motor unit

Abstract

As an example, the present invention provides a motor unit capable of preventing liquid from seeping into the interior of a motor. As an example, the motor unit of the embodiment includes: a motor having a shaft capable of rotating about a rotation axis and having a first space; a rotating component connected to the shaft; a housing having a second space accommodating at least a portion of the rotating component; and a guide component having a peripheral wall surrounding the rotation axis between the first space and the second space, a third space being provided inside the peripheral wall, and a fourth space located outside the first space opening in at least one of the second space and the third space in a direction intersecting the rotation axis. The inner surface of the third space has a guide portion, which is closer to the fourth space in the radial direction than the rotation axis, and the closer the guide portion is to the fourth space in the axial direction, the further away it is from the rotation axis.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments of the present invention relate to motor units. Background Technology

[0002] An electric motor rotates various objects, but these objects may contain liquids such as oil, which may be supplied by a lubricating oil or pump. Conventionally, a device is known that provides a flow path between the motor and the object for draining this liquid. By draining the liquid from this flow path, liquid ingress into the motor's interior is prevented (Patent Document 1).

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2011-106574 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention

[0007] In conventional structures, liquid moving downwards due to gravity is discharged through the flow path. On the other hand, liquid splashed by rotating bodies such as the shaft of a motor adheres to the inner surface of the device. This liquid may then move along the inner surface of the device towards the interior of the motor.

[0008] Therefore, the present invention is made in view of the above-mentioned technical problems, and provides a motor unit capable of preventing liquid from entering the interior of the motor.

[0009] Technical solutions for solving technical problems

[0010] As an example, an embodiment of the present invention provides a motor unit comprising: a motor having a shaft rotatable about a rotation axis, a rotor rotatable together with the shaft about the rotation axis, and a stator surrounding the rotor, and having a first space for accommodating the rotor and the stator; a rotating member connected to the shaft outside the first space and rotatable about the rotation axis; a housing having the motor mounted thereon and having a second space for accommodating at least a portion of the rotating member; and a guide member having a peripheral wall located between the first space and the second space and surrounding the rotation axis, a third space communicating with the second space being provided inside the peripheral wall, and a fourth space located outside the first space opening in at least one of the inner surfaces of the second space and the third space in a direction intersecting the rotation axis, the inner surface of the third space having a guide portion, the guide portion being closer to the fourth space than the rotation axis in a radial direction orthogonal to the rotation axis, and the guide portion being further away from the rotation axis the closer it is to the fourth space in the axial direction along the rotation axis. Therefore, as an example, when liquid adheres to the rotating shaft and rotating components, the liquid splashes due to centrifugal force. Since the rotating shaft is surrounded by a peripheral wall, the inner surface of the third space can block the splashed liquid. When the motor unit is configured such that the fourth space is located below the rotating shaft, the liquid blocked by the inner surface of the third space flows towards the fourth space along the guide due to gravity. Therefore, the motor unit can prevent splashed liquid from seeping into the first space. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Figure 1 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing one embodiment of a hydraulic control device.

[0012] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view that schematically shows a portion of the hydraulic control device according to the above embodiment.

[0013] Figure 3 This is a perspective view showing the coupling, motor shaft, and pump shaft of the above-described embodiment, disassembled and shown.

[0014] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0015] 10: Hydraulic control unit (motor unit)

[0016] 11: Outer shell

[0017] 12: Electric motor

[0018] 14: Coupling (Connector)

[0019] 25: Pump mounting hole (second space)

[0020] 25a: Inner surface

[0021] 26: Through-hole (Fifth Space)

[0022] 27: Connecting Slot (Fourth Space)

[0023] 32: Motor shaft (shaft)

[0024] 34: Rotor

[0025] 35: Stator

[0026] 36: Electrode

[0027] 37: Tilting component (guide component)

[0028] 41: Interior Space (First Space)

[0029] 46a: Outer surface

[0030] 46b: Concave surface

[0031] 62: Zhou Bi

[0032] 62b: End

[0033] 63: Flange

[0034] 64: Cover

[0035] 65: Connecting Space (Third Space)

[0036] 65a: Inner surface

[0037] 71: Lower part (guide section)

[0038] 71a: First end (end point)

[0039] 71b: Second end (terminal end)

[0040] 81: Pump shaft (rotating component)

[0041] 91a: Outer peripheral surface (first outer peripheral surface)

[0042] 92a: Outer peripheral surface (second outer peripheral surface)

[0043] 93a: Outer peripheral surface (third outer peripheral surface)

[0044] Ax: Central axis (rotation axis) Detailed Implementation

[0045] The following is for reference Figures 1 to 3This specification describes one embodiment. Furthermore, in this specification, there are instances where structural elements of an embodiment and their descriptions are described using multiple terms. The structural elements and their descriptions are merely examples and are not limited to the descriptions in this specification. Structural elements may also be designated using names different from those used in this specification. Additionally, structural elements may be described using expressions different from those used in this specification.

