Planetary gear differential with disconnect

Abstract

An internal disconnect mechanism for a planetary gear differential permits operation in either an engaged mode, wherein a driving connection is provided therethrough, and in a disengaged mode, wherein no driving connection is provided. The differential includes a case which is rotatable about an axis having first and second spur gears disposed therein, each adapted to be connected to an output shaft for rotation therewith. A first plurality of planetary gears mounted for rotation within the case mesh with the first spur gear and are axially immovable. A second plurality of planetary gears mounted for rotation within the case mesh with the second spur gear. Unlike the first planetary gears, however, the second planetary gears are axially movable between engaged and disengaged positions. In the engaged position, each of the second planetary gears meshes with a corresponding one of the first planetary gears. Thus, the differential functions in a normal manner. In the disengaged position, the second planetary gears do not mesh with any of the first planetary gears. As a result, the spur gears rotate freely relative to the differential case. The axial movement of the second planetary gears may be effected by a spring-loaded vacuum actuator or by a mechanical linkage.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.