Wiring structure of wiring member

Abstract

The purpose of this invention is to increase the freedom of path design for wiring components connected to in-wheel motors. The wiring component comprises: an in-wheel motor unit including an in-wheel motor and a housing housing the in-wheel motor; and a wiring component connecting the in-wheel motor to vehicle-side equipment. In the wiring component, the end connected to the in-wheel motor is a first fixing portion, and the portion fixed to the vehicle following the end is a second fixing portion. The housing is provided with a wiring fixing part for fixing the second fixing portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the wiring configuration of wiring components. Background Technology

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a wiring device for supplying electrical signals from the vehicle body to an in-wheel motor. In Patent Document 1, the end of the wiring is fixed to the connector portion of the in-wheel motor. To reduce the load on the end of the wiring, the fixing part following the end of the wiring is fixed near the center of rotation, i.e., the kingpin, when the tire steering angle changes in accordance with the rotation of the steering wheel.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2005-271909 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] The goal is to increase the degree of freedom in the path of the wiring components connected to the in-wheel motor.

[0008] Therefore, the purpose of this invention is to increase the degree of freedom of the path of the wiring components connected to the in-wheel motor.

[0009] Technical solutions for solving the problem

[0010] The wiring structure of the wiring component disclosed herein includes: an in-wheel motor unit, including an in-wheel motor and a housing housing the in-wheel motor; and a wiring component connecting the in-wheel motor to a vehicle-side device, wherein in the wiring component, the end connected to the in-wheel motor becomes a first fixing part, and the portion fixed to the vehicle after the end becomes a second fixing part, and the housing is provided with a wiring fixing part for fixing the second fixing part.

[0011] Invention Effects

[0012] According to this disclosure, the degree of freedom in the path of the wiring components connected to the in-wheel motor can be increased. Attached Figure Description

[0013] Figure 1 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the wiring structure of the wiring component involved in Embodiment 1.

[0014] Figure 2 This is a front view showing the housing of the in-wheel motor unit.

[0015] Figure 3 It is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view cut off along line III-III.

[0016] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A magnified view of region A. Detailed Implementation

[0017] [Description of embodiments of this disclosure]

[0018] The embodiments of this disclosure will be described first.

[0019] The wiring structure of the wiring components disclosed herein is as follows.

[0020] (1) A wiring structure for a wiring component includes: an in-wheel motor unit, comprising an in-wheel motor and a housing housing the in-wheel motor; and a wiring component connecting the in-wheel motor to vehicle-side equipment, wherein the end of the wiring component connected to the in-wheel motor is a first fixing portion, and the portion fixed to the vehicle following the end is a second fixing portion, and a wiring fixing part for fixing the second fixing portion is provided in the housing. By fixing the second fixing portion to the wiring fixing part of the housing, it is not necessary to fix the second fixing portion to a component disposed around the in-wheel motor unit. This increases the freedom of the path of the wiring component connected to the in-wheel motor.

[0021] (2) In the wiring structure of the wiring component in (1), a recess may be formed in the housing, the first fixing part may be fixed at the bottom of the recess, and the second fixing part may be fixed at the opening portion of the housing that forms the recess. This allows the linear transmission component to be fixed with minimal bending between the first fixing part and the second fixing part.

[0022] (3) In the wiring structure of the wiring component in (2), the housing may include heat dissipation fins, at least a portion of which is used as the wiring fixing part. Thus, the space where the heat dissipation fins are provided can be used to provide a recess.

[0023] (4) In the wiring configuration of the wiring component in (2) or (3), the wiring configuration may also include a cover component, which is disposed around the wiring component at the second fixing point and covers the opening. This allows the second fixing point to be easily installed into the housing.

[0024] (5) In the wiring configuration of the wiring member in (4), the cover member may also include a main body and an outer peripheral portion surrounding the main body. The main body is formed of an elastic material, the wiring member passes through a hole formed in the main body, and the outer peripheral portion has a threaded portion formed of a material with high rigidity compared to the elastic material. Thus, since the main body is formed of an elastic material, it can fit snugly against the wiring member, suppressing the shaking of the wiring member. Furthermore, by forming the threaded outer peripheral portion, the cover member can be easily installed on the housing.

[0025] (6) In the wiring structure of the wiring component in (5), the main body may be in close contact with the outer periphery, the wiring component, and the outer casing. This provides a simple waterproofing structure for sealing the interior of the recess.

[0026] (7) In the wiring structure of the wiring component in (6), the main body may have a first lip, a second lip, and a third lip. The first lip is located in the part of the main body that contacts the outer shell, the second lip is located in the part of the main body that contacts the outer periphery, and the third lip is located in the part of the main body that contacts the wiring component. This improves the water-stopping properties inside the recess.

[0027] (8) In the wiring configuration of any of the wiring components in (1) to (7), the wiring component may also include a plurality of linear transmission components and a sheath covering the plurality of linear transmission components, the end of the sheath being located between the first fixing part and the second fixing part. This facilitates the operation of the plurality of linear transmission components when installing the second fixing part onto the housing.

[0028] [Details of the embodiments disclosed herein]

[0029] Specific examples of the wiring structure of the wiring components of this disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, this disclosure is not limited to these examples, but is shown by way of the claims and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims.

[0030] [Implementation Method 1]

[0031] The wiring structure of the wiring component according to Embodiment 1 will be described below. Figure 1 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the wiring structure 40 of the wiring component according to Embodiment 1.

