motor unit

Abstract

A pump that circulates oil housed in a housing that houses a motor and a gear section. The housing has a motor housing section that houses the motor and a gear section housing section that is disposed on one side of the motor axis direction of the motor housing section and houses the gear section. The pump is mounted to an outer surface of the one side of the motor axis direction of the gear section housing section, and at least a portion thereof overlaps the housing in the motor axis direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a motor unit.

[0002] This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2020-003243, filed on January 10, 2020, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2016-73163 discloses a structure in which the refrigerant is cooled by a cooling device located outside the rotating electric motor, and the refrigerant is supplied to the motor by a pump located outside the rotating electric motor.

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2016-73163 Summary of the Invention

[0007] The technical problem that the invention aims to solve

[0008] However, when the pump and cooling device are configured to be located outside the rotary motor, the rotary motor becomes larger, raising concerns about the difficulty of installation.

[0009] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a motor unit that can achieve overall miniaturization while maintaining cooling efficiency.

[0010] Technical solutions adopted to solve technical problems

[0011] An exemplary motor unit of the present invention includes: a motor having a motor shaft that rotates about a motor axis extending in a horizontal direction; a gear portion connected to the motor shaft on one side along the motor axis direction; a housing housing the motor and the gear portion; and a pump circulating oil contained within the housing. The housing has: a motor housing portion housing the motor; and a gear portion housing the gear portion disposed on one side of the motor housing portion along the motor axis direction and housing the gear portion. The pump is mounted on the outer surface of the gear portion housing portion on the motor axis direction side and at least a portion overlaps the housing in the motor axis direction.

[0012] Invention Effects

[0013] According to the exemplary motor unit of the present invention, overall miniaturization can be achieved while maintaining cooling efficiency. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a vehicle equipped with a motor unit according to one embodiment.

[0015] Figure 2 This is a conceptual diagram of a motor unit according to one implementation method.

[0016] Figure 3 It is a three-dimensional view of the motor unit viewed from above on one side along the motor axis.

[0017] Figure 4 It is a three-dimensional view of the motor unit viewed from above on the other side of the motor axis.

[0018] Figure 5 It is a three-dimensional view of the motor unit viewed from below on the other side of the motor axis.

[0019] Figure 6 This is a side view of the motor unit viewed from the direction of the motor axis.

[0020] Figure 7 This is the front view of the motor unit.

[0021] Figure 8 It is a cross-sectional view of the motor housing section cut by a plane orthogonal to the motor axis. Detailed Implementation

[0022] Hereinafter, the motor unit according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments, but can be modified arbitrarily within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention. Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a vehicle Cb equipped with a motor unit 1 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 In the diagram, the direction of travel Dd of vehicle Cb is indicated by an arrow. Vehicle Cb is a so-called FF type vehicle, in which a motor unit 1 is mounted on the front side and drives the front wheels Tf.

[0023] In the following description, the direction of gravity is defined based on the positional relationship of the motor unit 1 installed on the vehicle Cb located on a horizontal road surface. Furthermore, in the accompanying drawings, the XYZ coordinate system is appropriately shown as a three-dimensional rectangular coordinate system. That is, in the following description, the XYZ coordinate system is... Figure 1 Based on the state. More specifically, it is defined as follows.

[0024] The Z-axis direction represents the vertical direction (i.e., up and down). The +Z direction is the upper side (opposite to the direction of gravity), and the -Z direction is the lower side (in the direction of gravity). Furthermore, the X-axis direction is orthogonal to the Z-axis direction and represents the front-to-back direction of the vehicle Cb on which the motor unit 1 is mounted. The +X direction is in front of the vehicle Cb, and the -X direction is behind the vehicle Cb. However, it is also possible that the +X direction is behind the vehicle Cb, and the -X direction is in front of the vehicle Cb. The Y-axis direction is orthogonal to both the X-axis and Z-axis directions and represents the width direction (left and right) of the vehicle. The +Y direction is to the left of the vehicle Cb, and the -Y direction is to the right of the vehicle Cb. However, if the +X direction is behind the vehicle Cb, it is also possible that the +Y direction is to the right of the vehicle Cb, and the -Y direction is to the left of the vehicle Cb.

[0025] The drive system of vehicle Cb is not limited to FF (front-wheel drive). It can also be FR (rear-wheel drive) where the motor unit 1 is positioned at the front and drives the rear wheels Tr. Alternatively, it can be RR (rear-wheel drive) where the motor unit 1 is positioned at the rear and drives the rear wheels Tr. Furthermore, it can be a four-wheel drive system where the motor units 1 are positioned at both the front and rear sides and drive the front wheels Tf and the rear wheels Tr. Other methods are also possible. Sometimes, depending on the drive system, the method of mounting the motor unit 1 to vehicle Cb varies. For example, the X-axis may be the width direction (left-right direction) of vehicle Cb, and the Y-axis may be the front-rear direction of vehicle Cb.

[0026] In the following description, unless otherwise specified, the direction parallel to the motor axis J2 of motor 2 (Y-axis direction) will be referred to as "axial direction", the radial direction orthogonal to the motor axis J2 will be referred to as "radial direction", and the circumferential direction centered on the motor axis J2 will be referred to as "circumferential direction". In addition, the above "parallel direction" includes not only the case of perfect parallelism, but also the case of approximately parallelism.

[0027] The motor unit 1 is installed at the front of the vehicle Cb as a power source for the drive wheels of the vehicle Cb. In this embodiment, the vehicle Cb is an electric vehicle (EV), but it is not limited to this. Examples of vehicles Cb equipped with the motor unit 1 include hybrid electric vehicles (HV), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHV), and other vehicles in which at least one of the power sources for the drive wheels is a motor.

[0028] like Figure 1 As shown, vehicle Cb drives the front wheel Tf using a motor unit 1 located on the front side. The output shaft 33 protrudes to both sides of the motor unit 1 in the Y direction. The end of the output shaft 33 is connected to the drive shaft Sd via a connector Cp. The front wheel Tf is connected to the drive shaft Sd.

[0029] In motor unit 1, the torque output from motor 2 is transmitted to the outside via output shaft 33. The torque from output shaft 33 is transmitted to drive shaft Sd via connector Cp. As a result, front wheel Tf rotates, and vehicle Cb travels on the road surface. Furthermore, connector Cp can be, for example, a universal joint, but is not limited to this.

[0030] <1. Motor Unit 1>

[0031] Hereinafter, a motor unit 1 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 2 This is a conceptual diagram of motor unit 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 3 This is a perspective view of motor unit 1 viewed from above on one side of the motor axis J2. Figure 4 This is a perspective view of motor unit 1 viewed from above on the other side of the motor axis J2. Figure 5 This is a perspective view of motor unit 1 viewed from below on the other side of the motor axis J2. Figure 6 This is a side view of motor unit 1 viewed from the direction of motor axis J2. Figure 7 This is the front view of motor unit 1. Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of the motor housing 51, cut along a plane orthogonal to the motor axis J2. Additionally, Figure 2 This is just a conceptual drawing; the configuration and dimensions of each part may differ from the actual motor unit 1.

