Cylinder block for vehicle engine

Abstract

This invention relates to a cylinder block for a vehicle engine, which uses the same cylinder block blank in both FR and FF vehicle engines, aiming to achieve a significant overall cost reduction. In a cylinder block for a vehicle engine having a connecting flange (10) for assembling a longitudinally mounted transmission (TM) or a transversely mounted transmission drive axle (TA) and having a trapezoidal frame (2) and an oil pan (3) mounted at the lower end (1b), the following are provided: a first flange (11) formed on the outer edge (10a) of the connecting flange (10), having a first mating surface (11a) that abuts against the mating surface (101a) of the transmission (TM) opposite to the engine (EG); and a second flange (12) formed on the inner side of the first flange (11), having a second mating surface (12a) that abuts against the mating surface (201a) of the transmission drive axle (TA) opposite to the engine (EG).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the cylinder block of an engine mounted in a vehicle as a driving force source. Background Technology

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a cylinder block for a vehicle engine intended to share a cylinder block in a so-called longitudinally mounted FR (Front-engine Rear-wheel drive) vehicle engine, where the crankshaft's axis of rotation is aligned with the vehicle's longitudinal direction, and a so-called transversely mounted FF (Front-engine Front-wheel drive) vehicle engine, where the crankshaft's axis of rotation is aligned with the vehicle's transverse direction. The cylinder block of the vehicle engine described in Patent Document 1 has a flange integrally formed at its rear end. A transmission or a transmission drive axle is assembled from the flange of the cylinder block to the flange of the oil pan. In the case of an FR vehicle, it is mounted longitudinally in the vehicle along with the transmission. In the case of an FF vehicle, it is mounted transversely in the vehicle along with the transmission drive axle. Furthermore, a notched recess is formed at the lower edge of the engine flange of the cylinder block. In the structure for an FR vehicle, a starter motor is positioned at the location of this recess. In the structure used in FF vehicles, the starter motor is located on the side or above the drive shaft, where the drive shaft passes through the recess.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2003-3906 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] As described above, the cylinder block of Patent Document 1 is configured such that the outer edge shape of the flange portion formed at one end of the cylinder block is the same in both engines for FR vehicles and engines for FF vehicles. Furthermore, by providing a recess obtained by cutting a portion of the flange portion to avoid interference with other components, it is possible to achieve a longitudinal mounting configuration in a vehicle with a transmission for FR vehicles assembled on the flange portion, and a transverse mounting configuration in a vehicle with a transmission drive axle for FF vehicles assembled on the flange portion. In other words, when the same type of engine is used in both FR and FF vehicles, the cylinder block can be shared between the engines in FR and FF vehicles. However, in order to share the cylinder block between engines for FR and FF vehicles, the shape and arrangement of the transmission housing or transmission drive axle housing, as well as other components such as the starter motor and drive shaft, which are mounted on the cylinder block, need to be specially or specifically designed to match the position and shape of the flange portion of the cylinder block as described above. Therefore, even if a certain cost reduction is successfully achieved by sharing the cylinder block as described above, the overall cost reduction effect is sometimes not fully realized as a whole vehicle.

[0008] The present invention was conceived in view of the technical problem described above, and aims to provide a cylinder block for a vehicle engine that can share cylinder block blanks in, for example, longitudinally mounted engines for FR vehicles and transversely mounted engines for FF vehicles without increasing costs, and can achieve a sufficient overall cost reduction effect.

[0009] Methods for solving problems

[0010] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides a cylinder block for a vehicle engine, comprising a mating flange for assembling a transmission or a transmission drive axle, wherein an oil pan or a trapezoidal frame and an oil pan are mounted at the lower end in the vertical direction, the transmission being configured such that the rotation axis of the input shaft coaxial with the crankshaft of the connected engine is aligned with the overall length direction of the vehicle, and the transmission drive axle being configured such that the rotation axis of the input shaft coaxial with the crankshaft of the connected engine is aligned with the overall width direction of the vehicle. The cylinder block for the vehicle engine is characterized in that the mating flange has: a first flange, and a lower flange formed in the outer edge of the mating flange. A portion of the end, and forming a first mating surface that abuts against the mating surface of the transmission opposite to the engine connected to it; a branch portion, defining the starting point of the first flange in the outer edge, i.e. the junction of the mating flange and the first flange in the outer edge; and a second flange, formed in the outer edge on the side closer to the mating flange than the branch portion, i.e., the portion of the outer edge excluding the first flange branches from the outer edge and extends toward the mating flange on the inner side (or center side) of the mating flange than the first flange, and forming a second mating surface that abuts against the mating surface of the transmission drive axle opposite to the engine connected to it.

[0011] Additionally, the engagement flange in this invention may have: a first rib integrally formed with the first flange and the first engagement surface, and connected to a longitudinal rib, the longitudinal rib being formed on at least one of the mating surface of the oil pan abutting against the mating surface of the transmission and the mating surface of the trapezoidal frame abutting against the mating surface of the transmission; and a second rib integrally formed with the second flange and the second engagement surface, and connected to a transverse rib, the transverse rib being formed on at least one of the mating surface of the oil pan abutting against the mating surface of the transmission drive axle and the mating surface of the trapezoidal frame abutting against the mating surface of the transmission drive axle.