[0046] Figure 1 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing one embodiment of a hydraulic control device 10. The hydraulic control device 10 is an example of an electric motor unit, and may also be referred to as a pump unit. The hydraulic control device 10 is, for example, mounted on a vehicle 1 such as an automobile. The hydraulic control device 10 adjusts the pressure (hydraulic pressure) in the fluid passage of the braking system of the vehicle 1. Furthermore, the electric motor unit is not limited to the hydraulic control device 10.

[0047] As shown in the accompanying drawings, for ease of explanation, the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis are defined in this specification. The X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis are orthogonal to each other. The X-axis is set along the width of the hydraulic control device 10. The Y-axis is set along the length of the hydraulic control device 10. The Z-axis is set along the height of the hydraulic control device 10.

[0048] Furthermore, in this specification, the X direction, Y direction, and Z direction are defined. The X direction is the direction along the X-axis, including the +X direction indicated by the arrow pointing to the X-axis and the -X direction, which is the opposite direction of the arrow pointing to the X-axis. The Y direction is the direction along the Y-axis, including the +Y direction indicated by the arrow pointing to the Y-axis and the -Y direction, which is the opposite direction of the arrow pointing to the Y-axis. The Z direction is the direction along the Z-axis, including the +Z direction (upward direction) indicated by the arrow pointing to the Z-axis and the -Z direction (downward direction), which is the opposite direction of the arrow pointing to the Z-axis.

[0049] The +Z direction is, for example, the vertical upward direction when vehicle 1 is positioned on a level surface. Similarly, the -Z direction is the vertical downward direction when vehicle 1 is positioned on a level surface. Furthermore, the hydraulic control device 10 can also be configured such that the Z direction is different from the vertical direction.

[0050] The hydraulic control unit 10 includes a housing 11, a motor 12, a pump 13, a coupling 14, and an electronic control unit (ECU) 15. The coupling 14 is an example of a joint. Furthermore, the hydraulic control unit 10 includes various components such as solenoid valves, pressure sensors, and reservoirs.

[0051] The housing 11 is, for example, a generally rectangular block made of metal or synthetic resin. However, the housing 11 is not limited to this example. A motor 12, a pump 13, and an ECU 15 are installed in the housing 11. Furthermore, various other components are installed in the housing 11.

[0052] The housing 11 has a first mounting surface 21 and a second mounting surface 22. The first mounting surface 21 and the second mounting surface 22 are the outer surfaces of the housing 11. The first mounting surface 21 is formed generally flat and faces the +Y direction. The second mounting surface 22 is located on the opposite side of the first mounting surface 21. The second mounting surface 22 is formed generally flat and faces the -Y direction.

[0053] The housing 11 is provided with a pump mounting hole 25, a through hole 26, and a connecting groove 27. The pump mounting hole 25 is an example of a second space. The through hole 26 is an example of a fifth space. The connecting groove 27 is an example of a fourth space. Alternatively, other holes and grooves may be provided in the housing 11. Furthermore, various flow paths are provided in the housing 11.

[0054] The pump mounting hole 25 is a recessed portion extending from the first mounting surface 21 in a generally Y-direction. The pump mounting hole 25 opens at approximately the center of the first mounting surface 21. The pump mounting hole 25 is connected to the fluid passage of the braking device, for example, through a flow path provided in the housing 11.

[0055] The through-hole 26 penetrates the housing 11 in the generally Y direction. Therefore, the through-hole 26 opens on the first mounting surface 21 and the second mounting surface 22. The through-hole 26 is spaced from the pump mounting hole 25 in the -Z direction. Therefore, the through-hole 26 is located below the pump mounting hole 25. Alternatively, the through-hole 26 may be spaced from the pump mounting hole 25 in other directions.

[0056] The connecting groove 27 opens on the first mounting surface 21 and extends between the pump mounting hole 25 and the through hole 26. Therefore, the connecting groove 27 opens on the inner surface 25a of the pump mounting hole 25 and the inner surface 26a of the through hole 26. The inner surface 25a is the inner surface of the housing 11 that forms (defines, divides) the pump mounting hole 25. The inner surface 26a is the inner surface of the housing 11 that forms the through hole 26. The pump mounting hole 25 and the through hole 26 are respectively connected to the connecting groove 27. Furthermore, the through hole 26 is connected to the pump mounting hole 25 via the connecting groove 27.

[0057] Motor 12 is, for example, a three-phase brushless motor. Alternatively, motor 12 can be other types of motors. Motor 12 has a housing 31, a motor shaft 32, two bearings 33, a rotor 34, a stator 35, electrodes 36, and a tilting member 37. The motor shaft 32 is an example of a shaft. The tilting member 37 is an example of a guide member. In this embodiment, the tilting member 37 is provided on motor 12. However, the tilting member 37 can also be a component different from motor 12.

