With Means To Limit Overspeed Of One Output (e.g., Lock-up Clutch) Patents (Class 475/231)
  • Patent number: 11953059
    Abstract: A speed reducer is configured to reduce a rotational speed of rotation generated by torque received from a drive device and output the torque of the rotation of the reduced rotational speed. A drive cam has a plurality of drive cam grooves formed at one end surface of the drive cam and is rotated by the torque outputted from the speed reducer. A driven cam has a plurality of driven cam grooves formed at one end surface of the driven cam while each of the plurality of rolling elements is clamped between a corresponding one of the plurality of drive cam grooves and a corresponding one of the plurality of driven cam grooves. At least a part of each of the plurality of drive cam grooves overlaps with the speed reducer in the axial direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2024
    Assignee: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Ryo Ishibashi, Akira Takagi, Takumi Sugiura
  • Patent number: 11940014
    Abstract: A vehicle driveline component with a ball-ramp mechanism that includes a first ball-ramp ring, a second ball-ramp ring and a plurality of balls. Each of the first and second ball-ramp rings have a plurality of ball supports that define ball tracks that receive the balls. Each of the ball supports has a first radial width at a first location and a second radial width at a second location. The first and second widths are different to minimize the amount of material that forms the first and second ball-ramp rings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2022
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2024
    Assignee: American Axle & Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Frederick E. Zink, Robert S. Kleinhardt
  • Patent number: 11885399
    Abstract: A power transmission device is provided with: a rotary body arranged to receive the torque to rotate about an axis; a clutch including a clutch member engaging with the rotary body and axially movable and clutch teeth connectable with the clutch member to transmit the torque; a solenoid configured to generate a magnetic flux in response to input of electric power; a stator coupled with the solenoid as to conduct the magnetic flux and prevented from rotation about the axis; a rotor arranged to receive the magnetic flux from the stator and, when driven by the received magnetic flux, to create a rotational motion about the axis; and a conversion mechanism drivingly connected with the rotor to convert the rotational motion into a linear motion in a direction along the axis, the conversion mechanism including a thrust member transmitting the linear motion to the clutch member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2023
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2024
    Assignee: GKN Automotive Limited
    Inventors: Yuu Yaguchi, Toshiaki Komatsu, Masato Horiguchi, Toshiyuki Kikuchi
  • Patent number: 11841068
    Abstract: A differential gearing device includes a base gearing device and an actuator. The base gearing device including a first gear connected to a first output of the differential gearing device, a second gear connected to a second output of the differential gearing device, differential gearing connected to each of the first gear and the second gear, and a clutch connected between the first gear and the second gear. The actuator actuates the clutch to change a torque bias ratio between the first gear and the second gear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2022
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2023
    Assignee: JTEKT AUTOMOTIVE NORTH AMERICA, INC.
    Inventors: Patrick Desing, Noel R Barnes, II, Michael Kocevar
  • Patent number: 11674581
    Abstract: Methods and systems for a locking differential are provided. The locking differential system includes an electromagnetic solenoid actuator configured to induce locking and unlocking of the differential and a circuit board assembly designed to programmatically control the locking and unlocking functionality. The circuit board assembly includes a multi-sensor sub-assembly having two or more sensor configured to monitor a position of the electromagnetic solenoid actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2022
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2023
    Assignee: Dana Automotive Systems Group, LLC
    Inventors: Justin S. Davis, Michael Z. Creech, Sagar B. Bangar
  • Patent number: 11674579
    Abstract: A planetary gear train automatic limited slip differential may consist of a main differential, a planetary gear train differential controller, a left axle shaft, a right axle shaft, and a clutch. The planetary gear train differential controller may be composed of a first planetary gear train differential controller unit and a second planetary gear train differential controller unit. The first planetary gear train differential controller unit may be composed of a first planetary gear train and a first overrunning clutch connected to the first planetary gear train. The second planetary gear train differential controller unit may be composed of a second planetary gear train and a second overrunning clutch connected to the second planetary gear train.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2022
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2023
    Assignee: Hubei University of Automotive Technology
    Inventors: Yurong Chen, Shenghuai Wang, Aihong Gong, Zhen Wang, Xueliang Zhou, Wen Cheng, Aihua Ren, Zhangdong Sun, Hongxia Wang, Weidong Yan, Qiang Liu, Guoxing Sun, Chunlong Zou, Junjie Liu, Tao Chen, Shuo Cheng, Yu Wang, Wenlong Jia, Suiyu Yin, Longyong Gan, Rengan Wei