[0032] Figure 1 It is a schematic cross-sectional view of a plane orthogonal to the front-rear direction of the vehicle body 10 and passing through the central axis of the wheel 20. Figure 1 In the middle, wheel 20 is a cross-sectional view. Figure 2 This is a front view showing the housing 44 in the in-wheel motor unit 41. Figure 2 This is a view taken from the left and right sides of vehicle body 10.

[0033] Figure 3 It is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view cut off by line III-III. Figure 3 In the middle, a portion of the outer shell 44 and the cover member 60 are shown in cross-section.

[0034] Wiring Construction of Wiring Components

[0035] The wiring structure 40 of the wiring component includes an in-wheel motor unit 41 and a wiring component 50. The wiring component 50 is a component used to connect the in-wheel motor 42 in the in-wheel motor unit 41 to the vehicle-side equipment 80. The wiring component 50 is wired along the path connecting the in-wheel motor 42 and the vehicle-side equipment 80.

[0036] <Applications of Wiring Components in Cabling Construction>

[0037] For ease of explanation, the structure of the object portion of the wiring configuration 40 using wiring components will be described.

[0038] The wiring configuration 40 of the wiring component is suitable for the driving system in a vehicle. The vehicle body 10, which has wiring of a portion of the wiring component 50, is the vehicle body in an automobile. Figure 1 The diagram shows the area around the front wheel 20 of the vehicle body 10. Figure 1 In this description, wheel 20 is used as a component that steers via steering operation. Wiring component 50 can also be used as a wheel that steers without steering operation. In addition, wheel 20 can be either a front wheel or a rear wheel.

[0039] The vehicle body 10 includes a floor portion 12 and a body portion 14. The floor portion 12 is the portion facing the ground. The body portion 14 is disposed on the upper side of the floor portion 12 and constitutes the exterior of the vehicle body 10. The vehicle body 10 can be a monocoque body formed by integrating the frame and body as rigid bodies, or it can be a structure in which the body is mounted on the frame. In addition, in this embodiment, the direction of travel when the car is normally driving is sometimes referred to as the front, and the opposite side is referred to as the rear.

[0040] The wheels 20 are supported on the vehicle body 10 in a rotatable manner. Figure 1 In the example shown, wheel 20 is supported within fender 16 in a rotatable manner. The suspension system can be any suspension configuration, such as an independent suspension, that supports wheel 20. Figure 1 The example shown illustrates a case where the wheel 20 is supported by the damper 28 and the lower arm 30. Figure 1 The suspension system shown is an example of a strut-type suspension system.

[0041] The wheel 20 has a spoked wheel 22 and a tire 24. The spoked wheel 22 is made of metals such as iron and aluminum. The spoked wheel 22 has a disc portion 22a and a tire mounting portion 22b.

[0042] The disc portion 22a is formed in the shape of a circular plate. The disc portion 22a is fixed, for example, to a wheel hub (not shown). The wheel hub is supported in a rotatable manner by steering knuckle portions 25 and 26. The steering knuckle portions 25 and 26 are supported to the vehicle body 10 via a damper 28 and a lower arm 30.

[0043] The tire mounting portion 22b is an annular portion that protrudes inward in the vehicle width direction from around the disc portion 22a. Annular rims protrude from both sides of the tire mounting portion 22b. A tire 24, formed of an elastic component such as rubber, is mounted on the outer periphery of the tire mounting portion 22b.

[0044] exist Figure 1 In the example shown, the steering knuckles 25 and 26 are provided as an upper steering knuckle 25 and a lower steering knuckle 26.

[0045] The upper steering knuckle portion 25 extends inward from the wheel hub in the vehicle width direction, above the rotation axis of the wheel 20. A spring 27 and a damper 28 are provided between the upper steering knuckle portion 25 and the vehicle body 10. More specifically, the upper end of the damper 28 is supported above the wheel 20 relative to the vehicle body 10. The upper steering knuckle portion 25 is rotatably supported on the lower end of the damper 28 via a bearing portion 29.

[0046] The lower steering knuckle portion 26 extends inward from the wheel hub in the vehicle width direction, below the rotation axis of the wheel 20. The lower steering knuckle portion 26 is supported by the lower arm 30 in a rotatable manner. In addition, an arm portion 26a that bears the force of steering operation is provided protruding from the lower steering knuckle portion 26.

[0047] The lower arm 30 is a component made of metal or the like. The base of the lower arm 30 is supported at a position inside the vehicle width direction relative to the wheel 20, allowing it to swing relative to the floor portion 12. The axis centered on the base of the lower arm 30 during swinging is along the longitudinal direction of the vehicle body 10. The base of the lower arm 30 may also be supported on the floor portion 12 in a swinging manner relative to the wheel 20 at an angle to the front, inside, rear, or diagonally. In these cases, the axis of rotation of the lower arm 30 during swinging may be along the left-right direction of the vehicle body 10, along the longitudinal direction, or along a direction inclined relative to both the left-right and longitudinal directions.

[0048] The front end of the lower arm 30 extends from the floor portion 12 toward the inside of the fender 16 (in this case, toward the outside in the vehicle width direction). A bearing portion 31 is provided at the front end of the lower arm 30. The lower steering knuckle portion 26 is rotatably supported at the front end of the lower arm 30 via the bearing portion 31. The axis of rotation of the bearing portion 31 is the steering rotation center axis of the wheel 20 rotating within the fender 16.