[0032] like Figure 2 As shown, the motor unit 1 includes a motor 2, a gear unit 3, a pump 4, a housing 5, and an inverter unit 6. That is, the motor unit 1 includes a motor 2, a gear unit 3, and a housing 5.

[0033] <2. Motor 2>

[0034] like Figure 2 As shown, the motor 2 includes: a rotor 21 that rotates about a motor axis J2 extending in a horizontal direction; and a stator 24 located radially outside the rotor 21. The motor 2 is housed in the motor housing 51 described below.

[0035] <2.1 Rotor 21>

[0036] The rotor 21 is rotated by supplying electricity from a battery (not shown) to the stator 24. The rotor 21 has a motor shaft 22, a rotor core 23, and a rotor magnet (not shown). The rotor 21 rotates around a motor axis J2 that extends in the horizontal direction.

[0037] The motor shaft 22 extends around a motor axis J2 that extends horizontally and in the width direction of the vehicle Cb. That is, the motor 2 has a motor shaft 22 that rotates around a motor axis J2 extending horizontally. The motor shaft 22 rotates around the motor axis J2. The motor shaft 22 is a hollow shaft with a hollow portion 220 inside, the hollow portion 220 having an inner circumferential surface extending along the motor axis J2.

[0038] The motor shaft 22 extends across the motor housing 51 and the gear housing 52 of the housing 5. One end (+Y side) of the motor shaft 22 protrudes into the interior of the gear housing 52. A first gear 311 of the gear 3 is fixed to the end of the motor shaft 22 protruding into the gear housing 52. The motor shaft 22 is supported by a first motor bearing 281 disposed at the bottom 512 and a second motor bearing 282 disposed at the partition wall 513 of the housing 5, enabling it to rotate.

[0039] Furthermore, the portion of the motor shaft 22 disposed in the gear housing 52 is supported by the second motor bearing 282 and the first gear bearing 341 to allow rotation. As described above, the second motor bearing 282 is disposed in the partition wall portion 513. The first gear bearing 341 is disposed in the gear housing 52 of the housing 5. Alternatively, the motor shaft 22 can be divided into a portion within the motor housing 51 and a portion within the gear housing 52. When the motor shaft 22 can be divided, the divided motor shaft 22 can, for example, employ a threaded coupling structure using external and internal threads. Alternatively, it can be joined by a fixing method such as welding.

[0040] The rotor core 23 is formed by stacking silicon steel sheets. The rotor core 23 is a cylinder extending along the axial direction. Multiple rotor magnets are fixed in the rotor core 23. The multiple rotor magnets are arranged circumferentially in a manner that alternating magnetic poles.

[0041] <2.2 Stator 24>

[0042] The stator 24 surrounds the rotor 21 radially outward. That is, the motor 2 is an inner rotor type motor in which the rotor 21 is rotatably arranged inside the stator 24. The stator 24 has a stator core 25, a coil 26, and an insulating member (not shown), which is sandwiched between the stator core 25 and the coil 26. The stator 24 is held in the housing 5. The stator core 25 has a plurality of magnetic pole teeth from the inner circumferential surface of the annular yoke to the radially inward side.

[0043] Coil 26 is formed by winding a wire between the pole teeth. The wire is connected to inverter unit 6 via a busbar (not shown in the diagram).

[0044] <3. Gear Section 3>

[0045] The gear unit 3 transmits the torque output from the motor 2 to the drive shaft Sd, which is connected to the front wheel Tf. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the gear section 3 is housed in the gear section housing 52 of the housing 5. The gear section 3 is connected to the motor shaft 22 on the axial side (+Y direction side). That is, the gear section 3 is connected to the motor shaft 22 on the side along the motor axis J2 (+Y direction side). The gear section 3 has a reduction section 31 and a differential section 32.

[0046] <3.1 Reduction section 31>

[0047] like Figure 2 and Figure 5 As shown, the reduction unit 31 is connected to the motor shaft 22. The reduction unit 31 has the function of reducing the rotational speed of the motor 2 and increasing the torque output from the motor 2 according to the reduction ratio. The reduction unit 31 transmits the torque output from the motor 2 to the differential unit 32.

[0048] The reduction unit 31 is a parallel shaft gear reducer in which the shafts of each gear are arranged in parallel. The reduction unit 31 includes: a first gear 311 as an intermediate driving gear; a second gear 312 as an intermediate gear; a third gear 313 as a final driving gear; and an intermediate shaft 314.

[0049] The first gear 311 is disposed on the outer circumferential surface of the motor shaft 22. The first gear 311 can be the same component as the motor shaft 22, or it can be a different component and be firmly fixed. The first gear 311 and the motor shaft 22 rotate together around the motor axis J2.

[0050] The intermediate shaft 314 extends along the intermediate axis J4, which is parallel to the motor axis J2. The two ends of the intermediate shaft 314 are supported by a second gear bearing 342 disposed in the partition wall portion 513 and a third gear bearing 343 disposed in the bottom 525 of the gear housing portion 522, so that it can rotate.

[0051] The intermediate shaft 314 is supported by the housing 5 and can rotate about the intermediate axis J4. The second gear 312 and the third gear 313 are disposed on the outer circumferential surface of the intermediate shaft 314. That is, the second gear 312 and the third gear 313 are connected through the intermediate shaft 314. The second gear 312 can be the same component as the intermediate shaft 314, or it can be a different component and securely fixed. The third gear 313 is the same as the second gear 312.

[0052] The second gear 312 and the third gear 313 rotate around the central axis J4. The second gear 312 meshes with the first gear 311. The third gear 313 meshes with the gear ring 321 of the differential part 32.

[0053] The torque of the motor shaft 22 is transmitted from the first gear 311 to the second gear 312. The torque transmitted to the second gear 312 is then transmitted via the intermediate shaft 314 to the third gear 313. Finally, the torque transmitted to the third gear 313 is transmitted to the gear ring 321 of the differential unit 32. In this way, the reduction unit 31 transmits the torque output from the motor 2 to the differential unit 32. The gear ratios and number of gears can be varied according to the required reduction ratio.

[0054] <3.3 Differential Part 32>

[0055] The differential unit 32 transmits the torque output from the motor 2 to the output shaft 33. The output shafts 33 are mounted on the left and right sides of the differential unit 32, respectively. Figure 1 As shown, the output shaft 33 is connected to the drive shaft Sd via connector Cp.

