Drive device

Abstract

An object of the present invention is to make the drive device more compact. In the drive device, a first flow path of a fluid flow path through which fluid flows connects a gear housing portion and a first inlet of a pump. A second flow path connects a first outlet of the pump and one end portion of a third flow path via a cooler. The third flow path is disposed inside a partition wall of the housing and extends in a direction intersecting with the rotation axis of the first shaft. A fourth flow path connects the other end portion of the third flow path and one end portion of a fifth flow path. The fifth flow path is disposed inside a gear side cover portion of the housing. The other end portion of the fifth flow path is connected to one axial end portion of a second shaft. One end portion of a sixth flow path is connected to the other end portion of the third flow path. The other end portion of the sixth flow path is disposed inside a housing cylinder portion of the housing.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a drive device. Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a drive device having a flow path for oil pumped by a pump has been known. For example, the flow path branches into a lubrication circuit and a cooling circuit. The lubrication circuit supplies oil pumped by a mechanical oil pump to a power transmission mechanism, and the cooling circuit supplies oil pumped by an electric oil pump to an electric motor. (For example, refer to Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2019-129608)

[0003] [Prior Art Documents]

[0004] [Patent Documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2019-129608 Summary of the Invention

[0006] However, the above-described drive device is equipped with both a mechanical oil pump and an electric oil pump. Therefore, there is a possibility of increasing the size of the drive device.

[0007] An object of the present invention is to make the drive device more compact.

[0008] An exemplary drive device of the present invention includes a motor part, a gear part, a housing, a pump, a cooler, and a fluid flow path. The motor part has a rotor and a stator. The rotor has a first shaft. The first shaft is capable of rotating about a rotation axis extending in the axial direction. The stator is disposed at a position radially outside the rotor. The gear part is mounted on one axial side of the first shaft. The housing houses the motor part and the gear part. The pump pumps the fluid in the housing. The cooler cools the fluid. The fluid flows in the fluid flow path. The first shaft is a tubular shape extending in the axial direction and has a shaft through-hole. The shaft through-hole penetrates in the radial direction. The gear part has a second shaft. The second shaft is a tubular shape extending in the axial direction and is connected to one axial end of the first shaft. The housing has a housing tubular part, a partition wall, and a gear side cover part. The housing tubular part extends in the axial direction to house the motor part. The partition wall closes one axial end of the housing tubular part. The gear side cover part and the partition wall together form a gear housing part. The gear housing part is disposed at one axial end of the partition wall and houses the gear part. The fluid flow path has a first flow path, a second flow path, a third flow path, a fourth flow path, a fifth flow path, and a sixth flow path. The first flow path connects the gear housing part and a first fluid inlet of the pump. The second flow path connects a first fluid outlet of the pump and one end of the third flow path via the cooler. The third flow path is disposed inside the partition wall and extends in a direction intersecting the rotation axis. The fourth flow path connects the other end of the third flow path and one end of the fifth flow path. The fifth flow path is disposed inside the gear side cover part. The other end of the fifth flow path is connected to one axial end of the second shaft. One end of the sixth flow path is connected to the other end of the third flow path. The other end of the sixth flow path is disposed inside the housing tubular part.

[0009] According to the exemplary drive device of the present invention, the drive device can be made more compact. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Figure 1 is a schematic view showing a structural example of the drive device as viewed from the X-axis direction.

[0011] Figure 2 is a schematic view of the drive device as viewed from the Z-axis direction.

[0012] Figure 3 is a schematic view of the lower surface of the drive device.

[0013] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the drive device as viewed from the Y-axis direction.

[0014] Figure 5 is a three-dimensional cross-sectional view of the drive device as viewed from the Y-axis direction.

[0015] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram showing an example of a vehicle equipped with a drive device.

[0016] Figure 7 This is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the arrangement of the intermediate shaft.

[0017] Figure 8 This is an enlarged view of the second flow path.

[0018] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram showing a modified example of the drive device as viewed from the X-axis direction.

[0019] Figure 10 This is a conceptual diagram showing the arrangement of the tank.

[0020] Figure 11 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing an example of the structure of the tank.

[0021] Figure 12A This is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a first modified example of the tank.

[0022] Figure 12B This is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a second modified example of the tank.

[0023] Figure 13 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the third flow outlet.

[0024] (Reference Signs)

[0025] 100, 100a drive device; 200 battery; 300 vehicle; 1 motor shaft; 2 motor section; 21 rotor; 210 first shaft; 2101 first shaft cylinder section; 2102 first hollow section; 2103 shaft through hole; 211 rotor core; 2111 rotor through hole; 212 magnet; 22 stator; 221 stator core; 222 coil section; 2221 coil end; 223 protrusion; 3 gear section; 31 reduction gear; 310 second shaft; 3101 second shaft cylinder section; 3102 second hollow section; 311 main drive gear; 312 intermediate driven gear; 313 final drive gear; 314 intermediate shaft; 32 differential device; 321 ring gear; 4 housing; 401 motor housing section; 402 gear housing section; 41 housing cylinder section; 411 recess; 42 partition wall; 4201 partition wall through hole; 4202 first output shaft through hole; 4203 opening; 421 first motor bearing holder; 4211 first motor bearing; 422 first gear bearing holder; 4221 first gear bearing; 423 first intermediate bearing holder; 4231 first intermediate bearing; 424 first output bearing holder; 4241 first output bearing; 43 gear side cover section; 4301 second output shaft through hole; 431 second gear bearing holder; 4311 second gear bearing; 432 second intermediate bearing holder; 4321 second intermediate bearing; 433 second output bearing holder; 4331 second output bearing; 434 tray section; 4341 hole section; 44 motor side cover section; 441 second motor bearing holder; 4411 second motor bearing; 5 pump; 50 fixing section; 51 first fluid inlet; 52 first fluid outlet; 6 cooler; 61 second fluid inlet; 62 second fluid outlet; 7, 7a fluid flow path; 71 first flow path; 72 second flow path; 721 first fluid path; 722 second fluid path; 7221 sealing plug; 723 third fluid path; 724 fourth fluid path; 725 fifth fluid path; 73 third flow path; 74 fourth flow path; 741 third fluid inlet; 742 third fluid outlet; 75 fifth flow path; 751 providing restriction component; 76 sixth flow path; 761 internal flow path; 762 fluid providing component; 763 providing hole; 77 seventh flow path; 771 providing restriction component; 8 tank; 81 first tank component; 82 second tank component; 83 sealing component; 84 bottom surface; 85 inclined surface; F fluid; P fluid accumulation section; Ds output shaft; J1 rotation axis; J2 intermediate axis; J3 differential axis; Cp1, Cp2 connection part; Lv1 first imaginary line; Lv2 second imaginary line; L1 first line segment; L2 second line segment; L3 third line segment; L4 fourth line segment; L5 fifth line segment; L6 sixth line segment; Cv imaginary circle; Pv imaginary plane. Detailed implementation

[0026] Exemplary embodiments will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0027] In the following description, the gravitational direction is defined based on the positional relationship when the drive device 100 is mounted on the vehicle 300 located on a horizontal road surface. In addition, in the drawings, the XYZ coordinate system is appropriately shown as a three-dimensional rectangular coordinate system. In the XYZ coordinate system, the Z-axis direction represents the vertical direction (i.e., the up-down direction). The +Z direction is upward (toward the vertically upward direction opposite to the gravitational direction), and the -Z direction is downward (toward the vertically downward direction same as the gravitational direction). In addition, the "Z-axis direction" in the following description is an example of the "second direction" of the present invention. The "-Z direction" is an example of "one side of the second direction" of the present invention, and the "+Z direction" is an example of "the other side of the second direction" of the present invention.

[0028] In addition, the X-axis direction is a direction orthogonal to the Z-axis direction and represents the front-rear direction of the vehicle 300 on which the drive device 100 is mounted. The +X direction is the front of the vehicle 300, and the -X direction is the rear of the vehicle 300. However, the +X direction may also be the rear of the vehicle 300, and the -X direction may also be the front of the vehicle 300. In addition, the "X-axis direction" in the following description is an example of the "first direction" of the present invention. The "-X direction" is an example of "one side of the first direction" of the present invention, and the "+X direction" is an example of "the other side of the first direction" of the present invention.

[0029] The Y-axis direction is a direction orthogonal to both the X-axis direction and the Z-axis direction and represents the width direction (left-right direction) of the vehicle 300. The +Y direction is the left side of the vehicle 300, and the -Y direction is the right side of the vehicle 300. However, when the +X direction is the rear of the vehicle 300, it may also be that the +Y direction is the right side of the vehicle 300 and the -Y direction is the left side of the vehicle 300. That is, regardless of the X-axis direction, only the +Y direction becomes one side of the left-right direction of the vehicle 300, and the -Y direction becomes the other side of the left-right direction of the vehicle 300. In addition, depending on the mounting method of the drive device 100 on the vehicle 300, there may be a case where the X-axis direction is the width direction (left-right direction) of the vehicle 300 and the Y-axis direction is the front-rear direction of the vehicle 300. In the following embodiments, the Y-axis direction is parallel to, for example, the rotation axis J1 of the motor unit 2. In addition, the "Y-axis direction" in the following description is an example of the "axial direction" of the present invention. In addition, the "+Y direction" is an example of "one side of the axial direction" of the present invention, and the "-Y direction" is an example of "the other side of the axial direction" of the present invention.