[0049] As described above, since the base of the lower arm 30 is supported in a manner that allows it to swing relative to the floor portion 12, the lower arm 30 supports the wheel 20 in a manner that allows it to move vertically within the fender 16. With the direction of movement of the wheel 20 restricted by the lower arm 30, the damper 28 is located between the upper steering knuckle portion 25 and the vehicle body 10. The damper 28 and the spring 27 externally mounted on the damper 28 absorb the impact caused by the unevenness of the road surface during driving.

[0050] A tie rod 32 is connected to the front end of the arm 26a. When the steering wheel 18 is rotated by the driver's steering operation, this rotational motion is transmitted to the tie rod 32 as a movement in the vehicle width direction via the steering shaft 18a and the transmission mechanism 18b, such as the rack and pinion mechanism. When the tie rod 32 moves in the vehicle width direction, the lower steering knuckle 26 can rotate about the rotation axis of the bearing 31. Thus, by steering operation, the wheel 20 can rotate about the steering rotation center axis. By rotating the wheel 20 about the steering rotation center axis, the direction of travel of the vehicle 10 is changed.

[0051] The following is a detailed description of each part of the wiring structure 40 of the wiring component.

[0052] <In-wheel motor unit>

[0053] The in-wheel motor unit 41 includes an in-wheel motor 42 and a housing 44. The in-wheel motor unit 41 is assembled onto the wheel 20.

[0054] The in-wheel motor 42 is a driving motor that rotates the wheel 20. The in-wheel motor 42 includes a motor body 42a and a motor shaft 42b. The motor body 42a is, for example, a three-phase induction motor. The motor body 42a can also be a motor other than a three-phase induction motor. The motor shaft 42b is driven by the rotation of the motor body 42a. The wheel hub is mounted on the motor shaft 42b. The motor shaft 42b and the wheel hub can be directly connected, or they can be mounted via a transmission mechanism such as gears or a reduction mechanism. The wheel hub rotates as the motor shaft 42b rotates, thereby rotating the disc portion 22a fixed to the wheel hub, and thus the wheel 20 rotates.

[0055] A wiring connection portion 43 is provided in the in-wheel motor 42. The wiring connection portion 43 is connected to the wiring component 50. Here, the wiring connection portion 43 is a connector 43. The connector 43 includes, for example, terminals extending from the circuit of the motor body 42a and a housing for receiving the terminals. The wiring connection portion 43 does not need to be a connector 43. For example, the wiring connection portion can also be a terminal block or the like with bolt fixing portions. The wiring connection portion 43 is exposed outward on one side 44a of the housing 44.

[0056] The housing 44 houses the internal motor 42. The housing 44 is fixed to the steering knuckles 25 and 26, which support the wheel hub in a rotatable manner. Figure 1 In the example shown, the housing 44 is disposed between the upper steering knuckle portion 25 and the lower steering knuckle portion 26. The housing 44 is formed of metal or resin, etc. The housing 44 can be composed of a single component or composed of multiple components.

[0057] A wiring fixing part 45 is provided in the housing 44. Here, a recess 46 is formed in the housing 44. The wiring fixing part 45 is provided in the opening of the recess 46. The wiring connection part 43 is located at the bottom of the recess 46. The housing 44 includes heat dissipation fins 47. At least a portion of the heat dissipation fins 47 is used as the wiring fixing part 45.

[0058] Heat dissipation fins 47 are disposed on the exposed side 44a of the wiring connection portion 43 within the housing 44. The heat dissipation fins 47 are formed as plates protruding outward from the side 44a. Figure 1 In the example shown, side 44a faces inward in the vehicle width direction. Side 44a may also face in other directions. The wiring connection portion 43 protrudes outward from the hole formed in side 44a. Figure 1 In the example shown, the wiring connection portion 43 protrudes further outward than the side surface 44a. The wiring connection portion 43 may also not protrude further outward than the side surface 44a.

[0059] Here, multiple heat dissipation fins 47 are arranged parallel to each other. A portion of the heat dissipation fins 47a is interrupted in the middle region. The region where the heat dissipation fin 47 is interrupted is called a recess 46. That is, the recess 46 is the part surrounded by the heat dissipation fins 47. Here, a boss 48 is provided in the part where the heat dissipation fin 47 is interrupted.

[0060] The boss 48 is cylindrical. The boss 48 is provided on the side 44a of the housing 44 to surround the wiring connection portion 43. The boss 48 may also be formed in a shape other than cylindrical. The interior of the boss 48 is a recess 46. The boss 48 is the peripheral wall of the recess 46. The peripheral wall 48 is annular. A threaded portion 49 is provided on the peripheral wall 48. Here, the threaded portion 49 is provided on the inner surface of the opening of the peripheral wall 48.

[0061] <Wiring components>

[0062] The wiring assembly 50 includes at least one linear transmission member for transmitting electricity or light. The linear transmission member is, for example, an electrical wire or optical fiber. Here, the wiring assembly 50 includes wires for supplying power to the in-wheel motor 42. Figure 3 The example shown is a wiring component 50 comprising four wires 53, 54, 55, and 56.

