Assembly comprising a tolerance ring located between two components and having a desired sliding torque at the contact surfaces

Abstract

The present disclosure provides an assembly, the assembly comprising an inner component, an outer component and a tolerance ring (100) located between the inner component and the outer component to provide an interference fit therebetween. The tolerance ring comprises a side wall (102), the side wall comprising a plurality of radially extending protrusions (108) on a first radial surface and an unformed area (114) on a second radial surface opposite to the first radial surface. The tolerance ring (100) provides a first starting torque τ1 defined as a starting torque between the tolerance ring protrusion (108) and the inner component or the outer component, and the tolerance ring (100) provides a second starting torque τ2 defined as a starting torque between the unformed area (114) and other portions of the inner component or the outer component, wherein 1.1τ1≤τ2.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to tolerance rings, and in particular to tolerance rings for modifying torque assemblies.

[0002] Typically, tolerance rings limit movement between relatively moving parts, such as rotating an internal component in a hole in an external component. Further, tolerance rings have many other potential advantages, such as compensating for tolerances of components that are not machined to exact dimensions, compensating for different expansion coefficients between components, allowing for rapid assembly, and durability. A type of tolerance ring may be located in a gap between the outer surface of an internal component and the inner surface of a hole in an external component to transfer torque within an assembly. Exemplary assemblies may include doors, hoods, tailgates, and engine compartment hinges, seats, steering columns, flywheels, drive shaft assemblies, or may include other assemblies, particularly those used in automotive applications. Sometimes, in such assemblies, it is necessary to have a desired slippage at the desired surface of the internal and external components. Therefore, there is a continuing need for an improved tolerance ring that provides improved slippage performance while maintaining appropriate tolerance compensation and providing a longer service life of the assembly. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0003] The present disclosure may be better understood, and its numerous features and advantages made apparent to those skilled in the art by referencing the accompanying drawings.

[0004] Figure 1 A method for manufacturing a tolerance ring according to one embodiment is included;

[0005] Figure 2A A cross-sectional view of one embodiment including a tolerance ring according to an embodiment;

[0006] Figure 2B A cross-sectional view of one embodiment including a tolerance ring according to an embodiment;

[0007] Figure 2C A cross-sectional view of one embodiment including a tolerance ring according to an embodiment;

[0008] Figure 2D A cross-sectional view of one embodiment including a tolerance ring according to an embodiment;

[0009] Figure 3A Includes a perspective view of one embodiment of a tolerance ring constructed in accordance with the present invention;

[0010] Figure 3B including a top view of one embodiment of a tolerance ring constructed in accordance with the present invention;

[0011] Figure 3C Includes a side view of one embodiment of a tolerance ring constructed in accordance with the present invention;

[0012] Figure 4 Includes a perspective view of another embodiment of a tolerance ring constructed in accordance with the present invention;

[0013] Figure 5A include Figure 3A Axial cross-sectional view of the tolerance ring in the assembly;

[0014] Figure 5B include Figure 3A A radial cross-sectional view of the tolerance ring in the assembly;

[0015] Figure 6 An end view of a tolerance ring in an assembly including an embodiment;

[0016] Figure 7 including an example graph of torque (N·m) as a function of time (s) when testing a tolerance ring according to an embodiment;

[0017] Figure 8 Includes a plurality of contrast tolerance rings in a free state condition or within an assembly; and

[0018] Fig. 9 A plurality of experimental tolerance rings in a free state condition or in an assembly according to embodiments are included.

[0019] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that, for simplicity and clarity, the elements shown in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some elements in the figures may be enlarged relative to other elements to help enhance understanding of the embodiments of the present invention. In different figures, the same reference symbols are used to represent similar or identical items. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] The following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings is provided to help understand the teachings disclosed herein. The following discussion will focus on the specific implementation and embodiments of the teachings. This emphasis is provided to help describe the teachings and should not be interpreted as limiting the scope or applicability of the teachings. However, other embodiments may be used based on the teachings disclosed in this patent application.

[0021] The terms "consisting of," "comprising," "including," "containing," "having," "having" or any other variation thereof are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a method, article, or component that comprises a list of features is not necessarily limited to only those features but may include other features not expressly listed or inherent to such method, article, or component. In addition, unless expressly stated otherwise, "or" refers to an inclusive "or" and not an exclusive "or." For example, any of the following may satisfy condition A or B: A is true (or exists) and B is false (or does not exist), A is false (or does not exist) and B is true (or exists), and both A and B are true (or exist).

[0022] Furthermore, "a" or "an" is used to describe the elements and components described herein. This is done only for convenience and to give a general sense of the scope of the invention. Unless it is obvious that it is intended otherwise, this description should be understood to include one, at least one, or the singular also includes the plural, or vice versa. For example, when a single embodiment is described herein, more than one embodiment can be used in place of the single embodiment. Similarly, where more than one embodiment is described herein, a single embodiment can replace more than one embodiment.

[0023] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains. The materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and not limiting. To the extent not described herein, many details regarding specific materials and processing methods are conventional and can be found in textbooks and other sources in the field of tolerance rings and tolerance ring assemblies.

[0024] For illustrative purposes, Figure 1 A diagram showing a forming method 10 for forming a tolerance ring is included. The forming method 10 may include a first step 12 of providing a material or composite material including a substrate. Optionally, the forming method 10 may further include a second step 14 of curling an end of the material or composite material to form a tolerance ring.

[0025] Figure 2AAn illustration of a material 1000 that may be formed into a tolerance ring for the first step 12 of forming method 10. The tolerance ring may include a substrate 119. In one embodiment, substrate 119 may at least partially include a metal. According to certain embodiments, the metal may include iron, copper, titanium, tin, aluminum, an alloy thereof, or may be another type of metal. More particularly, substrate 119 may at least partially include steel, such as stainless steel, carbon steel, or spring steel. For example, substrate 119 may at least partially include 301 stainless steel. 301 stainless steel may be annealed, 1 / 4 hard, 1 / 2 hard, 3 / 4 hard, or full hard. In addition, steel may include stainless steel that includes chromium, nickel, or a combination thereof. In a certain embodiment, substrate 119 may include a woven mesh or an expanded metal grid. The woven mesh or expanded metal grid may include a metal or a metal alloy, such as aluminum, steel, stainless steel, bronze, etc. Alternatively, the woven mesh may be a woven polymer mesh. In an alternative embodiment, substrate 119 may not include a mesh or grid. In addition, the substrate 119 may include a Vickers pyramid hardness value VPN, which may be ≧350, such as ≧375, ≧400, ≧425, or ≧450. The VPN may also be ≦500, ≦475, or ≦450. The VPN may also be in a range between any VPN values ​​described herein, and include any VPN values ​​described. In another aspect, the substrate 119 may be treated to improve its corrosion resistance. Specifically, the substrate 119 may be passivated. For example, the substrate 119 may be passivated according to ASTM standard A967. The substrate 119 may be formed by at least one of chamfering, turning, reaming, forging, extrusion, molding, sintering, rolling, or casting.

[0026] The substrate 119 may have a thickness Ts between about 1 micron and about 1000 microns, such as between about 50 microns and about 500 microns, such as between about 100 microns and about 250 microns, and such as between about 75 microns and about 150 microns. In a plurality of embodiments, the substrate 119 may have a thickness Ts between about 50 microns and 1000 microns. It should be further understood that the thickness Ts of the substrate 119 may be any value between any of the minimum and maximum values ​​described above. The thickness of the substrate 119 may be uniform, i.e., the thickness of the substrate 119 at a first position may be equal to the thickness along it at a second position. The thickness of the substrate 119 may be non-uniform, i.e., the thickness of the substrate 119 at a first position may be different from the thickness along it at a second position.

[0027] Figure 2B An illustration of a composite material 1001 (as an alternative to material 1000) that may be formed as a tolerance ring in the first step 12 of forming method 10. For purposes of illustration, Figure 2B1 shows a layer-by-layer construction of a composite material 1001 of a tolerance ring. In various embodiments, the composite material 1001 may include a substrate 119 (as described above) and a low friction layer 104 coupled to or covering the substrate 119. In more specific embodiments, the composite material 1001 may include a substrate 119 and a plurality of low friction layers 104 covering the substrate 119. Figure 2B As shown, the low friction layer 104 can be coupled to at least a portion of the substrate 119. In certain embodiments, the low friction layer 104 can be coupled to a surface of the substrate 119 so as to form an interface with another surface of another component. The low friction layer 104 can be coupled to a radially inner surface of the substrate 119. Alternatively, the low friction layer 104 can be coupled to a radially outer surface of the substrate 119.

