Method of engaging two gear elements, and a drive device implementing such a method

An engagement method for engaging a first gear element with a second gear element, at least the second gear element being mounted to move between a meshing position and a disengaged position by means of an actuator, the engagement method including a step of driving at least one of the gear elements in rotation so as to establish a non-zero difference in speed of rotation between said gear elements, and a step of controlling the actuator to perform the following in succession:

• moving at least the second gear element towards the meshing position;
• at the moment contact is detected between the gear elements, stopping the movement of the second gear element towards the meshing position;
• and
• when a relative angular position of the gear elements allowing the engagement of said gear elements is detected, moving the second gear element into the meshing position as quickly as the actuator is capable of going.