U.S. patent application number 11/637998 was filed with the patent office on 2007-08-02 for thru-axle differential for scale model vehicles.
Invention is credited to George E. Newby, Joel Quinn.
Application Number | 20070178803 11/637998 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38322691 |
Filed Date | 2007-08-02 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070178803 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Quinn; Joel ; et
al. |
August 2, 2007 |
Thru-axle differential for scale model vehicles
Abstract
A thru-axle differential box for a six-wheel drive scale model
vehicle includes an input pinion, a ring gear coupled to the input
pinion, at least one axle output coupled to the ring gear, and an
output pinion coupled to the ring gear.
Inventors: |
Quinn; Joel; (South Jordan,
UT) ; Newby; George E.; (Ririe, ID) |
Correspondence
Address: |
RADER, FISHMAN & GRAUER PLLC
10653 SOUTH RIVER FRONT PARKWAY
SUITE 150
SOUTH JORDAN
UT
84095
US
|
Family ID: |
38322691 |
Appl. No.: |
11/637998 |
Filed: |
December 13, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60749872 |
Dec 13, 2005 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
446/454 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63H 17/262 20130101;
A63H 30/04 20130101; A63H 17/05 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
446/454 |
International
Class: |
A63H 30/00 20060101
A63H030/00 |
Claims
1. A radio controlled scale-model vehicle, comprising: a six-wheel
drive transmission drive train.
2. The scale model of claim 1, wherein said six-wheel drive
transmission drive train includes a front differential, a rear
differential, and a thru-differential.
3. The scale model of claim 2, wherein said thru-differential is
coupled to said rear differential.
4. A method, comprising: coupling a thru-differential to a
radio-controlled prime mover; and coupling said thru differential
to a rear differential.
5. A through differential for use with a scale model vehicle
comprising: an input pinion; a ring gear coupled to said input
pinion; at least one axle output coupled to said ring gear; and an
output pinion coupled to said ring gear.
6. A method of converting an existing scale model 4.times.4 vehicle
having a first and a second end differential to a 6.times.6 vehicle
comprising: coupling a thru-differential input to a prime mover of
said scale model 4.times.4; coupling an axle to said
thru-differential; and coupling an output of said thru-differential
to said first end differential.
7. The method of claim 6, wherein said first end differential is
disposed at a rear of said scale model 4.times.4 vehicle.
8. The method of claim 6, wherein said first end differential is
disposed at a front of said scale model 4.times.4 vehicle.
9. The method of claim 6, further comprising elongating a frame of
said scale model 4.times.4 vehicle.
Description
[0001] This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. .sctn.
119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No 60/749,872 filed
Dec. 13, 2005 titled "Thru-Axle Differential for Scale Model
Vehicles." The provisional application is incorporated herein by
reference in its entirety.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present disclosure relates to scale model vehicles. In
particular, the present disclosure relates to a thru-axle
differential box for a six-wheel drive scale model vehicle and to
scale model vehicles making use of the thru-axle differential.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Scale model vehicles are known that have 4.times.4 (four
wheel drive) drive trains. For example, FIGS. 1a and 1b illustrate
scale model vehicle, such as a scale mode 4.times.4 truck. The
4.times.4 scale model truck makes use of a standard transmission,
as shown in FIG. 3a. As shown in FIG. 3a, the transmission (310)
receives a rotational input from a prime mover, such as the engine.
The transmission (310) transmits the rotational power from the
engine to the rear differential (330) and front differential (370)
thru the front drive shaft (360) and the rear drive shaft (350).
Presently, higher order drive trains, such as 6.times.6 or greater
are not currently available.
SUMMARY
[0004] In one of many possible embodiments, an apparatus is
provided that includes a six-wheel drive transmission drive train.
According to one exemplary embodiment discussed herein, the
six-wheel drive transmission drive train includes a front
differential, a rear differential, and a thru differential.
[0005] A method is also provided herein that includes coupling a
thru differential to a radio-controlled prime mover; and coupling
said thru differential to a rear differential.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0006] The accompanying drawings illustrate various embodiments of
the present system and method and are a part of the specification.