[0028] In a number of embodiments, the low friction layer 104 may include a low friction material. The low friction material may include, for example, a polymer such as polyketone, polyaramide, polyphenylene sulfide, polyethersulfone, polyphenylsulfone, polyamideimide, ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene, fluoropolymer, polybenzimidazole, polyacetal, polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyimide (PI), polyetherimide, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyethylene (PE), polysulfone, polyamide (PA), polyphenylene oxide, polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyurethane, polyester, liquid crystal polymer (LCP) or any combination thereof. In a certain example, the low friction material 104 includes a polyketone such as polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyetherketone, polyetherketoneketone, polyetherketoneetherketone, derivatives thereof or combinations thereof. In a certain additional example, the low friction material 104 may be ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene. In another example, the low friction layer 104 may include a fluoropolymer including fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), perfluoroalkoxy (PFA), a terpolymer of tetrafluoroethylene, hexafluoropropylene and vinylidene fluoride (THV), polychlorotrifluoroethylene (PCTFE), ethylene tetrafluoroethylene copolymer (ETFE) or ethylene chlorotrifluoroethylene copolymer (ECTFE). The low friction layer 104 may include a solid material including lithium soap, graphite, boron nitride, molybdenum disulfide, tungsten disulfide, polytetrafluoroethylene, carbon nitride, tungsten carbide or diamond-like carbon, a metal (such as aluminum, zinc, copper, magnesium, tin, platinum, titanium, tungsten, iron, bronze, steel, spring steel, stainless steel), a metal alloy (including the listed metals), anodized metal (including the listed metals), or any combination thereof. According to a specific embodiment, a fluoropolymer may be used. In an embodiment, the low friction layer 104 may include a woven mesh or an expanded metal mesh. The woven mesh or expanded metal grid may include a metal or metal alloy, such as aluminum, steel, stainless steel, bronze, etc. Alternatively, the woven mesh may be a woven polymer mesh. In alternative embodiments, the low friction layer 104 may not include a mesh or grid.

[0029] In various embodiments, the low friction layer 104 may further include a filler, the filler comprising glass fiber, carbon fiber, silicon, PEEK, aromatic polyester, carbon particles, bronze, fluoropolymer, thermoplastic filler, aluminum oxide, polyamideimide (PAI), PPS, polyphenylene sulfone (PPSO2), LCP, aromatic polyester, molybdenum disulfide, tungsten disulfide, graphite, graphene, expanded graphite, boron nitride, talc, calcium fluoride, or any combination thereof. In addition, the filler may include aluminum oxide, silicon dioxide, titanium dioxide, calcium fluoride, boron nitride, mica, wollastonite, silicon carbide, silicon nitride, zirconium oxide, carbon black, pigment, or any combination thereof. The filler may be in the form of beads, fibers, powders, meshes, or any combination thereof. Based on the total weight of the low friction layer, the filler may be at least 10 wt%, such as at least 15 wt%, 20 wt%, 25 wt%, or even 30 wt%.

[0030] In an embodiment, the low friction layer 104 may have a thickness T between about 1 micron and about 500 microns. LFL , such as between about 10 microns and about 250 microns, such as between about 30 microns and about 150 microns, such as between about 40 microns and about 100 microns. In many embodiments, the low friction layer 104 may have a thickness T between about 50 microns and 250 microns. LFL It should be further understood that the thickness T of the low friction layer 104 LFL It can be any value between any of the above minimum and maximum values. The thickness of the low friction layer 104 can be uniform, that is, the thickness of the low friction layer 104 at a first position can be equal to the thickness along it at a second position. The thickness of the low friction layer 104 can be non-uniform, that is, the thickness of the low friction layer 104 at a first position can be different from the thickness along it at a second position. It is understood that different low friction layers 104 can have different thicknesses. The low friction layer 104 can be covered on one main surface of the substrate 119 shown, or on both main surfaces. The substrate 119 can be at least partially encapsulated by the low friction layer 104. That is, the low friction layer 104 can cover at least a portion of the substrate 119. The axial surface of the substrate 119 can be exposed from the low friction layer 104.

[0031] Figure 2C An illustration of an alternative embodiment includes a composite material 1002 (as an alternative to materials 1000, 1001) that can be formed as a tolerance ring of the first step 12 of the forming method 10. For illustrative purposes, Figure 2C The layer-by-layer construction of the composite material 1002 of the tolerance ring is shown. According to this particular embodiment, the composite material 1002 may be similar to Figure 2BThe composite material 1002 is different from the composite material 1001 in that the composite material 1002 may also include: at least one adhesive layer 121 that can couple the low friction layer 104 to the substrate 119; and the low friction layer 104. In another alternative embodiment, the substrate 119 may be embedded between the at least one adhesive layer 121 included between the low friction layer 104 and the substrate 119 as a solid component, a woven mesh, or an expanded metal mesh.

[0032] Adhesive layer 121 may include any known adhesive material commonly used in the field of rings, including but not limited to fluoropolymers, epoxy resins, polyimide resins, polyether / polyamide copolymers, ethylene vinyl acetate, ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE), ETFE copolymers, perfluoroalkoxy (PFA) or any combination thereof. In addition, the adhesive may include at least one functional group selected from -C=O, -COR, -COH, -COOH, -COOR, -CF2=CF-OR or any combination thereof, wherein R is a cyclic or linear organic group containing 1 to 20 carbon atoms. In addition, the adhesive may include a copolymer.

[0033] Filler particles (functional and / or non-functional) may be added to the adhesive layer 121, such as carbon fillers, carbon fibers, carbon particles, graphite, metal fillers (e.g., bronze, aluminum and other metals and their alloys), metal oxide fillers, metal-coated carbon fillers, metal-coated polymer fillers, or any combination thereof.

[0034] In one embodiment, the hot melt adhesive may have a melting temperature of no greater than 250° C., such as no greater than 220° C. In another embodiment, the adhesive may decompose above 200° C., such as above 220° C. In yet another embodiment, the melting temperature of the hot melt adhesive may be higher than 250° C. or even higher than 300° C. The adhesive layer 121 may have a thickness T between about 1 micron and about 500 microns. AL , such as between about 10 microns and about 250 microns, such as between about 30 microns and about 150 microns, and such as between about 40 microns and about 100 microns. In many embodiments, the adhesive layer 121 may have a thickness T between about 50 microns and 250 microns. AL In various embodiments, adhesive layer 121 may have a thickness T between about 80 microns and 120 microns. AL It should be further understood that the thickness T of the adhesive layer 121 ALIt can be any value between any of the above minimum and maximum values. The thickness of the adhesive layer 121 can be uniform, that is, the thickness of the adhesive layer 121 at the first position can be equal to its thickness at the second position. The thickness of the adhesive layer 121 can be non-uniform, that is, the thickness of the adhesive layer 121 at the first position can be different from its thickness at the second position.

[0035] Figure 2D An illustration of an alternative embodiment including a composite material 1003 (as an alternative to materials 1000, 1001, 1002) that may be formed as a tolerance ring of the first step 12 of forming method 10. For purposes of illustration, Figure 2D The layer-by-layer construction of the composite material 1003 of the tolerance ring is shown. According to this particular embodiment, the composite material 1003 may be similar to Figure 2C The composite material 1002, in addition, the composite material 1003 may also include: at least one anti-corrosion layer 704, 705 and 708; and a corrosion-resistant coating 1124, which may include an adhesion promoter layer 127 and an epoxy resin layer 129, which may be connected to the substrate 119 and the low friction layer 104.

