VEHICLE DRIVELINE HAVING TORQUE TRANSFER DEVICE THAT IS OPERATED ON FLUID PRESSURE

A vehicle driveline having a torque transfer device and a fluid circuit for operating the torque transfer device. The fluid circuit has a motor, a pump driven by the motor, an actuator, and a pair of valves. The valves are arranged in the fluid circuit to control fluid circulation within the fluid circuit and can be operated such that fluid pressure in the actuator can be maintained (i.e., to maintain engagement of the torque transfer device) without operating the pump. 1. A vehicle driveline comprising:a clutch having a plurality of first clutch plates and a plurality of second clutch plates that are interleaved with the first clutch plates;a reservoir configured to hold hydraulic fluid;a hydraulic ram coupled to the friction clutch, the hydraulic ram having a piston chamber and a piston that is movable in the piston chamber between a first position which is retracted relative to the first and second clutch plates, and a second position in which the piston is extended toward the first and second clutch plates to a greater extent than when the piston is in the first position;a first valve coupled for fluid communication with the piston chamber;a second valve coupled for fluid communication with the piston chamber, and the reservoir; anda pump configured to pump hydraulic fluid from the reservoir to the piston chamber via the first valve;wherein the first valve is operable in a first mode wherein fluid communication is permitted between the pump and the piston chamber, and a second mode wherein fluid communication between the pump and piston chamber is prevented;wherein the second valve is operable in a third mode wherein fluid communication is permitted between the piston chamber and the reservoir, and a fourth mode wherein fluid communication between the piston chamber and the reservoir is prevented; andwherein the second valve is configured to be in the third mode when a pressure within the piston chamber is less than a predetermined pressure, and the second valve ...

Axle assembly having wheel hubs configured for use in vehicle with central tire inflation system

An axle assembly, including an axle shaft, annular member, hub, inner and outer hub bearings, abutment ring, first and second seals, and an air inlet port. The annular member is disposed about the axle shaft. The hub is coupled for rotation with the axle shaft and defines an outlet port. The first and second shaft seals form seals between the hub and the annular member. The air inlet port is mounted to one of the annular member and the abutment ring and includes an inlet boss. A first fluid conduit is defined by the abutment ring or both the abutment ring and the inlet port. The first fluid conduit is in fluid communication with the air inlet boss. The second shaft seal is spaced apart from the first shaft seal along the rotational axis to at least partially define a second fluid conduit in fluid communication inlet and outlet ports.

Method for forming an axle shaft and related axle shaft

A method for forming an axle shaft that includes friction welding a tubular shaft to a shaft portion of a wheel flange. Portions of the joint members on the tubular shaft and the wheel flange are extruded into an annular weld cavity in the wheel flange during the formation of the friction weld. A related axle shaft is also provided.

CLUTCHED POWER TRANSMITTING DEVICE WITH REDUCED LAG TIME FOR ACTUATION

A power transmitting component can include a friction clutch, a ram, a pump, a fluid storage device and a valve. The ram can have a piston chamber and a piston movable therein between a first and second position to engage the friction clutch. A first inlet/outlet of the pump can be fluidly coupled to a reservoir. The fluid storage device can hold pressurized hydraulic fluid. The valve can be fluidly coupled with the piston chamber, a second inlet/outlet of the pump, and the fluid storage device. When in a first mode, the valve can permit fluid communication between the pump and the fluid storage device, inhibit fluid communication between the piston chamber and the pump, and inhibit fluid communication between the piston chamber and the fluid storage device. When in a second mode, the valve can permit fluid communication between the pump, the fluid storage device, and the piston chamber. 1. A power transmitting component comprising:a friction clutch having a plurality of first clutch plates and a plurality of second clutch plates that are interleaved with the first clutch plates;a reservoir configured to hold hydraulic fluid;a hydraulic ram coupled to the friction clutch, the hydraulic ram having a piston chamber and a piston that is movable in the piston chamber between a first position which is retracted relative to the first and second clutch plates, and a second position in which the piston is extended toward the first and second clutch plates to a greater extent than when the piston is in the first position;a pump having a first inlet/outlet and a second inlet/outlet, the first inlet/outlet being coupled for fluid communication to the reservoir;a fluid storage device configured to hold a volume of pressurized hydraulic fluid; anda first valve coupled for fluid communication with the piston chamber, the second inlet/outlet of the pump, and the fluid storage device, the first valve being operable in a first mode and a second mode;wherein the first valve is ...

