Open differential:Force at the planetary wheel

In summary: So if the differential was open, the two wheels would have the same power (P = T_left*ω_left + T_right*ω_right). But if the differential were closed, then the wheel with 0 rpm would have no power and the wheel with rpm would have the power of the wheel with more rpm. So in summary, an open differential transfers equal power to the left and right wheels, right? P_left=P_right.
  • #1
marellasunny
255
3
http://imageshack.com/a/img33/5853/ge7y.gif [Broken]

In the above diagram,the part 3 the planetary wheel(its not the gear at the input or output side but in the middle of the differential). I call it the planetary wheel because I consider a bevel gear differential just an approximation of a planteary gear differential with equal radii of ring and sun gears. First of all,I want to clarify:

1.A open differential transfers equal power to the left and right wheels,right? P_left=P_right
I make this presumption because when taking a turn,the angular velocities of the wheel are different and hence to make the power equal,I would need to vary the torques.I mean:
M_left * ω_left =M_right *ω_right

So,if
ω_left<ω_right => M_left > M_right

Am I right with this logic?

2. If the above logic is correct, in the above diagram the force [F_E /2] would vary at the left and right wheels. If [F_E/2] were equal,the planetary gears would revolve and not rotate around their axis(straight line driving). But,in case of the turns, what would the force magnitude at the planetary wheel be(marked with a question mark in above diagr.)? I presume this would be [F_left-F_right]. Am I correct?
 
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  • #2
No, P_left ≠ P_right.

But T_left = T_right, no matter what.

From http://zhome.com/ZCMnL/tech/Torsen/Torsen.htm:
The drive axles associated with an open differential are interconnected by a bevel gear set designed to divide equal torque between drive axles. This arrangement will not support any substantial torque difference between the drive axles and, as a consequence, offers very little resistance to differentiation. Virtually any attempt to deliver an increased amount of torque to one of the drive axles will result in rotation of the gear set as evidenced by differential rotation between drive axles. For example, if one of the drive wheels should lose traction, any attempt to deliver additional torque to the other drive wheel having better traction will result in undesirable 'spin up' of the wheel having poorer traction. The maximum amount of torque conveyed by the drive axles collectively is limited to approximately twice the amount of torque supported by the drive wheel having the least traction.

Thought experiment: It is possible to have one wheel rotating on an ice patch while the other is not rotating because it is on asphalt. If one wheel has 0 rpm, then it must have no power (P = Tω), hence -obviously - it cannot have the same power as the other wheel.
 

What is an open differential?

An open differential is a mechanical device that allows the wheels of a vehicle to rotate at different speeds while still receiving power from the engine.

How does an open differential work?

An open differential uses a set of gears to distribute power from the engine to both wheels. The gears are designed to allow one wheel to rotate faster than the other when necessary, such as during turns or uneven terrain.

What is the force at the planetary wheel in an open differential?

The force at the planetary wheel in an open differential is the torque, or rotational force, that is transmitted from the engine to the wheels. This force is distributed evenly between the two wheels by the gears in the differential.

What are the advantages of having an open differential?

An open differential allows for smooth and stable driving on regular roads, as well as improved fuel efficiency. It also reduces tire wear and tear by allowing the wheels to rotate at different speeds.

What are the limitations of an open differential?

An open differential is not ideal for off-road or slippery terrain, as it may cause the wheels to slip and lose traction. It also cannot transfer power to both wheels simultaneously, which may limit its performance in certain situations.

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