[0058] The housing 31 is mounted on the first mounting surface 21 of the outer casing 11. Therefore, the first mounting surface 21 faces the motor 12. The housing 31 covers the pump mounting hole 25, the through hole 26, and the connecting groove 27.

[0059] An internal space 41 is provided inside the housing 31. The internal space 41 is an example of the first space. The internal space 41 houses a portion of the motor shaft 32, a bearing 33 on at least one side, a rotor 34, and a stator 35.

[0060] The motor shaft 32 is supported by bearings 33 in a manner that allows it to rotate about a central axis Ax. The central axis Ax is an example of a rotating shaft. The central axis Ax is the center of rotation of the motor shaft 32.

[0061] The central axis Ax is, for example, the central axis of the motor shaft 32. However, the center of rotation of the motor shaft 32 may differ from its central axis. Furthermore, the central axis Ax includes not only the internal central axis of the motor shaft 32 but also its external extension. The central axis Ax extends in approximately the Y direction. A portion of the motor shaft 32 protrudes from the internal space 41 in the -Y direction.

[0062] In this embodiment, for ease of explanation, the axial direction, radial direction, and circumferential direction are defined. The axial direction is the direction along the central axis Ax. That is, in this embodiment, the axial direction is approximately equal to the direction opposite to Y. The radial direction is the direction orthogonal to the central axis Ax. The circumferential direction is the direction around the central axis Ax.

[0063] A pump mounting hole 25 of the housing 11 is disposed on the central axis Ax. A through hole 26 of the housing 11 is radially spaced from the pump mounting hole 25. Furthermore, a connecting groove 27 of the housing 11 extends in the approximately radial direction, connecting the pump mounting hole 25 to the through hole 26. Therefore, the connecting groove 27 opens in the approximately radial direction on the inner surface 25a of the pump mounting hole 25.

[0064] The rotor 34 is coupled to the motor shaft 32. Therefore, the rotor 34 can rotate together with the motor shaft 32 about the central axis Ax. The stator 35 surrounds the rotor 34 and is fixed to the housing 31. By allowing drive current to flow through the stator 35, the rotor 34 and the motor shaft 32 rotate together about the central axis Ax.

[0065] The housing 31 has an outer frame 45 and end frames 46. The internal space 41 is the space surrounded by the outer frame 45 and end frames 46. That is, the internal space 41 is formed by the outer frame 45 and end frames 46. However, the internal space 41 is not limited to this example.

[0066] The outer frame 45 has an outer wall 51, an end wall 52, and a mounting flange 53. The outer wall 51 is formed into a generally cylindrical shape extending in the axial direction, surrounding the central shaft Ax. The end wall 52 blocks the end of the outer wall 51 in the +Y direction. The end wall 52 supports a bearing 33 on one side. The mounting flange 53 extends radially outward from the end of the outer wall 51 in the -Y direction along the first mounting surface 21.

[0067] End frame 46 is mounted on outer frame 45 and blocks the end of outer wall 51 in the Y direction. End frame 46 has end wall 55, inner wall 56, bottom wall 57 and support wall 58.

[0068] The end wall 55 is formed in a generally annular shape that is substantially orthogonal to the central axis Ax and extends in the circumferential direction. The inner wall 56 is formed in a generally cylindrical shape that extends from the end of the end wall 55 on the inner side in the radial direction in the +Y direction and surrounds the central axis Ax.

[0069] The bottom wall 57 protrudes radially inward from the end of the inner wall 56 in the +Y direction. The bottom wall 57 is formed in a generally annular shape, surrounding the central shaft Ax. The support wall 58 is formed in a generally cylindrical shape, extending radially inward from the end of the inner wall 56 in the +Y direction, surrounding the central shaft Ax. The support wall 58 supports the bearing 33 on the other side.

[0070] The end bracket 46 has an outer surface 46a and a concave surface 46b. The outer surface 46a is disposed on the end wall 55 and faces the outside of the motor 12. The outer surface 46a faces, for example, the -Y direction. The outer surface 46a of the motor 12 is opposite to the first mounting surface 21 of the housing 11. The outer surface 46a is spaced apart from the first mounting surface 21.

[0071] A concave surface 46b is provided on the inner wall 56 and the bottom wall 57. The concave surface 46b is recessed from the outer surface 46a in a generally +Y direction (axial direction). The concave surface 46b is located outside the internal space 41. The space inside the concave surface 46b communicates with the internal space 41 through the space inside the supporting wall 58. A bearing 33 supported on the supporting wall 58 separates the space inside the concave surface 46b from the internal space 41.