Shaft assembly with balance weight bonded to shaft member

A method for balancing a shaft assembly having a shaft member. The method can include providing a balance weight having a body portion that is formed of a material that permits transmission of ultra-violet (UV) light therethrough, the body portion having a perimeter; applying an UV light-curable adhesive to at least one of the balance weight and the shaft member; positioning the balance weight to the shaft member such that the UV light-curable adhesive is abutted to the balance weight and the shaft member; and transmitting UV light through the balance weight to cure at least a portion of the UV light-curable adhesive that is disposed inwardly of the perimeter of the body portion.

Clutched power transmitting device with reduced lag time for actuation

A power transmitting component can include a friction clutch, a ram, a pump, a fluid storage device and a valve. The ram can have a piston chamber and a piston movable therein between a first and second position to engage the friction clutch. A first inlet/outlet of the pump can be fluidly coupled to a reservoir. The fluid storage device can hold pressurized hydraulic fluid. The valve can be fluidly coupled with the piston chamber, a second inlet/outlet of the pump, and the fluid storage device. When in a first mode, the valve can permit fluid communication between the pump and the fluid storage device, inhibit fluid communication between the piston chamber and the pump, and inhibit fluid communication between the piston chamber and the fluid storage device. When in a second mode, the valve can permit fluid communication between the pump, the fluid storage device, and the piston chamber.

MULTIPLE PUMP CONFIGURATION FOR ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP DIFFERENTIAL AND TORQUE TRANSFER DEVICE

A hydraulic system for a vehicle drivetrain includes a torque transfer device having a first actuator that actuates to selectively communicate rotatable motion from an input member to an output member. A limited slip differential selectively transfers drive torque from the output member to at least one of the first and second axle shafts. A motor drives a first and a second output shaft. A first pump is rotatably driven by the first output shaft. The first pump selectively supplies the hydraulic fluid to the first actuator. A second pump is rotatably driven by the second output shaft. The second pump selectively supplies the hydraulic fluid to the second actuator. 1. A hydraulic system for a vehicle drive train , the hydraulic system comprising:a torque transfer device having a first actuator that actuates to selectively communicate rotatable motion from an input member to an output member;a limited slip differential that selectively transfers drive torque from the output member to at least one of the first and second axle shafts, the limited slip differential having a second actuator that actuates to vary the drive torque between a first and a second axle shaft;a motor that drives a first and a second output shaft;a first pump that is rotatably driven by the first output shaft of the motor and that selectively supplies the hydraulic fluid to the first actuator; anda second pump that is rotatably driven by the second output shaft of the motor and that selectively supplies the hydraulic fluid to the second actuator.2. The hydraulic system of claim 1 , further comprising a first clutch disposed between the motor and the second pump.3. The hydraulic system of wherein the first clutch actuates to selectively transfer torque from the motor to the second pump.4. The hydraulic system of wherein the first clutch is an electronic clutch.5. The hydraulic system of claim 2 , further comprising a second clutch disposed between the motor and the first pump.6. The hydraulic ...

AXLE ASSEMBLY HAVING WHEEL HUBS CONFIGURED FOR USE IN VEHICLE WITH CENTRAL TIRE INFLATION SYSTEM

An axle assembly, including an axle shaft, annular member, hub, inner and outer hub bearings, abutment ring, first and second seals, and an air inlet port. The annular member is disposed about the axle shaft. The hub is coupled for rotation with the axle shaft and defines an outlet port. The first and second shaft seals form seals between the hub and the annular member. The air inlet port is mounted to one of the annular member and the abutment ring and includes an inlet boss. A first fluid conduit is defined by the abutment ring or both the abutment ring and the inlet port. The first fluid conduit is in fluid communication with the air inlet boss. The second shaft seal is spaced apart from the first shaft seal along the rotational axis to at least partially define a second fluid conduit in fluid communication inlet and outlet ports. 1. An axle assembly comprising:an inner hub assembly having an annular member and an abutment ring, the annular member being disposed about a rotational axis, the abutment ring being fixedly coupled to the annular member, wherein one of the annular member and the abutment ring has an inlet boss that defines an inlet port;a drive hub that is adapted to be to be coupled to a wheel, the drive hub defining an outlet port;first and second hub bearings supporting the drive hub for rotation on the annular member; andfirst and second shaft seals sealingly engaged to the drive hub and the inner hub assembly;wherein a first fluid conduit is partly defined by the abutment ring, the first fluid conduit being in fluid communication with the air inlet port; andwherein the second shaft seal is spaced apart from the first shaft seal along the rotational axis to at least partially define a second fluid conduit, the second fluid conduit coupling the outlet port in fluid communication with the first fluid conduit.2. The axle assembly of claim 1 , wherein a seal member is disposed between the inner hub bearing and the abutment ring.3. The axle assembly of ...

