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US 12,709,154 B2Granted
Interchangable wheel hub modules
AssigneeWarn Automotive, LLC
InventorsJohn Medeiros, Michael Church, Adam Reiner, Russell Conine
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
A drive spline defines an inner profile configured to receive and mate with a drive axle and an outer profile configured to mate with a wheel hub. A cage surrounds and is engaged with the outer profile of the drive spline. The cage retains the drive spline axially and radially in position relative to the outer profile. A cap is coupled to an end of the wheel hub connecting device opposite the drive spline. The cap encloses the end of the hub connecting device.
Claims11
A wheel hub connecting device comprising:
- a drive spline defining an inner profile configured to receive and mate with a drive axle and an outer profile configured to mate with a wheel hub;
- a cage surrounding and engaged with the outer profile of the drive spline, the cage retaining the drive spline axially and radially in position relative to the wheel hub connecting device;
- and
- a cap coupled to an end of the wheel hub connecting device opposite the drive spline, the cap enclosing the end of the hub connecting device, wherein the cap comprises:
- a ring configured to attach to the wheel hub;
- a removable cover surrounded by the ring;
- and
- a gasket between the ring and the removable cover, the removable cover retained to the ring by friction of the gasket.
5 more elements
An axle system comprising:
- a first drive axle;
- a wheel hub connecting device at a first end of the first drive axle, the wheel hub connecting device comprising:
- a drive spline defining an inner profile configured to receive and mate with the drive axle and an outer profile configured to mate with a wheel hub;
- a cage surrounding and engaged with the outer profile of the drive spline, the cage retaining the drive spline axially and radially;
- a cap at an end of the wheel hub connecting device opposite the drive spline;
- the cap configured to prevent dust from entering the wheel hub connecting device;
- and
- a second drive axle;
- a hub lock having substantially similar outer dimensions as the wheel hub connecting device, the hub lock comprising:
- a drive spline defining an inner profile configured to receive and mate with the second drive axle and an outer profile;
- an axially adjustable spline clutch defining an inner profile configured to mate with the outer profile of the drive spline;
- a cage engaged with both the spline clutch and the drive spline to keep the spline clutch and drive spline rotably aligned;
- a cap defining:
- an interaction side defining a surface to be manipulated by an operator;
- an operation side defining a ramped portion arranged to axially move the spline clutch responsive to a rotational position of the cap;
- and
- a diaphragm between the cap and the spline clutch.
14 more elements
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.