US 6,189,413 B1 · Captive molding with dissimilar material insert

Abstract

An improved housing, particularly one for an automotive differential assembly, is provided. The housing has a cast portion formed from a first material and a preformed insert member formed from a second material which is cast into the cast portion. The insert member is strategically placed in an area of the housing to selectively enhance or alter the properties of the housing at that location. The insert member may be encased in a wall of the cast portion or may extend partially through a wall of cast portion depending upon the characteristics which are being enhanced or altered. The properties which may be enhanced or altered include, for example the strength, electric or thermal conductivity, magnetic potential, chemical compatibility or the coefficient of friction.

Claims20

Dependent claims

A housing for a differential assembly, said housing comprising:

a cast portion having a wall member, said wall member including an interior surface defining inwardly of said surface an interior aperture, said cast portion formed from a first material permitting manufacture of said cast portion as a casting, said wall member adapted for supporting a shaft for rotation within said interior aperture and receiving a reaction force in response thereto;
and
an insert member formed from a second material and at least partially embedded in said wall member outwardly of said interior surface, said insert member distributing said reaction force within said cast portion in a predetermined manner to increase the strength of said housing.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Captive molding with dissimilar material insert

Life of this patent

Captive molding with dissimilar material insert

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims20