JTEKT Corporation has developed a new hub unit with integrated seal and built-in ABS sensor for drive wheels.

ABS control, which prevents brakes from locking up, is carried out by means of sensors located in the front and rear wheel bearing areas that detect wheel rotational speed. However, various problems have existed in regard to the drive wheel. For example, because the ABS sensor and a magnetized pulsar are attached separately to the vehicle, the structure is exposed to the elements, leaving the sensing area vulnerable to damage from the incursion of contaminants such as muddy water. Also, machining to enable attachment of the sensor to the knuckle arm for installation on the vehicle and a process to prevent metal chips from attaching to the magnetic pulsar are required.

Concerning the new hub unit JTEKT has developed this time, by moving the ABS sensor and magnetic pulsar from the pack seal to the bearing interior, the sensing area has been protected from muddy water and other contaminants and reliability improved. Also, processes to drill and thread knuckle arm holes for sensor attachment, prevent attachment of metal chips to the magnetized pulsar, adjust the air gap, etc. have become unnecessary. Moreover, a new labyrinth lip has been added to the seal, enabling elimination of the deflector conventionally attached to the CVJ and contributing to cost reduction.

JTEKT aims to begin sales of this product in 2010 and achieve annual sales of seven billion yen by 2013.