[0012] Additionally, the engagement flange in this invention may have a bolt-fastening protrusion forming a bolt hole or threaded hole for assembling and engaging the gearbox or the transmission drive axle with the engagement flange. The bolt-fastening protrusion in this invention may be formed at a position on the outer edge closer to the engagement flange than the branch portion, and at a position connected to the longitudinal protrusion via the outer edge, the first rib, and the longitudinal rib, and also at a position connected to the transverse protrusion via the outer edge, the second rib, and the... At the position where the transverse ribs connect, the longitudinal ribs of at least one of the longitudinal protrusions abutting the mating surface of the oil pan and the mating surface of the trapezoidal frame abutting the mating surface of the transmission are integrally formed and form bolt holes or threaded holes for bolt fastening. The transverse ribs of the transverse protrusions abutting the mating surface of the oil pan and the mating surface of the trapezoidal frame abutting the mating surface of the transmission drive axle are integrally formed and form bolt holes or threaded holes for bolt fastening.

[0013] Additionally, the present invention can be configured to assemble and engage the transmission drive axle while leaving the second flange and removing the first flange on the lower end side of the outer edge that is closer to the branch (i.e., removing the first flange and the first mating surface formed on the first flange, or removing the first flange, the first mating surface formed on the first flange, and the first rib).

[0014] Furthermore, the present invention can be configured to assemble and engage the transmission while leaving both the first flange and the second flange in place.

[0015] It should be noted that, generally speaking, a "transmission drive axle" is a power transmission device that integrates a transmission (gearbox), differential gears, and drive shaft into a single unit. Such a "transmission drive axle" can also exist as a so-called longitudinally mounted transmission drive axle, in which the rotation axis of the input shaft, coaxial with the engine's crankshaft, is aligned with the overall length direction of the vehicle (i.e., the longitudinal direction of the vehicle). However, the "transmission drive axle" in this invention is limited to a so-called transversely mounted transmission drive axle, in which the rotation axis of the input shaft, coaxial with the engine's crankshaft, is aligned with the overall width direction of the vehicle (i.e., the lateral direction of the vehicle). At the same time, the "gearbox" in this invention is limited to a so-called longitudinally mounted gearbox, in which the rotation axis of the input shaft, coaxial with the engine's crankshaft, is aligned with the overall length direction of the vehicle.

[0016] Invention Effects

[0017] The cylinder block of the vehicle engine of the present invention is configured as a vehicle engine by mounting an oil pan at the lower part. Alternatively, a vehicle engine is configured by mounting a trapezoidal frame and an oil pan at the lower part. The vehicle engine of the present invention uses the same cylinder block blank when the transmission is assembled in a so-called longitudinal configuration and mounted on a FR vehicle, and when the transmission drive axle is assembled in a so-called transverse configuration and mounted on a FF vehicle (or a four-wheel drive vehicle based on an FF vehicle). Therefore, the cylinder block of the vehicle engine of the present invention has two flanges, a first flange and a second flange, with different positions and shapes, on the engagement flange for assembling and engaging the transmission for FR vehicles or the transmission drive axle for FF vehicles. The first flange is formed on a portion of the outer edge of the engagement flange, including the lower end, and has a first engagement surface that abuts against the mating surface of the transmission for FR vehicles. The first flange can be used to assemble and engage (e.g., bolt fasten) the cylinder block of the vehicle engine of the present invention with the transmission for FR vehicles. That is, a cylinder block of a vehicle engine for assembling a transmission for FR vehicles can be formed. On the other hand, the second flange branches off from the outer edge of the connecting flange and is formed at a different position than the first flange formed on the outer edge of the connecting flange (i.e., the central rotation axis side), having a second mating surface that abuts against the mating surface of the transmission drive axle for FF vehicles. This second flange can be used to assemble and engage (e.g., bolt fasten) the cylinder block of the vehicle engine of the present invention with the transmission drive axle for FF vehicles. In this case, by leaving the second flange located inside the connecting flange and cutting off the first flange on the outer edge of the connecting flange that is lower than the branch portion, a cylinder block of a vehicle engine for assembling a transmission drive axle for FF vehicles can be formed with the second flange and the second mating surface on the outer edge of the connecting flange.

[0018] In this way, the cylinder block of the transversely mounted vehicle engine for assembling the transmission drive axle of an FF vehicle is formed by removing a portion of the first flange of the cylinder block of the longitudinally mounted vehicle engine for assembling the transmission of an FR vehicle. Therefore, for example, by machining a cylinder block blank cast from aluminum alloy or cast iron, it is possible to manufacture both transversely mounted and longitudinally mounted vehicle engine cylinder blocks. That is, the cylinder block blank can be shared in both longitudinally mounted and transversely mounted vehicle engines. Furthermore, as described above, by constructing a cylinder block that can accommodate both longitudinally mounted and transversely mounted vehicle engines, the necessity for dedicated design of other components and parts for sharing the vehicle engine in both FR (longitudinal) and FF (transverse) vehicles is reduced. Therefore, by using the cylinder block of the vehicle engine of the present invention, it is possible to share the cylinder block blank in both longitudinally mounted and transversely mounted vehicle engines without increasing the cost required for dedicated design of other components and parts. Therefore, it is possible to use common molds and common casting equipment to manufacture cylinder blocks applicable to both longitudinally mounted and transversely mounted vehicle engines as described above. As a result, a significant cost reduction can be achieved compared to setting up dedicated molds and manufacturing equipment in each case.