[0036] Substrate 119 may be coated with anti-corrosion layers 704 and 705 including anti-corrosion materials to prevent corrosion of composite material 1003 before processing. In addition, anti-corrosion layer 708 may be applied above layer 704. Each of layers 704, 705 and 708 may have a thickness of about 1 to 50 microns, such as about 7 to 15 microns. Layers 704 and 705 may include anti-corrosion materials including phosphates of zinc, iron, manganese or any combination thereof, or nano-ceramic layers. In addition, layers 704 and 705 may include anti-corrosion materials including functional silanes, primers based on nano-scale silanes, hydrolyzed silanes, organosilane adhesion promoters, silane primers based on solvents / water, chlorinated polyolefins, passivated surfaces, commercially available zinc (mechanical / electroplating) or zinc-nickel coatings or any combination thereof. Layer 708 may include functional silanes, nano-scale silane based primers, hydrolyzed silanes, organosilane adhesion promoters, solvent / water based silane primers. Anti-corrosion layers 704, 1706 and 708 may be removed or retained during processing.

[0037] As described above, the composite material 1003 may further include a corrosion-resistant coating 125. The corrosion-resistant coating 125 may have a thickness of about 1 to 50 microns, such as about 5 to 20 microns, and such as about 7 to 15 microns. The corrosion-resistant coating 125 may include an adhesion promoter layer 127 and an epoxy resin layer 129. The adhesion promoter layer 127 may include an anti-corrosion material including a phosphate of zinc, iron, manganese, tin, or any combination thereof, or a nano-ceramic layer. The adhesion promoter layer 127 may include an anti-corrosion material including a functional silane, a layer based on nano-scale silane, a hydrolyzed silane, an organic silane adhesion promoter, a solvent / water-based silane primer, a chlorinated polyolefin, a passivated surface, a commercially available zinc (mechanical / electroplating) or zinc-nickel coating, or any combination thereof. The adhesion promoter layer 127 may be applied by spraying, electrophoretic spraying, dip-spin coating, electrostatic spraying, flow coating, roller coating, scraping, coil coating, etc.

[0038] The epoxy resin layer 129 may be an anti-corrosion material, including a heat-cured epoxy resin, a UV-cured epoxy resin, an IR-cured epoxy resin, an electron beam-cured epoxy resin, a radiation-cured epoxy resin, or an air-cured epoxy resin. Further, the epoxy resin layer 129 may include an anti-corrosion material, which includes polyglycidyl ether, diglycidyl ether, bisphenol A, bisphenol F, ethylene oxide, oxirane, ethylene oxide, 1,2-propylene oxide, 2-methyl oxirane, 9,10-epoxy-9,10-dihydroanthracene, or any combination thereof. The epoxy resin layer 129 may further include a hardener. The hardener may include an amine, an anhydride, a phenolic resin hardener (such as phenolic resin poly [N- (4-hydroxyphenyl) maleimide] (PHPMI)), a resol phenol formaldehyde, a fatty amine compound, a polycarbonic anhydride, a polyacrylate, an isocyanate, an encapsulated polyisocyanate, a boron trifluoride amine complex, a chromium-based hardener (such as chromium), a polyamide, or any combination thereof. Generally speaking, the anhydride may conform to the formula RC = OOC = O-R', wherein R is as described above and may be C X H Y X Z A U The amines may include: aliphatic amines, such as monoethylamine, diethylenetriamine, triethylenetetramine, etc.; alicyclic amines; aromatic amines, such as cyclic aliphatic amines, cycloaliphatic amines, amidoamines, polyamides, dicyandiamide, imidazole derivatives, etc., or any combination thereof. Generally speaking, the amines may be primary, secondary or tertiary amines conforming to the formula R1R2R3N, wherein R may be C as described above. X H Y X Z A U. In one embodiment, the epoxy layer 129 may include fillers that improve conductivity, such as carbon fillers, carbon fibers, carbon particles, graphite, metal fillers (such as bronze, aluminum and other metals and alloys thereof), metal oxide fillers, metal-coated carbon fillers, metal-coated polymer fillers, or any combination thereof. The conductive filler may allow current to pass through the epoxy coating, which may increase the conductivity of the composite material compared to a composite material without the conductive filler. In one embodiment, the epoxy layer 129 may be applied by spraying, electrophoresis, dip-spin coating, electrostatic spraying, flow coating, roller coating, blade coating, coil coating, etc. In addition, the epoxy layer 129 may be cured by, for example, thermal curing, UV curing, IR curing, electron beam curing, radiation curing, or any combination thereof. Preferably, curing may be accomplished without raising the temperature of the component above the breakdown temperature of any of the low friction layer 104, the adhesive layer 121, the substrate 119, or the adhesion promoter layer 127. Therefore, the epoxy may be cured at less than about 250° C., or even less than about 200° C.

[0039] In one embodiment, Figure 1 Under step 12, as described above, any layer on the material or composite material 1000, 1001, 1002, 1003 can be individually arranged in a roll and peeled therefrom to connect these layers together under pressure, high temperature (hot pressing or cold pressing or hot rolling or cold rolling) by an adhesive or by any combination thereof. As described above, any layer of the material or composite material 1000, 1001, 1002, 1003 can be laminated together so that they at least partially overlap each other. As described above, any layer on the material or composite material 1000, 1001, 1002, 1003 can be applied together using a coating technique (such as, for example, physical or vapor deposition, spraying, electroplating, powder coating) or by other chemical or electrochemical techniques. In a particular embodiment, the low friction layer 104 can be applied by a roll-to-roll coating process (including, for example, extrusion coating). The low friction layer 104 can be heated to a molten or semi-molten state and extruded onto the main surface of the substrate 119 by slot extrusion coating. In one embodiment, the material or composite material 1000, 1001, 1002, 1003 may be a single, unitary strip of material.

[0040] In other embodiments, Figure 1Under step 12, as described above, any layer on the material or composite material 1000, 1001, 1002, 1003 can be applied by a coating technique (such as, for example, physical or vapor deposition, spraying, electroplating, powder coating) or by other chemical or electrochemical techniques. In a particular embodiment, the low friction layer 104 can be applied by a roll-to-roll coating process (including, for example, extrusion coating). The low friction layer 104 can be heated to a molten or semi-molten state and extruded onto the main surface of the substrate 119 by slot extrusion coating. In another embodiment, the low friction layer 104 can be cast or molded.

[0041] In one embodiment, the low friction layer 104 or any layer may be bonded to the substrate 119 using a molten adhesive layer 121 to form a laminate. In one embodiment, any intermediate layer or protruding layer on the material or composite material 1000, 1001, 1002, 1003 may form a laminate. The laminate may be cut into strips or blanks, which may form tolerance rings. The cutting of the laminate may include the use of a die, a press, a punch, a saw, or may be machined in a different manner. Cutting the laminate may form a cut edge including an exposed portion of the substrate 119.

[0042] In one embodiment, Figure 1 Under step 14, the tolerance ring can be made into the blank by curling the end of the laminate strip or blank. The tolerance ring can be formed by stamping, pressing, punching, sawing, rolling, flanging, deep drawing, or can be machined in different ways.

[0043] After the semi-finished tolerance ring is formed, it can be cleaned to remove all lubricants and oils used in the forming and shaping process. In addition, cleaning can prepare the exposed surface of the load-bearing substrate for the application of the coating. Cleaning can include chemical cleaning using solvents and / or mechanical cleaning, such as ultrasonic cleaning.

[0044] Figure 3A A tolerance ring 100 is depicted that includes one embodiment formed from a blank of a material or composite material 1000, 1001, 1002, 1003 as described above. The tolerance ring 100 may include a sidewall 102. The sidewall 102 may be formed from a blank as described above and include a base plate 119 (e.g., spring steel) that may be bent into an annular (substantially annular or generally cylindrical) shape about a central axis 3000 to form an opening 115. The ends of the sidewall 102 may not intersect (e.g., it may be formed as a split ring) such that the axial gap 106 is adjacent the circumference of the sidewall 102. In other embodiments, the sidewall may be curved so that the ends overlap each other. In still other embodiments, such as Figure 3BAs best shown, the sidewall 102 can be a continuous, uninterrupted ring. The sidewall 102 can further include a low friction layer 104 that conforms to the shape of the sidewall 102, such as formed as the low friction layer 104 from a blank of the composite material 1000, 1001, 1002, 1003 as described above. The tolerance ring 100 and / or the sidewall 102 can have a first axial end 120 and a second axial end 122. The tolerance ring 100 and / or the sidewall 102 can have an inner surface 130 and an outer surface 132. The inner surface 130 of the tolerance ring 100 and / or the sidewall 102 can have a low friction layer 104 that conforms to the shape of the sidewall, the low friction layer being formed from the composite material 1000, 1001, 1002, 1003 as described above.