OPTIMIZED OUTER CLUTCH HOUSING FOR REDUCED SPIN LOSS, IMPROVED OIL FLOW AND IMPROVED CLUTCH DURABILITY

A torque transfer device can include a housing and a clutch. The housing can define a clutch cavity and a pocket. The pocket can be formed at an axial end of the clutch cavity and have a generally arcuate shape that extends circumferentially about the clutch cavity above a static lubrication level. The clutch can include an outer carrier, an inner carrier, a plurality of first and second interleaved friction plates. One of an outer and an inner plate carrier of the clutch can be coupled to an input member for common rotation. The other of the carriers can be coupled to a differential case for common rotation. Rotation of the outer carrier relative to the housing through a fluid in the clutch cavity can sling a portion of the fluid toward an inner surface of the housing to cause the portion of the fluid to collect in the pocket. 1. A torque transfer device comprising:a housing defining a clutch cavity and a pocket, the pocket being formed at an axial end of the clutch cavity and having a generally arcuate shape extending circumferentially about the clutch cavity and being above a static lubrication level when the torque transfer device is disposed in a predetermined orientation;an input pinion configured for rotation about a first axis;an input member configured for rotation about a second axis and being meshingly engaged with the input pinion;a first output member and a second output member;a differential including a differential case and a differential gearset, the differential gearset being configured to transmit rotary power between the differential case and the first and second output members;a shaft supported within the housing for rotation about the second axis and coupled for common rotation with the differential case;a fluid received in the clutch cavity; anda friction clutch including an outer carrier, an inner carrier, a plurality of first friction plates, and a plurality of second friction plates, the outer carrier having a first plate mount onto which ...

Power transmitting component with torque transfer device configured with drag reduction system

The present teachings provide for a power transmitting component including a housing, a clutch, a vent, and a dam. The vent can fluidly couple a first and second cavity. The dam can include a door member. Rotation of the outer carrier through a fluid in the second cavity can sling a portion of the fluid toward the vent to cause the portion of the fluid to be transferred from the second cavity, through the vent, and to the first cavity. When the piston is in a first position, the door member can be in a closed position to limit fluid flow from the first cavity to the second cavity. When the piston is in a second position, the door member can be in an open position to allow fluid to flow from the first cavity to the second cavity.

TWO POSITION ACTUATOR WITH SENSING AND CONTROL

An actuator that causes a mode clutch to shift between an engaged position and a disengaged position is provided. The actuator comprises a motor having an output. A shift cam is caused to rotate based on the output of the motor. The shift cam has a cam profile surface. A cam follower rides along the cam profile surface upon rotation of the shift cam. Movement of the cam follower causes movement of a mode fork resulting in the mode clutch shifting between the engaged and disengaged positions. A sensor outputs a voltage to a controller based on a physical location of the cam follower. The controller activates the motor based on the voltage. 110-. (canceled)11. An actuator that causes a mode clutch to shift between an engaged position and a disengaged position , the actuator comprising:a motor having an output;a shift cam that is caused to rotate based on the output of the motor, the shift cam having a cam profile surface;a cam follower that rides along the cam profile surface upon rotation of the shift cam, wherein movement of the cam follower causes movement of a mode fork resulting in the mode clutch shifting between the engaged and disengaged positions; anda sensor that outputs a voltage to a controller, wherein the voltage varies based on a physical location of the cam follower and the controller activates the motor based on the voltage.12. The actuator of wherein the sensor is a Hall effect transducer.13. The actuator of wherein the output of the motor is configured to rotate in a first direction for movement of the mode clutch from the engaged position to the disengaged position as well as from the disengaged position to the engaged position.14. The actuator of wherein the cam profile surface of the shift cam has a first surface that corresponds to the mode fork being positioned in the engaged position and a second surface that corresponds to the mode fork being positioned in the disengaged position.15. The actuator of wherein the cam profile surface of the ...

Axle Assembly With Inboard Axle Shaft Bearings That Support A Differential Mechanism

An axle assembly having a housing, a ring gear received in the housing, a ring gear bearing, a pair of shafts, a differential mechanism and a pair of inboard bearings. The ring gear bearing contacts the housing and the ring gear to support the ring gear for rotation about an axis. The shafts are received in the housing and rotate about the axis. Each of the shafts has a bearing mount and a male splined segment. The differential mechanism has a pair of output members, each of which having a splined internal aperture into which the male splined segment of one of the shafts is slidably received. Each shaft bearing is disposed on the bearing mount of one of the axle shafts and supports the shafts for rotation on the housing. The differential mechanism is supported for rotation about the axis by the ring gear bearing and the inboard bearings. 1. A method for forming an axle shaft , the method comprising:providing a wheel flange having a rotational axis, the wheel flange defining a shaft portion, a first joint member and a containment lip, the first joint member having an annular shape and extending along the rotational axis concentric with the shaft portion such that an annular weld cavity is formed radially between the first joint member and the shaft portion, the containment lip being fixedly coupled to the shaft portion and extending radially outwardly therefrom, the containment lip bounding a distal end of the annular weld cavity;providing a tubular shaft that defines a second joint member;causing relative rotation between the wheel flange and the tubular shaft while engaging the first and second joint members to one another to thereby form a friction weld that retains the wheel flange to the tubular shaft;wherein portions of the first and second joint members are extruded during the formation of the friction weld, the extruded portions of the first and second joint members being received into the annular weld cavity radially inward of the containment lip.2. The ...