[0019] Furthermore, the cylinder block of the vehicle engine of the present invention has a first rib formed on the joining flange together with the aforementioned first flange and first mating surface. Additionally, a second rib is formed on the joining flange together with the aforementioned second flange and second mating surface. The first rib is formed as a longitudinal rib continuous with the mating surface of the oil pan or the mating surface of the trapezoidal frame mounted on the lower part of the cylinder block. Similarly, the second rib is formed as a transverse rib continuous with the mating surface of the oil pan or the mating surface of the trapezoidal frame. Therefore, when the cylinder block of the present invention is used to mount an oil pan or a trapezoidal frame and an oil pan to form a vehicle engine, two ribs are formed on the joining flange: the first rib and the longitudinal rib, and the second rib and the transverse rib, respectively continuous. These two ribs function as reinforcement ribs or reinforcement rigidity ribs of the joining flange in the case of assembling a transmission for a FR vehicle with a vehicle engine using the cylinder block of the present invention, and in the case of assembling a transmission drive axle for a FF vehicle. Therefore, the strength and rigidity of the vehicle engine using the cylinder block of the present invention can be adequately ensured.

[0020] Furthermore, the cylinder block of the vehicle engine of the present invention has bolt-fastening protrusions formed on the mating flange. These bolt-fastening protrusions are formed at locations where they are connected to a longitudinal protrusion via the outer edge of the mating flange, a first rib, and a longitudinal rib, and also to a transverse protrusion via the outer edge of the mating flange, a second rib, and a transverse rib. In other words, the bolt-fastening protrusion and the longitudinal protrusion are connected by the aforementioned first rib and longitudinal rib, and the bolt-fastening protrusion and the transverse protrusion are connected by the aforementioned second rib and transverse rib. Therefore, when the vehicle engine of the present invention is bolted together with a transmission for an FR vehicle or a drive axle for an FF vehicle, the strength and rigidity at each mating surface can be adequately ensured.

[0021] Therefore, the cylinder block of the vehicle engine according to the present invention allows for easy sharing of cylinder block blanks in both longitudinally mounted FR vehicle engines and transversely mounted FF vehicle engines. Consequently, for vehicles equipped with engines using the cylinder block of the vehicle engine according to the present invention, a significant overall cost reduction can be achieved. Furthermore, it is possible to appropriately balance the cost reduction achieved by sharing the cylinder block blanks as described above with the assurance of strength and rigidity of the vehicle engine using this cylinder block. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Figure 1 This diagram schematically illustrates the state in which a longitudinally mounted engine block of a vehicle engine, in which the present invention is applied, is assembled with a transmission for an FR vehicle.

[0023] Figure 2 This diagram schematically illustrates the state in which a transversely mounted engine block of a vehicle engine for which the present invention is applied is assembled with a transmission drive axle for an FF vehicle.

[0024] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating a transmission assembled with a longitudinally mounted engine in a vehicle engine cylinder block to which the present invention is applied. It shows a flywheel disposed between the connected longitudinally mounted engine and transmission, and the mating surface of the transmission facing the longitudinally mounted engine (cylinder block).

[0025] Figure 4 This diagram illustrates the transmission drive axle of a transversely mounted engine assembly in a vehicle engine cylinder block to which the present invention is applied. It shows the transmission drive axle incorporating a transfer case for a four-wheel drive vehicle and the mating surface of the transmission drive axle opposite to the connected transversely mounted engine (cylinder block).

[0026] Figure 5This diagram illustrates the subject matter of the cylinder block of the vehicle engine of the present invention. It shows the range of flanges required for assembling the transmission and the range of flanges required for assembling the transmission drive axle when the cylinder block is shared in a longitudinally mounted engine for assembling a transmission for a FR vehicle and a transversely mounted engine for assembling a transmission drive axle for a FF vehicle.

[0027] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of the cylinder block of the vehicle engine of the present invention, showing the engagement flange and engagement surface of the cylinder block for assembling a transmission for FR vehicles or a transmission drive axle for FF vehicles.

[0028] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of the cylinder block of the vehicle engine of the present invention, showing the state in which a ladder frame and an oil pan are installed in the cylinder block of a transmission for FR vehicles.

[0029] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of the cylinder block of the vehicle engine of the present invention, showing the cylinder block with the first flange removed for assembling the transmission drive axle for FF vehicles.

[0030] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of the cylinder block of the vehicle engine of the present invention. It shows the cylinder block with the first flange removed for assembling the transmission drive axle for FF vehicles, and the cylinder block with the trapezoidal frame and oil pan installed. Detailed Implementation

[0031] Embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the embodiments shown below are merely examples of how the present invention is embodied and do not limit the scope of the invention.

[0032] In embodiments of the present invention, the cylinder block of a vehicle engine constitutes a major part of the vehicle engine, which serves as a driving power source. In embodiments of the present invention, for example, as... Figure 1 As shown, the object is a so-called "longitudinal" vehicle engine EG (hereinafter referred to as engine EG) configured such that the rotation axis AL of the crankshaft (not shown) is aligned with the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. Figure 1 The image shows a configuration in which a transmission TM for a FR vehicle is assembled with a longitudinally mounted engine EG, wherein the direction of the rotation axis (i.e., rotation axis AL) of the input shaft (not shown) coaxial with the crankshaft of the engine EG is aligned with the overall length direction of the vehicle. Meanwhile, in embodiments of the present invention, for example, as... Figure 2As shown, this also applies to a so-called "transversely mounted" vehicle engine EG (hereinafter referred to as engine EG) configured such that the rotation axis AL of the crankshaft (not shown) is aligned with the full width direction (lateral) of the vehicle. Figure 2 The diagram shows a transversely mounted engine EG with a transmission drive axle TA configured such that the axis of rotation (i.e., the axis of rotation AL) of the input shaft (not shown), which is coaxial with the crankshaft of the engine EG, is aligned with the full width direction of the vehicle. This configuration is suitable for FF vehicles or four-wheel drive vehicles based on FF vehicles. Specifically, in this embodiment of the invention, the focus is on the same type of engine EG used in both FR and FF vehicles.