[0045] The tolerance ring 100 may have a plurality of spaced apart protrusions 108 extending radially inward or radially outward from the outer surface 132 of the tolerance ring 100. The protrusions may deform when compressed. The protrusions 108 may be formed via a die (e.g., by pressing using a mold of an appropriate shape, rotary wave forming, etc.). Optionally, there may be a flat, circumferentially extending edge 109 of a composite material located on at least one axial end of the protrusion 108. Alternatively, the axial ends of the protrusions 108 may be disposed at the first axial end 120 or the second axial end 122 of the tolerance ring 100. Optionally, each protrusion 108 may also be separated from its adjacent protrusions 108 by an unformed section 110 of the tolerance ring 100, which may be formed in contact with the edge 109 and circumferentially spaced between a first pair of adjacent protrusions 108. The projections 108 may include axially elongated circumferential ridges extending in the radial direction, which may be similar in shape to the undulations used on conventional tolerance rings. The peaks 113 of each ridge may be rounded, and the axial ends of each ridge terminate in a pair of tapered shoulders 111. Optionally, the tolerance ring 100 may include an unformed area 114 on the surface opposite to the surface from which the projections 108 extend radially. For example, as Figure 3A As shown, the unformed region 114 may be on the inner surface 130, while the projection 108 extends radially outwardly along the outer surface 132. The unformed region 114 may not include a projection and be contiguous with the sidewall 102.

[0046] like Figures 3A to 3C As shown, the tolerance ring 100 may include a plurality of different types of protrusions 108. The tolerance ring 100 may include a first type of protrusion 108a and a second type of protrusion 108b. The first type of protrusion 108a may have a radial height, H PA For the purposes of the embodiments described herein, the radial height H of the first type of protrusion 108a is PAis the distance from the peak 113 of the protrusion 108a to the unformed area 114 of the side wall 102, such as Figure 3B According to certain embodiments, the radial height H of the first type of protrusion 108a is PA It may be at least about 0.1 mm, or at least about 0.2 mm, or at least about 0.3 mm, or at least about 0.4 mm, or even at least about 0.5 mm. According to some other embodiments, the radial height H of the first type of protrusion 108a is PA The radial height H of the first type of protrusion 108a may be no greater than about 10 mm, such as no greater than 8 mm, no greater than 6 mm, 5 mm, 3 mm, 1 mm, 0.9 mm, or even no greater than about 0.8 mm. PA It can be in the range of at least about 0.1 mm to not more than about 1.5 mm. It should be understood that the radial height H of the first type of protrusion 108a is PA It can be within the range between any value of the minimum and maximum values ​​mentioned above. It should be further understood that the radial height H of the first type of protrusion 108a is PA It can be any value between any value between the above minimum value and the maximum value. It can also be understood that the radial height H of the first type of protrusion 108a is PA It can vary along its circumference and across multiple tolerance rings.

[0047] The first type of protrusion 108a may have a circumferential width W PA For the purposes of the embodiments described herein, the circumferential width W of the first type of protrusion 108a is PA is the distance from the edge of one unformed segment 110 adjacent to the first type of protrusion 108a to the unformed segment 110 on the circumferentially opposite side of the first type of protrusion 108a, such as Figure 3B According to some embodiments, the circumferential width W of the first type of protrusion 108a is PA It may be at least about 0.1 mm, or at least about 0.2 mm, or at least about 0.3 mm, or at least about 0.4 mm, or even at least about 0.5 mm. According to some other embodiments, the circumferential width W of the first type of protrusion 108a is PA The circumferential width W of the first type of protrusion 108a may be no greater than about 20 mm, such as no greater than about 15 mm, 10 mm, 5 mm, 1 mm, 0.9 mm, or even no greater than about 0.8 mm. PA It can be in the range of at least about 1 mm to not more than about 10 mm. It should be understood that the circumferential width W of the first type of protrusion 108a is PAIt can be within the range between any of the minimum and maximum values ​​mentioned above. It should be further understood that the circumferential width W of the first type of protrusion 108a is PA It can be any value between any minimum value and the maximum value mentioned above. It can also be understood that the circumferential width W of the first type of protrusion 108a is PA It can vary along its circumference and can vary across multiple tolerance rings.

[0048] The first type of protrusion 108a may have a shoulder length L SA For the purposes of the embodiments described herein, the shoulder length L of the first type of protrusion 108a is SA is the distance from edge 109 or axial ends 120, 122 of tolerance ring 100 to the top edge of shoulder 111 at peak 113, such as Figure 3C According to some embodiments, the shoulder length L of the first type of protrusion 108a is SA It may be at least about 0.1 mm, or at least about 0.2 mm, or at least about 0.3 mm, or at least about 0.4 mm, or even at least about 0.5 mm. According to some other embodiments, the shoulder length L of the first type of protrusion 108a is SA The shoulder length L of the first type of protrusion 108a may be no greater than about 5 mm, such as no greater than 1 mm, no greater than about 0.9 mm, or even no greater than about 0.8 mm. SA It can be in the range of at least about 0.3 mm to not more than about 2 mm. It should be understood that the shoulder length L of the first type of protrusion 108a is SA It can be within the range between any of the minimum and maximum values ​​noted above. It should be further understood that the shoulder length L of the first type of protrusion 108a SA It can be any value between any of the minimum and maximum values ​​mentioned above. It can also be understood that the shoulder length L of the first type of protrusion 108a is SA It can vary along its circumference and can vary across multiple tolerance rings.

[0049] The first type of protrusion 108a may have a ridge slope S RPA For the purposes of the embodiments described herein, the ridge slope S of the first type of protrusion 108a is RPA is the radial height H of the first type of protrusion 108a PA divided by the circumferential width W of the first type of protrusion 108a PA According to some embodiments, the ridge slope S of the first type of protrusion 108a is RPAIt may be at least about 0.1, or at least about 0.2, or at least about 0.3, or at least about 0.4, at least about 0.5, at least about 1, at least about 2, at least about 4, at least about 6, or even at least about 10. According to some other embodiments, the ridge slope S of the first type of protrusion 108a is RPA It may be no greater than about 50, such as no greater than about 20 or even no greater than about 10. In various embodiments, the ridge slope S of the first type of protrusion 108a is RPA It may be in the range of at least about 0.02 to not more than about 3. It should be understood that the ridge slope S of the first type of protrusion 108a is RPA It can be within the range between any of the minimum and maximum values ​​mentioned above. It should be further understood that the ridge slope S of the first type of protrusion 108a is RPA It can be any value between any of the minimum and maximum values ​​mentioned above. It can also be understood that the ridge slope S of the first type of protrusion 108a is RPA The circumferential length of the first type of protrusion 108a may vary and may vary across multiple tolerance rings.

[0050] In certain embodiments, the first type of protrusion 108a of the tolerance ring 100 can have a radial stiffness of about 50 N to about 6000 N. In addition, the radial stiffness of the first type of protrusion 108a can also be within a range between and including any of the above values. The radial stiffness of the first type of protrusion 108a of the tolerance ring 100 can be measured by measuring the radial force required to compress the clearance of the first type of protrusion 108a in the circumferential direction of the component (an inner component or an outer component as described below).

[0051] The second type of protrusion 108b may have a radial height H PB For the purposes of the embodiments described herein, the radial height H of the second type of protrusion 108b is PB is the distance from the peak 113 of the protrusion 108b to the unformed area 114 of the side wall 102, such as Figure 3B According to some embodiments, the radial height H of the second type of protrusion 108b is PB It may be at least about 0.1 mm, or at least about 0.2 mm, or at least about 0.3 mm, or at least about 0.4 mm, or even at least about 0.5 mm. According to some other embodiments, the radial height H of the second type of protrusion 108 b is PB The radial height H of the second type of protrusion 108b may be no greater than about 10 mm, such as no greater than 8 mm, no greater than 6 mm, 5 mm, 3 mm, 1 mm, 0.9 mm, or even no greater than about 0.8 mm. PBIt can be in the range of at least about 0.1 mm to not more than about 1.5 mm. It should be understood that the radial height H of the second type of protrusion 108b is PB It can be within the range between any of the minimum and maximum values ​​mentioned above. It should be further understood that the radial height H of the second type of protrusion 108b is PB It can be any value between any of the minimum and maximum values ​​mentioned above. It can also be understood that the radial height H of the second type of protrusion 108b is PB The first type of protrusion 108a may vary along its circumference and may vary across multiple tolerance rings. In various embodiments, the first type of protrusion 108a may have a different radial height than the second type of protrusion 108b. This may result in the first type of protrusion 108a having different characteristics or behaviors than the second type of protrusion 108b.