[0072] The mounting flange 53 of the outer frame 45 is mounted to the housing 11, for example, using screws. A seal is provided between the mounting flange 53 and the first mounting surface 21, for example. This seal liquid-tightly seals the space between the housing 31 and the first mounting surface 21.

[0073] Electrode 36 is, for example, a terminal for supplying drive current to motor 12 and is electrically connected to stator 35. Alternatively, electrode 36 may also be a terminal electrically connected to a sensor disposed on motor 12.

[0074] Electrode 36 protrudes from the outer surface 46a of end bracket 46 in a generally -Y direction. Electrode 36 passes through through hole 26 across second mounting surface 22. That is, electrode 36 is at least partially housed in through hole 26.

[0075] The inclined member 37 is made of an insulator, for example, such as synthetic resin. However, the material of the inclined member 37 is not limited to this example. The inclined member 37 has an outer wall 61, a peripheral wall 62, a flange 63, and a cover 64. The flange 63 may also be referred to as a rib. The outer wall 61, peripheral wall 62, flange 63, and cover 64 are formed integrally.

[0076] The outer wall 61 is formed in a generally annular shape that is substantially orthogonal to the central axis Ax and extends in the circumferential direction. The outer wall 61 is located between the first mounting surface 21 of the housing 11 and the end wall 55 of the end frame 46. The outer wall 61 is mounted on the end frame 46, for example, and covers the outer surface 46a. Alternatively, the outer wall 61 may also be mounted on the housing 11.

[0077] The outer wall 61 covers a connecting groove 27 that opens on the first mounting surface 21. Thus, the connecting groove 27 can serve as a flow path connecting the pump mounting hole 25 and the through hole 26. In other words, a flow path (connecting groove 27) connecting the pump mounting hole 25 and the through hole 26 is provided between the housing 11 and the motor 12. Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the flow path connecting the pump mounting hole 25 and the through hole 26 is formed by providing a groove (connecting groove 27) on the housing 11 side; however, it is also possible to alternatively form the flow path by providing a groove on the outer wall 61 or the motor 12 side.

[0078] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view that schematically shows a portion of the hydraulic control device 10 of this embodiment. (See attached image.) Figure 2 As shown, the peripheral wall 62 is formed into a cylindrical shape surrounding the central axis Ax. The end 62a of the peripheral wall 62 in the -Y direction is connected to the end of the outer wall 61 on the inner side in the radial direction.

[0079] The peripheral wall 62 is located inside the concave surface 46b of the end frame 46. Therefore, the space where the peripheral wall 62 is disposed inside the concave surface 46b is located between the internal space 41 and the pump mounting hole 25 of the housing 11. In addition, at least a portion of the peripheral wall 62 may not be located inside the concave surface 46b.

[0080] A connecting space 65 is provided inside the peripheral wall 62. The connecting space 65 is an example of a third space. The connecting space 65 is a space surrounded by the peripheral wall 62 and is formed by the peripheral wall 62. The connecting space 65 communicates with the pump mounting hole 25 of the housing 11. In addition, the connecting space 65 communicates with the internal space 41 through the space inside the support wall 58.

[0081] The peripheral wall 62 has an inner surface 65a that forms a connecting space 65. The inner surface 65a is also the inner surface of the cylindrical peripheral wall 62. That is, the inner surface 65a of the peripheral wall 62 forms the connecting space 65. In this embodiment, the inner surface 65a is, for example, a generally conical (funnel-shaped) curved surface.

[0082] The inner surface 65a tapers at its front end in the +Y direction. In other words, the inner surface 65a tapers towards the front end of the internal space 41. Therefore, the closer to the pump mounting hole 25, the longer the diameter of the inner surface 65a. In other words, the closer the inner surface 65a is to the pump mounting hole 25 in the axial direction, the further away it is from the central axis Ax. The diameter of the inner surface 65a can vary uniformly or in steps. Furthermore, the inner surface 65a is not limited to this example.

[0083] The inner surface 65a has a lower portion 71 and an upper portion 72. The lower portion 71 is an example of a guide portion. The lower portion 71 is the part of the inner surface 65a located below the central axis Ax (lower half). Therefore, the lower portion 71 is closer to the through hole 26 and the connecting groove 27 in the radial direction than the central axis Ax. The upper portion 72 is the part of the inner surface 65a located above the central axis Ax (upper half).

[0084] As described above, the diameter of the inner surface 65a is longer the closer it is to the pump mounting hole 25. Furthermore, the connecting groove 27 opens on the inner surface 25a of the pump mounting hole 25. Therefore, the lower portion 71 of the inner surface 65a is further away from the central axis Ax the closer it is to the connecting groove 27 in the axial direction.