[0056] The differential unit 32 has the following functions: for example, when the vehicle Cb turns, it absorbs the speed difference between the left and right front wheels Tf, i.e., the output shaft 33, and transmits the same torque to the left and right output shafts 33. The differential unit 32 has a gear ring 321, a gear housing (not shown), a pair of pinions (not shown), a pinion shaft (not shown), and a pair of side gears (not shown).

[0057] In addition, such as Figure 5 , Figure 7 As shown, the end of the output shaft 33 on the other side of the axial direction (-Y direction side) protrudes further than the end of the motor housing 51 on the other side of the axial direction (-Y direction side).

[0058] Furthermore, in the gear section 3 of this embodiment, the output shaft 33 protrudes to both sides in the Y direction, but is not limited thereto. For example, depending on the mounting method of the motor unit 1, the output shaft 33 can be configured to protrude only in the Y direction, and a pair of motor units 1 can drive one wheel on each side. In this case, the differential section can be omitted.

[0059] <3.3 Parking Mechanism>

[0060] For example, in electric vehicles, there is no braking mechanism that applies braking to the vehicle Cb except for the side brakes. Therefore, the motor unit 1 is sometimes equipped with a parking mechanism that locks the vehicle Cb when the gear lever (not shown) is moved to the parking position. If the vehicle Cb is an HV, PHV, or similar vehicle with an internal combustion engine and transmission, the parking mechanism can be omitted.

[0061] <4. Inverter Unit 6>

[0062] Inverter unit 6 is electrically connected to stator 2. Inverter unit 6 controls the power supplied to motor 2. Figure 2As shown, the inverter unit 6 is housed in the inverter housing section 53 of the housing 5. The housing 5 also has an inverter housing section 53, which houses the inverter unit 6 that supplies power to the motor 2.

[0063] like Figure 2 As shown, refrigerant is supplied to inverter unit 6 from a radiator (not shown). Figure 2 As shown, an inverter cooling flow path 71 for refrigerant flow is provided at the housing cover 531 that seals the opening of the inverter housing 53. Refrigerant from the radiator flows into the inverter cooling flow path 71 through the refrigerant piping 72. As the refrigerant passes through the inverter cooling flow path 71, the heat generated by the inverter unit 6 is transferred to the refrigerant. That is, the inverter unit 6 is cooled.

[0064] <5. Pump 4>

[0065] Pump 4 circulates oil CL within the internal space of housing 5. That is, pump 4 circulates the oil CL contained within housing 5. The oil CL circulated by pump 4 is supplied to motor 2. Motor 2 is cooled by the oil CL. Pump 4 is an electric pump.

[0066] like Figure 3 , Figure 7 As shown, pump 4 is mounted on the outer surface of the axial side (+Y direction side) of the cover flange portion 526 of the gear housing portion 52 of the housing 5. Pump 4 is used to circulate oil CL to cool motor 2 and gear portion 3 inside housing 5.

[0067] Pump 4 has a pump motor and a compressor unit, both of which are not shown in the figures. The compressor unit has a suction port and a discharge port. Examples of compressor units include, but are not limited to, a subcycloidal pump where an external gear and an internal gear mesh to rotate. For example, the compressor unit could also be a pump other than a centrifugal pump. The pump motor drives the compressor unit. The compressor unit, driven by the pump motor, draws in oil CL from the oil reservoir 54 through the suction port, compresses it, and discharges it through the discharge port.

[0068] like Figure 7 As shown, the suction port of pump 4 is connected to oil storage unit 54 via suction pipe 500. Suction pipe 500 is tubular and disposed inside housing 5. One end of suction pipe 500 is connected to oil storage unit 54. By driving pump 4, oil CL stored inside oil storage unit 54 is drawn in through suction pipe 500. Furthermore, oil CL drawn in through suction pipe 500 is drawn into the interior of pump 4 through suction port. That is, the suction port of pump 4 that draws in oil is connected to suction pipe 500, which is connected to the interior space of oil storage unit 54. Suction pipe 500 may also be tubular and formed inside housing 5, or it may be formed using separately prepared piping.

[0069] Furthermore, the outlet of pump 4 is connected to the flow piping section 561 of the oil piping section 56. The oil CL discharged from the outlet of pump 4 flows into the oil cooler 8 via the flow piping section 561.

[0070] With the above configuration, oil CL can be circulated inside the motor housing space 501.

[0071] <6. Oil Cooler 8>

[0072] Oil CL and refrigerant supplied via a different path than oil CL are supplied to oil cooler 8. Oil cooler 8 has an oil flow pipe section and a refrigerant flow pipe section, both of which are omitted from the diagram. The oil flow pipe section and the refrigerant flow pipe section are separated by a material with high thermal conductivity such as aluminum or copper, allowing heat exchange between the oil and the refrigerant.

[0073] One end of the oil flow pipe of the oil cooler 8 is connected to the outlet of the pump 4 via the flow piping section 561 of the oil piping section 56. Thus, oil CL discharged from the outlet of the pump 4 flows into the oil flow pipe of the oil cooler 8 via the flow piping section 561. The other end of the oil flow pipe of the oil cooler 8 is connected to the supply piping section 562 of the oil piping section 56. The cooled oil CL flowing out of the oil cooler 8 is sent to the oil distribution section 57 via the supply piping section 562. In other words, the oil cooler 8 is arranged in the path of the oil piping section 56 to cool the oil CL passing through it.

[0074] As described above, the refrigerant that exchanges heat with the oil CL flows into the refrigerant flow pipe section of the oil cooler 8. Here, the piping for the refrigerant to flow through will be described. In the motor unit 1 of this embodiment, the refrigerant that exchanges heat with the oil CL through the oil cooler 8 flows into the oil cooler 8 after being used to cool the inverter unit 6.

[0075] The inverter cooling flow path 71 is connected to the oil cooler 8 via a connecting pipe 73. Refrigerant flowing from the inverter cooling flow path 71 flows into the refrigerant flow pipe section of the oil cooler 8 via the connecting pipe 73. Oil CL flows within the oil flow pipe section, and refrigerant flows within the refrigerant flow pipe section. At this time, heat is transferred from the oil CL to the refrigerant, and the oil CL is cooled.

[0076] The refrigerant flow pipe outlet of the oil cooler 8 is connected to the radiator via the return pipe 74. After heat exchange with the oil CL in the oil cooler 8, the refrigerant returns to the radiator through the return pipe 74. Furthermore, the refrigerant is cooled by dissipating heat to the outside through the radiator. In this embodiment, the oil CL is cooled using the refrigerant that has cooled the inverter unit 6, but this is not a limitation. For example, a pipe that directly receives refrigerant from the radiator and returns it may also be provided.

[0077] <7. Outer Shell 5>

[0078] like Figure 2 As shown, the housing 5 includes a motor housing 51, a gear housing 52, an inverter housing 53, and an oil reservoir 54 (see reference). Figure 4 , Figure 5 ), output shaft support 55, oil piping section 56 (refer to) Figure 7 ), oil distribution section 57 (refer to) Figure 8 ) and Rib 58 (refer to) Figure 5 ).

