Patent ID: 6585616
Filing Date: 2003-07-01
Classification: F16H

Abstract:
A differential comprising:a driving member; a first driven member; a second driven member; and a coupling between the driving member and each of the driven members, the coupling comprising: a differential coupling to distribute torque from the driving member to the first driven member and the second driven member; and a variable coupling including: an input member connected to one of the driving member, the first driven member and the second driven member; an output member connected to another one of the first driven member and the second driven member, wherein there is a first space between the output member and the input member; a magneto-rheological fluid located in the first space; and at least one electromagnet proximate to the first space which activates the magneto-rheological fluid to limit the distribution of torque from the driving member to the first and second driven members.