  • Patent number: 11667193
    Abstract: Methods of controlling a tandem axle assembly in a vehicle, the tandem axle assembly including an inter-axle differential (IAD), one or more side gears, and a front tandem axle assembly having a pair of front tandem axle half shafts selectively connected to a pair of front tandem axle wheel hub assemblies. When a determined speed of the vehicle is greater or equal to a predetermined speed, the IAD may be locked, the tandem axle wheel hub assemblies may be disconnected from their respective tandem axle shafts, and/or the IAD may be moved out of engagement with the one or more side gears. When a determined speed of the vehicle is less than a predetermined speed, the IAD may be unlocked, the tandem axle wheel hub assemblies may be connected to their respective tandem axle shafts, and/or the IAD may be engaged with the one or more side gears.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2021
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2023
    Assignee: Dana Heavy Vehicle Systems Group, LLC
    Inventors: Jeremy M. Frenznick, Steven Mastroianni
  • Patent number: 11662007
    Abstract: A power divider unit including an input shaft, a drive gear disposed around the input shaft, an inter-axle differential assembly coupled to the input shaft, an output side gear coupled to the input shaft, and a locking system for the power divider unit. The locking system is configured to passively lock the inter-axle differential assembly. The locking system includes a ramped first clutch member in selective engagement with the drive gear, a mating second clutch member configured to engage the first clutch member, a clutch pinion, and a slip clutch assembly. The second clutch member and the first clutch member rotate at different speeds, the clutch pinion rotates and causes the slip clutch assembly and second clutch member to rotate at a speed of the input shaft, causing the first clutch member to mate with the first clutch member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2023
    Assignee: Dana Heavy Vehicle Systems Group, LLC
    Inventors: Steven Mastroianni, Aaron D. Gries, Martin D. Fairchild
  • Patent number: 11602989
    Abstract: An axle assembly having an input shaft, an output shaft, and an interaxle differential unit. The interaxle differential unit includes a first side gear, a second side gear, a spider, at least one pinion gear, and a case. The case encircles the first side gear and the spider and has an integral drive gear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2022
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2023
    Assignee: ArvinMeritor Technology, LLC
    Inventors: Mahesh Naik, Ramesh Ranjan, Dale Kwasniewski
  • Patent number: 11391354
    Abstract: A differential gear accommodated in a differential case, includes: an axial cylinder having a cylindrical shape fitted onto a shaft; an annular wall having an annular shape protruding from an outer circumferential surface of the axial cylinder; a gear protruding from the annular wall on one side with respect to an axial direction of the shaft; a reinforcing rib protruding from an outer circumferential surface of the annular wall; and a first recess formed by boring the annular wall and opening the other side with respect to the axial direction of the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2021
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2022
    Assignee: HITACHI ASTEMO, LTD.
    Inventors: Kenji Fukasawa, Kenji Kato
  • Patent number: 11346432
    Abstract: A electric locker differential assembly includes a first and second side gear. A pinion gear set is disposed between the first side gear and the second side gears. An engagement shaft includes flyweights disposed on the engagement shaft which are moveable between retracted and extended positions to lock and unlock the differential assembly. A lockout shaft includes a pawl disposed thereon. An electrical adjustment mechanism includes an actuator operably connected with an adjustment nut or rod. An electrical adjustment biasing spring includes a first leg retained by the adjustment nut and a second leg connected with the pawl wherein movement of the adjustment nut by the actuator varies a biasing force applied to the pawl.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2022
    Assignee: Eaton Intelligent Power Limited
    Inventors: Hongbin Wang, Andrew N. Edler
  • Patent number: 11346433
    Abstract: An actuator is used to longitudinally move a spline sleeve for controlling drive mode of a differential on an off-road vehicle. The actuator's motor rotates an eccentric knob through a drive train including intermediate gears and a worm gear. The eccentic knob is linked to the spline sleeve through a torsion spring carried on a pivot plate, with legs of the torsion spring pushing a slide block, transferring a moment provided by the eccentric knob into a linear slide force. The pivot plate and torsion spring are jointly mounted on the actuator housing by a hub, opposite the rotational axis of the eccentric knob from the slide block. The slide block includes a contact which completes a circuit through conductive pads on the actuator housing, so the position of the slide block can be directly sensed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2021
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2022
    Assignee: Zhejiang CFMOTO Power Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Fuying Cheng
  • Patent number: 11300197