[0085] The lower portion 71 has a first end 71a and a second end 71b. The first end 71a is the end of the lower portion 71 in the -Y direction. In other words, the first end 71a is one of the two ends of the lower portion 71 in the axial direction that is closest to the pump mounting hole 25. The second end 71b is the other end of the lower portion 71 in the axial direction. In other words, the second end 71b is the end of the lower portion 71 in the +Y direction.

[0086] For example, the angle between the central axis Ax and the lower part 71 is set to be larger than the angle allowed between the central axis Ax and the horizontal direction when manufacturing the vehicle 1. In this case, even if the vehicle 1 is manufactured in a tilted manner within the allowable angle of the central axis Ax relative to the horizontal direction, the lowermost part in the first end 71a is located below the lowermost part in the second end 71b. That is, the lower part 71 extends obliquely downward from the second end 71b toward the first end 71a.

[0087] In this embodiment, the entire inner surface 65a is formed in a generally conical shape. However, the upper portion 72 may also be formed in a generally cylindrical shape extending in the axial direction, for example. In addition, the cross-section of the connecting space 65 orthogonal to the central axis Ax is not limited to a circle, but may be other shapes such as a quadrilateral.

[0088] Multiple recesses 73 may also be provided on the inner surface 65a. For example, the recesses 73 are used for clamping during manufacturing. The multiple recesses 73 are spaced apart in the circumferential direction. The various positions of the multiple recesses 73 in the axial direction are separated from the lowermost portion of the inner surface 65a.

[0089] A flange 63 protrudes from the end 62b of the peripheral wall 62 toward the central axis Ax. The end 62b is one of the two ends of the peripheral wall 62 in the axial direction that is closer to the internal space 41. The flange 63 is formed in a generally annular shape, surrounding the central axis Ax. Therefore, a hole 75 is provided on the inner side of the flange 63. The central axis Ax extends through the hole 75.

[0090] like Figure 1 As shown, the cover 64 is located below the peripheral wall 62 and protrudes from the outer wall 61 in a generally -Y direction. The electrode 36 extends through the interior of the cover 64. The cover 64 and the electrode 36 are housed together in the through hole 26 of the housing 11. The cover 64 covers and protects the electrode 36 in the through hole 26. Near the second mounting surface 22, the gap between the inner surface 26a of the through hole 26 and the cover 64 is liquid-tightly sealed.

[0091] Pump 13 is, for example, a gear pump. Alternatively, pump 13 can be other types of pumps. At least a portion of pump 13 is housed in pump mounting hole 25. Pump 13 is capable of delivering working oil to the fluid passage of the braking device.

[0092] Pump 13 has a pump shaft 81. Pump shaft 81 is an example of a rotating component. Pump shaft 81 is configured substantially concentrically with motor shaft 32 and extends in the axial direction. Furthermore, the central axis of pump shaft 81 may be slightly offset from the central axis Ax of motor shaft 32.

[0093] Pump shaft 81 is, for example, coupled to the rotor of pump 13. Pump shaft 81 is capable of rotating together with the rotor of pump 13 about a central axis Ax. By rotating pump shaft 81 and the rotor of pump 13 about the central axis Ax, pump 13 delivers working oil.

[0094] A portion of the pump shaft 81 and the rotor of the pump 13 are received in the pump mounting hole 25. The other portion of the pump shaft 81 protrudes out of the pump mounting hole 25 and is received in the connection space 65.

[0095] The motor shaft 32 and the pump shaft 81 are connected to each other in the connection space 65 via a coupling 14. In other words, the motor shaft 32 and the pump shaft 81 are connected to each other on the inner side of the concave surface 46b, which is the outer side of the internal space 41. Alternatively, the motor shaft 32 and the pump shaft 81 can also be directly coupled to each other.

[0096] Figure 3 This is a perspective view showing the coupling 14, motor shaft 32, and pump shaft 81 of this embodiment exploded. Figure 3As shown, the pump shaft 81 has a base 85 and two claws 86.

[0097] The base 85 is at least partially housed within the connecting space 65 of the pump shaft 81. The base 85 is formed as a generally cylindrical shape extending in the axial direction. Two claws 86 protrude from the base 85 in a generally +Y direction. The two claws 86 are arranged at approximately equal intervals in the circumferential direction.

[0098] The motor shaft 32 has a base 91, two claws 92, and a middle portion 93. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the base 91 is part of the motor shaft 32 located outside the internal space 41. The base 91 is formed as a generally cylindrical shape extending in the axial direction. The base 91 extends through the hole 75 and is surrounded by the flange 63. A portion of the base 91 is located in the connecting space 65.

[0099] Two claws 92 protrude from the base 91 in a generally -Y direction. The two claws 92 are arranged at approximately equal intervals in the circumferential direction. The claws 92 are located between the base 91 and the base 85 of the pump shaft 81. The claws 92 are closer to the pump mounting hole 25 than the base 91. The claws 92 of the motor shaft 32 and the claws 86 of the pump shaft 81 are arranged alternately in the circumferential direction.

