Torque tube, torque transfer apparatus and method

摘要

A torque tube includes a ring gear having a first axial end, a second axial end opposite the first axial end, an inner surface including a plurality of teeth, and an outer surface with a mating portion formed adjacent to the first axial end of the ring gear. The torque tube also includes a barrel portion joined to the second axial end of the ring gear at a radial location inward from a radial location of the mating portion. The barrel portion extends axially away from the ring gear.

主权项

1. A torque tube comprising:
a ring gear having a first axial end, a second axial end opposite the first axial end, an inner surface including a plurality of teeth, and an outer surface with a mating portion formed adjacent to the first axial end of the ring gear; a frustoconical portion extending from the second axial end of the ring gear; and a barrel portion joined to the frustoconical portion at a radial location inward from a radial location of the mating portion and extending axially away from the ring gear, the barrel portion having a hub flange protruding radially outward from the barrel portion that is configured for operative coupling to a wheel hub; wherein the torque tube provides indirect coupling between the ring gear and the wheel hub and provides a means of torque transfer from the ring gear, to the barrel portion, to the hub flange and to the wheel hub.