[0079] The gear housing 52 is located on the axial side (+Y direction side) of the motor housing 51. The motor housing 51 and the gear housing 52 are formed of metals such as iron, aluminum, or an alloy of iron and aluminum, but are not limited thereto.

[0080] like Figure 2 As shown, the housing 5 has a motor housing space 501 and a gear housing space 502. The motor housing space 501 is the space inside the motor housing portion 51. The motor 2 is housed in the motor housing space 501. The gear housing space 502 is the space inside the gear housing portion 52. The gear portion 3 is housed in the gear housing space 502. That is, the housing 5 houses the motor 2 and the gear portion 3.

[0081] <7.1 Motor Housing Section 51>

[0082] The motor housing 51 has a cylindrical portion 511 and a bottom 512. The cylindrical portion 511 is open on one axial side (+Y direction side) and extends axially. The bottom 512 extends radially inward from the end of the cylindrical portion 511 on the other axial side (-Y direction side). The bottom 512 closes the end of the cylindrical portion 511 on the other axial side (-Y direction side). In the motor housing 51, the cylindrical portion 511 and the bottom 512 are formed from the same member. Thus, the motor housing 51 has a bottomed cylindrical shape.

[0083] The motor housing 51 is a bottomed cylindrical shape with an opening to the gear housing 52. This allows the motor unit 1 to be assembled solely from the axial side (+Y direction side). Therefore, it eliminates the need to change the operator's position or the position of the housing 5, reducing work time and consequently reducing operating costs.

[0084] <7.2 Oil Storage Section 54>

[0085] An oil reservoir 54 protruding radially outward is disposed below the motor housing 51 (on the -Z direction side). The motor housing 51 and the oil reservoir 54 are formed of the same component, and the peripheral wall of the oil reservoir 54 protrudes radially outward continuously from the peripheral wall of the motor housing 51. The oil reservoir 54 extends axially and is internally connected to the motor housing space 501 of the motor housing 51 (see reference). Figure 8 Furthermore, the oil CL in the motor housing space 501 flows downward and is stored in the oil storage section 54. That is, the outer casing 5 also has an oil storage section that protrudes from the lower part of the vertical direction of the motor housing 51 toward the radially outer side of the motor housing 51 and stores the oil CL.

[0086] In this embodiment, the motor housing 51 and the oil reservoir 54 are formed from the same component, but this is not a limitation. For example, a cut extending axially (Y direction) may be formed below the motor housing 51, and the cut may be covered by a separately prepared oil reservoir 54. Furthermore, the oil reservoir 54 may be arc-shaped with a radius of curvature smaller than that of the motor housing 51, but this is not a limitation. For example, it may be a shape formed by combining planar surfaces. A shape that can store oil circulating and flowing downwards in the motor housing 51 can be widely adopted.

[0087] like Figure 8 As shown, cooling pipe sections 541 and 542, which are arranged adjacent to the oil storage section 54 and supply refrigerant flow, may also be provided. That is, the outer casing 5 also has cooling pipe sections 541 and 542 for refrigerant flow, which supply refrigerant flow to cool the oil CL stored in the oil storage section 54.

[0088] The cooling pipe section 541 is formed inside the wall of the oil reservoir section 54 and is tubular in shape, extending axially (Y direction). The inner side of the oil reservoir section 54 of the cooling pipe section 541 protrudes inward. As a result, the area of ​​the inner surface in contact with the oil CL can be increased, thereby improving the heat exchange efficiency, i.e., the cooling efficiency.

[0089] Furthermore, the cooling pipe section 542 is a cylindrical body disposed inside the oil reservoir 54. By using the cooling pipe section 542, the oil CL stored in the oil reservoir 54 can be cooled efficiently. Moreover, although the cooling pipe section 542 is disposed inside the outer casing 5, the space within the oil reservoir 54 minimizes obstruction to the motor 2. Additionally, in Figure 8 The outer casing 5 shown uses both cooling pipe section 541 and cooling pipe section 542, but either one can be used.

[0090] The refrigerant supplied to the cooling pipe sections 541 and 542 can be, for example, the refrigerant used to cool other structural components such as the inverter unit 6, or it can be supplied directly from the radiator. A structure for heating the refrigerant may also be included, heating the oil CL stored in the oil reservoir 54 during cold starts. This allows the oil to reach a suitable viscosity immediately after a cold start. Consequently, lubrication of the motor 2 and gear section 3 can be performed immediately after a cold start, extending the lifespan of the motor unit 1.

[0091] <7.3 Partition Wall 513>

[0092] The cylindrical section 511 and the oil reservoir 54 open towards the axial direction (+Y direction side). The partition wall 513 closes the openings of the cylindrical section 511 and the oil reservoir 54. The partition wall 513 can be installed and removed relative to the motor housing section 51 and the oil reservoir 54.

[0093] Motor 2 is housed in a motor housing space 501 surrounded by a cylindrical portion 511, a bottom portion 512, and a partition wall portion 513. A first motor bearing 281 is disposed at the bottom portion 512. The end of the motor shaft 22 on the other axial side (-Y direction side) is supported by the first motor bearing 281 so that it can rotate.

[0094] A through hole 514 is formed in the partition wall portion 513. The through hole 514 extends through the partition wall portion 513 axially. The center of the through hole 514 coincides with the motor axis J2. A second motor bearing 282 is disposed in the through hole 514. The motor shaft 22 passes through the through hole 514. At this time, the middle part of the motor shaft 22 in the Y direction is supported by the second motor bearing 282 and is rotatable. That is, the motor shaft 22 is supported by the through hole 514 via the second motor bearing 282 and is rotatable.

[0095] A second gear bearing 342 is disposed below the through hole 514 on one axial side (+Y direction side) of the partition wall portion 513 (on the -Z direction side). The second gear bearing 342 supports the end of the intermediate shaft 314 on the other axial side (-Y direction side) so that it can rotate.

[0096] An oil flow hole 515 is formed at the partition wall portion 513. The oil flow hole 515 is a through hole that extends axially through the partition wall portion 513. The oil flow hole 515 connects the oil storage portion 54 and the gear receiving portion 52. A portion of the oil CL accumulated in the oil storage portion 54 flows into the gear receiving space 502 of the gear receiving portion 52 through the oil flow hole 515. In addition, by forming the oil flow hole 515 at a certain height from the bottom of the oil storage portion 54, the oil CL can be retained in the oil storage portion 54.

[0097] <7.4 Gear housing 52>

[0098] The gear portion 3 is housed in the gear portion receiving portion 52. That is, the housing 5 has a gear portion receiving portion 52 that houses the gear portion 3. The gear portion receiving portion 52 is disposed on the axial side (+Y direction side) of the motor receiving portion 51. That is, the housing 5 has a gear portion receiving portion 52 disposed on the axial side (+Y direction side) of the motor receiving portion 51 and that houses the gear portion 3.

