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A New Hydraulic Coupling Unit (HCU) for 4WD Vehicles
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English
Abstract
This year (1989) Mitsubishi Motors Corp. introduced, on some models, a newly-developed Hydraulic Coupling Uint (HCU), by which 2WD vehicles can be converted into 4WD ones in the same way as done by a viscous coupling (VC).
This HCU is similar in the configuration to a vane pump: the oil discharge is returned to the suction chamber through a number of orifices. The rotor and cam ring (housing) are respectively connected to the two shafts; either of the one with the front wheels and the other with the rear wheels. Accordingly, it works as a slip-sensitive differential like a VC while it has a merit of progressive and parabolic torque-response characteristic, which offers stronger traction and acceleration capability and also minimizes tight-corner braking.
This paper discusses primarily the configurations, functions and test results of the HCU and also presents an overview on further development possibilities of the 4WD system.
Citation
Hiramatsu, T. and Usami, R., "A New Hydraulic Coupling Unit (HCU) for 4WD Vehicles," SAE Technical Paper 890527, 1989, https://doi.org/10.4271/890527.Also In
References
- Richter B. et al. “Traction and Directional Control of 4WD Passenger Cars.” International Conference on All Wheel Drive, IMechE 1986
- Muraoka A. et al. “Viscous Coupling for Full-Auto Full Time 4WD.” Nissan Technical Report 22 1986
- Müller R. et al. “PDS-A New Inter-Axle Coupling Device for 4WD-Cars.” SAE Paper” 880698 1988
- Otake R. et al. “Driving Performance of 4WD with Viscous Coupling.” Nissan Technical Report 22 1986