[0063] Each wire 53, 54, 55, and 56 is a sheathed wire formed by forming a sheath around the core wire. Each wire 53, 54, 55, and 56 is a single-core wire with a single conductive path. Alternatively, multiple single-core wires can be combined into a single cable by using an extruded sheath. Wires 53, 54, and 55 are, for example, power lines supplying three-phase alternating current to the in-wheel motor 42. Wire 56 is, for example, a signal line for transmitting signals. Wire 56 is a signal line used for sensors or control. In addition to or besides wires 53, 54, 55, and 56, the wiring assembly 50 may also include optical fiber. Multiple wires 53, 54, 55, and 56 are gathered by a sheath 57. For example, the sheath 57 is a component formed by extrusion covering the multiple wires 53, 54, 55, and 56.

[0064] At the portion where the sheath 57 converges, the cross-sectional shape of the wiring component 50 can be any shape. Figure 3 The diagram shows an example where the cross-sectional shape of the wiring component 50 is circular. The cross-sectional shape of the wiring component 50 can also be elliptical, rectangular, etc. Furthermore, a cross-section is defined as a section located at a plane orthogonal to the axis of the wiring component 50.

[0065] One end of the wiring component 50 is connected to the vehicle-side device 80. One end of the wiring component 50 can be connected to the vehicle-side device 80 via a connector. The wiring component 50 can also be pulled directly out from the vehicle-side device 80. One end of the wiring component 50 can also be connected to the vehicle-side device 80 via other wiring components. Assume that the vehicle-side device 80 is a drive unit that drives the in-wheel motor 42. For example, if the in-wheel motor 42 is a three-phase induction motor, assume that the vehicle-side device 80 is an inverter unit that provides three-phase AC power (U-phase, V-phase, and W-phase) for driving the in-wheel motor 42.

[0066] The other end of the wiring component 50 is connected to the in-wheel motor 42. A connector 58 is provided at the other end of the wiring component. The ends of multiple wires 53, 54, 55, and 56 are housed in the housing of the connector 58. The wiring component 50 and the in-wheel motor 42 are connected via connectors 58 and 43. Alternatively, the wiring component 50 and the in-wheel motor 42 can be directly connected without using connectors 58 and 43. Alternatively, at the other end of the wiring component 50, the multiple wires 53, 54, 55, and 56 branch off and connect to different locations.

[0067] The path from the vehicle-side device 80 to the wiring component 50 of the in-wheel motor 42 can be appropriately set. For example, in Figure 1 In the example shown, the path of the wiring component 50 is configured as follows: The wiring component 50 extends from the body-side device 80 within the vehicle body 10, passes through the mudguard 16, and is guided into the mudguard 16. Within the mudguard 16, the wiring component 50 is guided toward the in-wheel motor unit 41 via the side of the damper 28, the front end of the upper steering knuckle portion 25, and between the upper steering knuckle portion 25 and the lower steering knuckle portion 26. In the in-wheel motor unit 41, the wiring component 50 extends from the opening of the recess 46 of the housing 44 toward the bottom and connects to the wiring connection portion 43 of the in-wheel motor 42 at the bottom position.

[0068] The end of the wiring component 50 that is connected to and fixed to the in-wheel motor 42 is called the first fixing part 51. The first fixing part 51 is fixed to the wiring connection part 43. The first fixing part 51 is fixed at the bottom of the recess 46. At the first fixing part 51, multiple wires 53, 54, 55, and 56 extend from the end of the sheath 57 in a loose state.

[0069] Furthermore, the portion of the wiring component 50 that is fixed to the vehicle after the end connected to the in-wheel motor 42 becomes the second fixing part 52. The second fixing part 52 is fixed to the wiring fixing part 45. The second fixing part 52 is fixed to the portion of the housing 44 that forms the opening of the recess 46. At the second fixing part 52, multiple wires 53, 54, 55, and 56 are gathered by a sheath 57. Therefore, the end of the sheath 57 is located between the first fixing part 51 and the second fixing part 52.

[0070] The wiring member 50 extends along the housing 44 between the first fixing portion 51 and the second fixing portion 52. Furthermore, the wiring member 50 extends toward the vehicle body side, with the second fixing portion 52 as the boundary, in a manner that separates it from the housing 44. In this case, one end of the portion of the wiring member 50 extending along the housing 44 becomes the first fixing portion 51, and the other end becomes the second fixing portion 52. Additionally, the portion of the wiring member 50 extending along the housing 44 refers to either the portion extending inside the housing 44 or the portion extending along the surface of the housing 44.

[0071] The second fixing part 52 is fixed to the peripheral wall 48 of the recess 46 via the cover member 60. Therefore, the wiring structure 40 of the wiring member here also includes the cover member 60. In addition, within the mudguard 16, the portion of the wiring member 50 closer to the vehicle body 10 than the second fixing part 52 is supported by the support member 70. Therefore, the wiring structure 40 of the wiring member here also includes the support member 70.

[0072] <Cover Components>

[0073] A cover member 60 is disposed around the wiring member 50 at the second fixing portion 52. The cover member 60 covers the opening of the recess 46. Here, the cover member 60 is embedded in the inner circumferential side of the peripheral wall 48 at the opening of the recess 46. The cover member 60 may also not be embedded in the inner circumferential side of the peripheral wall 48. For example, the cover member may be located outside the end face of the peripheral wall 48 and block the opening of the recess 46. Alternatively, for example, a protrusion protruding axially may be provided on the outer edge of the cover member, and the peripheral wall 48 may be embedded in the inner circumferential side of the protrusion. The cover member 60 includes a body 62 and an outer peripheral portion 64.

