Description:ACTUATION SYSTEM
FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0001] This invention generally relates to a field of vehicle drivetrain systems, and in particular, to an actuation system for a vehicle differential lock.

BACKGROUND
[0002] The subject matter discussed in the background section should not be assumed to be prior art merely as a result of its mention in the background section. Similarly, a problem mentioned in the background section or associated with the subject matter of the background section should not be assumed to have been previously recognized in the prior art. The subject matter in the background section merely represents different approaches, which in and of themselves may also correspond to implementations of the claimed technology.
[0003] A differential lock system in a vehicle drivetrain that is utilized to improve traction by locking the differential. The locking of the differential ensures that both wheels on an axle of the vehicle rotate at a same speed. This is particularly useful in off-road conditions or when one wheel loses traction. Traditional differential lock system typically employs pneumatic actuation, which requires an air compressor and associated pneumatic lines within the vehicle.
[0004] In vehicles equipped with hydraulic brake systems, the absence of air compressor and pneumatic lines poses a challenge for integrating pneumatic differential lock systems. Installing additional pneumatic lines and air tanks in these vehicles can lead to increased costs, complex packaging, and maintenance issues. Mechanical actuation systems, while a possible alternative, introduce further complexity and potential discomfort for the vehicle operator. Conventional pneumatic differential lock systems require substantial modifications to vehicles with hydraulic brakes, making them impractical and cost-prohibitive. Additionally, the systems can complicate the vehicle's overall design and reduce the available space for other critical components.
[0005] According to the patent application "RU2731585C1" titled "Locked differential in assembly," invention relates to the locking differentials. Locked differential system comprises crankcase with axis of rotation, first and second half-axial gear, stator arranged at crankcase first end, solenoid fixed to stator, locking ring, at least two intermediate pins and stator position transducer. Gears are arranged on crankcase first and second ends for selective relative rotation therein. Stator is selectively actuated by magnetic method for translational movement to distance of axial movement by means of solenoid. Ring is made with possibility of selective engagement with first half-axle gear to lock its rotation relative to crankcase. Each of the pins is connected to the locking ring and touches the stator to install the locking ring at least a specified distance from the stator. Sensor serves to determine position of locking ring by determining stator position.
[0006] Another patent application, " US20150204431A1," titled " Locking differential assembly," describes a locking differential assembly includes a differential case defining an axis of rotation and a gear chamber. A first side gear is at a first end of the differential case. A second side gear is at a second end of the differential case opposite the first end for selectable rotation relative to the differential case. At least two pinion gears are rotatably supported in the gear chamber in meshing engagement with the first side gear and the second side gear. A solenoid is at the first end. A plunger is selectably magnetically actuatable by the solenoid. A lock ring is selectably engagable with the second side gear to selectably prevent the side gear from rotating relative to the differential case. At least two relay rods are each connected to the plunger and to the lock ring to cause the lock ring to remain a fixed predetermined distance from the plunger.
[0007] In any of the discussed prior arts, describe complex locking differential systems involving solenoids, magnetic actuation, and multiple intermediary components like intermediate pins and relay rods. These systems often require intricate and precise magnetic or mechanical coordination, which is prone to failure, costly to manufacture, and challenging to maintain. Therefore, there remains a need for an efficient, reliable, and cost-effective actuation system for differential locks in vehicles with hydraulic brake systems. The invention described herein addresses these challenges by providing a vacuum-based actuation system, eliminating the need for pneumatic lines and compressors.
OBJECTIVES OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The objective of invention is to provide an actuation system for a vehicle differential lock.
[0009] The objective of present invention is to provide a system capable of creating and managing actuation forces to facilitate engagement and disengagement of the vehicle differential lock with precision.
[0010] Furthermore, the objective of present invention is to provide a system for ensuring a reliable engagement and disengagement of the differential lock, thereby enhancing vehicle traction and performance under varying driving conditions.
[0011] Furthermore, the objective of present invention is to provide a system for ensuring a smooth transition during the engagement and disengagement processes, thereby minimizing wear and tear on a vehicle's drivetrain components.
[0012] Furthermore, the objective of present invention is to provide a system to enhance safety and reliability of the vehicle's differential lock system by ensuring accurate and timely engagement and disengagement, thus improving overall vehicle stability and control.
SUMMARY
[0013] The present invention relates to an actuation system for a vehicle differential lock.