[0100] Coupling 14 is positioned between the jaw 92 of the motor shaft 32 and the jaw 86 of the pump shaft 81. Therefore, the jaw 92 of the motor shaft 32 and the jaw 86 of the pump shaft 81 can transmit rotational forces about the central axis Ax to each other via coupling 14. In this way, coupling 14 connects the motor shaft 32 and the pump shaft 81. Alternatively, the motor shaft 32 and the pump shaft 81 can also be connected via other joints such as universal joints.

[0101] like Figure 3 As shown, the base 91 of the motor shaft 32 has an outer peripheral surface 91a. The outer peripheral surface 91a is an example of a first outer peripheral surface. The outer peripheral surface 91a is a cylindrical curved surface extending in a generally axial direction toward the outer side in the radial direction. The outer peripheral surface 91a is surrounded by a flange 63.

[0102] Each of the two claws 92 has an outer peripheral surface 92a. The outer peripheral surface 92a is an example of a second outer peripheral surface. The outer peripheral surface 92a is a cylindrical curved surface extending approximately in the axial direction, facing outwards in the radial direction. The outer peripheral surface 92a is closer to the pump mounting hole 25 than the outer peripheral surface 91a of the base 91. The outer diameter of the outer peripheral surface 92a of the claw 92 is shorter than the outer diameter of the outer peripheral surface 92a of the base 91.

[0103] The outer peripheral surfaces 91a and 92a may not be cylindrical. In this case, the portion of the outer peripheral surface 92a furthest from the central axis Ax in the +Y direction is closer to the central axis Ax than the portion of the outer peripheral surface 91a furthest from the central axis Ax in the -Y direction.

[0104] A middle portion 93 is disposed between the base 91 and the claw 92. The middle portion 93 has an outer peripheral surface 93a. The outer peripheral surface 93a is an example of a third outer peripheral surface. The outer peripheral surface 93a connects the outer peripheral surface 91a of the base 91 and the outer peripheral surface 92a of the claw 92. Since the outer diameter of the outer peripheral surface 92a is shorter than the outer diameter of the outer peripheral surface 91a, the outer peripheral surface 93a intersects with both the outer peripheral surface 91a and the outer peripheral surface 92a.

[0105] For example, the outer peripheral surface 93a extends in a generally conical shape between the outer peripheral surface 91a of the base 91 and the outer peripheral surface 92a of the claw 92. Furthermore, the outer peripheral surface 93a may also be orthogonal to the outer peripheral surfaces 91a and 92a.

[0106] Figure 1 The ECU 15, for example, has a base plate and various electronic components mounted on the base plate. Furthermore, the ECU 15 is electrically connected to the motor 12, for example, to control the entire hydraulic control unit 10. For example, the electrode 36 of the motor 12 is electrically connected to the ECU 15 via a connector mounted on the base plate. The ECU 15 supplies drive current to the motor 12 through the electrode 36.

[0107] In the hydraulic control device 10 described above, there is a situation where working oil leaks from the pump 13. The working oil moves downwards due to gravity. The connecting groove 27 opens at the lower end of the pump mounting hole 25 that houses the pump 13. Therefore, the working oil in the pump mounting hole 25 is discharged through the connecting groove 27 into the through hole 26.

[0108] As described above, the space between the housing 31 and the first mounting surface 21, as well as the gap between the inner surface 26a of the through hole 26 and the cover 64, are sealed. Therefore, the hydraulic control device 10 can store working oil in the through hole 26 and the connecting groove 27, and can prevent the working oil from flowing out of the hydraulic control device 10.

[0109] On the other hand, when the ECU15 drives the motor 12, the motor shaft 32, coupling 14, pump shaft 81, and the rotor of the pump 13 rotate around the central axis Ax. Working oil may adhere to the motor shaft 32, coupling 14, and pump shaft 81. Therefore, due to centrifugal force, the rotating motor shaft 32, coupling 14, and pump shaft 81 may cause working oil to splash in the approximately radial direction within the connection space 65.

[0110] The peripheral wall 62 surrounds the central shaft Ax. Therefore, the peripheral wall 62 surrounds the motor shaft 32, coupling 14, and pump shaft 81 extending along the central shaft Ax. The inner surface 65a of the peripheral wall 62 blocks working oil splashed in the generally radial direction in the connection space 65.

[0111] The lower portion 71 extends obliquely downward from the second end 71b toward the first end 71a. Therefore, the working oil flows along the lower portion 71 toward the first end 71a. That is, the working oil flows toward the connecting groove 27 that opens on the inner surface 25a of the pump mounting hole 25.