[0074] The main body 62 is formed of an elastic material. The shape of the main body 62 can be any shape. Here, the outer shape of the main body 62 is formed as a circle. It is preferable that the outer shape of the main body 62 is formed to correspond to the cross-sectional shape of the recess 46. A hole 62h is formed in the main body 62.

[0075] Hole 62h penetrates the main body 62. Hole 62h penetrates the surface of the main body 62 facing the bottom of the recess 46 and the surface facing the opposite side. Wiring member 50 passes through hole 62h and extends from one side of cover member 60 to the other. The shape of hole 62h can be any shape. Hole 62h is formed to correspond to the cross-sectional shape of the second fixing portion 52 in wiring member 50. Here, the portion of wiring member 50 with sheath 57 passes through hole 62h. Since the outer shape of sheath 57 is circular, hole 62h is formed to be circular.

[0076] Since multiple wires 53, 54, 55, and 56 are converged into one by the sheath 57, the number of holes 62h is one. If the multiple wires 53, 54, 55, and 56 are not converged into one, the number of holes 62h can be one or more. If there are multiple holes 62h, the configuration of the multiple holes 62h and the configuration of the multiple wires 53, 54, 55, and 56 passing through the multiple holes 62h can be a configuration corresponding to the configuration of the multiple wires 53, 54, 55, and 56 in the connector 58.

[0077] The size of the hole 62h before the wiring component 50 passes through can be of any shape. The size of the hole 62h before the wiring component 50 passes through can be the same as or slightly smaller than the size of the wiring component 50 (here, the size of the sheath 57). In this case, it is preferable that the hole 62h enlarges as the wiring component 50 passes through. The size of the hole 62h before the wiring component 50 passes through can also be slightly larger than the size of the wiring component 50 (here, the size of the sheath 57). A waterproofing agent can also be provided between the hole 62h and the wiring component 50. The length dimension of the hole 62h (the thickness dimension of the body 62) can be of any size. From the viewpoint of allowing the wiring component 50 to pass through the hole 62h, the hole 62h is preferably as short as possible. From the viewpoint of using the hole 62h to hold the wiring component 50, it is preferable that the hole 62h has a length sufficient to hold the wiring component 50.

[0078] The position of the hole 62h within the body 62 can be anywhere. The position of the hole 62h is formed at a position corresponding to the position coaxial with the wiring connection part 43. The position coaxial with the wiring connection part 43 means, as... Figure 2 As shown, in the front view of the housing 44, the wiring connection portion 43 overlaps with the hole 62h. Therefore, the wiring member 50 can extend from the first fixing portion 51 toward the second fixing portion 52 with minimal bending.

[0079] The outer peripheral portion 64 is the portion disposed around the main body 62. The outer peripheral portion 64 has a threaded portion 65. The threaded portion 65 is formed of a material with high rigidity compared to an elastic material. Here, the threaded portion 65 is provided on the outward-facing surface of the outer peripheral portion 64. The threaded portion 65 is fastened to the threaded portion 49 of the peripheral wall 48. The threaded portions 49 and 65 are formed with corresponding shapes. The outer peripheral portion 64 may also have a portion protruding along the axial direction of the cover member 60, and the threaded portion is provided on the inward-facing surface of this protrusion.

[0080] It is preferable that the threaded portion 65 in the outer peripheral portion 64 and the main body 62 rotate freely. This prevents the wiring member 50 passing through the main body 62 from rotating when the threaded portions 49 and 65 are threadedly tightened or when the threaded tightening of the threaded portions 49 and 65 is released. For example, the outer peripheral portion 64 may also have a bearing that rotatably connects the threaded portion 65 to the main body 62. Alternatively, a bearing may be provided on the outer peripheral side of the main body 62, and the threaded portion 65 may be provided on the outer peripheral side of the bearing.

[0081] With the threaded portions 49 and 65 threadedly fastened, it is preferable to suppress rotation of the main body 62 relative to the threaded portions 65. Thus, with the threaded portions 49 and 65 threadedly fastened, rotation of the wiring member 50 passing through the main body 62 is suppressed. For example, a portion of the peripheral wall 48 further from the bottom side than the threaded portion 49 protrudes inwards, thereby providing a step S. With the threaded portions 49 and 65 threadedly fastened, the stepped portion of the peripheral wall 48 is in close contact with the outer edge of the main body 62. Therefore, with the threaded portions 49 and 65 threadedly fastened, rotation of the main body 62 relative to the threaded portions 65 is suppressed by friction between the peripheral wall 48 and the main body 62.

[0082] Here, the interior of the recess 46 is waterproofed using the cover member 60. For this, refer to... Figure 4 Provide a detailed description. Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A magnified view of region A.

[0083] Specifically, the main body 62 of the cover member 60 is in close contact with the outer shell 44, the outer peripheral portion 64, and the wiring member 50, respectively. This prevents water from seeping in between the main body 62 and the outer shell 44, the outer peripheral portion 64, and the wiring member 50. Here, the main body 62 is in close contact with the outer peripheral portion 64 and the wiring member 50 radially, and with the outer peripheral portion 64 and the outer shell 44 longitudinally. At this time, a lip is provided on the main body 62 at the portion that contacts the outer shell 44, the outer peripheral portion 64, and the wiring member 50, respectively. As this lip, in… Figure 4 In the example shown, there are a first lip 63a, a second lip 63b, a second lip 63c and a third lip 63d.

