Self-Generated Torque Induced by the Lockable and Self-Locking Differentials within the 4WD Drivetrain

This work is dealing with the self-generated torque that occurs within a 4WD military special automotive drivetrain. The mathematical model stated in this paper is confirmed by the means of multiple tests developed in real conditions. The tests were developed in order to reveal both transversal and longitudinal self-generated torque within the drivetrain, on different road surfaces. The present paper also introduces some new concepts, such is for instance the insensitive domain of a self-locking (or a progressively locking) differential. With the aid of this concept we can easier deal with the self-generated torque that is due to the increased internal friction of the differential. Moreover, a general, comprehensive theory can be further issued that could classify the self-locking differentials according to their internal friction and their locking coefficient variation.