    Abstract: The differential device measuring tool measures an inflow amount of lubricating oil flowing into a housing space through a communication hole during the rotation of a differential case having a case main body in which the housing space and the communication hole are formed and a bearing boss having a through-hole protruding from the case main body and communicating with the housing space. The measuring tool has a collecting portion and a deriving portion. The collecting portion does not interfere with the rotating differential case in the housing space in which the differential gear mechanism is not housed, and has a recess opening and collects the lubricating oil flowing into the housing space through the communication hole. The deriving portion is inserted through the through-hole of the bearing boss and have a deriving flow channel. The deriving flow channel communicates with the recess, and extends to the outside.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2022
    Assignee: Musashi Selmitsu Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Takemoto, Fumiya Yamamoto, Ryota Ishino, Akuto Sekiguchi, Osamu Ogane
  • Patent number: 11242899
    Abstract: A fluid distribution apparatus for an axle assembly, the fluid distribution apparatus including a cylindrical portion rotatably disposed about a bearing race. A conical portion is coupled with the cylindrical portion, and a retaining portion is coupled with the conical portion. A plurality of circumferentially spaced tubes are coupled with the retaining portion, wherein the tubes are at least partially disposed through a rotating component of a clutch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2022
    Assignee: Dana Automotive Systems Group, LLC
    Inventors: Nicholas C. Billmaier, Thomas L. Nahrwold
  • Patent number: 11235660
    Abstract: Methods and systems for an electric drive axle of a vehicle are provided. An electric drive axle system includes, in one example, an electric motor-generator rotationally coupled to a gear train. The gear train includes an output shaft rotationally coupled to a gear assembly axially offset from an input shaft rotationally coupled to the electric motor-generator, where the gear assembly is rotationally coupled to a differential and the differential is rotationally coupled to an axle, a first clutch assembly is configured to rotationally couple and decouple a first gear set from the output shaft, and a second clutch assembly is configured to rotationally couple and decouple a second gear set from the output shaft, the second gear set having a different gear ratio than the first gear set.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2022
    Assignee: Dana Automotive Systems Group, LLC
    Inventor: Eric M. Engerman
  • Patent number: 11193546
    Abstract: A ball-ramp clutch includes two stamped ramp plates and at least one molded support ring. The molded support ring transmits axial force from one of the ramp plates to a thrust bearing, which, in turn, transmits the axial force to the pressure plate of a clutch pack. The molded support ring may radially locate one of the races of the thrust bearing. The molded support ring may be plastic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2021
    Assignee: Schaeffler Technologies AG & Co. KG
    Inventors: Jay Barnes, Shaun Tate, Alaa Makke
  • Patent number: 11104226
    Abstract: An inter-axle differential assembly comprising a driving input shaft, a forward differential wheel, a rear differential wheel, a differential spider connected for common rotation with the input shaft and on which differential pinions configured to meshingly engage with said differential wheels are rotatably mounted, and a differential housing to which the differential spider is connected for common rotation. The assembly comprising an output wheel via which torque is transferable to a rear driving axle, and a connection means movable between: an open position which connects the output wheel to the rear differential wheel so that the differential housing can rotate independently of the rear differential wheel, a locking position connecting both of the differential housing and the output wheel to the rear differential wheel, and a disconnecting position connecting the differential housing to the rear differential wheel, so that the output wheel can rotate independently of the rear differential wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2021
    Assignee: Scania CV AB
    Inventors: Mattias Ingesson, Tobias Bergdal
  • Patent number: 11098793
    Abstract: Methods and systems for a locking mechanism in an inter-axle differential are provided. A vehicle system, in one example, includes an electric motor coupled to a clutch assembly in a locking mechanism of an inter-axle differential coupled to a first axle and a second axle, the clutch assembly is configured to selectively disengage the locking mechanism, and in the disengaged configuration the locking mechanism permits speed differentiation between the first and second axles. The system further includes an electric motor brake coupled to the electric motor and configured to selectively apply a brake torque to the electric motor and the electric motor is configured to actuate the clutch assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2021
    Assignee: Dana Heavy Vehicle Systems Group, LLC
    Inventors: Brian Knapke, Patrick F. Rose, Benjamin J. Passino, Daniel D. Carmean
  • Patent number: 11047463