[0099] The gear housing 52 includes a gear support 521 and a gear cover 522. The gear support 521 extends radially outward from the outer surface of the end portion of the cylindrical portion 511 on the axial side (+Y direction side) of the motor housing 51. The gear support 521 and the cylindrical portion 511 are formed from the same component. That is, the gear housing 52 has a gear support 521 that extends radially outward from the outer surface of the end portion of the motor housing 51 on the axial side (+Y direction side).

[0100] A first output shaft through hole 523 is formed in the gear support portion 521. The output shaft 33 passes through the first output shaft through hole 523. Thus, the output shaft 33 passes through the gear support portion 521 and extends to the other side (-Y direction side) axially. The output shaft 33 is arranged side by side with the motor housing portion 51. That is, the gear portion 3 has an output shaft 33 that passes through the gear support portion 521 and extends to the other side (-Y direction side) axially.

[0101] The other axial end (-Y direction side) of the output shaft 33 is supported by the output shaft support 55 and is rotatable. Details of the output shaft support 55 will be described below. An oil seal (not shown) is provided between the output shaft 33 and the first output shaft through hole 523 to prevent oil leakage.

[0102] The gear cover portion 522 has a cover cylinder portion 524, a cover bottom portion 525, and a cover flange portion 526. The cover cylinder portion 524 is cylindrical and opens to the other side (-Y direction side) axially. Furthermore, the cover bottom portion 525 extends radially inward from the end of the cover cylinder portion 524 on the axial side (+Y direction side). The cover cylinder portion 524, the cover bottom portion 525, and the cover flange portion 526 are formed from the same component. That is, the gear cover portion 522 is a bottomed cylindrical shape and opens to the other side (-Y direction side) axially.

[0103] The cover flange portion 526 protrudes radially outward from the other side (-Y direction side) of the cover sleeve portion 524 along the axial direction. When viewed axially, the cover flange portion 526 overlaps with the gear support portion 521. The gear support portion 521 and the cover flange portion 526 overlap axially. Furthermore, the gear cover portion 522 is mounted to the gear support portion 521 by fixing the edge portion of the cover flange portion 526 to the edge portion of the gear support portion 521.

[0104] The first gear bearing 341 and the third gear bearing 343 are mounted on the bottom 525 of the housing. The axial end (+Y direction side) of the motor shaft 22 is supported by the first gear bearing 341 and is rotatable. Furthermore, the axial end (+Y direction side) of the intermediate shaft 314 is supported by the third gear bearing 343 and is rotatable. That is, the motor shaft 22 is supported by the housing 5 and is rotatable via the first motor bearing 281, the second motor bearing 282, and the first gear bearing 341. Furthermore, the intermediate shaft 314 is supported by the housing 5 and is rotatable via the second gear bearing 342 and the third gear bearing 343.

[0105] Furthermore, a second output shaft passage hole 527 is formed at the cover portion 524. The output shaft 33 passes through the second output shaft passage hole 527. Thus, the output shaft 33 passes through the cover portion 524 and extends axially to one side (+Y direction side). An oil seal (not shown) is provided between the output shaft 33 and the second output shaft passage hole 527 to prevent oil leakage.

[0106] In the gear housing 52, when viewed axially, the first output shaft through hole 523 overlaps with the second output shaft through hole 527. Furthermore, the portion of the output shaft 33 on the axial side (-Y direction side) of the differential 32 passes through the first output shaft through hole 523, while the portion on the axial side (+Y direction side) passes through the second output shaft through hole 527. The output shafts 33, located at both ends of the differential 32 in the axial (Y direction) direction, rotate about the output axis J5.

[0107] <7.5 Inverter Housing 53>

[0108] like Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 8 As shown, the inverter housing 53 is positioned above the motor housing 51 and on the -X direction side. The inverter housing 53 and the motor housing 51 are formed from the same component. That is, the inverter housing 53 and the motor housing 51 are formed from the same component. The inverter housing 53 has an opening at its top. A housing cover 531 is installed at the opening of the inverter housing 53. The inverter unit 6 is housed within the space surrounded by the inverter housing 53 and the housing cover 531.

[0109] The receiving cover 531 is fixed to the inverter receiving section 53 by means of fastening with threads, for example. Thus, the opening of the inverter receiving section 53 is blocked by the receiving cover 531. The fixing of the receiving cover 531 to the inverter receiving section 53 is not limited to thread fastening, and a wide range of fixing methods that can be used to securely fix the section and allow for installation and removal can be adopted.

[0110] The mating portion between the inverter housing 53 and the housing cover 531 has a structure that inhibits moisture ingress. Therefore, moisture is less likely to adhere to the inverter unit 6 housed inside the inverter housing 53. Furthermore, as a structure to inhibit moisture ingress at the mating portion between the inverter housing 53 and the housing cover 531, examples include, but are not limited to, the arrangement of gaskets, fillers, etc., between the inverter housing 53 and the housing cover 531.

[0111] The internal space of the inverter housing 53 is connected to the motor housing space 501 of the motor housing 51 via a wiring hole 532. The wiring connecting the inverter unit 6 to the coil 26 of the motor 2 is disposed in the wiring hole 532. By providing the wiring hole 532, the opening for water supply to flow into the internal space of the inverter housing 53 is reduced. Furthermore, a seal (not shown) is provided in the wiring hole 532 to suppress the intrusion of oil CL circulating within the motor housing space 501.

[0112] like Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 8 As shown, the housing cover 531 has an inverter cooling flow path 71. Refrigerant passes through the interior of the inverter cooling flow path 71. As the refrigerant passes through the inverter cooling flow path 71, heat generated by the inverter unit 6 is transferred to the refrigerant. As a result, the inverter unit 6 is cooled. Because the inverter unit 6 is cooled, it can operate stably. In the housing 5 of this embodiment, the inverter cooling flow path 71 is disposed in the housing cover 531. To improve cooling efficiency, the inverter unit 6 may also be mounted in the housing cover 531. Alternatively, the inverter cooling flow path 71 may be disposed in the inverter housing 53. In this case, the inverter unit 6 may also be mounted in the inverter housing 53.

[0113] <7.6 Output Shaft Support 55>

[0114] The output shaft support portion 55 protrudes further outward than the end on the opposite side (-Y direction side) of the outer peripheral surface of the motor housing portion 51. The output shaft support portion 55 and the motor housing portion 51 are formed from the same component.

[0115] The output shaft support 55 has a through hole whose center is aligned with the output axis J5, and an output bearing 551 (see reference) is installed in the through hole. Figure 2 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 Furthermore, the output shaft support 55 supports the output shaft 33 so that it can rotate via the output bearing 551.