[0033] As described above, when the engine EG is shared in both longitudinally mounted FR vehicles and transversely mounted FF vehicles, it is subject to various constraints based on the positional relationship of the flanges used for assembling the connected transmission TM or transmission drive axle TA, and interference with other components located in the vicinity. For example, such as Figure 3 As shown, the cylinder block of the engine EG needs to be equipped with a "joining flange" whose shape matches that of the flange 101 used for assembling the transmission TM and has an inner diameter larger than the outer diameter of the flywheel 102 disposed between the engine EG and the transmission TM. Meanwhile, as... Figure 4 As shown, the cylinder block of the engine EG needs to be equipped with a "fitting flange" that matches the shape of the flange 201 used for assembling the transmission drive axle TA and has an inner diameter larger than the outer diameter of the flywheel 202 disposed between the engine EG and the transmission drive axle TA. Additionally, a space is needed to prevent contact with the left and right drive shafts 203 extending from the transmission drive axle TA (in... Figure 4 The diagram only illustrates the "joint flange" of the interference shape of one of the drive shafts (203). Furthermore, as shown... Figure 4 As shown, when the transmission drive axle TA has a transfer case 204 for a four-wheel drive vehicle based on an FF vehicle, it is necessary to provide a "joining flange" that ensures the shape of the space for configuring the transfer case 204 and the drive shaft 205 extending from the transfer case 204. In addition, for example, the mounting position of the starter motor (not shown) also needs to be considered.

[0034] If we consider the various constraints mentioned above, then for example, Figure 5 As shown, when the engine EG is connected to the transmission TM, a "joining flange" needs to be provided on the outer side of range A in the cylinder block 301 of the engine EG. On the other hand, when the engine EG is connected to the transmission drive axle TA, a "joining flange" needs to be provided on the outer side of range B. From this... Figure 5As can be seen, the engagement flange 302 of the conventionally shaped cylinder block 301 is formed such that its outer edge 303 is located outside of range A. Therefore, it is possible to connect the transmission TM to a longitudinally mounted engine EG constructed using this cylinder block 301 without obstruction. However, the outer edge 302 of the engagement flange 302 of this cylinder block 301 is located inside range B. Therefore, it is impossible to connect the transmission drive axle TA to a transversely mounted engine EG constructed using this cylinder block 301. Therefore, when using such a... Figure 5 In the engine EG constructed with the conventional cylinder block 301 shown, it is difficult to properly connect the transmission TM for FR vehicles and the transmission drive axle TA for FF vehicles. That is, it is difficult to share the conventional cylinder block 301 in the engine EG mounted longitudinally with the transmission TM in an FR vehicle and in the engine EG mounted transversely with the transmission drive axle TA in an FF vehicle (or a four-wheel drive vehicle based on an FF vehicle).

[0035] Therefore, in the cylinder block of the vehicle engine in the embodiment of the present invention, as described above, it is configured such that, when the same type of engine EG is used in both FR and FF vehicles, the "cylinder block blank" can be shared between the engine EG mounted longitudinally in the FR vehicle and the engine EG mounted in the FF vehicle. As a result, a significant overall cost reduction is achieved, both as the engine EG and as the vehicle as a whole equipped with the engine EG.

[0036] exist Figure 6 , Figure 7 An example of a cylinder block for a vehicle engine according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. The engine EG in this embodiment is a so-called reciprocating internal combustion engine configured to convert the reciprocating motion of a piston (not shown) into the rotational motion of a crankshaft (not shown) to output torque. Furthermore, the cylinder block 1 in this embodiment is a major component of the engine EG, and in the vertical direction ( Figure 6 , Figure 7 The cylinder head (not shown), valve mechanism (not shown), etc., are mounted on the upper end 1a of the cylinder block 1 in the vertical direction. Additionally, an oil pan (not shown) is mounted on the lower end 1b of the cylinder block 1 in the vertical direction. Alternatively, as... Figure 7 As shown, a trapezoidal frame 2 and an oil pan 3 are mounted on the lower end 1b of the cylinder block 1. The cylinder block 1, together with the cylinder heads (not shown) and the oil pan or trapezoidal frame 2 and oil pan 3 (not shown), constitute the engine EG as described above.

[0037] As previously mentioned, the engine EG is envisioned to be mounted on both FR and FF vehicles. To this end, the cylinder block 1 in the embodiments of the present invention has an engagement flange 10 for assembling a transmission TM for FR vehicles or a transmission drive axle TA for FF vehicles.