[0084] The first lip 63a is provided in the portion of the main body 62 that contacts the outer casing 44. More specifically, the step S of the peripheral wall 48 in the outer casing 44 is formed in an annular shape. The outer peripheral edge of the axially facing end face of the main body 62 is in contact with the step S. The first lip 63a is provided in an annular shape on this outer peripheral edge of the main body 62. The first lip 63a and the step S are arranged axially. The annular first lip 63a is in contact with the step S throughout the entire circumference. It is preferable that the first lip 63a is clamped and pressed axially by the step S and the outer peripheral portion 64 when the threaded portions 49 and 65 are threaded and tightened.

[0085] Second lips 63b and 63c are disposed in the portion of the main body 62 that contacts the outer peripheral portion 64. More specifically, the second lip 63b is disposed in a ring shape on the back side of the end face of the main body 62 where the first lip 63a is disposed. Figure 4 In the example shown, the second lip 63b is disposed on the front and back of the first lip 63a, but the first lip 63a and the second lip 63b may also be disposed radially, one inside and one outside. The second lip 63b and the outer peripheral portion 64 are arranged axially. The annular second lip 63b contacts the annular end face of the outer peripheral portion 64 throughout its entire circumference. It is preferable that the second lip 63b be axially clamped and pressed by the step S and the outer peripheral portion 64 when the threaded portions 49 and 65 are threadedly fastened.

[0086] Furthermore, the second lip 63c is arranged in a ring shape around the entire circumference of the outer peripheral surface of the main body 62, opposite to the inner peripheral surface of the outer peripheral portion 64. Figure 4 In the example shown, two second lips 63c are provided axially separated on the outer peripheral surface of the main body 62. The second lips 63c and the outer peripheral portion 64 are arranged radially. The annular second lips 63c are in contact with the inner peripheral surface of the outer peripheral portion 64 throughout the entire circumference.

[0087] The third lip 63d is provided in the portion of the main body 62 that contacts the wiring component 50. More specifically, the third lip 63d is provided in a ring shape covering the entire circumference of the inner circumference of the hole 62h in the main body 62. Figure 4 In the example shown, two third lips 63d are provided axially separated on the inner circumferential surface of the hole 62h. The third lips 63d are arranged radially with the sheath 57 of the wiring component 50. The annular third lips 63d are in contact with the outer circumferential surface of the sheath 57 throughout the entire circumference.

[0088] However, it is not necessary to use the cover member 60 to stop the water from entering the interior of the recess 46. Furthermore, even if the cover member 60 is used to stop the water from entering the interior of the recess 46, its construction is not limited to the structure described above. For example, in... Figure 4In the example shown, there is one first lip 63a and one second lip 63b, and two second lips 63c and two third lips 63d. However, the number of each lip is not limited to this and can be appropriately set. Furthermore, in Figure 4 In the example shown, two types of second lips 63b and 63c are provided, but either second lip 63b or second lip 63c can be omitted. Additionally, in Figure 4 In the example shown, the cover member 60 is installed on the housing 44 by being threaded fastened by the threaded portions 49 and 65, but the cover member can also be pressed into the housing 44.

[0089] Furthermore, the cover member 60 can also be oil-sealing. For example, oil can be provided inside the recess 46, and the cover member 60 can prevent the oil from leaking out of the recess 46. The structure of this oil-sealing cover member is not particularly limited; for example, the cover member can also include a force-applying member on the outside of the third lip 63d that applies force towards the wiring member 50. In this case, it is preferable to provide a mounting portion for mounting the force-applying member in the main body 62. This force-applying member can be, for example, a spring member such as a coil spring formed into a ring shape.

[0090] The cover component 60 is a component formed separately from the wiring component 50, and is then installed on the wiring component 50.

[0091] <Supporting Component 70>

[0092] exist Figure 1 In the example shown, support member 70 is mounted on wiring member 50. Support member 70 is supported on upper steering knuckle portion 25. For example, support member 70 is a bracket. The bracket is threaded to the mounting object.

[0093] However, the support member 70 only needs to support the second fixed portion 52 of the wiring member 50 and the vehicle-side equipment 80 in the above-described wiring manner; therefore, the structure is not particularly limited. The support member can be a single support member or can include multiple support portions. Furthermore, the support member can be supported on the side of the vehicle body 10 or on the side of the wheel 20. Here, "support member supported on the side of the vehicle body 10" means supported on a portion that does not rotate even when the wheel 20 rotates around the steering rotation axis. For example, besides the case where the support member is supported on the vehicle body 10, there is also the case where the support member is supported on the aforementioned damper 28 or lower arm 30. Furthermore, "support member 70 supported on the side of the wheel 20" means supported on a portion that rotates with the wheel 20 when it rotates around the steering rotation axis. For example, the support member 70 is supported on the upper steering knuckle portion 25 or the lower steering knuckle portion 26.

[0094] It is preferable to pre-install one or both of the cover member 60 and the support member 70 on the wiring member 50 before installation on the vehicle. Alternatively, the component formed by pre-installing one or both of the cover member 60 and the support member 70 on the wiring member 50 can be regarded as a wiring module. In the wiring module formed by pre-installing both the cover member 60 and the support member 70 on the wiring member 50, the cover member 60 and the support member 70 are arranged sequentially from the end side connected to the in-wheel motor 42.