[0116] That is, the housing 5 also has an output shaft support 55 on the other side (-Y direction side) of the motor housing 51 in the axial direction, which supports the output shaft 33 so that it can rotate. In addition, the output shaft support 55 and the motor housing 51 are formed by the same component.

[0117] Furthermore, the lower surfaces of the output shaft support portion 55 and the inverter housing portion 53 are formed from the same component. Moreover, the output shaft support portion 55 is integrally formed together with the inverter housing portion 53. This configuration improves the rigidity of the output shaft support portion 55 and suppresses vibration of the output shaft 33.

[0118] The output shaft support 55 and the inverter housing 53 can also be formed from different components. In this case, the output shaft support 55 and the inverter housing 53 can also be in contact. When the output shaft support 55 and the inverter housing 53 are not formed from the same component, stress is less likely to be transmitted from the inverter housing 53 to the output shaft support 55. Therefore, even when stress is applied to the inverter housing 53, deformation of the output shaft support 55 is suppressed, and central oscillation of the output shaft 33 is less likely to occur.

[0119] The output shaft support 55 and the inverter housing 53 can also be non-contact. Stress is less likely to be transmitted between the inverter housing 53 and the output shaft support 55, thus suppressing vibration. Alternatively, the output shaft support 55 and the inverter housing 53 can be formed using the same component, while the output shaft support 55 and the motor housing 51 can be formed using different components. With these configurations, resonance between the vibration of the motor 2 transmitted to the motor housing 51 and the vibration transmitted to the output shaft support 55 can be suppressed.

[0120] Because the housing 5 has an output shaft support 55, the output shaft 33 can extend from the gear support 521 to the other side (-Y direction side) axially. The drive shaft Sd is connected to the front end of the output shaft 33 via a connector Cp (see reference). Figure 1 ).

[0121] By adjusting the length of the output shaft 33, the length of the drive shaft Sd, which connects the motor unit 1 to the left and right front wheels Tf when mounted on the vehicle Cb, can be made the same. By making the length of the drive shaft Sd the same, the drive shaft Sd is connected to the output shaft 33 at the same angle. Therefore, equal torque is transmitted to the left and right front wheels Tf, allowing the driver to operate the vehicle Cb without any sense of incongruity. In other words, the operability of the vehicle Cb is improved.

[0122] In the motor unit 1, the length of the output shaft 33, which makes the left and right drive shafts Sd equal, is determined in the gear section 3 based on the installation position of the motor unit 1 in the vehicle Cb and the position of the front wheel Tf. Furthermore, the housing 5 has an output shaft support section 55, so that even if the output shaft 33 is extended to the other side of the axial direction (-Y direction side), the output shaft 33 can rotate stably.

[0123] In other words, since the housing 5 of the motor unit 1 has an output shaft support 55, the output shaft 33 can extend to the other side (the -Y direction side) axially. This allows the left and right drive shafts Sd of the vehicle Cb equipped with the motor unit 1 to be of equal length, suppressing any sense of disharmony felt by the driver while driving. Furthermore, the output shaft support 55 preferably supports the area near the end of the output shaft 33.

[0124] Furthermore, in the motor unit 1 of this embodiment, both ends of the output shaft 33 in the Y direction protrude outwards from the housing 5. Therefore, when the drive shaft Sd is installed via the connector Cp, the connector Cp and the drive shaft Sd are less likely to interfere with the housing 5.

[0125] like Figure 5 As shown, rib 58 protrudes from the radially outer surface of the cylindrical portion 511 of the motor housing portion 51 and extends radially outward along the axial direction, connecting the gear support portion 521 to the output shaft support portion 55. That is, the housing 5 also has a plate-shaped rib 58 that protrudes from the radially outer surface of the motor housing portion 51 and connects the gear support portion 521 to the output shaft support portion 55.

[0126] Rib 58 and motor housing 51 are formed from the same component. Furthermore, rib 58, gear support 521, and output shaft support 55 are formed from the same component. That is, rib 58, motor housing 51, gear support 521, and output shaft support 55 are all formed from the same component. By providing rib 58, deformation of motor housing 51, gear support 521, and output shaft support 55 is suppressed. As a result, vibrations and noise from the motor 2 and gear 3, as well as from the housing 5, are suppressed.

[0127] In this embodiment, the rib 58 narrows in width as it protrudes from the cylinder 511 toward the output shaft support 55 side. However, it is not limited to the shape described above, and shapes that can suppress vibration and noise through the rib 58 can be widely adopted.

[0128] <7.7 Oil Piping Section 56>

[0129] like Figure 2 , Figure 6As shown, the oil piping section 56 is tubular and formed inside the gear support section 521 of the gear receiving section 52. The oil piping section 56 is connected to the oil distribution section 57 provided in the upper part of the motor receiving space 501. The oil piping section 56 connects the pump 4 to the oil distribution section 57 and supplies oil CL to the oil distribution section 57. That is, the housing 5 has an oil piping section 56 that connects the discharge port of the pump 4 to the oil distribution section 57 provided in the motor receiving space 501 of the motor receiving section 51.

[0130] Furthermore, the housing 5 in this embodiment includes a flow piping section 561 and a supply piping section 562. The flow piping section 561 connects the outlet of the pump 4 to the inlet of the oil cooler 8. That is, the oil CL pressurized by the pump 4 is sent from the pump 4 to the oil cooler 8 via the flow piping section 561. In addition, the supply piping section 562 connects the outlet of the oil cooler 8 to the flow passage 571 of the oil distribution section 57. That is, the oil CL cooled by the oil cooler 8 is sent from the oil cooler 8 to the oil distribution section 57 via the supply piping section 562.

[0131] In this embodiment, the oil piping portion 56 is formed on the cover flange portion 526, but it is not limited thereto. It may also be formed on the gear support portion 521, or it may be formed by combining and fixing the gear support portion 521 and the cover flange portion 526.

[0132] <7.8 Oil Distribution Section 57>

[0133] An oil distribution section 57 is disposed in the motor housing section 51. Furthermore, the oil distribution section 57 is disposed above the motor 2 in the vertical direction. That is, the housing 5 also has an oil distribution section 57 disposed inside the motor housing section 51, above the motor 2 in the vertical direction, and connected to the oil piping section 56.

[0134] The oil distribution section 57 has: a flow passage 571 extending along the axial direction (Y direction) and supplying oil CL for flow; and a distribution hole 572 connecting the flow passage 571 to the motor housing space 501.

[0135] Oil CL flowing in the oil piping section 56 flows into the flow passage 571 of the oil distribution section 57. Furthermore, the oil CL flowing into the flow passage 571 is distributed from the distribution hole 572 into the motor housing space 501. By employing the above structure, oil CL can be distributed to the motor 2 disposed in the motor housing space 501. Therefore, the motor 2 can be efficiently cooled by the oil CL. In this embodiment, the oil distribution section is tubular, formed inside the motor housing section 51, but is not limited to this. For example, it could be a tube inserted into the motor housing space 501.