[0112] The working oil adhering to the upper part 72 flows approximately circumferentially along the upper part 72 due to gravity. The diameter of the upper part 72 increases as it approaches the pump mounting hole 25. Therefore, the working oil flowing along the upper part 72 flows in a manner close to the connecting groove 27 in the axial direction.

[0113] As described above, the working oil blocked by the inner surface 65a of the peripheral wall 62 (connecting space 65) flows close to the connecting groove 27. In this embodiment, the connecting groove 27 is connected to the connecting space 65 through the pump mounting hole 25. Therefore, the working oil flowing along the inner surface 65a is discharged from the connecting space 65 to the connecting groove 27.

[0114] The connecting space 65, pump mounting hole 25, connecting groove 27, and through hole 26 are all located outside the internal space 41. Therefore, the hydraulic control device 10 can prevent working oil from splashing in the connecting space 65 into the internal space 41 by guiding the working oil splashed in the connecting space 65 into the connecting groove 27.

[0115] For example, there may be a situation where the working oil blocked by the upper part 72 flows along the upper part 72 into the internal space 41. In this case, the flange 63 blocks the working oil flowing along the upper part 72. The working oil flows along the annular flange 63 to the lower part 71 and is discharged into the communicating channel 27 through the lower part 71.

[0116] Additionally, for example, there is a situation where, due to braking of vehicle 1, the first end 71a of the lower portion 71 is temporarily positioned above the second end 71b. In this case, working oil flows along the lower portion 71 towards the internal space 41. However, the flange 63 blocks the flow of working oil along the lower portion 71. When the braking-based tilt is restored, the working oil flows along the lower portion 71 towards the connecting groove 27.

[0117] As described above, flange 63 blocks the working oil flowing from inner surface 65a into internal space 41. Therefore, hydraulic control device 10 can prevent working oil from seeping into internal space 41.

[0118] The flange 63 is separated from the base 91 of the motor shaft 32. The distance between the flange 63 and the base 91 is set to suppress the gap between the flange 63 and the base 91 and maintain the length of the working oil.

[0119] In the motor shaft 32, the outer diameter of the outer peripheral surface 92a of the claw 92 is shorter than the outer peripheral surface 91a of the base 91. Therefore, the outer peripheral surface 93a of the intermediate portion 93 forms a stepped portion between the outer peripheral surface 91a and the outer peripheral surface 92a.

[0120] There is a situation where working oil flows along the outer peripheral surface 92a of the claw 92 into the internal space 41. In this case, the stepped outer peripheral surface 93a blocks the working oil. The outer peripheral surface 93a restricts the working oil from flowing across it into the internal space 41. The working oil that is blocked by the outer peripheral surface 93a splashes towards the inner surface 65a of the connecting space 65 due to centrifugal force. Therefore, the hydraulic control device 10 can prevent working oil adhering to the motor shaft 32 from seeping into the internal space 41 through the hole 75.

[0121] In this embodiment, the peripheral wall 62 and the flange 63 are provided around the entire circumference of the central axis Ax. However, holes, cuts, or slits may also be provided in the peripheral wall 62 and the flange 63.

[0122] In this embodiment, working oil is discharged into a communicating groove 27 that opens on the inner surface 25a of the pump mounting hole 25. However, a space (fourth space) that opens in the inner surface 65a of the connecting space 65 in a direction intersecting the central axis Ax may also be provided, into which working oil is discharged.

[0123] In this embodiment, the coupling 14, motor shaft 32, and pump shaft 81 are located in the connection space 65. However, one or both of the coupling 14, motor shaft 32, and pump shaft 81 may be located outside the connection space 65.

[0124] In this embodiment, the motor shaft 32 has outer peripheral surfaces 91a, 92a, and 93a. However, the coupling 14 or the pump shaft 81 may also have a first outer surface surrounded by a flange 63, a second outer surface with a shorter outer diameter near the pump mounting hole 25, and a third outer surface that connects the first and second outer surfaces and intersects with them.

[0125] In the hydraulic control device 10 of this embodiment described above, the tilting member 37 has a peripheral wall 62 located between the internal space 41 and the pump mounting hole 25 of the outer casing 11 and surrounding the central shaft Ax. A connecting space 65 communicating with the pump mounting hole 25 is provided inside the peripheral wall 62. A communicating groove 27 located outside the internal space 41 opens in at least one of the inner surface 25a of the pump mounting hole 25 and the inner surface 65a of the connecting space 65 in a direction intersecting the central shaft Ax. The inner surface 65a of the connecting space 65 has a lower portion 71 that is closer to the communicating groove 27 than the central shaft Ax in a radial direction orthogonal to the central shaft Ax. The lower portion 71 is closer to the communicating groove 27 and further away from the central shaft Ax in the axial direction along the central shaft Ax. When working oil adheres to the rotating motor shaft 32 and pump shaft 81, the working oil splashes due to centrifugal force. Since the peripheral wall 62 surrounds the central shaft Ax, the inner surface 65a of the connecting space 65 can block splashed working oil. When the hydraulic control device 10 is configured such that the connecting groove 27 is below the central shaft Ax, the working oil blocked by the inner surface 65a of the connecting space 65 flows along the lower part 72 to the connecting groove 27 due to gravity. Therefore, the hydraulic control device 10 can prevent splashed working oil from seeping into the internal space 41, and can also prevent working oil from adhering to the rotor 34 and stator 35.