    Abstract: An axle system for a vehicle having an input shaft and an input helical gear. Circumferentially extending from at least a portion of an outer surface of an intermediate portion of the input shaft is an increased diameter portion. A bearing journal surface is disposed directly adjacent to a first end portion of the increase diameter portion and a tapered roller bearing journal surface is disposed directly adjacent to a second end portion of the increased diameter portion of the input shaft. Disposed outboard from the bearing journal surface is a bearing and a tapered roller bearing is disposed outboard from the tapered roller bearing journal surface of the input shaft. At least a portion of the tapered roller bearing is disposed with a tapered roller bearing receiving portion circumferentially extending along at least a portion of an inner surface of an input helical side gear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2021
    Assignee: Dana Heavy Vehicle Systems Group, LLC
    Inventors: Bradley R. Archer, Jeremy M. Frenznick, Nicholas W. Laforce, Paul V. Mackalski, Matthew T. Malanga, Jared T. Reichert
  • Patent number: 11007870
    Abstract: A four-wheel drive vehicle comprises: main drive wheels and sub-drive wheels; a first input rotating member; a first output rotating member; a second input rotating member; a second output rotating member; a first dog clutch; a second dog clutch; a synchromesh mechanism. In the case of canceling a disconnect state in which the power transmitting member interrupts power transmission from the drive power source and the sub-drive wheels, the control device controls an engagement torque of the coupling to a preset first torque and operates the synchromesh mechanism to engage the first dog clutch when it is determined that the rotation speeds are synchronized between the second input rotating member and the second output rotating member, and controls the engagement torque of the coupling to a second torque smaller than the first torque to engage the second dog clutch when it is determined that the first dog clutch is engaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2021
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Hiroshi Tamura
  • Patent number: 10995835
    Abstract: An electric drive axle assembly of a vehicle includes an electric motor having an output shaft. At least one of a gear and a planetary gear assembly is coupled to the output shaft of the electric motor. The at least one of the gear and the planetary gear assembly is coupled to a differential mechanism configured to transfer torque to two axle shafts of the vehicle. The electric drive axle assembly configured to produce a plurality of speed ratios between the electric motor and the differential mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2021
    Assignee: Dana Automotive Systems Group, LLC
    Inventor: Eric M. Engerman
  • Patent number: 10955043
    Abstract: An axle assembly having an axle housing with a center portion defining a sump and one or more axle shaft housings extending from the center portion. Each of the axle shaft housings receives an axle half shaft. The axle housing includes a differential assembly having a ring gear; and a lubrication directing assembly disposed directly adjacent to the ring gear. The axle assembly also includes a pump mounted in one or more of the axle shaft housings and is drivingly coupled to a pump gear. The pump gear is drivingly coupled to the axle half shaft. The axle assembly also includes an axle housing cover surrounding the axle housing. A fluid storage tank is attached to the housing cover, wherein the fluid storage tank includes a fill channel directly attached to the housing cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2021
    Assignee: Dana Heavy Vehicle Group, LLC
    Inventors: Jordan M. Houser, Mark W. Leber, Marcus W. Schmidt
  • Patent number: 10953746
    Abstract: A hydraulic control unit (HCU) assembly, for an electro-hydraulic limited slip differential system for a vehicle, includes a support bracket configured to couple to an underbody of the vehicle in a location remote from a live axle assembly of the vehicle, and an HCU including an integrated accumulator and reservoir assembly, a control valve assembly, and a motor and hydraulic pump assembly. The HCU is coupled to the support bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2021
    Assignee: Eaton Intelligent Power Limited
    Inventors: Andrew N. Edler, Kandice Kawala, Randy Graves, Daniel P. Fisher
  • Patent number: 10883587
    Abstract: A differential device includes a ring gear receiving a rotational driving force from a drive gear, a differential case rotating integrally with the ring gear around a predetermined axis, and a differential mechanism installed within a barrel part of the differential case. The ring gear includes a gear portion meshing with the drive gear, and a rim portion that is formed integrally with an inner periphery of the gear portion and is fitted, in a non-welded state, onto a maximum diameter outer peripheral portion of the barrel part or a predetermined outer peripheral portion having a smaller diameter than the maximum diameter outer peripheral portion. The rim portion has a to-be-fixed portion welded to the barrel part at a position spaced in an axial direction from a fitting part via which the rim portion and the barrel part are fitted, the position being further radially inward than the fitting part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2021
    Assignee: Musashi Seimitsu Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Akihiro Uchida, Yoichi Yanase
  • Patent number: 10857878
