Importance

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Abstract

Disclosed herein is a novel drivetrain concept developed for the four wheel drive vehicle. This drivetrain is specifically designed to operate in conjunction with the extreme-travel independent suspension system, an independent suspension system that is disclosed in the U.S. patent application, Ser. No. 14/059,062; whereby, the criterion of this drivetrain design is dictated by the unique suspension configuration of the leading links. Inspired by Ford's twin-traction beam front suspension system, a key component of the drivetrain concept is a unique frame-mounted reverse power coupler, other components including a differential-mounted offset power coupler and differential housing assemblies. The drivetrain concept embraces the suspension system's fundamental properties-handling quality like an independent suspension system and travel and articulation capabilities potentially superior to that of a solid axle—by securing all weight-bearing components directly or indirectly to the frame and utilizing long axle shafts whose joints coincide with those of the leading links.

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First Claim