[0014] According to an aspect, an actuation system for a vehicle differential lock is disclosed. The actuation system comprises a differential lock housing, a push rod, a fork differential lock, a return spring, a support spring, a sliding dog, a differential case having a fixed dog, characterized in that a vacuum cylinder mounted on the differential lock housing via a bracket cylinder, and at least one linkage assembly comprising at least one joint pivotally mounted over the differential lock housing, a first linkage connected between the vacuum cylinder and the at least one joint, and a second linkage connected between the at least one joint and the push rod. Further, actuation of the vacuum cylinder engages the vehicle differential lock when a suction pressure is created inside the vacuum cylinder that facilitates to pull the first linkage inside the vacuum cylinder and generate a corresponding pivot movement in the at least one joint to push the push rod, via the second linkage inside the differential lock housing such that the fork differential lock moves the sliding dog towards the fixed dog to engage the sliding dog with the fixed dog, or the actuation of the vacuum cylinder disengages the vehicle differential lock when the suction pressure is released from the vacuum cylinder that facilitates to push the first linkage outside the vacuum cylinder and generate the corresponding pivot movement in the at least one joint to pull the push rod outside the differential lock housing such that the fork differential lock moves the sliding dog away from the fixed dog to disengage the sliding dog from the fixed dog.
[0015] According to another aspect, a method for operating an actuation system for a vehicle differential lock is disclosed. Further, the method comprises a differential lock housing, a push rod, a fork differential lock, a return spring, a support spring, a sliding dog, a differential case having a fixed dog, characterized in that: engaging the vehicle differential lock by actuating a vacuum cylinder when a suction pressure is created inside the vacuum cylinder that facilitates to pull a first linkage inside the vacuum cylinder and generate a corresponding pivot movement in at least one joint to push the push rod, via a second linkage inside the differential lock housing such that the fork differential lock moves the sliding dog towards the fixed dog to engage the sliding dog with the fixed dog, or disengaging the vehicle differential lock by actuating the vacuum cylinder when the suction pressure is released from the vacuum cylinder that facilitates to push the first linkage outside the vacuum cylinder and generate the corresponding pivot movement in the at least one joint to pull the push rod outside the differential lock housing such that the fork differential lock moves the sliding dog away from the fixed dog to disengage the sliding dog from the fixed dog.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] The accompanying drawings illustrate various embodiments of systems, methods, and embodiments of various other aspects of the disclosure. Any person with ordinary skills in the art will appreciate that the illustrated element boundaries (e.g., boxes, groups of boxes, or other shapes) in the figures represent one example of the boundaries. It may be that in some examples one element may be designed as multiple elements or that multiple elements may be designed as one element. In some examples, an element shown as an internal component of one element may be implemented as an external component in another, and vice versa. Furthermore, elements may not be drawn to scale. Non-limiting and non-exhaustive descriptions are described with reference to the following drawings. The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating principles.
[0017] FIG. 1A illustrates an expanded view of a differential of a vehicle installed with an actuation system according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0018] FIG. 1B illustrates a sectional view of the differential installed with the actuation system according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0019] FIG. 2A illustrates a perspective view of the actuation system according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0020] FIG. 2B illustrates a sectional view of the actuation system according to an embodiment of the present invention; and
[0021] FIG. 3 illustrates a flowchart showing a method for operating the actuation system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0022] Some embodiments of this disclosure, illustrating all its features, will now be discussed in detail. The words “comprising,” “having,” “containing,” and “including,” and other forms thereof, are intended to be equivalent in meaning and be open ended in that an item or items following any one of these words is not meant to be an exhaustive listing of such item or items or meant to be limited to only the listed item or items. It must also be noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0023] Although any systems and methods similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of embodiments of the present disclosure, the preferred, systems and methods are now described. Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings in which like numerals represent like elements throughout the several figures, and in which example embodiments are shown. Embodiments of the claims may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. The examples set forth herein are non-limiting examples and are merely examples among other possible examples.
[0024] The present invention discloses an actuation system for a vehicle differential lock. Further, the vehicle differential lock comprises a differential lock housing, a push rod, a fork differential lock, a return spring, a support spring, a sliding dog, a differential case having a fixed dog. Embodiments of the present invention may comprise a vacuum cylinder mounted on the differential lock housing via a bracket cylinder. Embodiments of the present invention may comprise at least one linkage assembly. Further, the at least one linkage assembly may comprise at least one joint, a first linkage connected between the vacuum cylinder and the at least one joint, and a second linkage connected between the at least one joint and the push rod. Further, upon actuation of the vacuum cylinder, a suction pressure may be created inside the vacuum cylinder to pull the first linkage inside the vacuum cylinder facilitating the at least one joint to push the push rod, via the second linkage, inside the differential lock housing as a result the fork differential lock moves the sliding dog towards the fixed dog. Further, when the sliding dog may engage with the fixed dog, then the vehicle differential lock may get engaged, locking the differential of a vehicle to provide enhanced traction to the vehicle.
