Regulated differential lock

The regulated differential lock (GHAS) can apply a locking torque (depending on the driving condition) between the wheels of the rear axle. The locking torque is generated by a multidisc clutch. The necessary pressure in the axial direction is applied by a position-controlled servomotor with reduction gear. In the process the rotational movement of the servomotor is converted by a ball runway mechanism into an axial movement and the clutch package of the multidisc clutch is closed. The clutch package acts between the housing of the rear axle differential and the right output.

The regulated differential lock is active in the following situations:

• Driving off
• Stabilization under lateral acceleration in coasting/overrun mode
• Different wheel speeds for different road surface coefficients of friction right and left
• Dynamic cornering
• Drifting

The regulated differential lock in the rear axle differential primarily consists of the following components:

• Regulated differential lock control unit
• Servomotor with reduction gear
• Clutch package with ball runway mechanism
  Fig 1: Identifying Servomotor, Reduction Gearset, Rear Axle Differential Support, Plug Connection

  Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.