Controlling Automotive Vehicle Powertrain, Drivetrain Suspension Components and Accessories Using Portable Personal Electronic Telecommunication Devices

The circuit controls powertrain, drivetrain, vehicle suspension and accessory components of an automotive vehicle to programmatically provide different drive and handling performance using a portable personal electronic telecommunication device having memory and a processor. The circuit includes a protocol converter circuit coupled to receive electric power from an electrical power system of the automotive vehicle, and has at least one port to electrically couple to at least one actuator that supplies control to the controlled component of the automotive vehicle. The protocol converter circuit provides a communication channel by which communication is established with a portable personal electronic telecommunication device. An executable program stored in the memory circuit and operated by the processor of the portable personal electronic telecommunication device supplies control signals via the protocol converter circuit to the one or more actuators, thereby programmatically providing different vehicle drive and handling performances. 1. A kit for modifying a vehicle for off-road performance controllable by a portable personal electronic telecommunication device , comprising:at least one powertrain, drivetrain or vehicle suspension component adapted for retrofit assembly into an automotive vehicle,the at least one powertrain, drivetrain or vehicle suspension component being electrically actuable between at least a first operating state and a second operating state;a protocol converter circuit coupled to receive electric power from an electrical power system of the automotive vehicle,the protocol converter circuit having at least one port by which to electrically couple to said at least one powertrain, drivetrain or vehicle suspension component;the protocol converter circuit providing a communication channel by which communication is established with a portable personal electronic telecommunication device;an executable program stored in the memory circuit of the ...

CONTROL STRATEGY FOR OPERATING A LOCKING DIFFERENTIAL

A drive train having a locking differential and a control unit for controlling operation of the locking differential. The control unit is responsive to selected vehicle characteristics to sua sponte activate or inactivate a locking mechanism of the locking differential to cause the locking differential to operate in a locked manner or an unlocked manner, respectively. A method for operating a locking differential is also provided. The method includes: utilizing only preselected vehicle criteria indicative of the operational state of the vehicle to identify a situation in which a locking mechanism associated with the locking differential is to be energized; and responsively energizing the locking mechanism. 3. The drive train of claim 2 , further comprising a first axle assembly including an axle housing and a first pair of axle shafts claim 2 , wherein the axle housing houses the first locking differential.4. The drive train of wherein the first pair of axle shafts are coupled to opposite sides of the first locking differential.5. The drive train of wherein the first locking differential is configured to receive a first rotary input from a first propeller shaft and selectively transmit the first rotary input to the first pair of axle shafts in one of the locked or unlocked manner.6. The drive train of claim 5 , further comprising a second axle assembly having a second differential having a second locking mechanism claim 5 , the second axle assembly having a second pair of axle shafts claim 5 , wherein the control unit is responsive to the vehicle characteristics to sua sponte activate or inactivate the second locking mechanism of the second locking differential to cause the second locking differential to operate in a locked manner or an unlocked manner claim 5 , respectively.7. The drive train of claim 2 , wherein the control unit communicates with a differential sensor that is configured to sense a parameter indicative of the operational state of the locking ...

CLUTCHED POWER TRANSMITTING DEVICE WITH REDUCED LAG TIME FOR ACTUATION

A power transmitting component can include a friction clutch, a ram, a pump, a fluid storage device and a valve. The ram can have a piston chamber and a piston movable therein between a first and second position to engage the friction clutch. A first inlet/outlet of the pump can be fluidly coupled to a reservoir. The fluid storage device can hold pressurized hydraulic fluid. The valve can be fluidly coupled with the piston chamber, a second inlet/outlet of the pump, and the fluid storage device. When in a first mode, the valve can permit fluid communication between the pump and the fluid storage device, inhibit fluid communication between the piston chamber and the pump, and inhibit fluid communication between the piston chamber and the fluid storage device. When in a second mode, the valve can permit fluid communication between the pump, the fluid storage device, and the piston chamber. 1. A power transmitting component comprising:a friction clutch having a plurality of first clutch plates and a plurality of second clutch plates that are interleaved with the first clutch plates;a reservoir configured to hold a hydraulic fluid;a hydraulic ram coupled to the friction clutch, the hydraulic ram having a piston chamber and a piston that is movable in the piston chamber between a first position which is retracted relative to the first and second clutch plates, and a second position in which the piston is extended toward the first and second clutch plates to a greater extent than when the piston is in the first position;a pump having a first inlet/outlet and a second inlet/outlet, the first inlet/outlet coupled for fluid communication to the reservoir, and the second inlet/outlet coupled for fluid communication with the piston chamber;a fluid storage device configured to hold a volume of pressurized hydraulic fluid;a first valve element disposed between the fluid storage device and the piston chamber, the first valve element being configured to permit fluid communication ...