The illustrated embodiments are merely examples of the present
system and method and do not limit the scope of the disclosure.
[0007] FIG. 1a shows a side view of existing prior art a 4.times.4
(four wheel drive) truck.
[0008] FIG. 1b shows a perspective view of existing prior art a
4.times.4 truck
[0009] FIG. 2a is a side view of the of a scale model vehicle
having a 6.times.6 (six wheel drive) drive train and a thru
differential according to one exemplary embodiment.
[0010] FIG. 2b is a perspective view the scale model vehicle shown
in FIG. 2a.
[0011] FIG. 3a shows a perspective view of a prior art 4.times.4
drive train configuration.
[0012] FIG. 3b illustrates a perspective view of a 6.times.6 having
a thru differential and drive shaft according to one exemplary
embodiment.
[0013] FIG. 4a shows the thru differential and the exterior parts
according to one exemplary embodiment.
[0014] FIG. 4b shows a cross section view of the thru differential
of FIG. 4a.
[0015] FIG. 4c shows an exploded view of the thru differential
similar to the thru differential show in FIG. 4b.
[0016] FIG. 5a shows a 6.times.6 scale model vehicle climbing over
a rock obstacle.
[0017] FIG. 5b shows a 6.times.6 scale model vehicle jumping and in
the air.
[0018] Throughout the drawings, identical reference numbers
designate similar, but not necessarily identical, elements.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0019] A pass-through differential is provided herein for use in
scale model vehicles. Scale model vehicles are provided herein that
include a pass-through differential. For example, according to one
exemplary embodiment, a 6.times.6 scale mode vehicle is disclosed
that makes use of a pass through differential.
[0020] As used herein, the term "differential" shall be understood
to mean a drive train component configured to receive a rotational
input from a drive line, modify the ratio of the input rotation,
and transmit the input rotation to one or more axles. Additionally,
the term "differential" is meant to include any components, and/or
sub-components of the drive train component including, but in no
way limited to, spider gears that allow the one or more axles to
rotate at differing velocities.
[0021] Additionally, as used herein, the term "transmission drive
train" is meant to be understood as including the vehicle
transmission, driveline, and any number of through or termination
differentials. The term "transmission" is meant to be understood
herein as referring to any drive train component configured to
initially receive rotational energy from a prime mover and convert
the rotational energy to a driveline of the transmission drive
train.
[0022] According to one exemplary embodiment, the 6.times.6 scale
model vehicle is much more stable climbing and ascending hills due
to its longer wheel base and the added traction of two more tires.
Such a vehicle may be more stable in the corners and offer added
traction for acceleration and braking while cornering. The
exemplary scale model vehicle is easier to control in the air while
jumping due to its longer wheelbase and additional gyroscopic
effect of having two additional wheels and tires. For example, a
6.times.6 scale model vehicle will climb over objects such as
rocks, mud, sand, snow and others much better than the 4.times.4
because of the added traction and stability of having six
wheels.
[0023] In the following description, for purposes of explanation,
numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a
thorough understanding of the present method and apparatus. It will
be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art that the present
method and apparatus may be practiced without these specific
details. Reference in the specification to "one embodiment" or "an
embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or
characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is
included in at least one embodiment. The appearance of the phrase
"in one embodiment" in various places in the specification are not
necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.
[0024] FIGS. 2a and 2b illustrate a scale model vehicle having
six-wheel drive (6.times.6). In particular, as will be discussed in
more detail below, the scale model vehicle includes a
thru-differential. In particular, as will be discussed in more
detail below, the thru-differential allows a standard 4.times.4
scale model vehicle to be converted into a higher order drive train
transmission configuration, such as a 6.times.6 (six wheel drive)
transmission drive train.
[0025] In particular, as shown in FIG. 3a, a standard configuration
includes a rear differential (330). As shown in FIG. 3b, a thru
differential (320) may be added, with associated hardware, between
the transmission (310) and the rear differential to form a
6.times.6 (six wheel drive) transmission drive train. The 6.times.6
may then be incorporated with wheels and other parts to form a
6.times.6 scale model vehicle, as shown in FIGS. 2a and 2b.