[0038] The engagement flange 10 is integrally formed with the main body of the cylinder block 1 at the end of the engine EG on the output shaft side within the main body of the cylinder block 1. The engagement flange 10 is a flange used to assemble and engage the transmission TM for FR vehicles or the transmission drive axle TA for FF vehicles. Figure 3 The flange 101 of the transmission TM shown is assembled and engaged by bolts. Alternatively, the engaging flange 10 is with... Figure 4 The flange 201 of the variable speed drive axle TA shown is assembled and joined by bolts.

[0039] Specifically, the joining flange 10 has a first flange 11 and a second flange 12. Furthermore, the joining flange 10 has a first engagement surface 11a and a first rib 11b formed on the first flange 11, and a second engagement surface 12a and a second rib 12b formed on the second flange 12. The joining flange 10 also has a branch portion 13. Additionally, the joining flange 10 has a bolt-fastening protrusion 14.

[0040] The first flange 11 is formed on a portion of the outer edge 10a of the engaging flange 10. Figure 6 , Figure 7 In the example shown, the first flange 11 is formed from the right side portion of the outer edge 10a to the lower end 1b of the cylinder body 1. In other words, the first flange 11 forms a portion of the outer edge 10a of the joining flange 10 from the right side portion of the joining flange 10 to the lower end 1b of the cylinder body 1. Specifically, the first flange 11 forms a portion of the outer edge 10a of the joining flange 10 from the branch portion 13 (described later) in the outer edge 10a of the joining flange 10 to the lower end 1b. A first mating surface 11a and a first rib 11b are formed on this first flange 11.

[0041] When the first mating surface 11a is connected to the transmission TM of the engine EG, it is as follows: Figure 3 The flange 101 of the transmission TM shown abuts against the mating surface 101a. The first rib 11b is integrally formed with the first flange 11 and the first mating surface 11a. That is, the end face of the first rib 11b facing the mating surface 101a of the transmission TM becomes the aforementioned first mating surface 11a. Furthermore, as... Figure 7 As shown, the first rib 11b is formed to connect with a longitudinally placed rib 2b formed on the mating surface 2a of the trapezoidal frame 2, which abuts against the mating surface 101a of the transmission TM. Furthermore, in Figure 7 In the example shown, the first rib 11b is formed as follows: on the first mating surface 11a, i.e. the mating surface (butting surface) 10b of the mating flange 10, it is continuous with the longitudinal rib 2b of the trapezoidal frame 2, and through the longitudinal rib 2b it is continuous with the longitudinal rib 3b formed on the mating surface 3a of the oil pan 3 that abuts against the mating surface 101a of the transmission TM.

[0042] It should be noted that the EG engine does not use... Figure 7 In the case of the structure of the trapezoidal frame 2 shown, that is, when the engine EG is composed of a cylinder block 1 and an oil pan (not shown) mounted on the lower end 1b of the cylinder block 1, the first rib 11b is formed to be connected to a longitudinal rib (not shown) formed on the mating surface of the oil pan (not shown) that abuts against the mating surface 101a of the transmission TM.

[0043] The second flange 12 is formed in the mating flange 10 and is located more inside than the first flange 11. Figure 6 , Figure 7 (on the left side). Specifically, the second flange 12 is formed such that, taking the branch portion 13 described later as the starting point or branch point, it extends from the first flange 11 towards the inner side of the joining flange 10 (on the left side). Figure 6 , Figure 7 The second flange 12 is formed such that a portion of the outer edge 10a of the connecting flange 10 that is closer to the connecting flange 10 than the branch portion 13 (i.e., the portion excluding the first flange 11) branches from the outer edge 10a and extends toward the connecting flange 10 toward the inner side of the connecting flange 10 than the first flange 11. A second mating surface 12a and a second rib 12b are formed on this second flange 12.

[0044] When the second mating surface 12a is connected to the transmission drive axle TA of the engine EG, it is as follows: Figure 4 The flange 201a of the transmission drive axle TA shown abuts against the second flange 12 and the second mating surface 12a. That is, the end face of the second rib 12b facing the flange 201a of the transmission drive axle TA becomes the aforementioned second mating surface 12a. Furthermore, as... Figure 7 As shown, the second rib 12b is formed to connect with a transverse rib 2c formed on the mating surface 2a of the trapezoidal frame 2, which abuts against the mating surface 201a of the transmission drive axle TA. Furthermore, in Figure 7 In the example shown, the second rib 12b is formed as follows: on the second mating surface 12a, i.e. the mating surface (butting surface) 10b of the mating flange 10, it is continuous with the transverse rib 2c of the trapezoidal frame 2, and via the transverse rib 2c it is continuous with the transverse rib 3c formed on the mating surface 3a of the oil pan 3 that abuts against the mating surface 201a of the transmission drive axle TA.

[0045] It should be noted that the EG engine does not use... Figure 7In the case of the structure of the trapezoidal frame 2 shown, that is, when the engine EG is composed of a cylinder block 1 and an oil pan (not shown) mounted on the lower end 1b of the cylinder block 1, the second rib 12b is formed to be connected to a transverse rib (not shown) formed on the mating surface of the oil pan (not shown) that abuts against the mating surface 201a of the transmission drive axle TA.

[0046] The branch portion 13 defines the starting point of the first flange 11 in the outer edge 10a relative to a portion of the first flange 11 formed in the outer edge 10a of the joining flange 10. In other words, the branch portion 13 defines the portion at the junction of the joining flange 10 and the first flange 11 in the outer edge 10a of the joining flange 10. For example, the cut surface (not shown) of the outer edge 10a that is cut off at the cut surface CP described later can be regarded as the branch portion 13.