OPTIMIZED OUTER CLUTCH HOUSING FOR REDUCED SPIN LOSS, IMPROVED OIL FLOW AND IMPROVED CLUTCH DURABILITY

A torque transfer device can include a housing and a clutch. The housing can define a clutch cavity and a pocket. The pocket can be formed at an axial end of the clutch cavity and have a generally arcuate shape that extends circumferentially about the clutch cavity above a static lubrication level. The clutch can include an outer carrier, an inner carrier, a plurality of first and second interleaved friction plates. One of an outer and an inner plate carrier of the clutch can be coupled to an input member for common rotation. The other of the carriers can be coupled to a differential case for common rotation. Rotation of the outer carrier relative to the housing through a fluid in the clutch cavity can sling a portion of the fluid toward an inner surface of the housing to cause the portion of the fluid to collect in the pocket. 1. A torque transfer device comprising:a housing having an end wall and defining a shaft bore and a central cavity, the shaft bore extending through the end wall, the central cavity being disposed about the shaft bore and being bounded on one axial side by the end wall; anda clutch having a first clutch member, the first clutch member being received in the central cavity and rotatable relative to the housing about a rotational axis;wherein a portion of the central cavity forms a lubricant sump that is configured to hold a predetermined quantity of lubricant through which at least a portion of the clutch rotates when the torque transfer device is transmitting rotary power;wherein a groove is formed into the end wall of the housing at a periphery of the central cavity, wherein the groove does not intersect the sump when the housing is positioned in a predetermined position about the rotational axis, and wherein a portion of the first clutch member and a portion of the groove overlap in a radial direction.2. The torque transfer device of claim 1 , further comprising a bearing mounted to the housing concentric with the shaft bore claim 1 , and ...

ELECTRIC DRIVE AXLE WITH TRACTION AND VECTORING CAPABILITIES

A drive module includes an electric motor, planetary differential, first, second, and third suns, first second and third planets, and first and second clutches disposed about an axis. The differential ring can be driven by the motor. The differential sun can be non-rotatably coupled to a first output. The differential carrier can be non-rotatably coupled to a second output. The first, second, and third planets can be supported by a common carrier for rotation about the first axis. The first sun can meshingly engage the first planets. The second sun can be non-rotatably coupled to the first output and meshingly engage the second planets. The third sun can be non-rotatably coupled to the differential carrier and meshingly engaged with the third planets. The first clutch can selectively permit or inhibit rotation of the common carrier. The second clutch can selectively permit or inhibit rotation of the first sun. 1. A drive module for a vehicle , the drive module comprising:a first output member and a second output member, the first and second output members being rotatable about a first axis;an electric motor disposed about the first axis and including a motor output shaft configured to rotate about the first axis;a planetary differential including a differential ring gear, a differential carrier, a differential sun gear, and a plurality of differential planet gears, the differential ring gear being drivingly coupled to the motor output shaft to receive input torque from the motor output shaft, the differential sun gear being coupled to the first output member for common rotation about the first axis, the differential carrier being coupled to the second output member for common rotation about the first axis, the differential planet gears being configured to receive input torque from the differential ring gear and to output differential torque to the differential carrier and the differential sun gear;a common carrier disposed about the first output member and ...

