Isolation and loading arrangement for differential gear system under test

Abstract

An arrangement for isolating a differential axle system while it is subjected to a test process for noise, also reduces the noise contribution of the differential gear set by coupling a load directly to the differential gear set shaft. The isolation arrangement has a suspension arrangement that supports the differential axle system above the base supports. In a different embodiment, the isolation support supports the differential axle system, yet affords multiple degrees of freedom with respect to the base. The differential axle system is clamped in a manner that permits the multiple degrees of freedom with respect to the base, via an engagement arrangement that secures the differential axle system to the isolation support. The engagement arrangement has a first position with respect to the base wherein the differential axle system is installable on, and removable from, the isolation support, and a second position wherein the differential axle system is secured to the isolation support. Engagement is effected by an actuation element that is effectively decoupled from the base after clamping is achieved. Rotatory energy is provided to the differential axle system exclusively as torque, without any significant axial bias. Additionally, processes for signal analysis enable “pass/fail” determinations to be made with respect to noisiness of the system under test, as well as, the presence of bumps and nicks in the systems under test.