[0030] In the following description, unless otherwise specified, the direction parallel to a specified axis such as the rotation axis J1 of the motor unit 2 (Y-axis direction) is sometimes simply referred to as the "axial direction". In addition, the direction orthogonal to the specified axis is simply referred to as the "radial direction". The direction approaching the axis in the radial direction is called the "radial inner side", and the direction away from the axis is called the "radial outer side". In each component, the end on the radial inner side is called the "radial inner end". And the outer end is called the "radial outer end". In addition, in the side surface of each component, the side surface facing the radial inner side is called the "radial inner side surface", and the side surface facing the radial outer side is called the "radial outer side surface".

[0031] In addition, the rotation direction around the specified axis is called the "circumferential direction Dr". When observing the +Y direction from the -Y direction, the counterclockwise direction is called the "circumferential direction one Dr1", and the clockwise direction is called the "circumferential direction the other Dr2".

[0032] In addition, in this specification, "ring-shaped" includes not only a shape that is continuously connected without a break in the entire region in the circumferential direction Dr around the specified axis, but also a shape that has one or more breaks in a part of the entire region around the specified axis. In addition, it also includes a shape that depicts a closed curve on a surface that intersects the specified axis around the specified axis.

[0033] In addition, in the positional relationship between any one of the orientation, line, and plane and any other one, "parallel" includes not only a state where the two do not intersect at all no matter how far they are extended, but also a substantially parallel state. In addition, "perpendicular" and "orthogonal" include not only a state where the two intersect at 90 degrees, but also a substantially perpendicular state and a substantially orthogonal state. That is, "parallel", "perpendicular", and "orthogonal" respectively include a state where there is an angular deviation within the scope that does not deviate from the gist of the present invention in the positional relationship between the two.

[0034] In addition, these are only names for explanation and do not mean to limit the actual positional relationship, direction, name, etc.

[0035] <1. Embodiment>

[0036] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing a structural example of the drive device 100 observed from the X-axis direction. Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the drive device 100 observed from the Z-axis direction. Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the lower surface of the drive device 100. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the drive device 100 observed from the Y-axis direction. Figure 5 is a three-dimensional cross-sectional view of the drive device 100 observed from the Y-axis direction. Figure 6This is a schematic diagram showing an example of a vehicle 300 equipped with a drive device 100. Additionally, Figure 3 The drive device 100 is viewed from the -Z direction toward the +Z direction. Figure 4 and Figure 5 show Figure 3 a cross-sectional structure when the drive device 100 is cut by an imaginary plane that includes the Figure 4 dashed line B - B and is perpendicular to the Y-axis direction. Figure 5 This is a view of the cross-sectional structure from the -Y direction toward the +Y direction. Figure 5 This is a view of the cross-sectional structure of the drive device 100 in Figure 4 viewed obliquely from the -Y direction toward the +Y direction. Additionally, Figures 1 to 5 This is only a conceptual diagram, and the arrangement and dimensions of each part are not limited to being the same as those of the actual drive device 100. Additionally, Figure 6 The vehicle 300 is conceptually illustrated.

[0037] <1-1. Drive Device 100>

[0038] In the present embodiment, as Figure 6 shown, the drive device 100 is mounted on a vehicle 300 that uses at least a motor as a power source. The vehicle 300 is, for example, a hybrid vehicle (HV), a plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHV), an electric vehicle (EV), etc. The drive device 100 is used as the power source of the above vehicle 300. The vehicle 300 has a drive device 100 and a battery 200. The battery 200 stores electric power to be supplied to the drive device 100. If it is an example of the vehicle 300, the drive device 100 drives the left and right front wheels. Additionally, the drive device 100 only needs to drive at least any one wheel.

[0039] As Figures 1 to 5 shown, the drive device 100 includes a motor shaft 1, a motor unit 2, a gear unit 3, a housing 4, a pump 5, a cooler 6, and a fluid flow path 7.

[0040] The motor shaft 1 extends in the Y-axis direction along a rotation axis J1 parallel to the horizontal direction and can rotate about the rotation axis J1. In the present embodiment, the motor shaft 1 is divided at the central portion in the Y-axis direction and has a first shaft 210 and a second shaft 310 described later. However, it is not limited to this example, and the motor shaft 1 may not be divided at the central portion in the Y-axis direction. For example, it may only have the first shaft 210. In this case, the end portion on the +Y direction side of the first shaft 210 is rotatably supported by a second gear bearing holding portion 431 via a second gear bearing 4311 described later.

[0041] <1-2. Motor Unit 2>

[0042] Next, referring to Figures 1 to 5Explain the motor unit 2. The motor unit 2 is the drive source of the drive device 100 and is driven by electric power from an inverter unit (not shown). As Figure 1 shown, the motor unit 2 has a rotor 21 and a stator 22. As described above, the drive device 100 has the motor unit 2. The rotor 21 has a first shaft 210. The first shaft 210 is capable of rotating about a rotation axis J1 extending in the Y-axis direction. The stator 22 is disposed radially outward of the rotor 21. That is, the motor unit 2 is an inner rotor type motor. The rotor 21 rotates by supplying electric power from a power supply unit (not shown) of the drive device 100 to the stator 22.

[0043] The first shaft 210 is cylindrical and extends in the Y-axis direction. The first shaft 210 has a first shaft tube portion 2101 and a first hollow portion 2102. The first shaft tube portion 2101 extends in the Y-axis direction along the rotation axis J1. The first hollow portion 2102 is a space surrounded by the first shaft tube portion 2101 and is disposed inside the first shaft tube portion 2101.

[0044] In addition, the first shaft 210 also has a shaft through hole 2103 that penetrates in the radial direction. The shaft through hole 2103 is disposed on the first shaft tube portion 2101 and penetrates the first shaft tube portion 2101 in the radial direction. The fluid F flows inside the first shaft 210. The fluid F is used as a lubricating fluid for lubricating the gear unit 3. In addition, the fluid F is also used as a refrigerant for cooling the motor unit 2 and the gear unit 3. In order to have the functions of lubrication and refrigerant, it is preferable that the fluid F uses, for example, an oil equivalent to an automatic transmission fluid (ATF) with low viscosity. When the motor shaft 1 rotates, the fluid F inside the first shaft 210 flows out from the first hollow portion 2102 to the outside of the first shaft 210 through the shaft through hole 2103 by centrifugal force. In the present embodiment, as Figure 1 shown, the shaft through hole 2103 is disposed at a position in the -Y direction with respect to the +Y direction end of the rotor 21 and in the +Y direction with respect to the -Y direction end of the rotor 21, and is connected to a rotor through hole 2111 described later.

[0045] However, it is not limited to the above example, and the shaft through hole 2103 may be disposed at a position in the +Y direction with respect to the +Y direction end of the rotor 21, or may be disposed at a position in the -Y direction with respect to the -Y direction end of the rotor 21. That is, at least a part of the shaft through hole 2103 may be disposed at at least any one of these positions. In addition, the shaft through hole 2103 may be single, or may be arranged in the circumferential direction Dr or the Y-axis direction.

[0046] In addition, the rotor 21 also has a rotor core 211 and magnets 212. In the present embodiment, the rotor core 211 is a laminate in which a plurality of plate-shaped electromagnetic steel sheets are laminated. The rotor core 211 is a cylinder extending in the Y-axis direction and is fixed to the radially outer surface of the first shaft 210. A plurality of magnets 212 are fixed to the rotor core 211. The magnetic poles of the plurality of magnets 212 are alternately arranged in the circumferential direction Dr.

[0047] In addition, the rotor core 211 has a rotor through-hole 2111. The rotor through-hole 2111 penetrates the rotor core 211 in the Y-axis direction and is connected to the shaft through-hole 2103. The rotor through-hole 2111 is used as a flow path for the fluid F that also functions as a refrigerant. When the rotor 21 rotates, the fluid F flowing in the first hollow portion 2102 of the first shaft 210 flows into the rotor through-hole 2111 via the shaft through-hole 2103. In addition, the fluid F flowing into the rotor through-hole 2111 flows out to the outside from the end portions on both sides in the Y-axis direction of the rotor through-hole 2111. A part of the flowing-out fluid F splashes onto the stator 22, for example, the cooling coil portion 222 (especially the coil end portion 2221). In addition, a part of the flowing-out fluid F scatters onto the first motor bearing 4211 and the second motor bearing 4411 that rotatably support the first shaft 210, lubricating and cooling them.

[0048] The stator 22 has a stator core 221 and a coil portion 222. The stator 22 is held by a housing cylinder portion 41 described later. The stator core 221 has a plurality of pole teeth (not shown) extending radially inward from the inner circumferential surface of the annular yoke. The coil portion 222 is formed by winding a wire around the pole teeth with an insulator (not shown) interposed therebetween. The coil portion 222 has a coil end portion 2221 protruding from the axial end surface of the stator core 221.

[0049] The stator 22 also has a protruding portion 223 (for example, refer to Figure 4 ). The protruding portion 223 protrudes radially outward at the radially outer end of the stator 22 and extends in the Y-axis direction. In the present embodiment, the protruding portion 223 is a part for fixing the stator 22 to the housing 4. The protruding portion 223 is disposed at the radially outer end of the stator core 221. A plurality of protruding portions 223 of the stator 22 are arranged in the circumferential direction. A through-hole (not shown) extending in the Y-axis direction is formed in the protruding portion 223. A bolt extending in the Y-axis direction is inserted through the through-hole. The stator 22 is fixed to the housing 4 by screwing the bolt with a partition wall 42 of the housing 4 described later, for example. In addition, a recess 411 (for example, refer to Figure 4 ) is disposed on the inner side surface of the housing cylinder portion 41. The recess 411 is recessed radially outward and extends in the Y-axis direction. At least a part of the protruding portion 223 is received in the recess 411. Thereby, it is possible to more reliably prevent the stator 22 from rotating in the circumferential direction with respect to the housing cylinder portion 41.