    Abstract: A driveline assembly for a vehicle including at least one primary shaft rotatable about an axis. At least one reducer assembly is coupled with the at least one primary shaft. The reducer assembly includes a sun gear rotatable with the primary shaft. A plurality of planet gears are rotatable about the sun gear. A ring is positioned about the planet gears. A planet carrier is rotatably connected to a center of each of the planet gears. An output shaft is fixed to the planet carrier. A sliding clutch fixes the ring to a ground in a high torque position to provide a gear reduction, and fixes the ring to the planet carrier in a low torque position to provide a 1:1 gear ratio. A method for operating such a driveline assembly is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2020
    Assignee: NEAPCO INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY HOLDINGS, LLC
    Inventors: Donald Remboski, Jacqueline Dedo
  • Patent number: 10837536
    Abstract: A driveline power transmitting device that includes a limited slip differential having a differential case, a cross-pin, a pair of pressure rings, a pair of clutch packs, a pair of preload springs, and a pair of preload control mechanisms. The pressure rings are non-rotatably coupled to the differential case and are disposed on opposite sides of the cross-pin. The preload springs bias the pressure rings toward the clutch packs and thereby preload the clutch packs. The pressure rings are urged axially away from the cross-pin to further compress the clutch packs in response to rotation of the cross-pin relative to the differential case. The preload control mechanisms are employed to decrease the preload force on the clutch packs in certain situations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2020
    Assignee: American Axle & Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas J. Chemelli, Ryan Ettenhofer
  • Patent number: 10767743
    Abstract: A differential gearing for a motor vehicle, with a ring gear, which has an external toothing system and which can be driven by a pinion of the motor vehicle, and with a differential unit which can be driven by the ring gear for rotational speed compensation between wheels of the motor vehicle that can be driven by the pinion via the differential unit, wherein the differential unit has an internal gear which can be driven by the ring gear and has an internal toothing system, the wheels being drivable by way of said internal gear. In relation to a torque flow from the ring gear to the internal gear, a coupling device is arranged between the ring gear and the internal gear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2020
    Assignee: AUDI AG
    Inventors: René Kockisch, Nico Keller, Udo Pinschmidt, Steffen Hummel
  • Patent number: 10760677
    Abstract: An epicyclic gear train including a central sun gear, an outer ring gear, and a number of planet gears which are mounted to a planet carrier. The planet carrier includes a centrally disposed torque transfer coupling with a torque transmission point at an axial end thereof. First and second carrier plates extend radially from the torque transfer coupling and are axially spaced apart to support the planet gears therebetween at aligned gear mounting points. The first carrier plate is closer to the torque transfer point than the second carrier plate. The second carrier plate has a stiffness that is greater than that of the first carrier plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2020
    Assignee: PRATT & WHITNEY CANADA CORP.
    Inventors: Louis Brillon, Michel Desjardins
  • Patent number: 10760624
    Abstract: Presented are wedge-type engine disconnect devices, methods for making/using such disconnect devices, and motor vehicles equipped with such disconnect devices. An engine disconnect device includes an outer race that attaches to a torque converter's pump cover. The outer race's inner diameter (ID) surface has circumferentially spaced grooves. An inner race is concentrically aligned within the outer race and attaches to an engine's output shaft. The inner race's outer diameter (OD) surface has circumferentially spaced pockets. A wedge plate interposed between the inner and outer races has multiple circumferentially spaced ramps. Each ramp slidably mounts within one groove and one pocket. The wedge plate moves between an engaged position, whereat the ramps wedge between the ID and OD surfaces to thereby transfer torque between the inner and outer races, and a disengaged position, whereat the ramps unwedge to thereby free the inner race to rotate with respect to the outer race.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2020
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Farzad Samie, Derek F. Lahr, Dmitriy Bruder, Madhusudan Raghavan, Chunhao J. Lee, Dongxu Li
  • Patent number: 10753447
    Abstract: An electro-hydraulic limited slip differential system for a vehicle includes an axle assembly having an axle housing having an aperture formed therein, and an electro-hydraulic limited slip differential assembly disposed within the axle housing. The limited slip differential assembly includes a differential case, a differential gear assembly disposed in the differential case, a clutch assembly having a clutch pack and a clutch actuator assembly, and a hydraulic fitting disposed at least partially within the aperture. The hydraulic fitting is coupled to a hydraulic port of the clutch actuator assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2020
    Inventors: Andrew N. Edler, Ashish Wadhva, Brian St. John, Kandice Kawala, Randy Graves, Daniel P. Fisher
  • Patent number: 10571007
    Abstract: A differential system provides an axle disconnect function, a synchronizer function, and it has the ability to transmit large amounts of torque and has a limited slip differential function in a compact and cost effective module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2020