AXLE ASSEMBLY HAVING WHEEL HUBS CONFIGURED FOR USE IN VEHICLE WITH CENTRAL TIRE INFLATION SYSTEM

An axle assembly, including an axle shaft, annular member, hub, inner and outer hub bearings, abutment ring, first and second seals, and an air inlet port. The annular member is disposed about the axle shaft. The hub is coupled for rotation with the axle shaft and defines an outlet port. The first and second shaft seals form seals between the hub and the annular member. The air inlet port is mounted to one of the annular member and the abutment ring and includes an inlet boss. A first fluid conduit is defined by the abutment ring or both the abutment ring and the inlet port. The first fluid conduit is in fluid communication with the air inlet boss. The second shaft seal is spaced apart from the first shaft seal along the rotational axis to at least partially define a second fluid conduit in fluid communication inlet and outlet ports. 1. An axle assembly comprising:an annular member disposed about a rotational axis, the annular member including an inboard end;a hub coupled to the annular member for rotation about the rotational axis and configured to be coupled to a wheel, the hub defining an outlet port;inner and outer hub bearings supporting the hub for rotation on the annular member;an abutment ring fixedly mounted to the annular member;a first shaft seal that forms a seal between the hub and the annular member;a second shaft seal that forms a seal between the hub and the annular member; andan air inlet port mounted to one of the annular member and the abutment ring, the air inlet port having an inlet boss;wherein a first fluid conduit is defined by the abutment ring or both the abutment ring and the inlet port, the first fluid conduit being in fluid communication with the air inlet boss; andwherein the second shaft seal is spaced apart from the first shaft seal along the rotational axis to at least partially define a second fluid conduit, the second fluid conduit coupling the outlet port in fluid communication with the first fluid conduit.2. The axle assembly of ...

Axle Assembly

An axle assembly having an axle housing, an input pinion, a ring gear, a ring gear bearing, a differential assembly and a pair of axle shafts. The input pinion is mounted to the axle housing for rotation about a first axis. The ring gear is received in the axle housing and meshed with the input pinion. The ring gear bearing supports the ring gear on the axle housing for rotation about a second axis. The ring gear bearing has a bearing race, which is integrally formed with the ring gear, and a plurality of first bearing element that contact the first bearing race. The differential assembly has a differential case, which is coupled to the ring gear for rotation therewith, and a pair of output members. Each axle shaft being coupled for rotation with a corresponding one of the output members.

Axle Assembly With Inboard Axle Shaft Bearings That Support A Differential Mechanism

An axle assembly having a housing, a ring gear received in the housing, a ring gear bearing, a pair of shafts, a differential mechanism and a pair of inboard bearings. The ring gear bearing contacts the housing and the ring gear to support the ring gear for rotation about an axis. The shafts are received in the housing and rotate about the axis. Each of the shafts has a bearing mount and a male splined segment. The differential mechanism has a pair of output members, each of which having a splined internal aperture into which the male splined segment of one of the shafts is slidably received. Each shaft bearing is disposed on the bearing mount of one of the axle shafts and supports the shafts for rotation on the housing. The differential mechanism is supported for rotation about the axis by the ring gear bearing and the inboard bearings. 1. An axle assembly comprising:a housing;a ring gear received in the housing;a ring gear bearing contacting the housing and the ring gear, the ring gear bearing supporting the ring gear for rotation about an axis relative to the housing;a pair of axle shafts received in the housing and rotatable about the axis, each of the axle shafts having an end with a bearing mount and a male splined segment;a differential mechanism having a pair of output members, each of the output members having a splined internal aperture into which the male splined segment of one of the axle shafts is slidably received; anda pair of inboard axle shaft bearings, each inboard axle shaft bearing being disposed on the bearing mount of a corresponding one of the axle shafts and supporting the corresponding one of the axle shafts for rotation on the housing;wherein the differential mechanism is supported for rotation about the axis by the ring gear bearing and the inboard axle shaft bearings.2. The axle assembly of claim 1 , further comprising a pair of first retention mechanisms claim 1 , each first retention mechanism being coupled to an associated one of the ...

CLUTCHED POWER TRANSMITTING DEVICE WITH REDUCED LAG TIME FOR ACTUATION

A power transmitting component can include a friction clutch, a ram, a pump, a fluid storage device and a valve. The ram can have a piston chamber and a piston movable therein between a first and second position to engage the friction clutch. A first inlet/outlet of the pump can be fluidly coupled to a reservoir. The fluid storage device can hold pressurized hydraulic fluid. The valve can be fluidly coupled with the piston chamber, a second inlet/outlet of the pump, and the fluid storage device. When in a first mode, the valve can permit fluid communication between the pump and the fluid storage device, inhibit fluid communication between the piston chamber and the pump, and inhibit fluid communication between the piston chamber and the fluid storage device. When in a second mode, the valve can permit fluid communication between the pump, the fluid storage device, and the piston chamber. 1. A power transmitting component comprising:a friction clutch having a plurality of first clutch plates and a plurality of second clutch plates that are interleaved with the first clutch plates;a reservoir configured to hold a hydraulic fluid;a hydraulic ram coupled to the friction clutch, the hydraulic ram having a piston chamber and a piston that is movable in the piston chamber between a first position which is retracted relative to the first and second clutch plates, and a second position in which the piston is extended toward the first and second clutch plates to a greater extent than when the piston is in the first position;a pump having a first inlet/outlet and a second inlet/outlet, the second inlet/outlet being coupled for fluid communication with the piston chamber, the pump being operable in a forward mode wherein the pump is configured to pump fluid from the first inlet/outlet to the second inlet/outlet, and a reverse mode wherein the pump is configured to pump fluid from the second inlet/outlet to the first inlet/outlet;a fluid storage device configured to hold a ...