[0047] The bolt-fastening protrusion 14 is a portion forming a bolt hole or threaded hole for assembling and engaging the gearbox TM or transmission drive axle TA with the engagement flange 10. It is formed in the outer edge 10a of the engagement flange 10 at a position closer to the engagement flange 10 than the branch 13 (i.e., excluding the portion including the first flange 11). Figure 7 In the example shown, a bolt hole 14a for bolt fastening is formed in the bolt fastening protrusion 14. Furthermore, the bolt fastening protrusion 14 is formed at positions that connect to the "longitudinal protrusion" formed on the trapezoidal frame 2 or oil pan 3 via the outer edge 10a, the first rib 11b, and the "longitudinal rib," and also at positions that connect to the "transverse protrusion" formed on the trapezoidal frame 2 or oil pan 3 via the outer edge 10a, the second rib 12b, and the "transverse rib." Figure 7 In the example shown, the bolt fastening protrusion 14 is formed at the following positions: as described above, the position is the portion of the outer edge 10a excluding the first flange 11; the position is connected to the longitudinal protrusion 3d formed on the oil pan 3 via the outer edge 10a, the first rib 11b, and the longitudinal rib 2b; and the position is connected to the transverse protrusion 3e formed on the oil pan 3 via the outer edge 10a, the second rib 12b, and the transverse ribs 2c and 3c.

[0048] The longitudinally positioned protrusion 3d and the longitudinally positioned rib 3b of the oil pan 3 are integrally formed on the mating surface 3a of the oil pan 3, which abuts against the mating surface 101a of the transmission TM. Figure 7 In the example shown, a bolt hole 3f for bolt fastening is formed in the vertically oriented protrusion 3d. Additionally, in... Figure 7 In the example shown, a longitudinal protrusion 2d is formed in the trapezoidal frame 2. The longitudinal protrusion 2d and the longitudinal rib 2b of the trapezoidal frame 2 are integrally formed on the mating surface 2a of the trapezoidal frame 2, which abuts against the mating surface 101a of the transmission TM. Figure 7In the example shown, a bolt hole 2e for bolt fastening is formed in the longitudinally positioned protrusion 2d. It should be noted that, although in Figure 7 Although not shown in the figure, a "horizontal protrusion" that is integral with the horizontal rib 2c can also be formed on the mating surface 2a of the trapezoidal frame 2.

[0049] The transverse protrusion 3e and the transverse rib 3c of the oil pan 3 are integrally formed on the mating surface 3a of the oil pan 3, which abuts against the mating surface 201a of the transmission drive axle TA. Figure 7 In the example shown, a bolt hole 3g for bolt fastening is formed in the horizontally positioned protrusion 3e. Additionally, in Figure 7 In the example shown, the transverse protrusion 3e and the transverse rib 3c mentioned above are integrally formed with the longitudinal rib 3b. That is, in the mating surface 3a of the oil pan 3, the longitudinal protrusion 3d and the transverse protrusion 3e are connected by the longitudinal rib 3b.

[0050] Cylinder blocks 1 constructed as described above are typically cast from materials such as aluminum alloy or cast iron. That is, as... Figure 6 The cylinder block 1 shown is manufactured by first casting a blank of cylinder block 1 and then precision machining the blank of cylinder block 1 using machining. Figure 6 The cylinder block 1 shown is the cylinder block 1 of the longitudinally mounted engine EG for FR vehicles. In this case, the upper end 1a and lower end 1b, the mating surface 10b of the connecting flange 10, and the bolt holes 2e, 3f, 3g, etc., are formed by performing the same machining process on the cast blank as in the past. That is, the cylinder block 1 of the longitudinally mounted engine EG connected to the transmission TM is formed by the same manufacturing method as in the past, leaving both the first flange 11 and the second flange 12 intact.

[0051] Furthermore, in embodiments of the present invention, the cylinder block 1 is formed by machining the first flange 11 away, in addition to the conventional machining described above. This allows the cylinder block 1 of the transversely mounted engine EG connected to the transmission drive axle TA to be formed. Specifically, by... Figure 6 The first flange 11 is cut off at the cut surface CP shown, which can form a shape like... Figure 8 , Figure 9 The cylinder block 1 shown constitutes a transversely mounted engine EG. The cut surface CP is a plane including the aforementioned branch 13, which divides the main body portion of the engaging flange 10 and the portion of the first flange 11 within the outer edge 10a of the engaging flange 10. Therefore, this... Figure 8 , Figure 9 The cylinder block 1 of the transversely mounted engine EG shown is capable of operating from the aforementioned... Figure 6 The cylinder block 1 of the longitudinally mounted engine EG shown is formed from the same blank. It should be noted that... Figure 6 , Figure 8For convenience, the cut surface CP is shown as a double-dotted line. In reality, the cut surface CP extends from the first mating surface 11a of the first flange 11 towards the rotation axis AL. Figure 6 , Figure 8 The plane extends in the depth direction. Additionally, in Figure 8 , Figure 9 In the middle, regarding the above Figure 6 , Figure 7 The cylinder block 1 shown, as well as components or parts with the same structure, shape, or function as engine EG, are marked with the same markings as those shown in the diagram. Figure 6 , Figure 7 The same reference numerals are used in the accompanying drawings.