[0095] <Effects of Implementation Method 1, etc.>

[0096] According to the wiring structure 40 of the wiring member configured as described above, by fixing the second fixing part 52 to the wiring fixing part 45 of the housing 44, it is not necessary to fix the second fixing part 52 to a component disposed around the in-wheel motor unit 41. This increases the freedom of movement of the paths of the wires 53, 54, 55, and 56 connected to the in-wheel motor unit 41. More specifically, in order to reduce the pressure applied to the end of the wiring member 50, the position of the fixing part after the end is sometimes set near the end (for example, within X mm based on the end. X is, for example, any value from 100 to 300). If the position of the fixing part after the end is set in a peripheral component near the in-wheel motor 42 within this range, the freedom of movement of the wiring member 50 may be reduced because this fixing position is limited. In contrast, by fixing the second fixing part 52 to the wiring fixing part 45 of the housing 44, the freedom of movement of the path of the vehicle-side device 80 is increased compared to the second fixing part 52. In addition, the degree of freedom in the installation position of the support member 70 is also increased.

[0097] Furthermore, the first fixing part 51 is fixed to the bottom of the recess 46, and the second fixing part 52 is fixed to the opening of the recess 46. Thus, the wiring component 50 can be fixed with minimal bending between the first fixing part 51 and the second fixing part 52.

[0098] Furthermore, the housing 44 includes heat dissipation fins 47 disposed around the periphery of the opening of the recess 46. This allows the recess 46 to be provided within the space occupied by the heat dissipation fins 47. The heat dissipation fins 47 form part of the wiring fixing portion 45. The recess 46 is formed in the portion of the housing 44 that protrudes due to the heat dissipation fins 47. This prevents the size of the housing 44 from increasing due to the formation of the recess 46.

[0099] In addition, the wiring component 50 also includes a cover component 60, which is disposed around the second fixing part 52 and installed in the opening of the recess 46. Thus, the second fixing part 52 can be easily installed into the housing 44 via the cover component 60.

[0100] Furthermore, since the main body 62 of the cover member 60 is formed of an elastic material, it can fit snugly against the wires 53, 54, 55, and 56, thus suppressing the swaying of the wires 53, 54, 55, and 56. Additionally, the cover member 60 is easily mounted to the housing 44 by means of its outer periphery 64, which is formed in a threaded shape.

[0101] Furthermore, the peripheral wall 48 of the recess 46 and the cover member 60 provide waterproofing for the interior of the recess 46. Specifically, the main body 62 is in close contact with the outer shell 44, the outer peripheral portion 64, and the wiring member 50, respectively. This provides a simple waterproofing structure for the interior of the recess 46. Additionally, in the main body 62, at the portions that connect with the outer shell 44, the outer peripheral portion 64, and the wiring member 50, a first lip 63a, a second lip 63b, 63c, and a third lip 63d are provided. This improves the waterproofing performance of the interior of the recess 46.

[0102] Furthermore, the end of the sheath 57 is located between the first fixing part 51 and the second fixing part 52. This makes it easier to handle the multiple wires 53, 54, 55, and 56 when installing the second fixing part 52 to the housing 44.

[0103] [Variation Example]

[0104] The case where the recess 46 is formed in the housing 44 has been described so far, but this is not a necessary structure. For example, the wiring connection may also be located on the side of the housing where no heat dissipation fins are formed. Alternatively, the wiring member 50 may be wired in a bent manner between the first fixing part 51 and the second fixing part 52.

[0105] Furthermore, the case where heat dissipation fins 47 are provided around the opening in the recess 46 has been described so far, but this is not a necessary structure. The recess 46 may also be formed in a portion of the housing where heat dissipation fins 47 are not provided.

[0106] Furthermore, the case where the second fixing part 52 is fixed to the wiring fixing part 45 using the cover member 60 has been described so far, but this is not a necessary structure. For example, the second fixing part 52 can also be fixed to the wiring fixing part 45 using a component other than the cover member 60, such as a bracket. In addition, the wiring fixing part 45 can also be formed into a clip-like shape or the like that can directly support the wiring member 50, so that the second fixing part 52 can be directly fixed to the housing 44.

[0107] Furthermore, the case where the cover member 60 includes a main body 62 made of elastic material and an outer peripheral portion 64 that is more rigid than the main body 62 has been described so far, but this is not a necessary structure. For example, the outer peripheral portion 64 may be omitted from the cover member. In this case, the cover member may be pressed into the opening of the recess 46. Alternatively, for example, the cover member and the recess 46 may be installed in the recess 46 by a thread different from the threaded portions 49 and 65. In this case, a threaded seat may be provided on the outer side of the peripheral wall of the recess, and a threaded hole may be provided in the outer peripheral portion at a position corresponding to the threaded seat. Alternatively, for example, the cover member may be an insert-molded body formed by insert molding of the wiring member 50 as an insert.

[0108] Furthermore, the above description assumes that multiple wires 53, 54, 55, and 56 are converged into one by the sheath 57, but this is not a necessary structure. For example, the multiple wires 53, 54, 55, and 56 may not be converged into one. Additionally, the component that converges the multiple wires 53, 54, 55, and 56 may be a protective component other than the sheath 57. This protective component may be, for example, a corrugated pipe, a spirally wound tape, a resin tube, or a metal tube. Furthermore, the multiple wires 53, 54, 55, and 56 do not need to be converged into one along their entire length. For example, the sheath 57 may be omitted, and the multiple wires 53, 54, 55, and 56 may be converged into one using a cover member 60, a bracket, or the like that supports the wiring component 50 in a constant position. Here, the bracket may also be a support member 70.