[0025] FIG. 1A illustrates an expanded view of a differential (100) of a vehicle installed with an actuation system (102), according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1B illustrates a sectional view of the differential (100) installed with the actuation system (102), according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0026] In some embodiments, the actuation system (102) for a vehicle differential lock comprises a vacuum cylinder (104), a bracket cylinder (106), and at least one linkage assembly (108). The vehicle differential lock is a mechanism employed in a vehicle’s drivetrain. Further, the vehicle comprises at least one of a car, truck, van, etc. In some embodiments, the vehicle differential lock is configured to lock the differential (100) comprising one or more internal gears of the vehicle ensuring that both wheels on an axle of the vehicle rotate at a same speed with equal force. In one example, the vehicle differential lock is engaged or disengaged from a cabin of the vehicle through at least one switch (not shown).
[0027] In some embodiments, the vehicle differential lock comprises a differential lock housing (110), a push rod (112), a fork differential lock, a return spring, a support spring, a sliding dog, and a differential case having a fixed dog. In some embodiments, the differential lock housing (110) is configured to encase one or more components associated with the vehicle differential lock. In some embodiments, the differential lock housing (110) is configured to protect the one or more components from various external elements and ensure a proper alignment and functioning of the vehicle differential lock.
[0028] In some embodiments, the actuation system (102) is operationally coupled with the vehicle differential lock. Further, the vacuum cylinder (104) is mounted on the differential lock housing (110) through the bracket cylinder (106). Further, the bracket cylinder (106) is mounted on the differential lock housing (110) through at least two bolted screws. In one example, the bracket cylinder (106) is perpendicularly mounted on the differential lock housing (110). Further, the vacuum cylinder (104) is attached with the bracket cylinder (106). Further, the at least one linkage assembly (108) is operationally coupled with between the vacuum cylinder (104) and the push rod (112) of the vehicle differential lock. Further, the at least one linkage assembly (108) comprises at least one joint (116), a first linkage (118), and a second linkage. Further, the at least one joint (116) is pivotally mounted over the differential lock housing (110). Further, the first linkage (118) is connected with one end of the at least one joint (116). Further, the second linkage is connected with another end of the at least one joint (116).
[0029] Furthermore, the first linkage (118) is coupled between the vacuum cylinder (104) and the at least one joint (116). Further, the second linkage is coupled between the at least one joint (116) and the push rod (112). Further, the push rod (112) is connected with the sliding dog. Moreover, the sliding dog is encased within at least one bore fabricated inside the differential lock housing (110). Further, the sliding dog is configured to move laterally inside the at least one bore and towards the fixed dog. The sliding dog is configured to engage with the fixed dog to enable engaging and disengaging of the vehicle differential lock.
[0030] FIG. 2A illustrates a perspective view of the actuation system (102), according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2B illustrates a sectional view of the actuation system (102), according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0031] In some embodiments, the actuation system (102) is configured to engage or disengage the vehicle differential lock (204). In some embodiments, the actuation system (102) comprises the vacuum cylinder (104). In some embodiments, the vacuum cylinder (104) is mounted on the differential lock housing (110). The vacuum cylinder (104) is configured to generate a suction pressure upon actuation. In one example, the vacuum cylinder (104) is operationally coupled with at least one switch. The at least one switch is configured to enable a user to regulate operations of the vacuum cylinder (104). In another example, the at least one switch is installed inside a cabin of the vehicle. In some embodiments, the at least one switch may be communicatively coupled to at least one processor (not shown).
[0032] In some embodiments, the at least one switch may be configured to send a signal to the at least one processor once the at least one switch is operated by the user. Further, the at least one processor may be configured to actuate the vacuum cylinder (104) based at least on the signal received by the at least one switch. In one example, upon toggling the at least one switch in “ON” position, a signal may be sent to a pump (not shown) coupled to the at least one processor, that may create suction pressure inside the vacuum cylinder (104) to engage the vehicle differential lock (204). In another example, upon pressing the at least one switch in “OFF” position, another signal may be sent to the pump that may release suction pressure from the vacuum cylinder (104) to disengage the vehicle differential lock (204).