    Assignee: Dana Heavy Vehicle Systems Group, LLC
    Inventor: James F. Ziech
  • Patent number: 10525828
    Abstract: A transfer for a vehicle, the transfer includes an input rotating member, a first output rotating member, a second output rotating member, a high-low switching mechanism, a clutch, a motor, a screw mechanism and a transmitting mechanism. The first output rotating member outputs power to first left and right wheels. The second output rotating member outputs power to second left and right wheels. The high-low switching mechanism changes a rate of rotation from the input rotating member and transmits the rotation to the first output rotating member. The clutch adjusts a transfer torque. The transfer torque is transmitted from the first output rotating member to the second output rotating member. The screw mechanism converts rotational motion of the motor to linear motion. The transmitting mechanism transmits linear motion force of the screw mechanism to both the high-low switching mechanism and the clutch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2020
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Mizuki Imafuku, Akinori Homan, Tomohiro Arakawa
  • Patent number: 10518639
    Abstract: An auxiliary drive device includes: a drive unit that has an electric motor; a meshing clutch that has a first meshing member and a second meshing member; an actuator that moves the second meshing member; and a control unit that controls the electric motor and the actuator. The actuator moves the second meshing member among a separation position, at which the second meshing member is not meshed with the first meshing member, an abutment position, at which first meshing teeth and second meshing teeth possibly abut against each other, and a meshing position, at which the first meshing teeth and the second meshing teeth are meshed with each other. The control unit makes a current supplied to the electric motor when the second meshing member is located between the abutment position and the meshing position smaller than a current required to maintain the rotational speed of the electric motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2019
    Assignee: JTEKT CORPORATION
    Inventors: Ryohei Shigeta, Hiroshi Sumasu
  • Patent number: 10451646
    Abstract: A sensor for detecting a physical variable, including: —a sensor element for outputting an electrical signal dependent on the physical variable, —a substrate carrying the sensor element, —a printed circuit board, conducting the electrical signal, on the substrate, and —an embedding compound, in which the sensor element is completely embedded and the printed circuit board is at least partly embedded, —wherein at least one compensation element is embodied in the embedding compound, by which compensation element a mechanical stress caused by an element of the sensor at least partly embedded in the embedding compound is counteracted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2019
    Assignee: Continental Teves AG & Co. oHG
    Inventors: Svenja Raukopf, Jakob Schillinger, Michael Schulmeister
  • Patent number: 10323695
    Abstract: A clutched device has a housing, which defines a clutch sump, a friction clutch that is received in the housing, a first reservoir, an evacuation device and a pump that is configured to transmit fluid between the first reservoir and the friction clutch for operating the friction clutch. The evacuation device is selectively operable for changing the effective volume of the clutch sump so that the level of lubrication in the clutch sump can be lowered to reduce drag forces caused by the presence of lubricant between clutch plates of the friction clutch when the friction clutch is not in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2019
    Assignee: AMERICAN AXLE & MANUFACTURING, INC.
    Inventors: Michal Szymkowiak, Paul J. Valente
  • Patent number: 10113629
    Abstract: A differential assembly is disclosed, including a housing forming an interior space, and a shaft may extend into a portion of the interior space of the housing. A side gear including an aperture may be arranged within the interior space and an end portion of the shaft is aligned and extends through the aperture. The differential assembly may further include a sliding sleeve configured with a flat flange portion, the sliding sleeve may extend through the aperture and slide over the end portion of the shaft. Furthermore, a pinion gear may be configured with a flat face portion and a pinion gear cam portion may be configured to extend axially away from the flat face portion of the pinion gear. An actuator may actuate the sliding sleeve between a sleeve first position and a sleeve second position and the flat flange portion may interact with the pinion gear cam portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2018
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Omar J. Adragna, Amanda C. Doolittle
  • Patent number: 10012301
    Abstract: In a differential locking mechanism, a first differential side gear is fixed on a first axle, a second differential side gear is fixed on a second axle, and a bull gear including an engagement part is disposed between the first and second side gears. A cylindrical part is provided on the first differential side gear unrotatably relative to the first differential side gear, and includes a circumferential portion surrounding the first differential side gear. A differential locking slider is fitted on the circumferential portion of the cylindrical part unrotatably relative to the cylindrical part and axially slidably. The differential locking slider is slidable in a direction to engage its engagement part with the engagement part of the bull gear, and in another direction to disengage its engagement part from the engagement part of the bull gear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2018