[0050] <1-3. Gear part 3>

[0051] Next, with reference to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the gear part 3 will be described in detail. The gear part 3 is installed on the +Y-axis direction side of the motor shaft 1. As described above, the drive device 100 has the gear part 3. Specifically, the gear part 3 is installed on the +Y-axis direction side of the first shaft 210 and transmits the power of the motor part 2 to the output shaft Ds. The gear part 3 has a reduction device 31 and a differential device 32.

[0052] <1-3-1. Reduction device 31>

[0053] The reduction device 31 is connected to the motor shaft 1, specifically, to the +Y-axis direction side of the first shaft 210. The reduction device 31 has the function of reducing the rotational speed of the motor shaft 1 and increasing the torque output from the motor part 2 in accordance with the reduction ratio. The reduction device 31 transmits the torque output from the motor part 2 to the differential device 32.

[0054] The reduction device 31 has a second shaft 310. The second shaft 310 is a cylindrical shape extending in the Y-axis direction and is connected to the end portion on the +Y direction side of the first shaft 210. As described above, the gear part 3 has the second shaft 310. The second shaft 310 can rotate together with the first shaft 210 about the rotation axis J1. In the present embodiment, the second shaft 310 is inserted through the end portion on the +Y direction side of the first shaft 210 and is connected by spline fitting. However, it is not limited to this example. For example, the two can be connected by a threaded coupling using a male thread and a female thread, or can be joined by fixing methods such as press-fitting and welding. In the case of using fixing methods such as press-fitting and welding, serrations combining a concave portion and a convex portion extending in the Y-axis direction can also be adopted. By adopting such a structure, rotation can be reliably transmitted.

[0055] The second shaft 310 has a second shaft cylinder portion 3101 and a second hollow portion 3102. The second shaft cylinder portion 3101 extends in the Y-axis direction along the rotation axis J1. The end portion on the -Y direction side of the second shaft cylinder portion 3101 is inserted and connected to the end portion on the +Y direction side of the first shaft cylinder portion 2101. The second hollow portion 3102 is a space surrounded by the second shaft cylinder portion 3101, is disposed inside the second shaft cylinder portion 3101, and is connected to the first hollow portion 2102.

[0056] In addition, the speed reduction device 31 further includes a main drive gear 311, an intermediate driven gear 312, and a final drive gear 313. The main drive gear 311 can rotate together with the motor shaft 1 about the rotation axis J1. The intermediate driven gear 312 meshes with the main drive gear 311. The final drive gear 313 meshes with a ring gear 321 (described later) of the differential device 32. In addition, the speed reduction device 31 further includes an intermediate shaft 314. The torque output from the motor unit 2 is transmitted to the ring gear 321 of the differential device 32 via the second shaft 310, the main drive gear 311, the intermediate driven gear 312, the intermediate shaft 314, and the final drive gear 313.

[0057] The main drive gear 311 is disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the motor shaft 1, specifically, on the radially outer side surface of the second shaft tube portion 3101. The main drive gear 311 may be the same component as the second shaft tube portion 3101 or a different component. In the latter case, the main drive gear 311 is firmly fixed to the second shaft tube portion 3101 by hot press fitting or the like.

[0058] The intermediate driven gear 312 and the final drive gear 313 can rotate together with the intermediate shaft 314 about the intermediate axis J2 extending in the Y-axis direction.

[0059] Preferably, the intermediate axis J2 is disposed at a position on the -X direction side relative to the rotation axis J1 and on the +X direction side relative to the differential axis J3, and is disposed at a position on the -Z direction side relative to the rotation axis J1 and the differential axis J3. Figure 7 It is a conceptual diagram showing an arrangement example of the intermediate axis J2. In addition, Figure 7 Observe the arrangement of the intermediate axis J2 from the +Y direction toward the -Y direction. When observed from the Y-axis direction, the smallest fourth angle θd formed by the fifth line segment L5 and the sixth line segment L6 is an obtuse angle. The fifth line segment L5 is an imaginary line segment connecting the intermediate axis J2 and the rotation axis J1. The sixth line segment L6 is an imaginary line segment connecting the intermediate axis J2 and the differential axis J3. By disposing the intermediate axis J2 at a position between the rotation axis J1 and the differential axis J3 in the X-axis direction and on the -Z direction side relative to the differential axis J3, and making the fourth angle θd an obtuse angle, the intermediate axis J2 can be made closer to the rotation axis J1 and the differential axis J3 in the Z-axis direction. Therefore, the intervals between the rotation axis J1 and the differential axis J3 and the intermediate axis J2 in the Z-axis direction can be made narrower. As a result, the size of the gear unit 3 in the Z-axis direction can be further reduced, and thus the drive device 100 can be further miniaturized in the Z-axis direction. However, Figure 7 the example of does not exclude a structure in which the intermediate axis J2 is disposed on the +X direction side relative to the rotation axis J1, a structure in which the intermediate axis J2 is disposed on the -X direction side relative to the differential axis J3, or a structure in which the intermediate axis J2 is not disposed on the -Z direction side relative to the differential axis J3.

[0060] The intermediate shaft 314 extends along an intermediate axis J2 extending in the Y-axis direction and is rotatable about the intermediate axis J2. The intermediate axis J2 is parallel to the rotation axis J1. The intermediate driven gear 312 and the final drive gear 313 are arranged on the outer peripheral surface of the intermediate shaft 314. At least one of the intermediate driven gear 312 and the final drive gear 313 may be a component the same as the intermediate shaft 314 or a component different from the intermediate shaft 314. In the latter case, at least one of the intermediate driven gear 312 and the final drive gear 313 is firmly fixed to the intermediate shaft 314 by hot press fitting or the like.

[0061] The torque of the first shaft 210 is transmitted to the main drive gear 311 via the second shaft 310, and then transmitted from the main drive gear 311 to the intermediate driven gear 312. And, the torque transmitted to the intermediate driven gear 312 is transmitted to the final drive gear 313 via the intermediate shaft 314. In addition, the torque is transmitted from the final drive gear 313 to the ring gear 321 of the differential device 32.

[0062] <1-3-2. Differential device 32>

[0063] The differential device 32 is mounted on the output shaft Ds. As described above, the gear unit 3 has the differential device 32. The differential device 32 has a ring gear 321. The ring gear 321 is rotatable about a differential axis J3 extending in the Y-axis direction. In the present embodiment, the differential axis J3 is arranged at a position on the -X direction side and -Z direction side with respect to the rotation axis J1. In addition, the X-axis direction is perpendicular to the Y-axis direction. The Z-axis direction is perpendicular to the Y-axis direction and the X-axis direction. The ring gear 321 transmits the torque transmitted to the differential device 32 from the motor unit 2 via the reduction gear 31 to the output shaft Ds. The output shafts Ds are respectively mounted on the +Y direction side and -Y direction side of the differential device 32. Drive wheels of the vehicle 300 are mounted on the respective output shafts Ds. The differential device 32 absorbs the rotational speed difference between the output shafts Ds on the +Y direction side and -Y direction side and transmits torque to the respective output shafts Ds, for example, when the vehicle 300 turns.

[0064] <1-4. Housing 4>

[0065] Next, a detailed description of the housing 4 will be given with reference to Figures 1 to 5 The housing 4 houses the motor shaft 1. In addition, the housing 4 also houses the motor unit 2 and the gear unit 3. As described above, the drive device 100 includes the housing 4. Specifically, the housing 4 has a motor housing portion 401 that houses the motor unit 2 and a gear housing portion 402 that houses the gear unit 3. The motor housing portion 401 is a space surrounded by the housing cylinder portion 41, the partition wall 42, and the motor side cover portion 44, and houses the rotor 21, the stator 22, etc. The gear housing portion 402 is a space surrounded by the partition wall 42 and the gear side cover portion 43 to be described later, and houses the reduction gear 31, the differential device 32, etc.

[0066] At the lower part inside the gear storage part 402, a fluid accumulation part P for accumulating the fluid F is arranged. A part of the differential device 32 is immersed in the fluid accumulation part P. The fluid F accumulated in the fluid accumulation part P is stirred by the operation of the differential device 32 and is supplied to the inside of the gear storage part 402. For example, in the present embodiment, the -Z direction side part of the ring gear 321 is arranged inside the fluid accumulation part P on the -Z direction side of the gear storage part 402 (refer to Figure 1 ). When the ring gear 321 of the differential device 32 rotates, the fluid F is stirred by the tooth surface of the ring gear 321. The stirred fluid F is supplied to each gear and each bearing of the speed reduction device 31 and the differential device 32 inside the gear storage part 402 for providing lubrication and cooling at the target location.

[0067] The housing 4 has a cylindrical housing tube part 41, a partition wall 42, a motor side cover part 44, and a gear side cover part 43. In addition, in the present embodiment, they are formed of a metal material such as iron, aluminum, or their alloys. In addition, in order to suppress the dissimilar metal contact corrosion in the contact part, it is preferable that they are formed of the same material. However, it is not limited to this example, and they may be formed of materials other than metal materials, and at least a part of them may be formed of different materials.

[0068] <1-4-1. Housing tube part 41>

[0069] The housing tube part 41 extends in the Y-axis direction and houses the motor part 2. As described above, the housing 4 has the housing tube part 41. Inside the housing tube part 41, the motor part 2, a fluid supply member 762 described later, etc. are arranged. In addition, a stator core 221 is fixed to the inner side surface of the housing tube part 41.