[0052] exist Figure 8 , Figure 9 In the cylinder block 1 of the transversely mounted engine EG shown, since the first flange 11 connecting to the transmission TM has been removed as described above, it is possible to... Figure 8 , Figure 9 The cylinder block 1 of the transversely mounted engine EG is connected unobstructed to the transmission drive axle TA. That is, via... Figure 6 , Figure 7 The cylinder block 1 shown in the figure retains the second flange 12 while only the first flange 11 is removed, making it easy to manufacture the cylinder block 1 of a transversely mounted engine EG connected to a transmission drive axle TA.

[0053] It should be noted that, in Figure 9 The diagram shows a trapezoidal frame 2 without the shape of longitudinal rib 2b and longitudinal protrusion 2d, and an oil pan 3 without the shape of longitudinal rib 3b and longitudinal protrusion 3d. Figure 9 The trapezoidal frame 2 shown can be constructed from the above-mentioned... Figure 7 The trapezoidal frame 2 shown is manufactured by leaving the transverse ribs 2c and cutting away the portion to form the longitudinal ribs 2b and the longitudinal protrusions 2d. Additionally, Figure 9 The oil pan 3 shown can be accessed from the above-mentioned... Figure 7 The oil pan 3 of the shape shown is manufactured by leaving the transverse rib 3c and cutting off the portion that forms the longitudinal rib 3b and the longitudinal protrusion 3d. That is, Figure 9 The trapezoidal frame 2 and oil pan 3 shown can be easily manufactured using the same method as described above for the cylinder block 1 in the embodiments of the present invention. Therefore, as mentioned above... Figure 7 The longitudinally mounted engine EG shown and as described Figure 9 In the horizontally mounted engine EG shown, the blanks for the trapezoidal frame 2 and the oil pan 3 can be shared separately. Alternatively, this... Figure 9 The trapezoidal frame 2 and oil pan 3 shown can also be manufactured as structural components for the transversely mounted engine EG, just as in the past.

[0054] Thus, in the cylinder block 1 of the embodiments of the present invention, for example, by machining a cylinder block 1 blank cast from aluminum alloy or cast iron, it is possible to manufacture both a transverse engine EG cylinder block 1 and a longitudinal engine EG cylinder block 1. That is, the cylinder block 1 blank can be shared in both longitudinal and transverse engine EGs. By constructing a cylinder block 1 that can adapt to both longitudinal and transverse engine EGs, the necessity for dedicated design of other parts and components for sharing the engine EG in FR vehicles (longitudinal) and FF vehicles (transverse) is reduced. Therefore, by using the cylinder block 1 of the embodiments of the present invention, the cylinder block 1 blank can be shared in both longitudinal and transverse engine EGs without increasing the cost required for dedicated design of other parts and components. Consequently, a cylinder block 1 blank that can be applied to both longitudinal and transverse engine EGs, as described above, can be manufactured using common molds and common casting equipment. As a result, even after deducting the cost of machining required to remove the first flange 11 as described above, a significant overall cost reduction can be achieved.

[0055] Furthermore, in the cylinder body 1 of the embodiment of the present invention, the first rib 11b of the first flange 11 is formed as a mating surface with an oil pan (not shown) or Figure 7 The longitudinal ribs 2b in the mating surface 2a of the trapezoidal frame 2 shown are continuous. Similarly, the second rib 12b of the second flange 12 is formed to mate with the oil pan (not shown) or Figure 9 The transverse rib 2c in the mating surface 2a of the trapezoidal frame 2 shown is continuous. Therefore, when an engine EG is constructed using the cylinder block 1 of the embodiment of the present invention, two ribs are formed on the mating flange 10: a first rib 11b and a longitudinal rib 2b, and a second rib 12b and a transverse rib 2c, respectively continuous. These two ribs function as reinforcement ribs or rigidity ribs for the mating flange 10 in the case of assembling a transmission TM with the engine EG using the cylinder block 1 of the embodiment of the present invention, and in the case of assembling a transmission drive axle TA. Therefore, the strength and rigidity of the engine EG using the cylinder block 1 of the embodiment of the present invention can be adequately ensured.

[0056] Furthermore, in the cylinder block 1 of the embodiment of the present invention, the bolt fastening protrusion 14 and the longitudinal protrusion 3d of the oil pan 3 are connected by the aforementioned first rib 11b and longitudinal rib 2b, and the bolt fastening protrusion 14 and the transverse protrusion 3e are connected by the aforementioned second rib 12b and transverse rib 2c. Therefore, when the engine EG and the transmission TM or the transmission drive axle TA are bolted together, the strength and rigidity at each joint surface can be adequately ensured.

[0057] Therefore, the cylinder block of the vehicle engine according to the embodiment of the present invention can easily share the same blank material for both longitudinally mounted FR vehicle engines EG and transversely mounted FF vehicle engines EG. Consequently, for vehicles equipped with engines EG using the cylinder block 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention, a significant overall cost reduction can be achieved. Furthermore, it is possible to appropriately balance the cost reduction achieved by sharing the blank material of the cylinder block 1 as described above with the assurance of the strength and rigidity of the engine EG using this cylinder block 1.

