the cisclip and the outside flange.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 19, 2002Publication date: November 20, 2003Inventor: Akio Handa
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Publication number: 20030209378Abstract: A two-wheel drive/four-wheel drive switching system provided with an electromagnetic coil for connecting or disconnecting a driving shaft and a driven shaft. The accessories connected to the electromagnetic coil of the switching system are provided. The accessories are installed in space formed by faces passing a side edge of a final reduction gear unit, an edge on the side of a switching unit of the final reduction gear unit, an edge on the drive side of the switching unit, and an upper edge of the switching unit. The resulting configuration facilitates the assembly of the accessories connected to the electromagnetic coil.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 18, 2002Publication date: November 13, 2003Inventor: Akio Handa
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Patent number: 6645110Abstract: A full-time transfer case is equipped with an integrated planetary gearset assembly and a synchronized range shift mechanism to provide high-range and low-range drive connections. The integrated planetary gearset assembly includes a first gearset which acts as a two-speed reduction unit and a second gearset which acts as an interaxle differential. The synchronized range shift mechanism is arranged to concurrently move two components of the first gearset and is synchronized to permit on-the-move range shifts.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2003Date of Patent: November 11, 2003Assignee: New Venture Gear, Inc.Inventors: Randolph C. Williams, Aaron Ronk, Stanislav Ponca, Timothy R. Stalloch
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Publication number: 20030196865Abstract: Disclosed is a power controlling device for a four-wheel drive vehicle capable of shifting a stable drive mode. The power controlling device includes an electromagnet 200, and a shift rod 210 operated by a magnetic field generated by the electromagnet 200 and having a fork 220 formed on one side thereof for operating the differential clutch gear 110, and a return spring 230 for constantly biasing the shift rod toward its original position.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 8, 2002Publication date: October 23, 2003Inventor: Jung-Hyo Lim
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Patent number: 6634978Abstract: A differential device for 4WD vehicles having a reduced size and capable of being produced at lower costs makes it possible to select between a 2WD state, a differential-free 4WD state, and a differential-locked 4WD state. The differential device includes a differential case, a side gear, a hub, and a switching mechanism which establishes and interrupts a connection between each of the differential case, the side gear, and the hub. The switching mechanism includes, among other possible features, a first sleeve, a second sleeve which is separate from the first sleeve, and a pin. A sole actuator moves the second sleeve between first, second and third positions to establish the 2WD state, the differential-free 4WD state, and the differential-locked 4WD state.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2002Date of Patent: October 21, 2003Assignee: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Koji Banno, Tohru Kagata, Yasuhiro Kobayashi
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Patent number: 6634446Abstract: A multi-wheel-drive vehicle has at least six wheels, a transmission with a first brake, and a transaxle device for the front drive wheels. The transaxle device includes a drive axle, an input shaft perpendicular to the drive axle for receiving power from the transmission, a drive train connecting the drive axle to the input shaft, a second brake, and a clutch device on the input shaft. The transaxle device may include a pair of drive axles connected by a differential unit. The clutch device can selectively isolate the drive axles from the rotation of the input shaft. Further, the clutch device is engaged when the first brake is applied. Additionally, the first and second brakes may be connected such that their operation may be synchronized.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 2001Date of Patent: October 21, 2003Assignee: Kanzaki Kokyukoki Mfg. Co., Ltd.Inventor: Akihiro Ima
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Patent number: 6626787Abstract: A drive axle assembly for use in an all-wheel drive vehicle having a first hydraulic coupling operable to automatically transfer drive torque to a secondary driveline in response to slip of the primary driveline and a second hydraulic coupling operable to bias torque and limit slip between the wheels of the secondary driveline.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2002Date of Patent: September 30, 2003Assignee: New Venture Gear, Inc.Inventor: Fred C. Porter
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Patent number: 6626053Abstract: A motor vehicle torque transfer case pump drive which is mounted in the front of a torque transfer case where it mounts to a motor vehicle transmission and includes a drive arrangement, such as a chain drive, a belt drive or a gear drive. This permits an auxiliary hydraulic pump to be driven directly from the torque transfer case, thus eliminating the need for a power take-off (PTO) adapter to drive the auxiliary hydraulic pump.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 2001Date of Patent: September 30, 2003Assignee: Opker Technology, Inc.Inventors: Ralph W. Baxter, Jr., Wesley M. Dick
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Patent number: 6620073Abstract: A driving force transmitting device for a vehicle includes a drive mode-shifting mechanism which is disposed in the final drive gear-set of a vehicle. The drive mode-shifting mechanism includes a first rotating member, a second rotating member, a third rotating member, and a movable member. The movable member is movable between a first position in which the first and second rotating members are disconnected to effect the two-wheel-drive mode, a second position in which the first and second rotating members are connected to effect differential-free four-wheel-drive mode, and a third position in which the second and third rotating members are connected to effect the differential-lock four-wheel-drive mode.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 2002Date of Patent: September 16, 2003Assignee: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Masumi Kazaoka, Toru Kagata
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Publication number: 20030171182Abstract: An axle module for use in an automotive vehicle. The axle module includes axle shaft electronic torque management. The axle module includes a housing having a differential carrier rotatably supported therein. The axle module also includes a differential gear set rotatably supported within the differential carrier. A clutch pack contacts the differential gear set and the differential carrier. The axle module also includes a shaft connected to the clutch pack wherein the shaft is axial moveable within the differential carrier and housing.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 8, 2002Publication date: September 11, 2003Applicant: GKN Automotive, Inc.Inventor: Brent Peura