[0070] <1-4-2. Partition wall 42>

[0071] The partition wall 42 extends in a direction intersecting with the rotation axis J1. As described above, the housing 4 has the partition wall 42. The partition wall 42 closes the +Y direction side end of the housing tube part 41. In the present embodiment, the partition wall 42 extends in a direction perpendicular to the Y-axis direction. In addition, the housing tube part 41 and the partition wall 42 are different parts of the same component. By integrally forming the two, their rigidity can be improved. However, it is not limited to this example, and the housing tube part 41 and the partition wall 42 may also be separate.

[0072] The partition wall 42 has a partition wall through-hole 4201 for inserting the motor shaft 1, a first output shaft through-hole 4202, and an opening 4203. The partition wall through-hole 4201, the first output shaft through-hole 4202, and the opening 4203 penetrate the partition wall 42 in the Y-axis direction, respectively. The center of the partition wall through-hole 4201 coincides with the rotation axis J1. The motor shaft 1 is inserted into the partition wall through-hole 4201. The center of the first output shaft through-hole 4202 coincides with the differential axis J3. The output shaft Ds on the -Y direction side is inserted into the first output shaft through-hole 4202. An oil seal (not shown) for sealing the gap between the output shaft Ds and the first output shaft through-hole 4202 is disposed in the gap therebetween. In addition, the so-called sealing means that different components are in close contact with each other to such an extent that, for example, the fluid F inside the component does not leak to the outside, and foreign matters such as water, dust, and dirt outside do not invade. The same applies to the following regarding sealing. The opening 4203 is disposed on the -Z direction side of the partition wall 42 and connects the motor housing portion 401 and the gear housing portion 402. The fluid F flowing down to the -Z direction side of the motor housing portion 401 flows into the gear housing portion 402 from the opening 4203, lubricates and cools a part of the gear portion 3, and then accumulates in the fluid accumulation portion P.

[0073] The partition wall 42 further includes a first motor bearing holder 421, a first gear bearing holder 422, a first intermediate bearing holder 423, and a first output bearing holder 424.

[0074] The first motor bearing holder 421 is disposed on the end surface of the partition wall 42 on the -Y direction side. The first motor bearing holder 421 is disposed along the outer edge portion of the end portion on the -Y direction side of the partition wall through-hole 4201. The housing 4 has the first motor bearing holder 421. The first motor bearing holder 421 rotatably holds the end portion on the +Y direction side of the first shaft 210 via the first motor bearing 4211. In addition, the first motor bearing holder 421 is an example of the "bearing holder" of the present invention, and the first motor bearing 4211 is an example of the "bearing" of the present invention.

[0075] The first gear bearing holder 422, the first intermediate bearing holder 423, and the first output bearing holder 424 are disposed on the end surface of the partition wall 42 on the +Y direction side. The first gear bearing holder 422 is disposed along the outer edge portion of the end portion on the +Y direction side of the partition wall through-hole 4201 and rotatably holds the end portion on the -Y direction side of the second shaft 310 via the first gear bearing 4221. The first intermediate bearing holder 423 rotatably holds the end portion on the -Y direction side of the intermediate shaft 314 via the first intermediate bearing 4231. The first output bearing holder 424 is disposed along the outer edge portion of the end portion on the +Y direction side of the first output shaft through-hole 4202 and holds the output shaft Ds on the -Y direction side so as to be rotatable via the first output bearing 4241.

[0076] In addition, the partition wall 42 has a third flow path 73 of the fluid flow path 7 described later. The third flow path 73 will be described later.

[0077] <1-4-3. Gear side cover portion 43>

[0078] The gear side cover portion 43 is a covered cylindrical member. The cover portion (omitted symbol) of the gear side cover portion 43 extends in a direction intersecting the rotation axis J1. The cylindrical portion (omitted symbol) of the gear side cover portion 43 extends in the Y-axis direction. As described above, the housing 4 has the gear side cover portion 43. The gear side cover portion 43 is disposed at the end portion on the +Y direction side of the partition wall 42 and forms a gear housing portion 402 for housing the gear portion 3 together with the partition wall 42.

[0079] The gear side cover portion 43 is detachably attached to the end portion on the +Y direction side of the partition wall 42. For example, fixing using screws can be cited as the attachment of the gear side cover portion 43 to the partition wall 42, but it is not limited thereto, and methods such as screwing in and press-fitting that can firmly fix the gear side cover portion 43 to the partition wall 42 can be widely adopted. Thereby, the gear side cover portion 43 can be in close contact with the partition wall 42. In addition, close contact means airtightness with a degree that fluid F inside the component does not leak to the outside and foreign matters such as water, dust, and dirt from the outside do not enter. The same applies hereinafter.

[0080] The gear side cover portion 43 has a second output shaft through hole 4301. The center of the second output shaft through hole 4301 coincides with the differential axis J3. The output shaft Ds on the +Y direction side is inserted through the second output shaft through hole 4301. An oil seal (not shown) for sealing between the two is disposed in the gap between the output shaft Ds and the second output shaft through hole 4301.

[0081] In addition, the gear side cover portion 43 also has a second gear bearing holder 431, a second intermediate bearing holder 432, and a second output bearing holder 433. The second gear bearing holder 431, the second intermediate bearing holder 432, and the second output bearing holder 433 are disposed on the -Y direction side of the gear side cover portion 43. The second gear bearing holder 431 holds the end portion on the +Y direction side of the second shaft 310 rotatably via the second gear bearing 4311. The second intermediate bearing holder 432 holds the end portion on the +Y direction side of the intermediate shaft 314 rotatably via the second intermediate bearing 4321. The second output bearing holder 433 is disposed along the outer edge portion of the end portion on the -Y direction side of the second output shaft through hole 4301 and holds the output shaft Ds on the +Y direction side rotatably via the second output bearing 4331.

[0082] In addition, the gear side cover portion 43 has a tray portion 434 (for example, refer to Figure 1)。The tray portion 434 is disposed on the -Y direction side of the gear side cover portion 43, and has a recessed portion (omitted symbol) recessed in the -Z direction (vertically downward) and one or more hole portions 4341. The hole portions 4341 penetrate the tray portion 434. After the fluid F stirred up by the gear ring 321 accumulates in the tray portion 434, it flows out through the hole portions 4341 and is supplied to each gear, bearing, etc. in the gear housing portion 402 to lubricate or cool them.

[0083] In addition, the gear side cover portion 43 has a fifth flow path 75 of the fluid flow path 7 described later. The fifth flow path 75 will be described later.

[0084] <1-4-4. Motor side cover portion 44>

[0085] The motor side cover portion 44 is detachably mounted on the end portion on the -Y direction side of the housing cylinder portion 41, and closes and blocks the end portion on the -Y direction side of the housing cylinder portion 41. The fixing of the motor side cover portion 44 to the housing cylinder portion 41 can be, for example, fixing by screws, but is not limited thereto, and firm fixing means such as screwing in and press-fitting can be widely adopted. Thereby, the motor side cover portion 44 can be in close contact with the housing cylinder portion 41.

[0086] The motor side cover portion 44 has a second motor bearing holding portion 441. The second motor bearing holding portion 441 is disposed on the +Y direction side of the motor side cover portion 44. The housing 4 has the second motor bearing holding portion 441. The second motor bearing holding portion 441 rotatably holds the end portion on the -Y direction side of the first shaft 210 via the second motor bearing 4411. In addition, the second motor bearing holding portion 441 is another example of the "bearing holding portion" of the present invention, and the second motor bearing 4411 is another example of the "bearing" of the present invention.

[0087] <1-5. Pump 5, cooler 6 and fluid flow path 7>

[0088] Next, with reference to Figures 1 to 5 , the pump 5, cooler 6 and fluid flow path 7 will be described. As described above, the drive device 100 includes the pump 5, cooler 6 and fluid flow path 7. The pump 5 pumps the fluid F in the housing 4. The cooler 6 cools the fluid F. The fluid F flows in the fluid flow path 7.

[0089] The pump 5 is an electric pump driven by an inverter unit (not shown). The pump 5 can be a DC pump, a centrifugal pump, etc. The pump 5 is fixed to the housing cylinder portion 41. For example, as Figure 4As shown, the pump 5 has a plurality of fixing portions 50 fixed to the housing cylinder portion 41. The fixing portions 50 are arranged along the outer edge portion of the pump 5 as viewed from the Y-axis direction. A through-hole (omitted symbol) extending in the Y-axis direction is formed in the fixing portion 50. A bolt extending in the Y-axis direction is inserted through the through-hole. The pump 5 is fixed to the housing 4 by screwing the bolt with, for example, the housing cylinder portion 41 of the housing 4. Here, the third line segment L3 is an imaginary line segment connecting the two protruding portions 223 arranged at the positions closest to the pump 5 as viewed from the Y-axis direction. The fourth line segment L4 is an imaginary line segment connecting the two fixing portions 50 arranged at the positions closest to the stator 22 as viewed from the Y-axis direction. At this time, it is preferable that the third line segment L3 is parallel to the fourth line segment L4 as viewed from the Y-axis direction. In this way, as viewed from the Y-axis direction, the protruding portion 223 of the stator 22 and the fixing portion 50 of the pump 5 are not arranged between the third line segment L3 and the fourth line segment L4, so that the interval between the stator 22 and the pump 5 in the radial direction can be further reduced. Therefore, the drive device 100 can be further miniaturized.