    Assignee: Kanzaki Kokyukoki Mfg. Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Katsumoto Mizukawa
  • Patent number: 9933060
    Abstract: A locking differential assembly includes a differential case defining an axis of rotation and a gear chamber. A first side gear is at a first end of the differential case. A second side gear is at a second end of the differential case opposite the first end for selectable rotation relative to the differential case. A solenoid is at the first end. The solenoid is directly wound onto a stator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Steven J. Cochren, Daniel Stanley Frazier, Chad Robert Hillman, John Kimmel Vandervoort
  • Patent number: 9885415
    Abstract: An axle assembly for a vehicle including a differential carrier having a first portion and a second portion. The first portion including a first engagement surface coupled with a second engagement surface of the second portion. The differential carrier defines a differential area and a clutch area substantially separated by a partition. The differential carrier first engagement surface defines a lubricant channel fluidly connecting the differential area with the clutch area, and at least partially located above the clutch area and at least partially located in an outer wall of the differential carrier. The axle assembly further includes a bearing retainer disposed through the outer wall of the differential carrier. The bearing retainer includes an aperture therethrough, fluidly connecting the lubricant channel with a clutch assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2018
    Assignee: Dana Automotive Systems Group, LLC
    Inventors: Thomas L. Nahrwold, Randy L. Sommer
  • Patent number: 9791031
    Abstract: A differential gear mechanism constructed in accordance to one example of the present disclosure can include a differential casing having a first case housing portion and a second case housing portion. The first and second case housing portions can be coupled together with fasteners. A first and a second side gear can be rotatably mounted within the differential casing. A plurality of pinion gears can be mounted between the first and second side gears. Each of the plurality of pinion gears can be rotatably mounted on a respective pinion gear shaft. Each pinion gear shaft can have first and second ends. The first end of each pinion gear shaft can be aligned with a fastener of the plurality of fasteners such that axial movement of the respective pinion gear shafts is inhibited by contact with a corresponding fastener of the plurality of fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2017
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Matthew G. Fox, Jeffrey A. Oesch
  • Patent number: 9759303
    Abstract: A vehicle differential disconnect assembly can include a differential case, a differential gear set, and a torque distribution device. The differential gear set is carried within the differential case. The torque distribution device transfers torque between the differential gear set and side shafts of the accompanying vehicle driveline. The torque distribution device can include a clutch pack and an actuator assembly. The clutch pack is located at a first side of the differential case relative to the differential gear set, and the actuator assembly is located at a second side of the differential case relative to the differential gear set. The actuator assembly has a mover that transmits movement to the clutch pack when the actuator assembly actuates and deactuates the clutch pack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2017
    Assignee: GKN Driveline North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Brent Peura
  • Patent number: 9671004
    Abstract: A differential device (1) for a self-propelled wheeled vehicle, includes an input ring gear (2), two shafts separate from each other, two clutch mechanisms each including a first clutch member (3) mounted integral in rotation to one of the shafts, and a second clutch member (4) mounted freely rotatable relative to the shaft and capable of being rotated by the ring gear (2), the second clutch member being capable of being moved axially. Each second clutch member is provided with elements (44) for bearing contact with the other second clutch member, the elements for bearing contact being capable, in a first given angular configuration of the second clutch members relative to each other, of keeping the second clutch members in the engaged position, and the elements for bearing contact also being capable, in a second given angular configuration, of allowing the second clutch members to shift to the disengaged position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2017
    Assignee: FRANCE REDUCTEURS
    Inventor: Jacques Rambaud
  • Patent number: 9630522
    Abstract: A method controls a motor vehicle including an internal combustion engine coupled to a first axle set and to at least two electric machines each one coupled to one wheel of a second axle set. The method includes determining the speed of at least one of the electric machines; comparing the determined speed against a threshold; and altering, if the determined speed is above the threshold, the maximum torque of the electric machines so as to limit the rotational speed of the machines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: RENAULT s.a.s.