According to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 2a and 2b, the
thru-differential (320) would be coupled to the forward pair of
rear wheels while the rear differential (330) would be coupled the
rearward paid of rear wheels.
[0026] FIG. 4a shows the thru differential (320) and the exterior
parts according to one exemplary embodiment. As shown in FIG. 4a,
the thru-differential (320) includes an input coupling (400),
output coupling (410), axle drive coupling (420) and differential
case (430). The input coupling (400) receives a rotational input
from a prime mover, such as engine (310; FIG. 3b). The prime mover
may be any suitable type, including without limitation, an internal
combustion type engine as shown, a battery or electric motor, or
any other type of prime mover suitable for use with scale model
vehicles.
[0027] FIG. 4b shows a cross sectional view of the thru
differential (320). In particular, as show in FIG. 4b, the
thru-differential further illustrates the input coupling (400), the
output coupling (410), the axle drive coupling (420), and the
differential case (430). FIG. 4c further illustrates pinion shaft
bearings (440 & 450), a pinion drive input gear (490), a pinion
output gear (460), and a common ring gear (470). The common ring
gear (470) is used by both the pinion input gear (490) and the
pinion output gear (460). FIG. 4b also illustrates a differential
housing (480).
[0028] The input coupling (400) is located on a common shaft with
the pinion input gear (490) such that as the input coupling (400)
is driven, the pinion input gear (490) is driven as well. The
pinion input gear (490) is coupled to the common ring gear (470).
Thus, as the pinion input gear (490) is driven, the pinion input
gear (490) drives the common ring gear (470). The common ring gear
(470) is on a common shaft with the axle drive couplings (420),
such that as the common ring gear (470) rotates, the axle drive
couplings (420) also rotate. If the axle drive couplings (420) are
coupled to wheels, then those wheels are driven.
[0029] As the common ring gear (470) rotates, the common ring gear
(470) also drives the output coupling (410) through the pinion
output gear (460). The output coupling (410) may be coupled to a
rear differential (330). The rear differential (330) would then
drive wheels coupled thereto, as is known. Thus, the
thru-differential (320) receives an input from a prime mover. The
thru-differential transmits the input to drive couplings and an
output coupling to thereby provide rotational force for four or
more wheels.
[0030] The 6-wheel drive radio controlled truck has shown to be
superior in almost all running conditions in both off road and on
road environments. The thru differential (320) is what makes this
step up from a 4-wheel drive to a 6-wheel drive economical,
reliable and simple.
[0031] FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a method of installing a
thru-differential. For example, according to one exemplary method,
the thru-differential may be installed on a standard scale model
vehicle, to thereby increase the number of driven wheels of the
scale model vehicle. The method begins by removing screws from the
front bumper (step 1). The step shown graphically in the figure
labeled (step 1). Table 1 provides a numerical listing of suitable
parts according to one exemplary embodiment. The parts and
dimensions are for clarity only. Those of skill in the art will
appreciate that any suitable number and types of parts may be used
as desired. For ease of reference, each step will be referenced by
its associated drawing, which is labeled accordingly.
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 6 .times. 6 Parts PARTS LIST Nov. 11, 2005
ITEM # PART # QT'Y DESCRIPTION MATERIAL 1 . ? 3 MM LOCKNUT STEEL 2
. ? 3 MM .times. 12 SOCKET HEAD SCREW STEEL 3 . ? 3 MM .times. 20
SOCKET HEAD SCREW STEEL 4 . ? 3 MM .times. 32 SOCKET HEAD SCREW
STEEL 5 25110 ? LONG HINGE PIN STEEL 6 25110 ? SNORT HINGE PIN
STEEL 7 . ? 1/4''-20 .times. 3/4'' PAN HEAD PHILLIPS SCREW STEEL 8
. ? 1/4''-20 .times. 3/4'' FLAT HEAD PHILLIPS SCREW STEEL 9 . ?