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Patent number: 6601474Abstract: A hydrostatic transmission for vehicle interposed in a drive-power transmission path between a driving power source and a driving axle for non-stepwisely changing the speed of the vehicle includes an HST housing; a hydraulic pump unit having a pump shaft with first and second ends extending in a fore-aft direction of the vehicle away from each other; a hydraulic motor unit having a motor shaft for outputting the drive power from the motor shaft whose speed is non-stepwisely varied in cooperation with the hydraulic pump unit; a PTO unit having a PTO shaft extending in the fore-aft direction of the vehicle, the PTO shaft being operatively connected to the pump shaft; a charge pump unit for replenishing pressurized hydraulic fluid to a hydraulic circuit, the hydraulic circuit hydraulically connecting the hydraulic pump unit with the hydraulic motor unit, the charge pump unit including a charge pump body, and a charge pump case connected to the HST housing through its wall closer to the driving axle for supportinType: GrantFiled: August 24, 2001Date of Patent: August 5, 2003Assignee: Kanzaki Kokyukoki Mfg. Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yoshitaka Ishimaru, Shigenori Sakikawa, Shinya Sakakura
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Patent number: 6602159Abstract: An on-demand two-speed transfer case is equipped with a planetary gearset assembly and a range shift mechanism to provide high-range and low-range drive connections. The transfer case is also equipped with a dual-mode bi-directional overrunning clutch and a mode shift mechanism to establish on-demand and part-time four-wheel drive modes.Type: GrantFiled: February 5, 2002Date of Patent: August 5, 2003Assignee: New Venture Gear, Inc.Inventor: Randolph C. Williams
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Patent number: 6598722Abstract: A shift mechanism for a vehicle wheel wherein a pneumatic annular actuator, through air pressurization and depressurization, produces clutch ring movement to engage and disengage the wheel from the vehicle's drive axle. The components of the wheel end providing an air tight cavity in which the clutch ring is manipulated and which is subjected to air pressure changes. The components include a pneumatic annular actuator, a CV-joint, a rotary seal between the actuator and the CV-joint and a vent passage formed between the air chamber and rotary seal and breaching said air tight cavity. An air line from said passage to non-contaminated ambient air to provide continuous ambient air pressure to said cavity.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 2001Date of Patent: July 29, 2003Assignee: Warn Industries, Inc.Inventors: Scott J. Pugliese, Bryan M. Averill, William Patrick Carpenter
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Patent number: 6595338Abstract: A power transfer system is provided and equipped with a torque transfer coupling which includes a clutch and a ball-screw actuator. The ball-screw actuator functions to axially translate an apply plate via a closed hydraulic system to operatively engage the clutch and vary the frictional engagement thereof.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2001Date of Patent: July 22, 2003Assignee: New Venture Gear, Inc.Inventors: Eric A. Bansbach, Joseph G. Mueller, James Brissenden, John D. Zalewski, Sankar K. Mohan, Richard Mizon, Aaron Ronk, Khazaee Mozaffar
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Patent number: 6572506Abstract: A full-time transfer case is equipped with an integrated planetary gearset assembly and a synchronized range shift mechanism to provide high-range and low-range drive connections. The integrated planetary gearset assembly includes a first gearset which acts as a two-speed reduction unit and second a gearset which acts as an interaxle differential. The synchronized range shift mechanism is arranged to concurrently move two components of the first gearset and is synchronized to permit on-the-move range shifts.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2001Date of Patent: June 3, 2003Assignee: New Venture Gear, Inc.Inventors: Randolph C. Williams, Aaron Ronk, Stanislav Ponca, Timothy R. Stalloch
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Patent number: 6557680Abstract: A controllable, multi-mode, bi-directional overrunning clutch assembly and a shift system adapted for transferring drive torque from a primary shaft to a secondary shaft. The clutch assembly includes a first ring journalled on a first rotary member, a second ring fixed to a second rotary member, and a plurality of rollers disposed in opposed cam tracks formed between the first and second rotary members. The first ring is split to define an actuation channel between its end segments. A first spring-biased pin is moveable between positions engaged with and released from one end segment of the split first ring. A second spring-biased pin is moveable between positions engaged with and released from the opposite end segment of the split first ring. A moveable pin actuator controls movement of the first and second pins for establishing distinct operational modes.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2001Date of Patent: May 6, 2003Assignee: New Venture Gear, Inc.Inventor: Randolph C. Williams
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Patent number: 6557677Abstract: An active bi-directional overrunning clutch that includes an oil housing. The clutch also includes a flange rotatably supported with respect to the oil housing. An input shaft is connected to the flange. The clutch further includes a plurality of rollers contacting the input shaft and a coupling. A roller cage positions the plurality of rollers with respect to the input shaft and coupling. The friction ground ring is in contact with the roller cage. The clutch also includes a worm gear in contact with the friction member.Type: GrantFiled: January 4, 2001Date of Patent: May 6, 2003Assignee: GKN Automotive, Inc.Inventor: Brent Peura
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Patent number: 6557660Abstract: An assembly for converting a vehicle between two-wheel and four-wheel drive. The assembly includes a bell form of a constant velocity joint being supported by a bearing mounted to one of the vehicle knuckle and the wheel hub. The bell form further includes a collar that has a connector, and a spindle of the wheel hub has a connector in close proximity to the bell form connector. A clutch ring actuated by an actuator is moved by the actuator between engagement with one of the connectors and engagement with both of the connectors.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2001Date of Patent: May 6, 2003Assignee: Warn Industries, Inc.Inventors: Bryan M. Averill, Kip E. Clohessy, John R. Dupree, Fred L. Ewer, Mark J. Fogelberg, Randy C. Karambelas, Peter A. Lines, Peter J. Pugliese