    Inventors: Ahmed Ketfi-Cherif, Gregory Launay, Abdelmalek Maloum, Olivier Scheffges, Maxime Debert
  • Patent number: 9593757
    Abstract: An axle assembly with a housing, a pinion, a ring gear, a bearing and a pair of shafts. The pinon is mounted to the housing for rotation about a first axis. The ring gear is received in the housing and meshingly engaged with the pinion. The bearing supports the ring gear for rotation relative to the housing about a second axis and also handles thrust loads between the housing and the ring gear that are directed (in both directions) along the second axis. The bearing has a plurality of bearing elements and is abutted against a shoulder formed on the housing that is positioned along the second axis between the first axis and the bearing elements. The differential assembly has a differential case, which is coupled to the ring gear for rotation therewith, and a pair of output members that are coupled to the shafts for common rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2017
    Assignee: American Axle & Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: James P. Downs, Paul J. Valente
  • Patent number: 9524660
    Abstract: A display apparatus including a display module, and a drive device to deform the display module, is provided. The drive device switches the display module between a planar state and a curved state in which at least one lateral end of the display module protrudes forward. As such, the user may use the display module both in a planar state and a curved state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2016
    Assignee: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Dong Yup Lee, Jae Hyung Kim, Woo Sung In, Gyu Sung Do, Byung Joo Paek, Jeong Roh Lee, Jun Ho Yang
  • Patent number: 9517694
    Abstract: Vehicles, systems and a method for mitigating power hop in a vehicle are provided. The vehicle, for example, may include, but is not limited to a drivetrain, an electronic limited slip differential mechanically coupled to the drivetrain, and a controller communicatively coupled to the electronic limited slip differential, wherein the controller is configured to determine when the vehicle is experiencing a power hop event or when the vehicle may experience a future power hop event, and cause, when the vehicle is experiencing the power hop event or when the vehicle may experience the future power hop event, the electronic limited slip differential to apply torque differentiation pulses to the drivetrain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2016
    Assignee: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Jason J. Nolte, Dejvis Seitllari
  • Patent number: 9458892
    Abstract: An electromagnetic clutch device includes: a meshing member; an electromagnetic coil; an armature; a cylindrical cam member; and a locking portion. The cam member is provided with a plurality of locked portions to be locked by the locking portion at different axial positions, such that the plurality of locked portions is formed adjacent to each other in a circumferential direction; the cam member rotates only by a first predetermined angle due to an axial movement of the armature from a first position to a second position, and the cam member further rotates only by a second predetermined angle due to a movement of the armature from the second position to the first position; and when locking of the locking portion is shifted from one of the plurality of locked portions to another locked portion circumferentially adjacent thereto so that the locking portion locks the another locked portion at a different axial position, the second meshing portion is meshed with the first meshing portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2016
    Assignee: JTEKT CORPORATION
    Inventors: Noriyuki Fujii, Kunihiko Suzuki, Hiroshi Takuno
  • Patent number: 9446763
    Abstract: A pre-transmission unit for a hybrid drive system includes an input shaft adapted to be driven by an internal combustion engine. An electric motor includes a rotor fixed for rotation with an output shaft, and a stator fixed to a housing. A multi-plate clutch is positioned in the housing to drivingly interconnect the input shaft and the rotor. The clutch includes a piston for applying an input force to the clutch plates. A pump is positioned in the housing and includes an input member fixed for rotation with the rotor. The pump provides pressurized fluid to the piston. A valve regulates the fluid pressure applied to the piston and varies the torque transferred by the clutch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2016
    Assignee: MAGNA POWERTRAIN INC.
    Inventors: Bradley R. Larkin, Douglas Bradley
  • Patent number: 9447859
    Abstract: A locking differential gear carrier comprises a gear carrier housing, a first output shaft, a second output shaft differentially linked to the first output shaft, an internal gear affixed perpendicular to the first output shaft and disposed within the gear carrier housing, and a locking actuator assembly. The locking actuator assembly is disposed exterior to the gear carrier housing and includes a locking ring to which a pin is affixed, the locking ring movable by a servo motor toward and away from the gear carrier housing, the pin disposed in parallel with the first output shaft and passing through the gear carrier housing to selectively engage with a recess of the internal gear to lock the first output shaft to the gear carrier housing and cause the first output shaft and the second output shaft to rotate synchronously.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2016
    Assignee: ARRMA DURANGO LTD
    Inventor: Wojciech Nodzykowski
  • Patent number: 9321451
    Abstract: A hybrid electric vehicle includes an engine that can selectively provide drive torque to propel the vehicle. An electric machine also selectively provides drive torque. A differential transfers the torque to and amongst wheels. A planetary gearset is coupled to the engine and has a ring-gear for transmitting ring-gear-torque to the differential. A continuous torque transfer member operatively couples the ring-gear and the electric machine to the differential. At least one controller is configured to alter engine output based on a ring-gear-torque-threshold. This enables a desired torque to transfer through the continuous torque transfer member to the differential.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Carol Louise Okubo, Jonathan Andrew Butcher, Ming Lang Kuang