[0058] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0059] 1 cylinder block

[0060] 1a (upper end of cylinder block)

[0061] 1b (lower end of cylinder block)

[0062] 2 Trapezoidal Frame

[0063] 2a (Trapezoidal frame) mating surface

[0064] 2b (formed in a trapezoidal frame) longitudinal ribs

[0065] 2c (formed in a trapezoidal frame) transverse ribs

[0066] 2d (formed in a trapezoidal frame) longitudinal protrusion

[0067] 2e (bolt holes formed in the longitudinal protrusions of the trapezoidal frame)

[0068] 3 oil pans

[0069] 3a (oil pan) mating surface

[0070] 3b (formed in the oil pan) longitudinal ribs

[0071] 3c (formed in the oil pan) horizontal rib

[0072] 3d (formed on the oil pan) longitudinal protrusions

[0073] 3e (formed in the oil pan) horizontal protrusion

[0074] 3f (longitudinal raised bolt holes formed in the oil pan)

[0075] 3g (horizontal protrusion formed in the oil pan) bolt hole

[0076] 10 Joining flange

[0077] 10a (outer edge of the mating flange)

[0078] 10b (Mating flange) mating surface (butting surface)

[0079] 11 First flange

[0080] 11a (formed on the first flange) first mating surface

[0081] 11b (formed on the first flange) First rib

[0082] 12 Second flange

[0083] 12a (formed on the second flange) second mating surface

[0084] 12b (formed on the second flange) second rib

[0085] 13 branches

[0086] 14. Bolt tightening protrusions

[0087] 14a (bolt hole formed in the bolt fastening protrusion)

[0088] 101 (for gearbox assembly) flange

[0089] 101a (the flange of the transmission) mating surface

[0090] 102 flywheel

[0091] 201 (for assembling the transmission drive axle) flange

[0092] 201a (Vehicle drive axle flange) mating surface

[0093] 202 flywheel

[0094] 203 drive shaft

[0095] 204 (for four-wheel drive vehicles) transfer case

[0096] 205 (for four-wheel drive vehicles) driveshaft

[0097] 301 (previous shape) cylinder block

[0098] 302 (conventional cylinder block shape) mating flange

[0099] 303 (outer edge of the connecting flange in conventional cylinder blocks)

[0100] AL (the axis of rotation of the input shaft of the transmission or the input shaft of the transmission drive axle)

[0101] CP (cutting surface in the case of removing the first flange)

[0102] EG vehicle engine (engine)

[0103] TM (transmission connected to the vehicle's engine)

[0104] TA (transmission drive axle connected to the vehicle's engine).

Claims

1. A cylinder block for a vehicle engine, comprising a mating flange for assembling a transmission or a transmission drive axle, wherein an oil pan or a trapezoidal frame and an oil pan are mounted at the lower end in the vertical direction, the transmission being configured such that the rotation axis of an input shaft coaxial with the crankshaft of the connected engine is aligned with the overall length direction of the vehicle, and the transmission drive axle being configured such that the rotation axis of an input shaft coaxial with the crankshaft of the connected engine is aligned with the overall width direction of the vehicle, the cylinder block for the vehicle engine being characterized in that... The joining flange has: A first flange, forming a portion of the lower end in the outer edge of the engagement flange, and having a first engagement surface that abuts against the mating surface of the transmission opposite to the engine connected to it; The branch portion defines the boundary between the engaging flange and the first flange in the outer edge; and The second flange branches off from the outer edge at a point on the side of the connecting flange that is closer to the branch portion than the branch portion, extends toward the connecting flange at a point on the inner side that is closer to the first flange, and forms a second mating surface that abuts against the mating surface of the transmission drive axle opposite to the engine connected to it. The second flange is formed such that, with the branch portion as the branch point, it branches from the first flange to the inner side of the connecting flange, which is closer to the first flange, and extends toward the lower end of the cylinder body.

2. The cylinder block of a vehicle engine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The joining flange has: The first rib is integrally formed with the first flange and the first mating surface, and is connected to a longitudinal rib formed on at least one of the mating surfaces of the oil pan and the trapezoidal frame that abut against the mating surface of the transmission; and The second rib is integrally formed with the second flange and the second mating surface, and is connected to the transverse rib, which is formed on at least one of the mating surface of the oil pan that abuts against the mating surface of the transmission drive axle and the mating surface of the trapezoidal frame that abuts against the mating surface of the transmission drive axle.

3. The cylinder block of a vehicle engine according to claim 2, characterized in that, The engagement flange has bolt-fastening protrusions that form bolt holes or threaded holes for assembling the transmission or the drive axle on the engagement flange. The bolt-fastening protrusion is formed at the following locations: a position on the outer edge closer to the engaging flange than the branch portion; a position connected to the longitudinal protrusion via the outer edge, the first rib, and the longitudinal rib; and a position connected to the transverse protrusion via the outer edge, the second rib, and the transverse rib. The longitudinal protrusion is integrally formed with the longitudinal rib of at least one of the mating surfaces of the oil pan and the transmission mating surfaces and the trapezoidal frame mating surfaces of the transmission mating surfaces, forming bolt holes or threaded holes for bolt fastening. The transverse protrusion is integrally formed with the transverse rib of at least one of the mating surfaces of the oil pan and the transmission drive axle mating surfaces and the trapezoidal frame mating surfaces of the transmission drive axle, forming bolt holes or threaded holes for bolt fastening.

4. The cylinder block of a vehicle engine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The transmission drive axle is assembled with the second flange remaining and the first flange on the outer edge that is closer to the lower end than the branch portion removed.

5. The cylinder block of a vehicle engine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The transmission is assembled with both the first flange and the second flange remaining in place.

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