[0052] The second type of protrusion 108b may have a circumferential width W PB For the purposes of the embodiments described herein, the circumferential width W of the second type of protrusion 108b is PB is the distance from the edge of one unformed segment 110 adjacent to the second type of protrusion 108b to the unformed segment 110 on the circumferentially opposite side of the second type of protrusion 108b, such as Figure 3B According to some embodiments, the circumferential width W of the second type of protrusion 108b is PB It may be at least about 0.1 mm, or at least about 0.2 mm, or at least about 0.3 mm, or at least about 0.4 mm, or even at least about 0.5 mm. According to some other embodiments, the circumferential width W of the second type of protrusion 108 b is PB The circumferential width W of the second type of protrusion 108b may be no greater than about 20 mm, such as no greater than about 15 mm, 10 mm, 5 mm, 1 mm, 0.9 mm, or even no greater than about 0.8 mm. PB It can be in the range of at least about 1 mm to not more than about 10 mm. It should be understood that the circumferential width W of the second type of protrusion 108b is PB It can be within the range between any of the minimum and maximum values ​​described above. It should be further understood that the circumferential width W of the second type of protrusion 108b is PB It can be any value between any of the minimum and maximum values ​​mentioned above. It can also be understood that the circumferential width W of the second type of protrusion 108b is PBThe first type of protrusion 108a may vary along its circumference and may vary across multiple tolerance rings. In various embodiments, the first type of protrusion 108a may have a different circumferential width than the second type of protrusion 108b. This may result in the first type of protrusion 108a having different characteristics or behaviors than the second type of protrusion 108b.

[0053] The second type of protrusion 108b may have a shoulder length L SB For the purposes of the embodiments described herein, the shoulder length L of the second type of protrusion 108b is SB is the distance from edge 109 or axial ends 120, 122 of tolerance ring 100 to the top edge of shoulder 111 at peak 113, such as Figure 3C According to some embodiments, the shoulder length L of the second type of protrusion 108b is SB It may be at least about 0.1 mm, or at least about 0.2 mm, or at least about 0.3 mm, or at least about 0.4 mm, or even at least about 0.5 mm. According to some other embodiments, the shoulder length L of the second type of protrusion 108b is SB The shoulder length L of the second type of protrusion 108b may be no greater than about 5 mm, such as no greater than about 1 mm, no greater than about 0.9 mm, or even no greater than about 0.8 mm. SB It can be in the range of at least about 0.3 mm to not more than about 2 mm. It should be understood that the shoulder length L of the second type of protrusion 108b is SB It can be within the range between any of the minimum and maximum values ​​mentioned above. It should be further understood that the shoulder length L of the second type protrusion 108b SB It can be any value between any of the minimum and maximum values ​​mentioned above. It can also be understood that the shoulder length L of the second type of protrusion 108b is SB The first type of protrusion 108a may vary along its circumference and may vary across multiple tolerance rings. In various embodiments, the first type of protrusion 108a may have a different shoulder length than the second type of protrusion 108b. This may result in the first type of protrusion 108a having different characteristics or behaviors than the second type of protrusion 108b.

[0054] The second type of protrusion 108b may have a ridge slope S RPB For the purposes of the embodiments described herein, the ridge slope S of the second type of protrusion 108b is RPB is the radial height H of the second type protrusion 108b PB divided by the circumferential width W of the second type of protrusion 108b PB According to some embodiments, the ridge slope S of the second type of protrusion 108b isRPB It may be at least about 0.1, or at least about 0.2, or at least about 0.3, or at least about 0.4, at least about 0.5, at least about 1, at least about 2, at least about 4, at least about 6, or even at least about 10. According to some other embodiments, the ridge slope S of the second type of protrusion 108b is RPB It may be no greater than about 50, such as no greater than about 20 or even no greater than about 10. In various embodiments, the ridge slope S of the second type of protrusion 108b is RPB It may be in the range of at least about 0.02 to not more than about 3. It should be understood that the ridge slope S of the second type of protrusion 108b is RPB It can be within the range between any of the minimum and maximum values ​​mentioned above. It should be further understood that the ridge slope S of the second type of protrusion 108b is RPB It can be any value between any of the minimum and maximum values ​​mentioned above. It can also be understood that the ridge slope S of the second type of protrusion 108b is RPB The circumferential length of the second type of protrusion 108b may vary and may vary across multiple tolerance rings. In various embodiments, the first type of protrusion 108a may have at least one different ridge slope compared to the second type of protrusion 108b. This may result in the first type of protrusion 108a having different characteristics or behaviors compared to the second type of protrusion 108b.

[0055] In certain embodiments, the second type of protrusion 108b of the tolerance ring 100 can have a radial stiffness of about 50N to about 6000N. In addition, the radial stiffness of the second type of protrusion 108b can also be within a range between any of the above values ​​and include any of the above values. The radial stiffness of the second type of protrusion 108b of the tolerance ring 100 can be measured by measuring the radial force required to compress the clearance of the components (internal components or external components as described below) of the second type of protrusion 108b in the circumferential direction. In various embodiments, the torque of the second type of protrusion 108b can be about 2500N / mm.

[0056] Figure 4 Another embodiment of a tolerance ring 200 is depicted. In a manner similar to FIG. 3 , the tolerance ring 200 and / or the sidewall 202 can have a first axial end 220 and a second axial end 222 and be formed about a central axis 3000 to form an opening 215. The tolerance ring 200 and / or the sidewall 202 can have an inner surface 230 and an outer surface 232. The sidewall 202 can also have a plurality of protrusions 208 (208a, 208b) extending radially inward from its inner surface 130. The protrusions 208 (208a, 208b) can be circumferentially adjacent to each other as shown, or can be circumferentially spaced apart, as shown. Figure 3AThe protrusion 208 (208a, 208b) may have a shape, parameters (e.g., radial height of the protrusion, stiffness of the protrusion) or orientation similar to the protrusion 108 (108a, 108b), as shown in FIG. FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C Described in .

[0057] In operation, the tolerance ring 100 can be located between two components in an assembly. For example, it can be located in an annular space between an inner component (e.g., a shaft) and a hole in an outer component (e.g., a housing). The protrusion 108 can be compressed between the inner component and the outer component. Each protrusion 108 can act as a spring and deform to fit the components together with zero clearance. In other words, the inner component contacts the inner surface 130 of the tolerance ring 100, while the outer component contacts the outer surface 132 of the tolerance ring 100.

[0058] Figure 5A An axial cross-sectional view through an exemplary assembly 300 including one embodiment of a tolerance ring 200 is depicted. The assembly 300 incorporates, for example, a tolerance ring 200, such as Figure 3A As shown. Assembly 300 may include a housing 302 or an outer component downward along a central axis 3000. Housing 302 may have an axial hole 304 formed therein, which receives a shaft 306 or an inner component. There is an annular gap between an outer surface 308 of shaft 306 and an inner surface 310 of hole 304. The size of the annular gap may be variable because the diameters of shaft 306 and hole 304 may vary within manufacturing tolerances. To prevent shaft 306 from vibrating in hole 304, the annular gap may be filled by tolerance ring 200 to form a zero clearance fit between components. In use, the circumferential protrusion 208 of tolerance ring 200 may be radially compressed in the annular gap between shaft 306 and housing 302 so that protrusion 208 contacts inner component 306. Tolerance rings may be used to transmit torque or as a torque limiter in such applications.

[0059] Figure 5B An axial cross-sectional view through an exemplary assembly 400 including another embodiment of a tolerance ring 100 is depicted. The assembly 300 incorporates, for example, a tolerance ring 100, such as Figure 3AAs shown. Assembly 400 may include a housing 302 or an outer component downward along a central axis 3000. Housing 302 may have an axial bore 304 formed therein that receives a shaft 306 or an inner component. An annular gap exists between an outer surface 308 of shaft 306 and an inner surface 310 of bore 304. The size of the annular gap may be variable because the diameters of shaft 306 and bore 304 may vary within manufacturing tolerances. To prevent shaft 306 from vibrating within bore 304, the annular gap may be filled by tolerance ring 100 to form a zero clearance fit between the components. In use, the circumferential protrusion 108 of tolerance ring 100 may be radially compressed in the annular gap between shaft 306 and the interior of bore 304 of housing 302 so that protrusion 108 contacts outer component 302.

