The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Dec. 07, 1999
Filed:
May. 21, 1996
William G Hunt, Roanoke, IN (US);
Dana Corporation, Toledo, OH (US);
Abstract
A dual disconnect differential assembly for four-wheel drive (4WD) vehicle is disclosed. This disconnect differential assembly connects both output shafts of a differential assembly (and correspondingly both axle shafts which are driven by the respective output shafts) simultaneously. The dual differential assembly herein also disconnects both output shafts simultaneously. A clutch mechanism associated with the two differential side gears (which may be otherwise conventional) and with annular driven gears which are in driving engagement with respective output shafts, is provided for simultaneous connection and simultaneous disconnection of the output shafts. The dual disconnect differential assembly herein is simple, compact, and reliable. It overcomes the disadvantages associated with single axle disconnect mechanisms presently in use. It also provides a simpler, more compact, and more reliable dual disconnect differential mechanism than any such mechanism presently known.