[0136] Alternatively, the oil distribution section 57 can be shaped like a container with an opening at the top and an oil drip hole at a suitable location at the bottom, instead of a tube. In this case, oil CL supplied from the supply piping section 562 flows into the oil distribution section 57, causing the oil to drip from the oil distribution section 57.

[0137] <7.9 Location of Pump 4 and Oil Cooler 8>

[0138] Pump 4 and oil cooler 8 are mounted on the axial side (+Y direction side) of the flange portion 526 of the gear housing 5. Alternatively, pump 4 and oil cooler 8 are mounted outside the gear housing 52. Oil piping 56 connects pump 4 and oil cooler 8. Furthermore, oil piping 56 connects oil cooler 8 and oil distribution portion 57.

[0139] like Figure 6 As shown, the pump 4 and oil cooler 8 are positioned within the axial projection plane of the housing 5. Additionally, a portion of the pump 4 and oil cooler 8 may extend outwards from the axial projection plane of the housing 5. Specifically, the pump 4 is mounted on the outer surface of the gear housing 52 on one axial side (+Y direction side), and at least a portion overlaps with the housing 5 axially. Similarly, the oil cooler 8 is mounted on the outer surface of the gear housing 52 on one axial side (+Y direction side), and at least a portion overlaps with the housing 5 axially.

[0140] By having the above structure, the thickness of the motor unit 1 in the vertical direction (Z direction) can be reduced. That is, the motor unit 1 can be miniaturized. The pump 4 is exposed to the outside of the motor unit 1. When the vehicle is in motion, the running air collides with the pump 4. The pump 4 is cooled by the running air during vehicle movement. In addition, the running air during vehicle movement also collides with the outer surface of the oil cooler 8. Thus, the oil cooler 8 is cooled by the running air.

[0141] <8. Lubrication and Cooling of Motor Unit 1>

[0142] like Figure 2 As shown, an oil reservoir P for storing oil CL is provided in the lower region within the gear housing 52. A portion of the differential 32 is impregnated in the oil reservoir P. The oil CL stored in the oil reservoir P is lifted by the operation of the differential 32 and supplied to the interior of the gear housing 52. That is, the oil CL is lifted by the tooth surface of the gear ring 321 when the gear ring 321 of the differential 32 rotates.

[0143] Oil CL diffuses into the gear housing 52 and is supplied to each gear in the reduction section 31 and the differential section 32 within the gear housing 52, so that the oil CL is distributed on the tooth surface of the gears for lubrication. In addition, a portion of the oil CL diffuses into the gear housing 52 and is supplied to each of the second motor bearing 282, the first gear bearing 341, the second gear bearing 342, and the third gear bearing 343 for lubrication.

[0144] When the motor 2 is stopped, a portion of the gear ring 321 is immersed in oil CL. Therefore, as the gear ring 321 rotates, the oil CL is lifted upward along the inner circumferential surface of the gear housing space 502.

[0145] An oil reservoir 528 is disposed in the gear housing space 502. The oil reservoir 528 opens upward. Furthermore, the oil reservoir 528 is formed spanning both ends of the gear housing space 502 in the axial direction. Oil CL raised from the oil storage section P moves upward toward the gear housing space 502 and flows into the oil reservoir 528.

[0146] The end of the oil reservoir 528 on one axial side is connected to an oil supply passage (not shown). The oil CL accumulated in the oil reservoir 528 flows into the hollow part 220 of the motor shaft 22 from the end of the motor shaft 22 on one axial side (+Y direction side) via an oil supply passage (not shown).

[0147] Oil CL flows into the hollow portion 220 of the motor shaft 22. The oil CL in the hollow portion 220 of the motor shaft 22 flows in from the end of the motor shaft 22 on the axial side (+Y direction side) and flows towards the motor 2. Alternatively, for example, the hollow portion 220 of the motor shaft 22 may have a spiral groove or the like, which delivers the oil CL to the motor 2 side when the motor shaft 22 rotates. The oil CL flowing through the hollow portion 220 exits from the oil distribution hole 221 provided in the motor shaft 22 (see reference). Figure 2 The oil is distributed toward the stator 24. The stator 24 is cooled by the oil CL. That is, in the motor unit 1, the oil CL in the oil storage part P in the gear part receiving space 502 is lifted by the gear part 3, thereby causing the oil CL to circulate inside the motor unit 1.

[0148] In addition, in motor unit 1, besides the lifting based on the rotation of gear 3, oil CL is circulated using pump 4. Driven by pump 4, oil CL stored in oil reservoir 54 is drawn in by pump 4. Pump 4 causes oil CL drawn in from the suction port to flow from the discharge port into oil cooler 8 via oil piping 56. Oil CL is cooled by heat exchange with refrigerant in oil cooler 8 and flows into oil distribution section 57 via oil piping 56. Furthermore, oil CL flows in flow passage 571 of oil distribution section 57 and is distributed to motor housing space 501 through distribution hole 572. Oil CL distributed from distribution hole 572 is blown to motor 2.

[0149] The oil CL blown into the motor 2 flows inside the motor 2. This cools the motor 2. After cooling the motor 2, the oil CL flows downwards due to gravity and flows into the oil reservoir 54, which is connected to the lower part of the motor housing 51. Thus, the pump 4 allows the oil CL to circulate within the motor housing space 501.

[0150] A portion of the oil CL lifted by the gear section 3 passes through the hollow portion 220 of the motor shaft 22 and flows into the motor housing space 501. Furthermore, the pump 4 circulates the oil CL within the motor housing space 501 and the interior space of the oil reservoir 54. Therefore, the circulating oil CL flows towards the oil reservoir 54. The interior space of the oil reservoir 54 and the gear section housing space 502 are divided by a partition wall 513. An oil flow hole 515 is formed at the partition wall 513. Therefore, a portion of the oil CL accumulated inside the oil reservoir 54 flows to the gear section housing space 502. Thus, the amount of oil CL accumulated in the oil reservoir 54 and the oil reservoir P is kept constant.

[0151] Thus, in motor unit 1, oil CL is circulated in motor housing space 501 and gear housing space 502, thereby lubricating and cooling motor 2 and gear 3.

[0152] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above. However, the structures and combinations thereof in the embodiments are merely examples, and additions, omissions, substitutions, and other changes to the structures can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Moreover, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments.

[0153] Industrial availability

[0154] The motor unit of the present invention can be used, for example, as at least a part of the power source for hybrid electric vehicles (HV), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHV), and electric vehicles (EV).