[0090] In addition, as Figure 4 shown, the pump 5 is arranged at a position on the -X direction side with respect to the rotation axis J1 and on the +X direction side with respect to the differential axis J3. In addition, in the present embodiment, the pump 5 is arranged at a position on the -Z direction side with respect to the differential axis J3. By arranging the pump 5 between the rotation axis J1 of the motor shaft 1 and the differential axis J3 of the ring gear 321 (or the output shaft Ds) in the X-axis direction, it is easy to arrange the fluid inlet of the filter of the pump 5 (that is, one end portion of the first flow path 71 described later) at the center in the X-axis direction of the gear housing portion 402 for housing the gear portion 3. Therefore, for example, even if the drive device 100 is tilted in the Y-axis direction, the fluid inlet of the filter of the pump 5 (one end portion of the first flow path 71) is unlikely to depart from the liquid level of the fluid accumulation portion P on the -Z direction side of the gear housing portion 402. Therefore, even if the drive device 100 is tilted, the pump 5 can continue to suck the fluid F from the fluid accumulation portion P.

[0091] The fluid flow path 7 supplies a part of the fluid F accumulated in the fluid accumulation portion P of the gear housing portion 402 into the motor shaft 1 and supplies the other part to the outside of the motor portion 2. The pump 5 and the cooler 6 are arranged in the middle of the fluid flow path 7. That is, the fluid F sucked by the pump 5 is supplied into the motor shaft 1 and the outside of the motor portion 2 after passing through the cooler 6.

[0092] The fluid flow path 7 has a first flow path 71, a second flow path 72, a third flow path 73, a fourth flow path 74, a fifth flow path 75, and a sixth flow path 76. The first flow path 71 connects the gear housing portion 402 and the first fluid inlet 51 of the pump 5. The second flow path 72 connects the first fluid outlet 52 of the pump 5 and one end portion of the third flow path 73 via the cooler 6. The third flow path 73 is disposed inside the partition wall 42 and extends in a direction intersecting with the rotation axis J1. The fourth flow path 74 connects the other end portion of the third flow path 73 and one end portion of the fifth flow path 75. The fifth flow path 75 is disposed inside the gear side cover portion 43. The other end portion of the fifth flow path 75 is connected to the end portion on the +Y direction side of the second shaft 310. One end portion of the sixth flow path 76 is connected to the other end portion of the third flow path 73. The other end portion of the sixth flow path 76 is disposed inside the housing cylinder portion 41.

[0093] In this way, the fluid F sent out from the pump 5 and flowing in the third flow path 73 can be supplied to the inside of the motor unit 2 through the fourth flow path 74, the fifth flow path 75, the inside of the second shaft 310, and the inside of the first shaft 210, and can be supplied to the outside of the motor unit 2 (e.g., the stator 22) through the sixth flow path 76. That is, the same pump 5 can be used to supply the fluid F to the inside and outside of the motor unit 2 through different flow paths such as the fourth flow path 74, the fifth flow path 75, and the sixth flow path 76. Therefore, since it is not necessary to mount multiple pumps 5, the drive device 100 can be further miniaturized. Furthermore, since the manufacturing cost and the number of manufacturing processes can be reduced, the productivity of the drive device 100 can be improved. In addition, the fourth flow path 74 and the sixth flow path 76 for supplying the fluid F to the inside and outside of the motor unit 2 branch at the other end portion of the third flow path 73, so the fluid flow path 7 can be simplified. Furthermore, by connecting the second flow path 72 passing through the cooler 6 and one end portion of the third flow path 73 inside the partition wall 42, the cooled fluid F can be supplied to the inside and outside of the motor unit 2 along a shorter path.

[0094] One end of the first flow path 71 is inserted into the first fluid inlet 51 of the pump 5. A filter is connected to the other end of the first flow path 71. The filter is arranged at a position in the -Z direction with respect to the differential axis J3 and at a position in the -Z direction with respect to the liquid level of the fluid accumulation part P. In the present embodiment, it is arranged in the fluid accumulation part P of the gear accommodation part 402. Specifically, the fluid inlet of the filter (not shown) is arranged at a position in the -Z direction (i.e., vertically downward) with respect to the liquid level of the fluid accumulation part P. Thereby, air inflow into the first flow path 71 can be prevented. In addition, by arranging the filter closer to the -Z direction than the differential axis J3, the first flow path 71 can be made shorter, and thus the flow path resistance acting on the fluid F flowing in the first flow path 71 can be reduced. The fluid F is sucked from the fluid inlet of the filter by the drive of the pump 5, supplied to the first fluid inlet 51 of the pump 5 through the first flow path 71, and sucked by the pump 5. A filtering structure such as filter paper (not shown) is installed on the filter. By installing the filtering structure, foreign matter mixing into the pump 5, the motor part 2, etc. can be suppressed.

[0095] The second flow path 72 is arranged on the radially outer side of the motor accommodation part 401 and connects the pump 5 and the cooler 6.

[0096] Figure 8 It is an enlarged view of the second flow path 72. In addition, Figure 8 Enlargedly shows the part D surrounded by the Figure 4 dotted line. One end of the second flow path 72 is connected to the first fluid outlet 52 of the pump 5. The pump 5 sends out the fluid F sucked from the first fluid inlet 51 from the first fluid outlet 52 and sends it to the cooler 6 via the second flow path 72.

[0097] The second flow path 72 passes through the inside of the cooler 6 and is connected to the third flow path 73. Refrigerant RE such as water supplied from the outside is supplied to the cooler 6 through a path different from the second flow path 72. The cooler 6 performs heat exchange between the fluid F and the refrigerant RE and reduces the temperature of the fluid F flowing in the second flow path 72.

[0098] Here, the pump 5 and the cooler 6 are respectively arranged on the radially outer side of the housing cylinder part 41 and arranged along the circumferential direction Dr. The cooler 6 is arranged at a position on the circumferential direction Dr1 side with respect to the pump 5. In this way, the flow path between the pump 5 and the cooler 6 can be further shortened. In the present embodiment, when viewed from the Y-axis direction, the pump 5 is arranged at a position on the circumferential direction Dr2 side with respect to the first imaginary line Lv1 passing through the rotation axis J1 and the radially outer end of the protruding part 223. When viewed from the Y-axis direction, the cooler 6 is arranged at a position on the circumferential direction Dr1 side closer to the first imaginary line Lv1. In this way, since the pump 5 and the cooler 6 are not arranged on the first imaginary line Lv1 in the Y direction, the radial interval between the pump 5 and the cooler 6 and the rotation axis J1 can be further reduced. Therefore, the drive device 100 can be further miniaturized. However, the circumferential arrangement of the pump 5 and the cooler 6 is not limited to this example. For example, the cooler 6 may also be configured to be on the circumferential direction Dr2 side with respect to the pump 5.

[0099] More preferably, when viewed from the Y-axis direction, the first imaginary line Lv1 intersects with the second imaginary line Lv2 extending from the rotation axis J1 to the connection part Cp1 described later. In addition, as described later, the connection part Cp1 is the part where the first fluid path 721 and the second fluid path 722 are connected. In this way, the connection part Cp1 can be closer to the rotation axis J1 in the radial direction, so the radial dimension of the housing cylinder part 41 can be further reduced. Therefore, the drive device 100 can be further miniaturized.

[0100] In addition, preferably, as Figure 3 shown, the first fluid inlet 51 of the pump 5 is arranged on the +Y direction side of the pump 5. The first fluid outlet 52 of the pump 5 is arranged on the -Y direction side of the pump 5. The second fluid inlet 61 of the cooler 6 is arranged on the -Y direction side of the cooler 6 and is connected to the first fluid outlet 52 of the pump 5. The second fluid outlet 62 of the cooler 6 is arranged on the +Y direction side of the cooler 6 and is connected to the third flow path 73.

[0101] By arranging the first fluid inlet 51 on the +Y direction side of the pump 5 and the first fluid outlet 52 on the -Y direction side, the width of the pump 5 in the circumferential direction Dr can be further reduced. In addition, by arranging the second fluid inlet 61 on the -Y direction side of the cooler 6 and the second fluid outlet 62 on the +Y direction side, the width of the cooler 6 in the circumferential direction Dr can be further reduced. Therefore, the pump 5 and the cooler 6 can be arranged more compactly. In addition, by connecting the first fluid outlet 52 and the second fluid inlet 61 on the -Y direction side, the part connecting the first fluid outlet 52 and the second fluid inlet 61 in the second flow path 72 can be made shorter. Therefore, the flow path connecting the first fluid outlet 52 of the pump 5 and the second fluid inlet 61 of the cooler 6 can be further shortened.

[0102] However, the arrangements of the first fluid inlet 51 and the first fluid outlet 52 of the pump 5 and the second fluid inlet 61 and the second fluid outlet 62 of the cooler 6 are not limited to the above examples. That is, the above examples do not exclude the structures where the first fluid inlet 51 is not arranged on the +Y direction side of the pump 5, the first fluid outlet 52 is not arranged on the -Y direction side of the pump 5, the second fluid inlet 61 is not arranged on the -Y direction side of the cooler 6, and the second fluid outlet 62 is not arranged on the +Y direction side of the cooler 6.

[0103] In addition, preferably, as Figure 3 shown, the second fluid inlet 61 of the cooler 6 is arranged on the -Y direction side and the other circumferential side Dr2 of the cooler 6. The second fluid outlet 62 of the cooler 6 is arranged on the +Y direction side and the one circumferential side Dr1 of the cooler 6. In this way, in the cooler 6, the second fluid inlet 61 and the second fluid outlet 62 can be arranged on the diagonal line in the plan view observed from the radial direction, for example. Therefore, since the interval between the second fluid inlet 61 and the second fluid outlet 62 can be made longer, the portion of the second flow path 72 arranged inside the cooler 6 can be made longer. Therefore, the fluid F can be sufficiently cooled by the cooler 6. However, the arrangements of the second fluid inlet 61 and the second fluid outlet 62 of the cooler 6 are not limited to the above examples. That is, the above examples do not exclude the structures where the second fluid inlet 61 is not arranged on the -Y direction side and the other circumferential side Dr2 of the cooler 6, and the second fluid outlet 62 is not arranged on the +Y direction side and the one circumferential side Dr1 of the cooler 6.