[0060] In various embodiments, Figure 3A and Figures 4 to 5B As shown, the tolerance ring 100, 200 may have a length L measured between the first axial end 120, 220 and the second axial end 122, 222 of the tolerance ring 100, 200. TR It should be understood that the length L TR The length of the material or composite material 1000, 1001, 1002, 1003 may be substantially similar, such as FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D According to some embodiments, the length L of the tolerance ring 100, 200 TR It may be at least about 1 mm, such as at least about 10 mm, or at least about 30 mm, or at least about 50 mm, or at least about 100 mm, or even at least about 500 mm. According to some other embodiments, the length L of the tolerance ring 100, 200 is TR It may be no greater than about 1000 mm, such as no greater than about 500 mm, or even no greater than about 250 mm. It should be understood that the length L of the tolerance ring 100, 200 TR It can be within the range between any of the minimum and maximum values ​​described above. It should be further understood that the length L of the tolerance ring 100, 200 TR It can be any value between any of the minimum and maximum values ​​mentioned above. It can also be understood that the length L of the tolerance ring 100, 200 TR Can vary along its circumference.

[0061] In various embodiments, Figure 3B and Figure 5B As best shown in FIG. 1 , the tolerance rings 100 , 200 may have a specific inner radius IR TR For the purposes of the embodiments described herein, the inner radius IR of the tolerance ring 100, 200 is TR is the distance from the central axis 3000 to the inner surface 130, 230. According to some embodiments, the inner radius IR of the tolerance ring 100, 200 isTR It may be at least about 10 mm, or at least about 20 mm, or at least about 30 mm, or at least about 50 mm, or even at least about 100 mm. According to some other embodiments, the inner radius IR of the tolerance ring 100, 200 TR It may be no greater than about 500 mm, such as no greater than about 250 mm or even no greater than about 100 mm. It should be understood that the inner radius IR of the tolerance ring 100, 200 TR It can be within the range between any of the minimum and maximum values ​​mentioned above. It should be further understood that the inner radius IR of the tolerance ring 100, 200 TR It can be any value between any of the minimum and maximum values ​​mentioned above. It can also be understood that the inner radius IR of the tolerance ring 100, 200 TR It can vary along its circumference and can vary across multiple tolerance rings.

[0062] In various embodiments, Figure 3B and Figure 5B As best shown in FIG. 1 , the tolerance ring 100 , 200 may have a specific outer radius OR TR For the purposes of the embodiments described herein, the outer radius OR of the tolerance ring 100, 200 is TR is the distance from the central axis 3000 to the outer surface 132, 232. According to some embodiments, the outer radius OR of the tolerance ring 100, 200 TR It may be at least about 10 mm, or at least about 20 mm, or at least about 30 mm, or at least about 50 mm, or even at least about 100 mm. According to some other embodiments, the outer radius OR of the tolerance ring 100, 200 may be at least about 10 mm, or at least about 20 mm, or at least about 30 mm, or at least about 50 mm, or even at least about 100 mm. TR It may be no greater than about 500 mm, such as no greater than about 250 mm or even no greater than about 100 mm. It should be understood that the outer radius OR of the tolerance ring 100, 200 TR It can be within the range between any of the minimum and maximum values ​​described above. It should be further understood that the outer radius OR of the tolerance ring 100, 200 is TR It can be any value between any of the minimum and maximum values ​​mentioned above. It can also be understood that the outer radius OR of the tolerance ring 100, 200 TR It can vary along its circumference and can vary across multiple tolerance rings.

[0063] In multiple embodiments, as shown in FIG. FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D and Figure 5A As best shown in FIG. 1 , the tolerance rings 100 , 200 may have a particular thickness T TR For the purposes of the embodiments described herein, the thickness T of the tolerance ring 100, 200 is TR is the distance from the inner surface 130, 230 to the outer surface 132, 232. It should be understood that the thickness T of the tolerance ring 100, 200TR It can be substantially similar or the same thickness as the material or composite material 1000, 1001, 1002, 1003, such as FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D According to some embodiments, the thickness T of the tolerance ring 100, 200 is TR It may be at least about 0.1 mm, or at least about 0.2 mm, or at least about 0.3 mm, or at least about 0.4 mm, or even at least about 0.5 mm. According to some other embodiments, the thickness T of the tolerance ring 100, 200 is TR It may be no greater than about 1 mm, such as no greater than about 0.9 mm, or even no greater than about 0.8 mm. It should be understood that the thickness T of the tolerance ring 100, 200 TR It can be within the range between any of the minimum and maximum values ​​described above. It should be further understood that the thickness T of the tolerance ring 100, 200 TR It can be any value between any of the minimum and maximum values ​​mentioned above. It can also be understood that the thickness T of the tolerance ring 100, 200 TR It can also be understood that the thickness T of the tolerance ring 100, 200 TR It can vary along its circumference and can vary across multiple tolerance rings.

[0064] Figure 6 An end view through another exemplary assembly 500 including a tolerance ring 100 is depicted. The assembly 500 incorporates, for example, a tolerance ring 100, such as Figure 3A As shown. Assembly 500 may include a housing 302 or an outer component. Housing 302 may have an axial bore 304 formed therein that receives a shaft 306 or an inner component. An annular gap exists between an outer surface 308 of shaft 306 and an inner surface 310 of bore 304. The size of the annular gap may be variable because the diameters of shaft 306 and bore 304 may vary within manufacturing tolerances. To prevent shaft 306 from vibrating within bore 304, the annular gap may be filled by tolerance ring 100 to form a zero clearance fit between the components. In use, the circumferential protrusion 108 of tolerance ring 100 may be radially compressed in the annular gap between shaft 306 and the interior of bore 304 of housing 302, so that protrusion 108 contacts outer component 302. In this embodiment, at least one of inner component 306 or outer component 302 may include a groove 303 adapted to accommodate at least one of protrusions 108 to prevent circumferential movement between tolerance ring protrusion 108 and groove 303. In another embodiment, at least one of the inner component 306 or the outer component 302 may include a groove adapted to accommodate the tolerance ring 100 itself to prevent axial movement between the tolerance ring 100 and the inner component 306 or the outer component 302. For example, Figure 6As shown, the groove 303 can be located on the outer component 302 and accommodate the second type of radially extending protrusion 108b protruding outward. As a result, due to the locking between the protrusion 108b and the groove 303 in the outer component 302, the tolerance ring 100 can be restricted from moving in the axial direction or the circumferential direction along or around the central axis 3000.

[0065] In at least one embodiment, the components 300, 400, 500 may include a lubricant. In at least one embodiment, the lubricant may include a grease, the grease including at least one of lithium soap, lithium disulfide, graphite, mineral oil or vegetable oil, silicone grease, fluoride-based grease, apizo, food-grade grease, petrochemical grease, or different types of grease. In at least one embodiment, the lubricant may include an oil, the oil including at least one of Class I to Class III+ oils, paraffinic oils, naphthenic oils, aromatic oils, biolubricants, castor oil, canola oil, palm oil, sunflower oil, rapeseed oil, tall oil, lanolin, synthetic oils, polyalphaolefins, synthetic esters, polyalkylene glycols, phosphate esters, alkylated naphthalenes, silicates, ionic liquids, polyalkylated cyclopentanes, petrochemical-based oils, or different types of oils. In at least one embodiment, the lubricant may include a solid-based lubricant including at least one of lithium soap, graphite, boron nitride, molybdenum disulfide, tungsten disulfide, polytetrafluoroethylene, metal, metal alloy, or different types of solid-based lubricants. In the case of using a lubricant, it is desirable to place it at least along the desired slip interface (described below).