[0033] In some embodiments, the vacuum cylinder (104) further comprises at least one inlet pipe (114). Further, the at least one inlet pipe (114) is configured to enable the vacuum cylinder (104) to create the suction pressure inside the vacuum cylinder (104). In some embodiments, the at least one inlet pipe (114) is configured to enable evacuation of air from the vacuum cylinder (104), creating a necessary suction pressure inside the vacuum cylinder (104).
[0034] Furthermore, the vacuum cylinder (104) is mounted on the differential lock housing (110) via the bracket cylinder (106). The bracket cylinder (106) is configured to provide a structural stability to the vacuum cylinder (104) over the differential lock housing (110). In some embodiments, the bracket cylinder (106) is made of several high-strength materials. The materials may include steel, aluminium alloy etc. In some embodiments, the materials for making the bracket cylinder (106) is selected such that the bracket cylinder (106) remains durable and resistant to environmental conditions such as corrosion and mechanical stress.
[0035] In some embodiments, the actuation system (102) further comprises the at least one linkage assembly (108). The at least one linkage assembly (108) is operationally coupled with the vacuum cylinder (104) and the vehicle differential lock (204). In some embodiments, the at least one linkage assembly (108) is configured to enable engaging or disengaging of the vehicle differential lock (204). In some embodiments, the at least one linkage assembly (108) is configured to translate actuation force from the vacuum cylinder (104) into a mechanical motion required to engage or disengage the vehicle differential lock (204).
[0036] Furthermore, the at least one linkage assembly (108) comprises the at least one joint (116), the first linkage (118), and second linkage (200). The at least one joint (116) corresponds to a collar joint. In some embodiments, the at least one joint (116) further comprises a first end and a second end. Further, the first linkage (118) is coupled with the first end of the at least one joint (116) and the second linkage (200) is coupled with the second end of the at least one joint (116). Further, the at least one joint (116) is configured to provide a pivot movement to the first linkage (118) and the second linkage (200). In some embodiments, the first linkage (118) is connected between the vacuum cylinder (104) and the at least one joint (116). In some embodiments, the second linkage (200) is connected between the at least joint and the push rod (112) of the vehicle differential lock (204).
[0037] Furthermore, upon actuation of the vacuum cylinder (104), the vacuum cylinder (104) creates a suction pressure through the at least one inlet pipe (114). Further, the suction pressure created within the vacuum cylinder (104) is configured to pull the first linkage (118) inside the vacuum cylinder (104). Further, due to the movement of the first linkage (118) inside the vacuum cylinder (104), a corresponding pivot movement is generated in the at least one joint (116) to push the second linkage (200). Further, the second linkage (200) is connected with the push rod (112). Further, the second linkage (200) is configured to push the push rod (112) inside the differential lock housing (110).
[0038] In some embodiments, the push rod (112) corresponds to a linear actuator. Further, the push rod (112) is configured to engage and disengage the vehicle differential lock (204). In some embodiments, the fork differential lock (206) of the vehicle differential lock (204) is connected to the push rod (112). Further, the fork differential lock (206) is configured to move along with movement of the push rod (112). The fork differential lock (206) is configured to move the sliding dog (208) towards the fixed dog (210). Further, the fork differential lock (206) is configured to translate a linear motion of the push rod (112) into a lateral movement of the fork differential lock (206) required to lock or unlock the differential (100) of the vehicle. In some embodiments, the sliding dog (208) is coupled with the fork differential lock (206). The sliding dog (208) is configured to engage with the fixed dog (210) to lock the differential.
[0039] In some embodiments, when the push rod (112) moves, the fork differential lock (206) slides the sliding dog (208) towards the fixed dog (210), causing the differential (100) to lock. In some embodiments, the differential case is configured to house the one or more internal gears (212). The differential case is configured to provide protection to the one or more internal gears (212) of the differential (100) from several external factors. The external factors may include extreme temperatures, high mechanical stress, sudden impact from any foreign object.
[0040] Moreover, the fixed dog (210) of the vehicle differential lock (204) may correspond to a stationary component. Further, the fixed dog (210) is configured to engage with the sliding dog (208). The fixed dog (210) comprises a plurality of teeth configured to mesh with the sliding dog (208) to lock the differential, ensuring both the wheels rotate at the same speed. In some embodiments, return spring (202) ensures that the sliding dog (208) disengages from the fixed dog (210) when the differential lock is at a deactivated state. The return spring (202) is configured to provide a necessary force to return the sliding dog (208) to an initial position. In some embodiments, the support spring is configured to maintain position of the sliding dog (208) when the vehicle differential lock (204) is at an activated state. Further, the support spring is configured to ensure that the sliding dog (208) remains engaged under varying loads and driving conditions
[0041] In one instance, when the vehicle differential lock (204) is disengaged, then the push rod (112) is at its initial position, the return spring (202) keeps the sliding dog (208) away from the fixed dog (210). Further, the one or more internal gears (212) of the differential (100) are configured to operate freely, enabling the wheels to rotate at different speeds. In one example, the rotations of the wheels at different speeds allows a smooth cornering, as the outer wheel needs to travel a greater distance than the inner wheel.