[0104] Next, as described above, the third flow path 73 is formed inside the partition wall 42. The other end portion of the third flow path 73 is arranged closer to the +Z direction than the one end portion of the third flow path 73. Preferably, when observed from the axial direction, the third flow path 73 extends linearly from its one end portion toward the other end portion. In this way, the flow path length of the third flow path 73 can be further shortened.

[0105] As described above, the fourth flow path 74 connects the other end portion of the third flow path 73 and the one end portion of the fifth flow path 75. The fourth flow path 74 has a third fluid inlet 741. The third fluid inlet 741 is arranged on the partition wall 42. In other words, the partition wall 42 has the third fluid inlet 741. The third fluid inlet 741 is a hole extending from the end surface on the +Y direction side of the partition wall 42 toward the -Y direction, and connects the other end portion of the third flow path 73 and the one end portion of the fourth flow path 74.

[0106] In addition, the fourth flow path 74 has a third fluid outlet 742. The third fluid outlet 742 of the fourth flow path 74 is arranged on the gear side cover portion 43. In other words, the gear side cover portion 43 has the third fluid outlet 742. The third fluid outlet 742 connects the other end portion of the fourth flow path 74 and the one end portion of the fifth flow path 75.

[0107] In addition, the fourth flow path 74 has a tank 8. The tank 8 will be described later.

[0108] Next, as described above, the fifth flow path 75 is formed inside the gear side cover portion 43. The other end portion of the fifth flow path 75 is connected to the second gear bearing holding portion 431. A part of the fluid F flowing into the second gear bearing holding portion 431 through the fifth flow path 75 lubricates and cools the second gear bearing 4311. In addition, another part of the fluid F flowing into the second gear bearing holding portion 431 through the fifth flow path 75 flows into the inside of the motor shaft 1 from the end portion on the +Y direction side of the second shaft 310 and is supplied to the motor portion 2 side.

[0109] Here, a supply restricting member 751 is disposed on the second gear bearing holding portion 431. In other words, the housing 4 includes the supply restricting member 751. The supply restricting member 751 restricts the amount of the fluid F supplied from the fifth flow path 75 to the second gear bearing 4311. By this restriction, it is possible to ensure the fluid F supplied from the fifth flow path 75 to the motor portion 2 side through the second hollow portion 3102 of the second shaft 310. The supply restricting member 751 has an annular portion (not shown) facing the second gear bearing 4311 in the Y-axis direction, and a cylindrical portion (not shown) extending from the radially inner end portion of the annular portion in the -Y direction and inserting through the end portion on the +Y direction side of the second shaft 310. The annular portion has a through hole (not shown) penetrating the annular portion in the Y-axis direction. The fluid F is supplied to the second gear bearing 4311 through this through hole and is supplied to the inside of the second shaft 310 through the cylindrical portion.

[0110] Next, the sixth flow path 76 has an internal flow path 761. The internal flow path 761 is a flow path of the fluid F formed inside the partition wall 42. One end portion of the internal flow path 761 is connected to the other end portion of the third flow path 73. The other end portion of the internal flow path 761 opens at the end surface on the -Y direction side of the partition wall 42. In the present embodiment, the internal flow path 761 is a part on the one end portion side of the sixth flow path 76.

[0111] In addition, the sixth flow path 76 further includes a fluid supply member 762. The fluid supply member 762 is disposed on the radially outer side of the stator 22 and supplies the fluid F to the stator 22. In the present embodiment, the fluid supply member 762 is a part on the other end portion side of the sixth flow path 76. The fluid supply member 762 is housed in the motor housing portion 401. The end portion on the +Y direction side of the fluid supply member 762 is connected to the other end portion of the internal flow path 761. The end portion on the -Y direction side of the fluid supply member 762 is fixed to the motor side cover portion 44.

[0112] In the present embodiment, the fluid supply member 762 is cylindrical and extends in the Y-axis direction. However, it is not limited to this example, and the fluid supply member 762 may also have a tray shape with a recess that depresses in the -Z direction (vertically downward) and opens in the +Z direction (vertically upward). The fluid F supplied from the third flow path 73 to the sixth flow path 76 flows inside the fluid supply member 762.

[0113] The fluid supply member 762 has at least one supply hole 763. The supply hole 763 opens to at least one of the stator 22, the first motor bearing 4211, and the second motor bearing 4411. The supply hole 763 is a hole that penetrates the fluid supply member 762. For example, in the present embodiment, a plurality of supply holes 763 are arranged side by side in the Y-axis direction. The supply hole 763 disposed on the +Y direction side most opens toward the first motor bearing 4211. The supply hole 763 disposed on the -Y direction side most opens toward the second motor bearing 4411. In the Y-axis direction, the supply holes 763 disposed therebetween open to the radially outer side of the stator 22 and the end portion of the stator 22 in the Y-axis direction (for example, the coil end portion 2221). In this way, the supply hole 763 can supply the fluid F flowing out from the supply hole 763 to at least any one of the stator 22, the first motor bearing 4211, and the second motor bearing 4411. Therefore, cooling and lubrication of these components can be performed.

[0114] Here, the fluid flow path 7 branches into a fourth flow path 74 and a sixth flow path 76 at the other end portion of the third flow path 73. It is preferable that the minimum flow path cross-sectional area in the fourth flow path 74 is narrower than the minimum flow path cross-sectional area in the sixth flow path 76. In addition, the minimum flow path cross-sectional area in the third flow path 73 is wider than the minimum flow path cross-sectional area in the sixth flow path 76. For example, the diameter of the third flow inlet 741 of the fourth flow path 74 is smaller than the smaller one of the inner diameter of the internal flow path 761 in the sixth flow path 76 and the inner diameter of the fluid supply member 762. In addition, the inner diameter of the third flow path 73 is larger than the smaller one of the inner diameter of the internal flow path 761 in the sixth flow path 76 and the inner diameter of the fluid supply member 762. By making the minimum flow path cross-sectional area in the fourth flow path 74 narrower than the sixth flow path 76, it is possible to reduce the reduction in the fluid pressure of the fluid F flowing in the third flow path 73. Therefore, for example, even if the fluid supply member 762 is located in the +Z direction (vertically upward) compared to the third flow inlet 741 of the fourth flow path 74 or the viscosity of the fluid F is high, the fluid F can be sufficiently supplied to the fluid supply member 762 through the sixth flow path 76. However, this example does not exclude a structure in which the minimum flow path cross-sectional area in the fourth flow path 74 is not narrower than the minimum flow path cross-sectional area in the sixth flow path 76, or a structure in which the minimum flow path cross-sectional area in the third flow path 73 is not wider than the minimum flow path cross-sectional area in the sixth flow path 76.

[0115] In addition, the fluid flow path 7 may further include a flow path that supplies the fluid F flowing in the sixth flow path 76 to the -Y direction side end of the motor shaft 1. Figure 9 is a schematic diagram showing a modification of the drive device 100 as viewed from the X-axis direction. Additionally, Figure 9 The structure of the modified drive device 100a is viewed from the -X direction to the +X direction. Additionally, Figure 1 This is only a conceptual diagram, and the arrangement and dimensions of each part are not limited to being the same as those of the actual drive device 100a.

[0116] In Figure 9 the fluid flow path 7a further includes a seventh flow path 77. One end of the seventh flow path 77 is connected to the -Y direction side end of the sixth flow path 76. The other end of the seventh flow path 77 is connected to the -Y direction side end of the first shaft 210. Specifically, the seventh flow path 77 is disposed within the motor side cover portion 44 and is connected to the second motor bearing holding portion 441. In other words, the motor side cover portion 44 has the seventh flow path 77. A part of the fluid F flowing into the seventh flow path 77 from the sixth flow path 76 is supplied to the second motor bearing 4411 to lubricate and cool the second motor bearing 4411. Additionally, the other end of the seventh flow path 77 is connected to the -Y direction side end of the first shaft 210 via the second motor bearing holding portion 441. Another part of the fluid F flowing from the sixth flow path 76 to the seventh flow path 77 is supplied to the interior of the motor portion 2 via the second motor bearing holding portion 441. In this way, the fluid F via the sixth flow path 76 and the seventh flow path 77 can also be supplied to the -Y direction of the first shaft 210. Therefore, more fluid F can be sufficiently supplied to the interior of the motor portion 2.

[0117] Additionally, in Figure 9 a supply restricting member 771 is disposed in the second motor bearing holding portion 441. In other words, the housing 4 includes the supply restricting member 771. The supply restricting member 771 restricts the amount of the fluid F supplied from the seventh flow path 77 to the second motor bearing 4411. By this restriction, it is possible to ensure the fluid F supplied from the seventh flow path 77 to the interior of the motor portion 2 through the first hollow portion 2102 of the first shaft 210. The supply restricting member 771 has: an annular portion (not shown), which is opposed to the second motor bearing 4411 in the Y-axis direction; and a cylindrical portion (not shown), which extends from the radially inner end portion of the annular portion in the -Y direction and is inserted through the -Y direction side end of the first shaft 210. The annular portion has a through hole (not shown) that penetrates the annular portion in the Y-axis direction. The fluid F is supplied to the second motor bearing 4411 through this through hole and is supplied to the interior of the first shaft 210 through the cylindrical portion.

[0118] <1-6. Second flow path 72>

[0119] Next, with reference to Figures 4 to 5 andFigure 8 , describe the more detailed structure of the second flow path 72.