[0066] In normal operation, a rotational torque is applied to one of the inner and outer components, and the torque is transmitted to the other of the inner and outer components through the interference fit of the tolerance ring. However, if one of the components is rotationally bound, the role of the tolerance ring is to allow slip between the inner and outer components. According to embodiments of the present invention, the slip occurs at the desired slip interface, typically the surface opposite to the protrusion. For example, in some embodiments shown with outwardly protruding protrusions, the slip interface occurs at the tolerance ring / inner component interface along the radial inner surface of the tolerance ring. As described above, this may be due to the use of a first type of radially extending protrusion and a second type of radially extending protrusion having different characteristics from each other based on differences in radial height, circumferential width, shoulder length, slope or stiffness. In order to ensure slip at the desired interface, the starting torque τ at the two interfaces (radially opposite surfaces of the tolerance ring) is different, as opposed to the waveform / protrusion. The starting torque τ is defined as follows. Here, the starting torque τ at the desired slip interface is lower than the starting torque τ at the non-slip interface.

[0067] By way of non-limiting example, the second type of protrusion 108b may include a sharper profile that may more actively engage into an internal component or external component that the protrusion contacts. The parameters of the second type of protrusion 108b (e.g., radial height, circumferential width, shoulder length, slope, or stiffness) may be different from those of the first type of protrusion 108a, which may result in a sharper profile and provide different behaviors and characteristics for each type of protrusion. As a result, according to certain embodiments, the first type of protrusion provides desired tolerance compensation to accommodate manufacturing tolerances between internal and external components. In addition, the second type of protrusion provides an enhanced "bite" or "grip" between the tolerance ring and the contacting internal / external component, which in turn enhances the starting torque at this interface. The number, arrangement and parameters (e.g., radial height, circumferential width, shoulder length, slope or stiffness) of the second type of protrusions 108b are selected compared to the first type of protrusions 108a to impart different characteristics and / or behaviors to the protrusions to achieve desired slip performance and strong torque performance while limiting slip to desired surfaces of internal or external components.

[0068] According to an embodiment, the tolerance ring may have a first starting torque τ1 and a second starting torque τ2, the first starting torque being defined as the starting torque between the tolerance ring protrusion and the inner component or the outer component in contact with the protrusion, and the second starting torque being defined as the starting torque between the unformed area and the other of the inner component and the outer component. In a number of embodiments, 1.1τ2≤τ1, such as 1.2τ2≤τ1, such as 1.5τ2≤τ1, such as 2τ2≤τ1, or even 5τ2≤τ1. As previously described, the first type of protrusion may be adapted to provide tolerance compensation between the inner component and the outer component, and the second type of protrusion may be adapted to engage the inner component 306 or the outer component 302 to increase the circumferential starting torque τ2 at the interface.

[0069] The measurement of the torque values ​​described herein was performed using a torque test equipment model Helixa-i provided by Mecmesin Ltd. The tolerance ring is set between the inner component and the outer component and is firmly fixed to the inner component to measure the starting torque at the radial outer interface, and then in a separate test, it is firmly fixed to the outer component to measure the starting torque at the radial inner interface. Glue, such as Super Glue, can be used for fastening, which is designed to fix metal parts to each other. The equipment is operated at 30 rpm for 50 cycles at room temperature (about 21°C) +360°, -360° to apply an increasing torque between the inner component and the outer component, and the measured peak torque is recorded, which is generally related to the torque value at the beginning of slip. The test is performed on a tolerance ring without a low friction coating but with grease provided along the slip interface being evaluated. Therefore, in an embodiment with a low friction layer, the test is performed with the low friction layer removed to ensure that the measured starting torque value is not dependent on the low friction layer. An example result diagram of torque (N·m) as a function of time (s) is shown in FIG. Figure 7 As shown, the circled area 702 is where the breaking torque occurs.

[0070] Examples

[0071] Two tolerance rings were tested. The first tolerance ring (Ring A) was a control ring having only a first type of protrusion radially outward. Several views of Ring A 800 in a free state condition or in a mounted condition (around the inner component 306) are shown in FIG. Figure 8 As shown. Ring A has 14 first type protrusions, which are evenly spaced on the circumference and have a maximum allowable burr specification of 0.2. When assembled between an inner component with a diameter of 11.859 mm and an outer component with a diameter of 12.692 mm, it is subjected to an assembly force of 18 kg to 32 kg. The minimum end wave height is approximately 0.42 mm. Ring A has a diameter of 12.5 mm, a length of 3 mm, and a thickness of 0.2+ / -0.013 mm. Ring A has a material hardness of approximately 400VPN to approximately 450VPN. Ring A is made of stainless steel. The second tolerance ring (Ring B) is an experimental ring according to an embodiment of the present invention, which has first type protrusions and second type protrusions both radially outward. Several views of Ring B 900 in a free state condition or an installed condition (surrounding the inner component 306) are shown as follows. Fig. 9As shown. Ring B has 10 protrusions of the first type and 4 protrusions of the second type, and the two protrusions are equidistantly distributed along the circumference, as shown in the figure, and the maximum allowable burr specification is 0.2. When assembled between an inner component with a diameter of 11.82mm and an outer component with a diameter of 12.692mm, it is subjected to an assembly force of 18kg to 32kg. The minimum end wave height is about 0.42mm. Ring B has a diameter of 12.5mm, a length of 3mm, and a thickness of 0.2+ / -0.013mm. Ring B has a material hardness of about 400VPN to about 450VPN. Ring B is made of stainless steel. The design of the tolerance ring is such that the desired slip occurs relative to the shaft rather than relative to the housing. Both Ring A and Ring B were tested for slip torque under the following two conditions: 1) bonded to the shaft or inner component to ensure slip on the slip interface of the housing or outer component; or 2) bonded to the housing or outer component to ensure slip on the slip interface of the shaft or inner component. Both the inner and outer parts for these tests were brass C3604, and lubricant was applied between the tolerance ring and the sliding interface of the inner or outer part only. The results of these tests are shown in Table 1 below:

[0072] Table 1

[0073]

[0074] As shown, the tendency of the system is to slip relative to the housing because the torque required to do so is less than the torque on the shaft. As further shown, the torque of ring B, which has both types of protrusions, is approximately twice that of when slip occurs in the housing, while having little effect on the slip torque on the shaft. Therefore, it can be concluded that the slip torque on the shaft is less than that in the housing, and therefore slip will occur on the shaft due to the inclusion of the second type of protrusion.

[0075] Applications of this embodiment include, for example, components associated with rotating devices, such as electric motors (such as windshield wiper motors), or axial slip applications (such as steering column adjustment mechanisms). The embodiments disclosed herein have applications found in robotics, mechatronics, automotive components, or other uses. Using tolerance rings or components can provide more benefits in a variety of applications. According to embodiments of this article, the tolerance ring can provide the desired slip only at the desired interface. By slipping at a predetermined level of torque at the desired interface (in the axial direction or the circumferential direction) over multiple operating cycles without significantly changing it to the torque value when slip occurs, this feature can prevent overloading of the components of the assembly 300, 400, 500. In addition, by configuring the tolerance ring to slip only at one of the two possible slip interfaces, the tolerance ring can be kept in place within the assembly, such as by preventing the tolerance ring from moving axially along the housing or shaft when the assembly is rotated. Therefore, the tolerance ring 100, 200 according to the embodiments of this article can improve torque performance or slip performance while maintaining appropriate tolerance compensation and position, thereby extending the life of the assembly, tolerance ring and other adjacent components and improving their effectiveness and performance.

[0076] Many different aspects and embodiments are possible. Some of those aspects and embodiments are described below. After reading this specification, those skilled in the art will understand that those aspects and embodiments are only illustrative and do not limit the scope of the present invention. Embodiments can be based on any one or more embodiments listed below.

[0077] Embodiment 1: A tolerance ring, comprising: a side wall, the side wall comprising a plurality of radially extending protrusions on a first radial surface and an unformed area on a second radial surface opposite to the first radial surface, wherein the tolerance ring provides a first starting torque τ1 defined as a starting torque between the tolerance ring protrusion and an internal component or an external component, wherein the tolerance ring provides a second starting torque τ2 defined as a starting torque between the unformed area and the other of the internal component or the external component, wherein 1.1τ2≤τ1.

