How a ratio change can improve traction. The schematic graphic (Fig. 1) shows an unrolled differential with the planetary pinion in the center and the side gears left and right. Forward driving is accomplished in this model by moving all three gears from their top position in Figure 1 to the middle position and down to the lower position. In case of good traction, this is happening without any relative rotation of the three shown differential gears. In case the left wheel (which is connected to the leftside gear) slips, then in the model the left-side gear will rotate clockwise, while the unit moves downwards in the graphic. This will cause a counterclockwise rotation of the planetary pinion while it rotates together with the differential carrier around the axis of the two side gears.
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