[0109] Additionally, the wiring component 50 may also include wiring other than the wires 53, 54, 55, and 56 used by the in-wheel motor unit 41. This wiring connects to peripheral devices disposed around the in-wheel motor unit 41. Such peripheral devices are envisioned, for example, sensors, electric brakes, etc. For instance, the sensor could be a sensor that detects the rotational speed of the wheel 20 or a temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the in-wheel motor 42, etc. The electric brake could be an electric parking brake used when the vehicle is parked, or a brake used when the vehicle is in motion.

[0110] The connection points between these peripheral devices and their wiring can be located in the same position as the connection points between wires 53, 54, 55, 56 and the in-wheel motor 42, or they can be located in different positions. When the connection points between the peripheral devices and their wiring are located in a different position than the connection points between wires 53, 54, 55, 56 and the in-wheel motor 42, wires 53, 54, 55, 56 and the wiring for the peripheral devices can branch off on the side of the cover member 60 closest to the vehicle body-side equipment 80.

[0111] The vehicle-side equipment connected to the peripheral devices via wiring for peripheral devices only needs to be a device for transmitting and receiving signals or supplying power to the peripheral devices. For example, the vehicle-side equipment may also include the function of an ECU (Electronic Control Unit) for receiving signals from sensors or controlling the aforementioned electric brakes. The vehicle-side equipment can be installed inside or outside the vehicle body 10.

[0112] Furthermore, the structures described in the above embodiments and variations can be appropriately combined as long as they do not contradict each other.

[0113] Label Explanation

[0114] 10. Vehicle body

[0115] 12. Floor section

[0116] 14. Body Part

[0117] 16 Mudguards

[0118] 18 Steering Wheel

[0119] 18a Steering Axle

[0120] 18b Transmission Mechanism

[0121] 20 wheels

[0122] 22-spoke wheel

[0123] 22a Disk Section

[0124] 22b Tire mounting section

[0125] 24 tires

[0126] 25 Upper steering knuckle

[0127] 26. Lower steering knuckle

[0128] 26a Arm

[0129] 27 Springs

[0130] 28 Dampers

[0131] 29 Bearing Section

[0132] 30 Forearm

[0133] 31 Bearing section

[0134] 32 tie rods

[0135] 40 Wiring Construction

[0136] 41 In-wheel motor unit

[0137] 42 In-wheel electric motors

[0138] 42a Motor Body

[0139] 42b axis

[0140] 43 Wiring connection (connector)

[0141] 44. Outer shell

[0142] 44a Side view

[0143] 45 Wiring fixing part

[0144] 46 recess

[0145] 47 Heat dissipation fins

[0146] 48 Boss (surrounding wall of concave part)

[0147] 49. Threaded section

[0148] 50 Wiring components

[0149] 51 First fixed part

[0150] 52 Second fixed part

[0151] Wires 53, 54, 55, and 56

[0152] 57 Sheath

[0153] 58 connector

[0154] 60 Cover components

[0155] 62 main body

[0156] 62h Hole

[0157] 63a First lip

[0158] 63b, 63c Second lip

[0159] 63d Third lip

[0160] 64 Peripheral part

[0161] 65. Threaded section

[0162] 70 Supporting components

[0163] 80 Vehicle side equipment

Claims

1. A wiring structure of a wiring member, comprising: an in-wheel motor unit including an in-wheel motor and a housing that houses the in-wheel motor; and a wiring member that connects the in-wheel motor and a vehicle body side device, an end portion of the wiring member connected to the in-wheel motor is a first fixing portion, and a portion of the wiring member fixed to a vehicle after the end portion is a second fixing portion, a wiring fixing portion for fixing the second fixing portion is provided in the housing, a recess is formed in the housing, the first fixing portion is fixed to a position of a bottom of the recess, and the second fixing portion is fixed to a portion of the housing that forms an opening portion of the recess, the housing includes a heat dissipation fin, at least a portion of the heat dissipation fin is used as the wiring fixing portion.

2. The wiring structure of a wiring member according to claim 1, wherein the wiring structure further comprises a cover member that is provided around the wiring member at the second fixing portion and covers the opening portion.

3. The wiring structure of a wiring member according to claim 2, wherein the cover member includes a main body and an outer peripheral portion around the main body, the main body is formed of an elastic material, the wiring member passes through a hole formed in the main body, the outer peripheral portion has a thread-shaped portion formed in a thread shape from a material that is higher in rigidity than the elastic material.

4. The wiring structure of a wiring member according to claim 3, wherein the main body is in close contact with the outer peripheral portion, the wiring member, and the housing.

5. The wiring structure of a wiring member according to claim 4, wherein a first lip portion, a second lip portion, and a third lip portion are provided in the main body, the first lip portion is provided in a portion of the main body that contacts the housing, the second lip portion is provided in a portion of the main body that contacts the outer peripheral portion, the third lip portion is provided in a portion of the main body that contacts the wiring member.

6. The wiring structure of a wiring member according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the wiring member includes a plurality of wire-like transmission members and a sheath that covers the plurality of wire-like transmission members, an end portion of the sheath is located between the first fixing portion and the second fixing portion. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​

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