[0078] Embodiment 2: A component comprising: an inner component; an outer component; and a tolerance ring located between the inner component and the outer component to provide an interference fit therebetween, the tolerance ring comprising a side wall, the side wall comprising a plurality of radially extending protrusions on a first radial surface and an unformed area on a second radial surface opposite to the first radial surface, wherein the tolerance ring provides a first starting torque τ1 defined as a starting torque between the tolerance ring protrusion and the inner component or the outer component, wherein the tolerance ring provides a second starting torque τ2 defined as a starting torque between the unformed area and the other of the inner component or the outer component, wherein 1.1τ2≤τ1.

[0079] Embodiment 3: A tolerance ring or assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein 1.2τ2≤τ1, 1.5τ2≤τ1, 2τ2≤τ1 or 5τ2≤τ1.

[0080] Embodiment 4: A tolerance ring or assembly according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the tolerance ring protrusion includes a first type of protrusion adapted to provide tolerance compensation between the inner component and the outer component, and a second type of protrusion adapted to engage the inner component or the outer component to increase the circumferential starting torque τ between the tolerance ring and the inner component or the outer component.

[0081] Embodiment 5: A tolerance ring or assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein each of the protrusions comprises a circumferential width and a radial height and a circumferential ridge extending in a radial direction, the ridge rising to a peak within the circumferential width and descending from the peak and axially constrained by a pair of shoulders.

[0082] Embodiment 6: The tolerance ring or assembly of Embodiment 5, wherein the first type of protrusions comprises a different radial height compared to the second type of protrusions.

[0083] Embodiment 7: The tolerance ring or assembly of Embodiment 5, wherein the first type of protrusions comprises a different circumferential width than the second type of protrusions.

[0084] Embodiment 8: The tolerance ring or assembly of Embodiment 5, wherein the first type of protrusion comprises a different shoulder length compared to the second type of protrusion.

[0085] Embodiment 9: The tolerance ring of Embodiment 5, wherein the first type of protrusions comprises a different circumferential ridge slope than the second type of protrusions.

[0086] Embodiment 10: The tolerance ring of Embodiment 4, wherein the first type of protrusions comprises a different stiffness than the second type of protrusions.

[0087] Embodiment 11: The tolerance ring or assembly of any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the plurality of protrusions extend radially inwardly and contact the inner component.

[0088] Embodiment 12: The tolerance ring or assembly of any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the plurality of projections extend radially outward and contact the outer component.

[0089] Embodiment 13: The tolerance ring or assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein at least one of the inner component or the outer component includes a groove adapted to accommodate at least one of the protrusions to prevent circumferential movement between the tolerance ring protrusion and the groove.

[0090] Embodiment 14: The tolerance ring or assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the tolerance ring has an axial clearance.

[0091] Embodiment 15: The tolerance ring or assembly of any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the sidewall comprises metal.

[0092] Embodiment 16: The tolerance ring or assembly of Embodiment 15, wherein the metal comprises carbon steel or stainless steel.

[0093] Embodiment 17: The tolerance ring or assembly of Embodiment 15, wherein the first radial surface and the second radial surface comprise metal outer surfaces.

[0094] Embodiment 18: The tolerance ring or assembly of any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the tolerance ring has an inner radius in the range of AA mm to BB mm.

[0095] Embodiment 19: The tolerance ring or assembly of any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the tolerance ring has an outer radius in the range of CC mm to DD mm.

[0096] Embodiment 20: The tolerance ring or assembly of any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the tolerance ring has a length in the range of FF mm to GG mm.

[0097] Embodiment 21: The tolerance ring or assembly of any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the tolerance ring comprises a lubricant.

[0098] Note that not all of the features described above are required, a portion of a particular feature may not be required, and one or more features may be provided in addition to the features described. Furthermore, the order in which the features are described is not necessarily the order in which the features are installed.

[0099] For the sake of clarity, certain features described herein in the context of separate embodiments may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, for the sake of brevity, various features described in the context of a single embodiment may also be provided separately or in any sub-combination.

[0100] The benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described above with reference to specific embodiments. However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any features that may make any benefit, advantage, or solution appear or become more significant should not be construed as critical, required, or essential features of any or all claims.

[0101] The description and illustration of the embodiments described herein are intended to provide a general understanding of the structure of various embodiments. The description and illustration are not intended to be used as a detailed and comprehensive description of all elements and features of the components and systems using the structure or method described herein. A separate embodiment may also be provided in a combined manner in a single embodiment, and conversely, the various features described in the context of a single embodiment for simplicity may also be provided individually or in any sub-combination. Further, references to values ​​represented by ranges include each value and all values ​​within the range. Only after reading this specification, many other embodiments will be apparent to the technician. Other embodiments may be utilized and obtained by the present disclosure, so that structural replacement, logical replacement or any change may be performed without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the present disclosure should be considered illustrative and not restrictive.

Claims

1. A tolerance ring, comprising: A side wall, the side wall comprising: a plurality of radially extending projections on the first radial surface, and an unformed area on a second radial surface opposite to the first radial surface, wherein the protrusions are arranged in a line along the peripheral direction of the side wall, wherein the plurality of radially extending protrusions are composed of two different types of protrusions: a first type of protrusions and a second type of protrusions, wherein each of the projections comprises a circumferential width and a radial height and a circumferential ridge extending in the radial direction, the ridge rising to and descending from a peak within the circumferential width and being axially constrained by a pair of shoulders, and wherein at least one of the following is true: 1) the first type of protrusion comprises a different radial height compared to the second type of protrusion; 2) the first type of protrusion comprises a different circumferential width compared to the second type of protrusion; 3) the first type of protrusion comprises a different shoulder length compared to the second type of protrusion; 4) the first type of protrusion comprises a different ridge slope compared to the second type of protrusion; and 5) the first type of protrusion comprises a different stiffness compared to the second type of protrusion, Wherein the ridge slope of the first or second type of protrusion is the radial height of the first or second type of protrusion divided by half the circumferential width of the first or second type of protrusion.

2. The tolerance ring according to claim 1, wherein the tolerance ring has an axial clearance. The tolerance ring of claim 1 , wherein the sidewall comprises metal.

4. A component, comprising: Internal components; External parts; and A tolerance ring positioned between the inner component and the outer component to provide an interference fit therebetween, the tolerance ring comprising a sidewall comprising a plurality of radially extending protrusions on a first radial surface and an unformed area on a second radial surface opposite the first radial surface, wherein the tolerance ring provides a first starting torque τ1 defined as a starting torque between the tolerance ring protrusion and the inner component or the outer component, wherein the tolerance ring provides a second starting torque τ2 defined as a starting torque between the unformed area and other portions of the inner component or the outer component, and wherein 1.1 τ2≤ τ1, wherein the plurality of radially extending protrusions are composed of two different types of protrusions: a first type of protrusions and a second type of protrusions, Each of the projections comprises a circumferential width and a radial height and a circumferential ridge extending in the radial direction, the ridge rising to and descending from a peak within the circumferential width and axially constrained by a pair of shoulders, and wherein at least one of the following is true: 1) the first type of protrusion comprises a different radial height compared to the second type of protrusion; 2) the first type of protrusion comprises a different circumferential width compared to the second type of protrusion; 3) the first type of protrusion comprises a different shoulder length compared to the second type of protrusion; 4) the first type of protrusion comprises a different ridge slope compared to the second type of protrusion; and 5) the first type of protrusion comprises a different stiffness compared to the second type of protrusion, Wherein the ridge slope of the first or second type of protrusion is the radial height of the first or second type of protrusion divided by half the circumferential width of the first or second type of protrusion. The assembly of claim 4 , wherein 1.2 τ2≤ τ1.

6. The assembly of claim 4, wherein the tolerance ring protrusion comprises: protrusions of the first type, the protrusions of the first type being adapted to provide tolerance compensation between the inner component and the outer component; and a second type of protrusion adapted to engage the inner component or the outer component to increase a circumferential starting torque τ between the tolerance ring and the inner component or the outer component.

7. The assembly of claim 4, wherein the plurality of projections extend radially inwardly and contact the inner component.

8. The assembly of claim 4, wherein the plurality of projections extend radially outward and contact the outer member.

9. The assembly of claim 4, wherein at least one of the inner component or the outer component includes a groove adapted to receive at least one of the projections to prevent circumferential movement between the tolerance ring projection and the groove.

10. The assembly of claim 4, wherein the tolerance ring has an axial clearance.

11. The assembly of claim 4, wherein the sidewalls comprise metal.

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