[0155] (Symbol Explanation)

[0156] 1 motor unit

[0157] 2 motors

[0158] 21 rotors

[0159] 22 motor shaft

[0160] 220 Hollow Section

[0161] 221 oil distribution hole

[0162] 23 Rotor core

[0163] 24 stators

[0164] 25 stator core

[0165] 26 coils

[0166] 281 First Motor Bearing

[0167] 282 Second Motor Bearing

[0168] 3 Gear section

[0169] 31 Reduction Section

[0170] 311 First Gear

[0171] 312 Second Gear

[0172] 313 Third Gear

[0173] 314 intermediate shaft

[0174] 32 Differential Unit

[0175] 321 gear ring

[0176] 33 Output Shaft

[0177] 341 First Gear Bearing

[0178] 342 Second Gear Bearing

[0179] 343 Third Gear Bearing

[0180] 4 pumps

[0181] 5. Outer shell

[0182] 500 suction piping

[0183] 501 Motor Housing Space

[0184] 502 Gear Reception Space

[0185] 51 Motor Containment Department

[0186] 511 cylinder section

[0187] 512 bottom

[0188] 513 partition wall section

[0189] 514 through hole

[0190] 515 oil flow hole

[0191] 52 Gear Reception Section

[0192] 521 Gear Support

[0193] 522 Gear Cover

[0194] 523 First output shaft through hole

[0195] 524 Cover Section

[0196] 525 cover bottom

[0197] 526 flange

[0198] 527 Second output shaft through hole

[0199] 528 oil storage pan

[0200] 53 Inverter Housing Section

[0201] 531 containment cover

[0202] 532 wiring hole

[0203] 54 Oil Storage Department

[0204] 541 Cooling Pipe Section

[0205] 542 Cooling Pipe Section

[0206] 55 Output Shaft Support

[0207] 551 output bearing

[0208] 56 Oil Piping Department

[0209] 561 Mobile Piping Department

[0210] 562 Supply Piping Department

[0211] 57 Oil Distribution Section

[0212] 571 flow pathway

[0213] 572 Distributed Holes

[0214] 58 ribs

[0215] 6 inverter units

[0216] 71 Inverter Cooling Flow Path

[0217] 72 Refrigerant Piping

[0218] 73 Connecting Piping

[0219] 74 Return Piping

[0220] 8 oil coolers

[0221] Cb vehicles

[0222] Cp connector

[0223] Dd driving direction

[0224] Sd drive shaft

[0225] Tf front wheel

[0226] Tr rear wheel

[0227] P Oil Storage Department

[0228] CL oil.

Claims

1. A motor unit, comprising: A motor having a motor shaft that rotates about a motor axis extending in a horizontal direction; A gear section, wherein the gear section is connected to the motor shaft on one side along the motor axis direction of the motor axis; A housing that houses the motor and the gear assembly; A pump that circulates oil contained within the housing; as well as An oil cooler, mounted on the housing, cools the oil. The outer casing has: Motor housing, the motor housing housing the motor; and A gear receiving portion is disposed on one side of the motor receiving portion in the direction of the motor axis and receives the gear portion. The pump is mounted on the outer surface of the gear housing on one side in the direction of the motor axis, and at least a portion of it overlaps with the housing in the direction of the motor axis. The oil cooler is mounted on the outer surface of the gear housing on one side in the direction of the motor axis. In the direction of the motor axis, the pump and the oil cooler are located on the opposite side of the gear housing relative to the motor housing.

2. The motor unit according to claim 1, wherein, The housing has an oil piping section that connects the pump's oil outlet to an oil distribution section located in the interior space of the motor housing.

3. The motor unit according to claim 2, wherein, The housing also has an oil reservoir that protrudes radially outward from the lower vertical portion of the motor housing and stores the oil. The pump draws in the oil stored in the internal space of the oil reservoir.

4. The motor unit according to claim 3, wherein, The outer casing also has a cooling pipe section for the flow of refrigerant to cool the oil stored in the oil reservoir.

5. The motor unit according to claim 2, wherein, An oil cooler is installed along the path of the oil piping section to cool the oil passing through the oil piping section. At least a portion of the oil cooler overlaps with the housing in the direction of the motor axis.

6. The motor unit according to claim 2, wherein, The gear housing has a gear support portion that extends radially outward from the radially outer surface of the motor housing portion on one side in the motor axis direction and is formed by the same component as the motor housing portion. The oil piping section is tubular and formed inside the gear support section.

7. The motor unit according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The outer casing also has: A tubular oil distribution section disposed inside the motor housing, positioned vertically above the motor and connected to the oil piping section. The oil distribution section has: a flow passage extending along the axis of the motor and for the oil to flow; and A distribution hole that connects the flow passage to the motor housing.

8. The motor unit according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The oil cooler is located above the pump.

9. A motor unit, comprising: A motor having a motor shaft that rotates about a motor axis extending in a horizontal direction; A gear section, wherein the gear section is connected to the motor shaft on one side along the motor axis direction of the motor axis; A housing that houses the motor and the gear assembly; A pump that circulates oil contained within the housing; as well as An oil cooler, mounted on the housing, cools the oil. The outer casing has: Motor housing, the motor housing housing the motor; and A gear receiving portion is disposed on one side of the motor receiving portion in the direction of the motor axis and receives the gear portion. The pump is mounted on the outer surface of the gear housing on one side in the direction of the motor axis, and at least a portion of it overlaps with the housing in the direction of the motor axis. The oil cooler is mounted on the outer surface of the gear housing on one side in the direction of the motor axis. The pump and the oil cooler overlap with the motor in the direction of the motor axis.

10. The motor unit according to claim 9, wherein, The housing has an oil piping section that connects the pump's oil outlet to an oil distribution section located in the interior space of the motor housing.

11. The motor unit according to claim 10, wherein, The housing also has an oil reservoir that protrudes radially outward from the lower vertical portion of the motor housing and stores the oil. The pump draws in the oil stored in the internal space of the oil reservoir.

12. The motor unit according to claim 11, wherein, The outer casing also has a cooling pipe section for the flow of refrigerant to cool the oil stored in the oil reservoir.

13. The motor unit according to claim 10, wherein, An oil cooler is installed along the path of the oil piping section to cool the oil passing through the oil piping section. At least a portion of the oil cooler overlaps with the housing in the direction of the motor axis.

14. The motor unit according to claim 10, wherein, The gear housing has a gear support portion that extends radially outward from the radially outer surface of the motor housing portion on one side in the motor axis direction and is formed by the same component as the motor housing portion. The oil piping section is tubular and formed inside the gear support section.

15. The motor unit according to any one of claims 9 to 14, wherein, The outer casing also has: A tubular oil distribution section disposed inside the motor housing, positioned vertically above the motor and connected to the oil piping section. The oil distribution section has: a flow passage extending along the axis of the motor and for the oil to flow; and A distribution hole that connects the flow passage to the motor housing.

16. The motor unit according to any one of claims 9 to 14, wherein, The oil cooler is located above the pump.

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