[0042] In another instance, when the actuation system (102) is activated to engage the vehicle differential lock (204), then the vacuum cylinder (104) gets activated to generate the suction pressure through at least one inlet pipe (114). Further, the at least one inlet pipe (114) is configured to evacuate air from the vacuum cylinder (104). Further, the suction pressure created inside the vacuum cylinder (104) enables the at least one linkage assembly (108) to push the push rod (112). Further, the at least one linkage assembly (108) comprises the at least one joint (116), the first linkage (118), and the second linkage. The push rod (112) further moves the fork differential lock (206). In some embodiments, the fork differential lock (206) moves in a lateral direction to slide the sliding dog (208) to engage with the fixed dog (210) within the differential case. Further, upon engaging of the sliding dog (208) with the fixed dog (210), the one or more internal gears (212) of the differential (100) gets locked, ensuring both wheels on the axle rotate at a same speed.
[0043] Moreover, when the vehicle differential lock (204) gets engaged, the support spring is configured to ensure that the sliding dog (208) remains in place and prevent accidental disengagement of the sliding dog (208). Furthermore, when the actuation system (102) is deactivated to disengage the vehicle differential lock (204), then the vacuum cylinder (104) stops generating the suction pressure. Further, the return spring (202) is configured to push the sliding dog (208) away from the fixed dog (210), disengaging the vehicle differential lock (204).
[0044] FIG. 3 illustrates a flowchart showing a method (300) for operating the actuation system (102), according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is described in conjunction with FIGS. 1A-2B.
[0045] In some embodiments, the vehicle differential lock (204) comprises the differential lock housing (110), the push rod (112), the fork differential lock (206), the return spring (202), the support spring, the sliding dog (208), the differential case having the fixed dog (210).
[0046] At operation 302, the vacuum cylinder (104) is actuated to engage the vehicle differential lock (204), when the suction pressure is created inside the vacuum cylinder (104) that facilitates to pull the first linkage (118) inside the vacuum cylinder (104) and generate a corresponding pivot movement in the at least one joint (116) to push the push rod (112), via the second linkage (200) inside the differential lock housing (110) such that the fork differential lock (206) moves the sliding dog (208) towards the fixed dog (210) to engage the sliding dog (208) with the fixed dog (210).
[0047] In some embodiments, the at least one inlet pipe (114) is configured to enable evacuation of air from the vacuum cylinder (104), creating a necessary suction pressure inside the vacuum cylinder (104) to pull the first linkage (118) of the at least one linkage assembly (108) inside the vacuum cylinder (104). Further, a corresponding pivot movement is generated in the at least one joint (116). Further, the at least one joint (116) of the at least one linkage assembly (108) is configured to push the push rod (112), via the second linkage (200), inside the differential lock housing (110) such that the fork differential lock (206) moves the sliding dog (208) towards the fixed dog (210).
[0048] At operation 304, the vacuum cylinder (104) is actuated to disengage the vehicle differential lock (204), when the suction pressure is released from the vacuum cylinder (104) that facilitates to push the first linkage (118) outside the vacuum cylinder (104) and generate the corresponding pivot movement in the at least one joint (116) to pull the push rod (112) outside the differential lock housing such that the fork differential lock (206) moves the sliding dog (208) away from the fixed dog (210) to disengage the sliding dog (208) from the fixed dog (210).
[0049] Further, upon engaging of the sliding dog (208) with the fixed dog (210), the one or more internal gears (212) of the differential (100) gets locked, ensuring both wheels on the axle rotate at a same speed.
[0050] It has thus been seen the actuation system (102) for the vehicle differential lock (204), as described. The actuation system (102) for the vehicle differential lock (204) in any case could undergo numerous modifications and variants, all of which are covered by the same innovative concept; moreover, all of the details can be replaced by technically equivalent elements. In practice, the components used, as well as the numbers, shapes, and sizes of the components can be whatever according to the technical requirements. The scope of protection of the invention is therefore defined by the attached claims.

