FULL-TIME TRANSFER CASE WITH SYNCHRONIZED RANGE SHIFT AND CONTROLLABLE BI-DIRECTIONAL CLUTCH

摘要

A full-time two-speed transfer case (20) is equipped with an integrated planetary gearset assembly (42') and a range shift mechanism (86') to provide high-range and low-range drive connections. The integrated planetary gearset assembly (42') includes a first gearset (48') which acts as a two-speed reduction unit and a second gearset (50) which acts as an interaxle differential. The synchronized range shift mechanism (86') is arranged to concurrently move two components (68', 70') of the first gearset (48) and can be synchronized to permit on-the-move range shifts. The transfer case (20) is also equipped with a dual-mode bi-directional overrunning clutch and a mode shift mechanism to establish automatic full-time and locked four-wheel drive modes.