[0120] The second flow path 72 includes a first fluid path 721 and a second fluid path 722. The first fluid path 721 and the second fluid path 722 extend linearly respectively. One end of the first fluid path 721 is connected to the pump 5. The other end of the first fluid path 721 is connected to the second fluid path 722 and is connected to the cooler 6 via the second fluid path 722. Specifically, the first fluid path 721 and the second fluid path 722 are arranged inside the housing cylinder portion 41. The portion between the other end of the first fluid path 721 and both ends of the second fluid path 722 is connected. The other end of the second fluid path 722 opens to the radially outer side surface of the housing cylinder portion 41. In order to prevent leakage of the fluid F, one end of the second fluid path 722 is blocked by a sealing plug 7221.

[0121] In addition, the second flow path 72 includes a third fluid path 723, a fourth fluid path 724, and a fifth fluid path 725. The third fluid path 723 is arranged inside the housing cylinder portion 41 and connects one end of the second fluid path 722 and the second flow inlet 61 of the cooler 6. The fourth fluid path 724 is arranged inside the cooler 6 and connects the third fluid path 723 and the fifth fluid path 725. In the present embodiment, one end of the fourth fluid path 724 is the second flow inlet 61, and the other end of the fourth fluid path 724 is the second flow outlet 62. The fluid F flowing in the fourth fluid path 724 is cooled by heat exchange with the refrigerant RE in other pipes. The fifth fluid path 725 is arranged inside the housing cylinder portion 41 and connects the second flow outlet 62 of the cooler 6 and one end of the third flow path 73.

[0122] When viewed from the Y-axis direction, the extending direction of the first fluid path 721 intersects the extending direction of the second fluid path 722. Here, as Figure 8 shown, the first line segment L1 is an imaginary line segment connecting the connecting portion Cp1 of the first fluid path 721 and the second fluid path 722 and one end of the first fluid path 721. The second line segment L2 is an imaginary line segment connecting the connecting portion Cp1 and the end portion on the cooler 6 side of the second fluid path 722. At this time, when viewed from the Y-axis direction, the smallest first angle θa formed by the first line segment L1 and the second line segment L2 faces the rotation axis J1.

[0123] Since the direction in which the first fluid path 721 extends intersects the direction in which the second fluid path 722 extends, the minimum first angle θa formed by the first line segment L1 and the second line segment L2 is greater than 0 degrees and less than 180 degrees. Furthermore, when viewed from the Y-axis direction, the first angle θa faces the rotation axis J1. Thereby, the width between the radially inner end portion and the radially outer end portion of the space occupied by the first fluid path 721 and the second fluid path 722 can be further reduced. Therefore, the radial dimension of the housing cylinder portion 41 can be further reduced. In addition, the pumps 5 and the coolers 6 arranged in the circumferential direction can be disposed at a position closer to the radially inner side. Therefore, the drive device 100 can be further miniaturized.

[0124] Preferably, when viewed from the Y-axis direction, the first angle θa is an obtuse angle (refer to Figure 8 ). By making the first angle θa an obtuse angle, the first fluid path 721 and the second fluid path 722 can be closer to the motor housing portion 401 in the radial direction. In addition, when forming the first fluid path 721 and the second fluid path 722 in the housing cylinder portion 41, if the first angle θa is an acute angle, the connecting portion Cp1 of the first fluid path 721 and the second fluid path 722 needs to be farther from the motor housing portion 401 in the radial direction. Therefore, the radial dimension of the housing cylinder portion 41 can be reduced, and thus the drive device 100 can be further miniaturized. In addition, a sealing plug 7221 for preventing leakage of the fluid F is disposed at the radially outer end portion of the second fluid path 722. By making the first angle θa an obtuse angle, it is easy to move the radially outer end portion of the second fluid path 722 away from the cooler 6 in the circumferential direction. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the sealing plug 7221 from interfering with the cooler 6 and hindering the arrangement of the cooler 6. In addition, since the radially outer end portion of the second fluid path 722 can be disposed at a position closer to the radially inner side, an increase in the radial dimension of the housing cylinder portion 41 can be suppressed. Therefore, an increase in the size of the drive device 100 can be suppressed. However, the above examples do not exclude a structure in which the first angle θa is a right angle or an acute angle when viewed from the Y-axis direction.

[0125] In addition, preferably, when viewed from the Y-axis direction, the minimum second angle θb formed by the direction in which the first fluid path 721 extends and the direction in which the second fluid path 722 extends is smaller than the minimum third angle θc formed by the tangential direction Dt and the direction in which the first fluid path 721 extends (refer to Figure 8)。Here, the tangential direction Dt is the direction in which the tangent Lt extends at the end of the cooler 6 side of the second fluid path 722. This tangent Lt is tangent to the imaginary circle Cv when viewed in the Y-axis direction. The imaginary circle Cv is centered on the rotation axis J1 and passes through the end of the cooler 6 side of the second fluid path 722. In other words, the imaginary circle Cv passes through the connection portion Cp2 between the second fluid path 722 and the third fluid path 723. The tangent Lt meets the imaginary circle Cv at the connection portion Cp2 between the second fluid path 722 and the third fluid path 723. By setting θb < θc, the seal plug 7221 disposed at the radially outer end of the second fluid path 722 can be more easily separated from the cooler 6, so that the radially outer end of the second fluid path 722 can be more reliably prevented from becoming an obstacle to the arrangement of the cooler 6. In addition, since the radially outer end of the second fluid path 722 can be disposed at a more radially inner position, an increase in the radial dimension of the housing cylinder portion 41 can be suppressed. Therefore, an increase in the size of the drive device 100 can be suppressed. However, this example does not exclude a structure in which θb ≥ θc.

[0126] In addition, it is preferable that at least one of the first fluid path 721 and the second fluid path 722 extends in a direction perpendicular to the Y-axis direction. In other words, at least one of the direction in which the first fluid path 721 extends and the direction in which the second fluid path 722 extends is parallel to an imaginary plane Pv orthogonal to the Y-axis direction. For example, in the present embodiment, as Figure 5 shown, both the direction in which the first fluid path 721 extends and the direction in which the second fluid path 722 extends are parallel to the imaginary plane Pv. By causing at least one of the first fluid path 721 and the second fluid path 722 to extend in a direction orthogonal to the Y-axis direction, it is possible to more easily form at least one of them within the housing cylinder portion 41. However, this example does not exclude a structure in which both the direction in which the first fluid path 721 extends and the direction in which the second fluid path 722 extends intersect the imaginary plane Pv.

[0127] <1-7. Tank 8>

[0128] Next, with reference to Figure 1 、 Figure 3 and Figures 10 to 13 etc., the tank 8 will be described. Figure 10 is a conceptual diagram showing the arrangement of the tank 8. Figure 11 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a structural example of the tank 8. Figure 12A is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a first modification of the tank 8. Figure 12B is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a second modification of the tank 8. Figure 13 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a modification of the third fluid outlet 742. In addition, Figure 10 schematically shows using including Figure 3The cross-sectional structure of the drive device 100 cut by an imaginary plane that is double-dashed line C-C and perpendicular to the Y-axis direction. In Figure 10 For ease of observation, illustrations of the gear unit 3 and the like are omitted. Figure 11 Enlarged view shows Figure 1 The portion A surrounded by the dashed line. Figures 12A to 13 Corresponds respectively to Figure 1 The portion A surrounded by the dashed line.

[0129] As described above, the fourth flow path 74 has a tank 8. The tank 8 is connected to the other end of the third flow path 73 through the third flow inlet 741 and is connected to one end of the fifth flow path 75 through the third flow outlet 742. The flow path cross-sectional area of the tank 8 is wider than the flow path cross-sectional area of the third flow inlet 741. Inside the tank 8, the fluid F flows in the +Y direction. The "flow path cross-sectional area" is the cross-sectional area of the internal space of the tank 8 when the tank 8 is cut by an imaginary plane perpendicular to the direction in which the fluid F flows inside the tank 8. Thus, since a relatively large volume of the internal space of the tank 8 can be ensured, the fluid F flowing into the fourth flow path 74 from the third flow path 73 can be accumulated in the tank 8. Therefore, by disposing the tank 8, the fluid F can be smoothly supplied from the fourth flow path 74 to the fifth flow path 75 without interruption.

[0130] The tank 8 has a cylindrical first tank member 81 and a cylindrical second tank member 82. The first tank member 81 extends from the +Y direction side of the partition wall 42 in the +Y direction. The second tank member 82 extends from the -Y direction side of the gear side cover portion 43 in the -Y direction and is connected to the end portion on the +Y direction side of the first tank member 81. In other words, the partition wall 42 has the first tank member 81, and the gear side cover portion 43 has the second tank member 82. In this way, the tank 8 can be formed by the first tank member 81 on the partition wall 42 side and the second tank member 82 on the gear side cover portion 43 side.

[0131] In the present embodiment, the tank 8 further has a sealing member 83. The end portion on the +Y direction side of the first tank member 81 abuts against the end portion on the -Y direction side of the second tank member 82 with the sealing member 83 interposed therebetween. The sealing member 83 can be, for example, an annular gasket disposed between the two. For example, as Figure 11 shown, by fixing the gear side cover portion 43 to the partition wall 42 in a state where the two are butted against each other with the sealing member 83 interposed therebetween, the tank 8 can be formed. In this way, the connection portion between the end portion on the +Y direction side of the first tank member 81 and the end portion on the -Y direction side of the second tank member 82 can be sealed by the sealing member 83. Therefore, leakage of the fluid F at the joint portion between the two can be more reliably prevented.