Locking differential with electromagnetic actuator

Gear system

vehicle modification kit for off-road performance, circuit to adapt and circuit to control at least one of the powertrain, drive train and vehicle suspension components

o circuito controla o trem de força, o trem de acionamento, suspensão do veículo e os componentes acessórios de um veículo automotor para fornecer, de forma programática, desempenho de acionamento e manipulação diferenciado, usando um dispositivo de telecomunicações eletrônico pessoal portátil (42), tendo memória (102) e um processador (100). o circuito inclui um circuito conversor de protocolo (106), acoplado para receber energia elétrica de um sistema de energia elétrica do veículo (44) e tem uma porta para se acoplar, eletricamente, a um atuador que fornece controle ao componente controlado do veículo. o circuito conversor de protocolo (106) fornece um canal de comunicação através do qual a comunicação é estabelecida com um dispositivo portátil (42). um programa executável armazenado na memória (102) e operado pelo processador (100) do dispositivo portátil (42) fornece sinais de controle via o circuito conversor de protocolo (106) para um ou mais atuadores, assim, fornecendo, de forma programática, desempenhos diferenciados de acionamento e manipulação de veículo. the circuit controls the power train, drive train, vehicle suspension and accessory components of a motor vehicle to programmatically provide differentiated drive performance and handling using a portable personal electronic telecommunications device (42), having memory (102) and a processor (100). The circuit includes a protocol converter circuit (106) coupled to receive power from a vehicle power system (44) and has a port for electrically coupling to an actuator that provides control to the controlled component of the vehicle. protocol converter circuit (106) provides a communication channel through which communication is established with a portable device (42). an executable program stored in memory (102) and operated by handheld processor (100) (42) provides control signals via the protocol converter circuit (106) to one or more actuators, thereby programmatically providing performance ...

Clutched power transmitting device with reduced lag time for actuation

A power transmitting component can include a friction clutch, a ram, a pump, a fluid storage device and a valve. The ram can have a piston chamber and a piston movable therein between a first and second position to engage the friction clutch. A first inlet/outlet of the pump can be fluidly coupled to a reservoir. The fluid storage device can hold pressurized hydraulic fluid. The valve can be fluidly coupled with the piston chamber, a second inlet/outlet of the pump, and the fluid storage device. When in a first mode, the valve can permit fluid communication between the pump and the fluid storage device, inhibit fluid communication between the piston chamber and the pump, and inhibit fluid communication between the piston chamber and the fluid storage device. When in a second mode, the valve can permit fluid communication between the pump, the fluid storage device, and the piston chamber.

Controlling automotive powertrain, powertrain suspension components and accessories using portable personal electronic telecommunications devices

Bausatz zum Modifizieren eines Fahrzeugs (10) für eine Geländetauglichkeit, das durch eine tragbare persönliche elektronische Telekommunikationsvorrichtung (42) steuerbar ist, wobei der Bausatz dadurch gekennzeichnet ist, dass der Bausatz umfasst:eine Vielzahl von unterschiedlichen Motorstrang-, Antriebsstrang- und Fahrzeugaufhängungskomponenten (11, 12, 13, 14, 15), die für eine Nachrüstmontage in einem Fahrzeug angepasst sind (10),wobei die Vielzahl von Motorstrang-, Antriebsstrang- oder Fahrzeugaufhängungskomponenten (11, 12, 13, 14, 15) zwischen mindestens einem ersten Betriebszustand und einem zweiten Betriebszustand elektrisch betätigbar ist;eine Protokollwandlerschaltung (106), die verbunden ist, um elektrische Energie von einem elektrischen Energiesystem des Fahrzeugs (10) zu empfangen,wobei die Protokollwandlerschaltung (106) mindestens einen Anschluss hat, durch den diese mit der Vielzahl von Motorstrang-, Antriebsstrang- oder Fahrzeugaufhängungskomponenten (11, 12, 13, 14, 15) elektrisch verbunden wird;wobei die Protokollwandlerschaltung (106) einen Kommunikationskanal bereitstellt, durch den eine Kommunikation mit der tragbaren persönlichen elektronischen Telekommunikationsvorrichtung (42) hergestellt wird,wobei die Protokollwandlerschaltung (106) einen Mikroprozessor (52), einen drahtlosen Kommunikationssender (54, 70) und eine Fahrzeugbussendeempfänger (56) zum Unterstützen der Kommunikation mit der Vielzahl von Motorstrang-, Antriebsstrang- oder Fahrzeugaufhängungskomponenten (11, 12, 13, 14, 15) umfasst; undein ausführbares Programm, das in einer Speicherschaltung (102) der tragbaren persönlichen elektronischen Telekommunikationsvorrichtung (42) gespeichert ist, wobei das ausführbare Programm separate, von einem Benutzer auswählbare Steuerelemente umfasst zur unabhängigen Steuerung einer Vielzahl von verschiedenen Aktuatoren, die mit der Vielzahl von Motorstrang-, Antriebsstrang- oder Fahrzeugaufhängungskomponenten (11, 12, 13, 14, 15) an dem ...

