Variable pressure relief system for hydraulically actuated limited slip differentials

Abstract

The present invention relates generally to hydraulically actuated limited slip differentials. More particularly, the present invention relates to a hydraulic limited slip differential which utilizes a variable pressure relief check valve used to vary the maximum hydraulic pressure available within the differential case in a manner that the limited slip feature can be adjusted anywhere between a full “ON” and a full “OFF” configuration. Hydraulic fluid will not flow through the check valve until the hydraulic pressure within the case results in a reaction force larger than the check valve activation pressure, thus providing a maximum pressure limit in the hydraulic system. The activation pressure of the check valve can be selectively controlled by an actuator. The movement of the actuator corresponds to a change the retaining force of the check valve. Dynamic control of the system in response to vehicle operational parameters may also be performed.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.