Three-stage torque proportioning differential

摘要

A torque proportioning differential (10) is modified to vary bias ratio in three distinct stages in response to predetermined levels of drive torque. A pair of side gears (26 and 28) carried within a differential housing (12) generate respective thrust forces (44 and 46) that can be opposed by both high-friction gear mounting surfaces (68 and 70) and low-friction gear mounting surfaces (84 and 86). Outer disc springs (72 and 74) transmit a first portion of the thrust forces (44 and 46) to the low-friction gear mounting surfaces (84 and 86). Inner disc springs (64 and 66) transmit together with the outer disc springs (72 and 74) a second portion of the thrust forces (44 and 46) up to a second magnitude. Either the inner disc springs (64 and 66) or the outer disc springs (72 and 74) transmit the remaining portion of the thrust forces ( 44 and 46) above the second magnitude.