Gear arrangement with backlash adjustment

An automotive differential has two annular housing parts that are screwed together and an adjustment collar that is screwed into one of the annular housing parts. A ring gear is supported by bearings in the respective housing parts for rotation on a longitudinal axis that is perpendicular to a plane through the juncture of the two annular housing parts. A pinion gear is also rotatably mounted in the annular housing part that carries the adjustment collar for rotation on an axis that is not parallel to the longitudinal axis of the ring gear. The pinion gear meshes with the ring gear. Gear backlash and bearing preload are adjusted by indexing the two housing parts with respect to each other and by positioning the adjustment collar with respect to the one housing part.

Controlling automotive vehicle powertrain, drivetrain suspension components and accessories using portable personal electronic telecommunication devices

The circuit controls powertrain, drivetrain, vehicle suspension and accessory components of an automotive vehicle to programmatically provide different drive and handling performance using a portable personal electronic telecommunication device having memory and a processor. The circuit includes a protocol converter circuit coupled to receive electric power from an electrical power system of the automotive vehicle, and has at least one port to electrically couple to at least one actuator that supplies control to the controlled component of the automotive vehicle. The protocol converter circuit provides a communication channel by which communication is established with a portable personal electronic telecommunication device. An executable program stored in the memory circuit and operated by the processor of the portable personal electronic telecommunication device supplies control signals via the protocol converter circuit to the one or more actuators, thereby programmatically providing different vehicle drive and handling performances. nc u ±~ 0j -------

Axle assembly with treaded cover pan attachment and method of assembly

A power transfer device includes an input, a gear set for transferring power from the input to at least one output, a housing and a cover. The housing includes an access aperture sized for receiving the gear set. The access aperture includes a threaded wall. The cover closes the aperture and is threadably engaged with the threaded wall to secure the cover to the housing.

Two position actuator with sensing and control

Two position actuator with sensing and control

An actuator that causes a mode clutch to shift between an engaged position and a disengaged position is provided. The actuator comprises a motor having an output. A shift cam is caused to rotate based on the output of the motor. The shift cam has a cam profile surface. A cam follower rides along the cam profile surface upon rotation of the shift cam. Movement of the cam follower causes movement of a mode fork resulting in the mode clutch shifting between the engaged and disengaged positions. A sensor outputs a voltage to a controller based on a physical location of the cam follower. The controller activates the motor based on the voltage.

Power transmitting component with torque transfer device configured with drag reduction system

The present teachings provide for a power transmitting component including a housing, a clutch, a vent, and a dam. The vent can fluidly couple a first and second cavity. The dam can include a door member. Rotation of the outer carrier through a fluid in the second cavity can sling a portion of the fluid toward the vent to cause the portion of the fluid to be transferred from the second cavity, through the vent, and to the first cavity. When the piston is in a first position, the door member can be in a closed position to limit fluid flow from the first cavity to the second cavity. When the piston is in a second position, the door member can be in an open position to allow fluid to flow from the first cavity to the second cavity.

Elektrische Antriebsachse mit Traktions- und Verteilungsfähigkeiten

Ein Antriebsmodul beinhaltet einen Elektromotor, ein Planetendifferenzial, erste, zweite und dritte Sonnen, erste, zweite und dritte Planeten und erste und zweite Kupplungen, die um eine Achse angeordnet sind. Der Differenzialring kann vom Motor angetrieben werden. Die Differenzialsonne kann mit einem ersten Ausgang drehfest gekoppelt sein. Der Differenzialträger kann mit einem zweiten Ausgang drehfest gekoppelt sein. Die ersten, zweiten und dritten Planeten können durch einen gemeinsamen Träger für die Drehung um die erste Achse getragen werden. Die erste Sonne kann mit den ersten Planeten kämmend im Eingriff sein. Die zweite Sonne kann mit dem ersten Ausgang drehfest gekoppelt sein und mit den zweiten Planeten kämmend im Eingriff sein. Die dritte Sonne kann mit dem Differenzialträger drehfest gekoppelt sein und mit den dritten Planeten kämmend im Eingriff sein. Die erste Kupplung kann die Drehung des gemeinsamen Trägers selektiv erlauben oder behindern. Die zweite Kupplung kann die Drehung der ersten Sonne selektiv erlauben oder behindern.