11/4'' FLAT WASHER STEEL 10 . ? 1'' FLAT WASHER STEEL 11 TSR0021 1
REAR BODY SUPPORT ALUMINUM 12 TSR0034 2 BODY SUPPORT ROD ALUMINUM
13 . ? 3 MM .times. 10 FLAT HEAD SOCKET SCREW STEEL 14 TSR0041 1
CAB TILT SUPPORT PLATE ALUMINUM 15 TSR0016 1 CAB TILT FRONT SUPPORT
ALUMINUM 16 TSR0049 4 SUSPENSION BRACKET ALUMINUM 17 TSR0055 1 TIE
ROD ANCHOR ALUMINUM 18 TSR0054 2 REAR FRAME SPACER ALUMINUM 19
TSR0051 1 UPPER FRAME RAIL (R.H.) ALUMINUM 20 TSR0052 1 UPPER FRAME
RAIL (L.H.) ALUMINUM 21 . ? 3 MM .times. 18 SOCKET HEAD SCREW STEEL
22 . ? THRU DIFFERENTIAL . 23 TSR0057 ? DRIVESHAFT STEEL 24 25106 2
DIFFERENTIAL SHIMS (EXISTING) . 25 . ? 3 MM .times. 14 SOCKET HEAD
SCREWS STEEL 26 . ? 3 MM .times. 8 FLATHEAD SOCKET SCREW STEEL 27
25120 2 TIE RODS STEEL 25121 28 TSR0050 ? REAR FRAME PLATE ALUMINUM
29 25107 2 UPPER SUSPENSION ARM . 30 . 2 LOWER SUSPENSION ARM . 31
25114 2 AXLE STEEL 32 25058 4 SHOCKS . 33 25112 2 HUB CARRIER STEEL
34 25136 1 SHOCK TOWER . 35 25070 1 SHOCK MOUNTING HARDWARE
KIT(1/2) STEEL 36 25110 2 SHORT(SHORTENED) HINGE PIN STEEL 37 25110
2 LONG HINGE PIN STEEL 38 . ? 3 MM .times. 14 PAN HEAD PHILLIPS
STEEL 39 25106 2 REAR DIFFERENTIAL SHIMS . 40 . 1 REAR
DIFFERENTIAL(EXISTING) . 41 TSR0056 1 DECK PLATE(FLAT BED) ALUMINUM
42 25218 2 5 MM LOCKNUT STEEL 43 25205 2 BODY POST MOUNTING SCREW
STEEL 44 25118 2 WHEEL HEX . 45 25117 2 HEX PIN . 46 25171 2 WHEEL
. 47 25170 2 TIRE W/FOAM . 48 25220 2 5 MM WASHER STEEL 49 2208 1
BODY CLIP STEEL 50 . 1 BODY-CLASSIC(TRUCK) . 51 . 1 BUMPER
ALUMINUM
[0032] The method continues by installing step items (step 2). The
body posts are then removed (step 3). Thereafter, the vehicle is
turned over and two holes are drilled in plastic assemble cab mount
support (step 4). The cab mount support is then assembled (step
5)
[0033] Thereafter, the rear shock tower and differential and upper
suspension brackets are removed. (step 6). Step 7 then illustrates
assembly of frames and suspension brackets (step 7). The
thru-differential and lower plate are installed (step 8). The
center shock tower is installed (step 9). The rear differential
direction is then reversed (step 10). Step 11 is to install rear
differential and driveshaft (step 11). The following step is to
assemble rear shock tower and suspension parts (step 12).
Thereafter, front and rear body supports are installed (step 13).
The next step is to install deck plate mounting posts (step 14),
followed by installation of the deck plate (step 15). Finally, the
tires and wheels may be installed (step 16).
[0034] The preceding description has been presented only to
illustrate and describe exemplary embodiments. It is not intended
to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to any precise form
disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in light
of the above teaching. It is intended that the scope of the
disclosure be defined by the following claims.
* * * * *