[0132] In addition, the structure of the tank 8 is not limited to the example of the present embodiment. As Figure 12A and Figure 12BAs shown, one of the end portions on the +Y direction side of the first can member 81 and the end portions on the -Y direction side of the second can member 82 can also be fitted to each other.

[0133] For example, in Figure 12A , the outer diameter of the end portion on the +Y direction side of the first can member 81 and the inner diameter of the end portion on the -Y direction side of the second can member 82, as observed from the Y-axis direction, are the same to the extent that a fitting structure between the two can be formed. In Figure 12A , the end portion on the +Y direction side of the first can member 81 is fitted to the end portion on the -Y direction side of the second can member 82.

[0134] In addition, in Figure 12B , the inner diameter of the end portion on the +Y direction side of the first can member 81 and the outer diameter of the end portion on the -Y direction side of the second can member 82, as observed from the Y-axis direction, are the same to the extent that a fitting structure between the two can be formed. In Figure 12B , the end portion on the -Y direction side of the second can member 82 is inserted into the end portion on the +Y direction side of the first can member 81.

[0135] In this way, the can 8 can be constituted by the fitting structure of the end portion on the +Y direction side of the first can member 81 and the end portion on the -Y direction side of the second can member 82. Compared with a structure in which the two are butt-connected as in Figure 11 , it is less affected by the dimensional tolerances of the two. Therefore, the can 8 can be easily constituted. In addition, for example, even without using the sealing member 83, leakage of the fluid F at the joint portion between the two can be prevented.

[0136] In addition, the tank 8 has a third fluid outlet 742 and a bottom surface 84. The X-axis direction is a direction perpendicular to the Y-axis direction and the Z-axis direction (vertical direction). The third fluid outlet 742 is arranged on the -Z direction side (vertically downward side) and the -X direction side of the tank 8 when viewed from the Y-axis direction, and is connected to the fifth flow path 75. Preferably, the bottom surface 84 extends along the -Z direction (vertically downward) as it faces the -X direction. In addition, the inclination of the bottom surface 84 is set according to the inclination of the drive device 100 generated when the vehicle 300 equipped with the drive device 100 bends to the left or right. Thus, for example, even when the drive device 100 inclines when the vehicle 300 equipped with the drive device 100 turns right or left, the fluid F can be concentrated on the -X direction side of the tank 8 where the third fluid outlet 742 is arranged. Therefore, the fluid F in the tank 8 can be continuously supplied to the fifth flow path 75. Therefore, even when the drive device 100 inclines, the fluid F can be stably supplied into the second shaft 310. However, this example does not exclude a structure in which the bottom surface 84 does not extend in the -Z direction (vertically downward) as it faces the -X direction. For example, the bottom surface 84 may be parallel to the X-axis direction when viewed from the axial direction, or may extend in the +Z direction (vertically upward) as it faces the -X direction. In the latter case, the fluid F accumulates moderately in the tank 8.

[0137] The third fluid outlet 742 is the other end of the fourth flow path 74. Preferably, as shown in Figure 11 etc., the third fluid outlet 742 is arranged at the end on the +Y direction side of the tank 8. Thus, the fluid F can flow smoothly through the fifth flow path 75.

[0138] However, the arrangement of the third fluid outlet 742 is not limited to the Figure 11 example. For example, as shown in Figure 13 the third fluid outlet 742 may also be arranged to be separated from the end on the +Y direction side of the tank 8 toward the -Y direction. Thus, the fluid F can be supplied to the fifth flow path 75 while accumulating moderately in the tank 8.

[0139] In addition, preferably, as in the present embodiment, the tank 8 further has an inclined surface 85. The inclined surface 85 is arranged opposite to the third fluid inlet 741 and extends along the +Y direction as it faces the -Z direction (vertically downward) (for example, refer to Figure 10 ). Thus, it is easy to guide the fluid F that flows into the tank 8 from the third fluid inlet 741 and contacts the inclined surface 85 in the -Z direction (vertically downward).

[0140] At this time, the inner surface of one end of the fifth flow path 75 is connected to the inclined surface 85. The direction in which one end of the fifth flow path 75 extends is parallel to the inclined surface 85. Thus, the fluid F flowing along the inclined surface 85 can flow smoothly to one end of the fifth flow path 75.

[0141] However, the examples of this embodiment do not exclude the structure in which the tank 8 does not have an inclined surface 85. Alternatively, even when the tank 8 has an inclined surface 85, the examples of this embodiment do not exclude the structure in which the inner surface of one end portion of the fifth flow path 75 is not directly connected to the inclined surface 85, or the structure in which the extending direction of one end portion of the fifth flow path 75 is not parallel to the inclined surface 85.

[0142] <2. Others>

[0143] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above. In addition, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. The present invention can be implemented by making various changes to the above embodiments without departing from the gist of the invention. In addition, the matters described in the above embodiments can be appropriately and arbitrarily combined within a range that does not cause contradictions.

[0144] The present invention can be used in a device for supplying a fluid in a housing to a motor unit.

Claims

1. A driving device, characterized in that, Comprising: A motor unit having a rotor and a stator, the rotor having a first shaft that can rotate about a rotation axis extending in the axial direction, and the stator being disposed radially outside the rotor; A gear unit mounted on one axial side of the first shaft; A housing that houses the motor unit and the gear unit; A pump that pumps a fluid within the housing; A cooler that cools the fluid; and A fluid flow path through which the fluid flows, The first shaft is a tubular shape extending in the axial direction and has a shaft through-hole penetrating in the radial direction, The gear unit has a second shaft, the second shaft is a tubular shape extending in the axial direction and is connected to one axial end of the first shaft, The housing has: A housing cylindrical portion that extends in the axial direction and houses the motor unit; A partition wall that closes one axial end of the housing cylindrical portion; and A gear side cover portion disposed at one axial end of the partition wall and together with the partition wall forms a gear housing portion that houses the gear unit, The fluid flow path has a first flow path, a second flow path, a third flow path, a fourth flow path, a fifth flow path, and a sixth flow path, The first flow path connects the gear housing portion and a first fluid inlet of the pump, The second flow path connects a first fluid outlet of the pump and one end of the third flow path via the cooler, The third flow path is disposed inside the partition wall and extends in a direction intersecting the rotation axis, The fourth flow path connects the other end of the third flow path and one end of the fifth flow path, The fifth flow path is disposed inside the gear side cover portion, The other end of the fifth flow path is connected to one axial end of the second shaft, One end of the sixth flow path is connected to the other end of the third flow path, The other end of the sixth flow path is disposed inside the housing cylindrical portion.

2. The driving device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The pump and the cooler are respectively disposed on the radially outer side of the housing cylindrical portion and are arranged in the circumferential direction.

3. The driving device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The first fluid inlet is disposed on one axial side of the pump, The first fluid outlet is disposed on the other axial side of the pump, A second fluid inlet of the cooler is disposed on the other axial side of the cooler and is connected to the first fluid outlet, A second fluid outlet of the cooler is disposed on one axial side of the cooler and is connected to the third flow path.

4. The driving device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The cooler is disposed on one circumferential side compared to the pump, The second fluid inlet is disposed on the other axial side and the other circumferential side of the cooler, The second fluid outlet is disposed on one axial side and one circumferential side of the cooler.

5. The driving device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The housing further has a bearing holding portion that holds the first shaft rotatably by a bearing, The sixth flow path has a fluid supply member disposed at a position radially outside the stator and supplies the fluid to the stator, The fluid supply member has at least one supply hole that opens toward at least one of the stator and the bearing.

6. The drive device according to claim 5, characterized in that The minimum flow path cross-sectional area in the fourth flow path is narrower than the minimum flow path cross-sectional area in the sixth flow path, The minimum flow path cross-sectional area in the third flow path is wider than the minimum flow path cross-sectional area in the sixth flow path.

7. The drive device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The fourth flow path has a third inlet and a tank; The tank is connected to the other end of the third flow path through the third inlet. The flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the tank is larger than the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the third inlet.

8. The drive device according to claim 7, characterized in that The tank comprises: a first tank member having a cylindrical shape, the first tank member extending from one axial side of the partition wall to one axial side; and The second tank member is in a tubular shape and extends from the other axial side of the gear-side cover portion to the other axial direction, and is connected to one axial end portion of the first tank member.

9. The drive device according to claim 8, characterized in that One of the axial direction one end portion of the first tank member and the axial direction other end portion of the second tank member is fitted into the other.

10. The drive device according to claim 8, characterized in that One axial end portion of the first tank member is in contact with the other axial end portion of the second tank member via a sealing member.

11. The drive device according to claim 7, characterized in that The first direction is the direction perpendicular to the axial direction and the vertical direction. The tank comprises: a third outflow port, which is arranged on a vertically lower side of the tank and on one side of the first direction when viewed in the axial direction, and is connected to the fifth flow path; and A bottom surface extending vertically downward as it moves toward one side of the first direction.

12. The drive device according to claim 11, characterized in that The third outflow port is disposed at one axial end portion of the tank.

13. The drive device according to claim 11, characterized in that The third outflow port is disposed so as to be separated from one axial end portion of the tank toward the other axial end portion.

14. The drive device according to any one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that The tank further includes an inclined surface disposed opposite to the third inlet, wherein the inclined surface extends in one direction in the axial direction as it goes vertically downward.

15. The drive device according to claim 14, characterized in that The inner surface of one end of the fifth flow path is connected to the inclined surface. A direction in which one end portion of the fifth flow path extends is parallel to the inclined surface.

16. The drive device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The fluid flow path further includes a seventh flow path, One end of the seventh flow path is connected to the other axial end of the sixth flow path, and the other end of the seventh flow path is connected to the other axial end of the first shaft.

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