US 6,533,698 B1 · High bias differential lock

Abstract

An improved differential lock is self-setting. A movable lock member is driven to reciprocate between two hydraulic chambers at a speed which increases when there is increasing relative movement between a shaft and differential case. As the movable lock member increases its speed, the resistance to further movement of the lock member due to the hydraulic fluid increases. Preferably, the movable lock member has a pin received in a cam groove in the shaft, and another pin received at an axial groove in the case. The movable lock member is thus constrained to rotate with the case, and is caused to reciprocate as the pin moves within the cam groove in the shaft. A fluid passage through the lock member allows fluid to move between the opposed hydraulic chambers. However, a valve closes this passage as the movable lock member increases its speed. As the passage is restricted, the hydraulic fluid resists further movement of the lock member. As the lock member slows, it will in turn cause the shaft and case to rotate at a more equal speed.

Claims21

Dependent claims

A differential comprising:

first shaft;
a case;
a moveable lock member positioned between said case and said first shaft, said movable lock member being movable at a speed dependent upon a relative speed between said shaft and said case, and movement of said movable lock member being resisted as the speed of said movable lock member increases, said movable lock member always being constrained against any relative rotation between one of said case and said first shaft, under all operative conditions.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

High bias differential lock

Life of this patent

High bias differential lock

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims21