Electronic Locking Differential For Better Traction

Performance alone has not shaped the driveline configurations of today or likely those of tomorrow. Ongoing technology advancements place a higher premium on communication band width and collaboration of systems. Eaton developed the IntelliTrac electronically managed locking differential to expand vehicle dynamics and traction in today’s obstacle laden design environment.

- Bob Kyle, Andrew Edler, John Grogg & Michael Zimpfer

TRENDS DRIVING THE NEED FOR MORE EFFICIENT DRIVELINE SOLUTIONS

Driveline design has continued to evolve since the first automobile. FWD/AWD and RWD/4WD once seen as innovative have become “old school” technologies. Global environmental regulations are pushing lighter and more efficient driveline solutions into production. Hybrid and electric propulsion introduce even more complexity and challenges to get the power completely to the road.

Ongoing advancements in drivetrain, brakes, steering, suspension and sensors place a higher premium on communication bandwidth and collaboration. These sub-systems from multiple suppliers must be merged together by the OEM into one cohesive system to provide refined performance in movement and ride comfort. Adding autonomous vehicles into the mix will continue to push the limits of seamless performance expected by drivers and passengers. But performance alone has not shaped the driveline configurations of today or likely those of tomorrow. Cost, efficiency, lighter weight, and safety have all been additional driving forces creating unique challenges for traditional chassis sub-systems, packaging differentials and transferring torque to the ground.

Another significant consideration for managing torque in the axle is happening in the pick-up truck and SUV market. The relatively new SAE J2807 [1] performance tow-vehicle weight rating requires all light duty vehicle manufacturers selling in North America across all vehicle segments to rate maximum trailer load. The market trend has always been to increase power and towing capability, pulling larger and heavier trailers. At the same time, the goal to reduce tow-vehicle weight for improved fuel economy will make it challenging for vehicles to pass the new SAE standard. Therefore, IntelliTrac was developed by Eaton to expand vehicle dynamics in today’s obstacle laden design environment.