Dated this 19th Day of February, 2025
Ishita Rustagi (IN-PA/4097)
Agent for Applicant
, Claims:
We Claim:
1. An actuation system (102) for a vehicle differential lock (204), comprising a differential lock housing (110), a push rod (112), a fork differential lock (206), a return spring (202), a support spring, a sliding dog (208), a differential case having a fixed dog (210), characterized in that:
a vacuum cylinder (104) mounted on the differential lock housing (110) via a bracket cylinder (106); and
at least one linkage assembly (108) comprising:
at least one joint (116) pivotally mounted over the differential lock housing (110);
a first linkage (118) connected between the vacuum cylinder (104) and the at least one joint (116); and
a second linkage (200) connected between the at least one joint (116) and the push rod (112),
wherein actuation of the vacuum cylinder (104) engages the vehicle differential lock (204) when a suction pressure is created inside the vacuum cylinder (104) that facilitates to pull the first linkage (118) inside the vacuum cylinder (104) and generate a corresponding pivot movement in the at least one joint (116) to push the push rod (112), via the second linkage (200) inside the differential lock housing (110) such that the fork differential lock (206) moves the sliding dog (208) towards the fixed dog (210) to engage the sliding dog (208) with the fixed dog (210), or
wherein the actuation of the vacuum cylinder (104) disengages the vehicle differential lock (204) when the suction pressure is released from the vacuum cylinder (104) that facilitates to push the first linkage (118) outside the vacuum cylinder (104) and generate the corresponding pivot movement in the at least one joint (116) to pull the push rod (112) outside the differential lock housing such that the fork differential lock (206) moves the sliding dog (208) away from the fixed dog (210) to disengage the sliding dog (208) from the fixed dog (210).
2. The actuation system (102) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the vacuum cylinder (104) is coupled to at least one inlet pipe (114), and wherein the at least one inlet pipe (114) is configured to enable the vacuum cylinder (104) to intake and expel air, thereby facilitating to create the suction pressure and release the suction pressure.

3. The actuation system (102) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the differential lock housing (110) defines at least one bore that guides movement of the push rod (112) inside the differential lock housing (110).

4. The actuation system (102) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the sliding dog (208) is encased around the axle shaft and configured to move over the axle shaft using a spline connection.

5. The actuation system (102) as claimed in claim 1, further comprising the return spring (202) encased around the push rod (112), wherein the return spring (202) is configured to ensure that the push rod (112) returns to an initial position when the vacuum is released.

6. The actuation system (102) as claimed in claim 5, wherein in the initial position of the push rod (112), the sliding dog (208) is disengaged with the fixed dog (210).

7. The actuation system (102) as claimed in claim 1, further comprising the support spring configured to maintain positioning of the return spring (202).

8. A method (300) for operating an actuation system (102) for a vehicle differential lock (204), comprising a differential lock housing (110), a push rod (112), a fork differential lock (206), a return spring (202), a support spring, a sliding dog (208), a differential case having a fixed dog (210), characterized in that:
engaging the vehicle differential lock (204) by actuating a vacuum cylinder (104) when a suction pressure is created inside the vacuum cylinder (104) that facilitates to pull a first linkage (118) inside the vacuum cylinder (104) and generate a corresponding pivot movement in at least one joint (116) to push the push rod (112), via a second linkage (200) inside the differential lock housing (110) such that the fork differential lock (206) moves the sliding dog (208) towards the fixed dog (210) to engage the sliding dog (208) with the fixed dog (210),
wherein the vacuum cylinder (104) mounted on the differential lock housing (110) via a bracket cylinder (106); and
the at least one linkage assembly (108) comprising:
the at least one joint (116) pivotally mounted over the differential lock housing (110);
the first linkage (118) connected between the vacuum cylinder (104) and the at least one joint (116); and
the second linkage (200) connected between the at least one joint (116) and the push rod (112), or
disengaging the vehicle differential lock (204) by actuating the vacuum cylinder (104) when the suction pressure is released from the vacuum cylinder (104) that facilitates to push the first linkage (118) outside the vacuum cylinder (104) and generate the corresponding pivot movement in the at least one joint (116) to pull the push rod (112) outside the differential lock housing such that the fork differential lock (206) moves the sliding dog (208) away from the fixed dog (210) to disengage the sliding dog (208) from the fixed dog (210).
Dated this 19th Day of February, 2025
Ishita Rustagi (IN-PA/4097)
Agent for Applicant