Abstract: A differential assembly provided with a power distribution unit includes a first housing, an output shaft, a shaft, and a torque limiter. The first housing defines a biasing member bore and a brake bore. The output shaft extends at least partially through the first housing. The shaft is disposed about the output shaft and extends between a first shaft end that is connected to a differential unit and a second shaft end. The torque limiter is disposed within the first housing and is arranged to selectively inhibit rotation of at least one of the output shaft and the shaft.

Abstract: A joint having two-axis construction having a distal member and a main member joined in co-linear pivotal relation that provides enhanced joint strength and compactness. Hydraulics further provide variable extension assist and an infinite number of flexion stops for controlled flexion flow, and two gears provide a functional gear ratio that also promotes compact construction by reducing the amount of hydraulic piston travel required for maximum joint extension. A drive gear associated with the main member is positioned between the distal end of the piston and a transfer gear partially press-fit into a cut-out in the distal member, to provide needed radial hydraulic force transfer. Although it is contemplated for joint use to be primarily in orthotic devices that assist the movement of an inadequately functioning body limb, any application for which the mechanical joint's compact configuration would provide assistance or technical advantage is considered to be within its scope.

Abstract: The planetary steering differential includes first and second interconnected gear trains. First and second gear trains are used for rotating output members in the same direction at the same speed in response to rotating solely a first input and holding a second input stationary. Rotation solely the second input arrangement and holding the first input arrangement stationary the output members are rotated in opposite directions at the same speed. The first input arrangement is driven by a transmission, and the second input arrangement is driven by a reversible steering motor.

Abstract: To increase the top speed of a multi-speed range hydromechanical steering transmission for tracklaying vehicles, the displacements of the hydraulic motors in the two hydrostatic drive units are abruptly destroked from 100% displacement to 80% displacement at the moment the infinitely variable displacements of their respective hydraulic pumps achieve zero displacement during acceleration through the highest forward speed range of the transmission.

Abstract: A superposition steering system for a track vehicle includes an infinitely variable steering drive unit integrated with an engine driven mechanical steering input drive to provide a reduction in the amount of power to be transmitted by the variable steering drive to only 20% of the total steering power. The system includes a steering transmission having five epicyclic differential gears and five shift couplings with the differential gears and shift couplings so connected that for shifting from one operating speed to another, in each instance, only one shift coupling is required to be opened and another shift coupling required to be closed. Because of the small number of shift couplings, operating reliability is increased and shifting between various stages can take place quickly to provide high vehicle maneuverability.