[0126] The inner surface 65a of the connecting space 65 is further away from the central axis Ax in the axial direction as it gets closer to the connecting groove 27. That is, not limited to the lower part 71, but generally the entire inner surface 65a of the connecting space 65 is further away from the central axis Ax as it gets closer to the connecting groove 27 in the axial direction. As a result, the working oil blocked by the inner surface 65a of the connecting space 65 at a position higher than the central axis Ax can move downwards and towards the connecting groove 27 due to gravity. Therefore, the hydraulic control device 10 can more effectively suppress splashed working oil from seeping into the internal space 41.

[0127] The motor 12 has an outer surface 46a facing the housing 11 and a concave surface 46b recessed from the outer surface 46a in the axial direction and located outside the internal space 41. The motor shaft 32 is connected to the pump shaft 81 inside the concave surface 46b. The peripheral wall 62 is located inside the concave surface 46b. That is, the peripheral wall 62 is disposed in the space inside the concave surface 46b where the motor shaft 32 is connected to the pump shaft 81. Therefore, compared with the case where the peripheral wall 62 is located outside the concave surface 46b, the hydraulic control device 10 can suppress its large size in the axial direction.

[0128] The lowermost portion of the lower portion 71, located near the pump mounting hole 25 at the first end 71a, is positioned below the lowermost portion of the lower portion 71 at the second end 71b. That is, the lower portion 71 extends downward toward the pump mounting hole 25. Therefore, working oil flows along the lower portion 71 to the connecting groove 27. Thus, the hydraulic control device 10 is able to prevent splashed working oil from seeping into the internal space 41.

[0129] The inclined member 37 has a flange 63. The flange 63 protrudes from the ends 62b near the inner space 41 of the axial peripheral wall 62 towards the central axis Ax and surrounds the central axis Ax. Therefore, the flange 63 can block working oil traveling along the inner surface 65a of the connecting space 65 to the inner space 41. Therefore, the hydraulic control device 10 can more reliably prevent splashed working oil from entering the inner space 41.

[0130] The motor shaft 32, pump shaft 81, or coupling 14 has an outer peripheral surface 91a, an outer peripheral surface 92a, and an outer peripheral surface 93a. The outer peripheral surface 91a is surrounded by a flange 63. The outer peripheral surface 92a is closer to the pump mounting hole 25 than the outer peripheral surface 91a, and its outer diameter is shorter than that of the outer peripheral surface 91a. The outer peripheral surface 93a connects the outer peripheral surface 91a and the outer peripheral surface 92a, and intersects both the outer peripheral surfaces 91a and 92a. Therefore, working oil traveling along the outer peripheral surface 92a to the outer peripheral surface 91a is blocked by the outer peripheral surface 93a. The working oil blocked by the outer peripheral surface 93a splashes radially due to centrifugal force. That is, the outer peripheral surface 93a can inhibit the movement of working oil from the outer peripheral surface 92a to the outer peripheral surface 91a. Therefore, the hydraulic control device 10 can prevent working oil adhering to the outer peripheral surface 92a from penetrating through the outer peripheral surface 91a and seeping into the internal space 41.

[0131] The motor shaft 32 has an outer peripheral surface 91a, an outer peripheral surface 92a, and an outer peripheral surface 93a. Among the motor shaft 32, pump shaft 81, and coupling 14, the motor shaft 32 is closest to the internal space 41. Most of the working oil adhering to the pump shaft 81 and coupling 14 splashes radially on the pump shaft 81 and coupling 14 due to centrifugal force. That is, the pump shaft 81 and coupling 14 reduce the amount of working oil moving along the pump shaft 81 and coupling 14 towards the motor shaft 32. The working oil moving from the pump shaft 81 and coupling 14 towards the motor shaft 32 is blocked by the outer peripheral surface 93a and splashes radially due to centrifugal force. Therefore, the hydraulic control device 10 can reduce the amount of working oil moving towards the outer peripheral surface 93a through the pump shaft 81 and coupling 14, and can more reliably prevent working oil from penetrating through the outer peripheral surface 91a into the internal space 41.

[0132] A through hole 26 communicating with the connecting groove 27 is provided in the housing 11. The motor 12 has an electrode 36 housed in the through hole 26. The tilting member 37 has a cover 64 integrally formed with the peripheral wall 62 and covering the electrode 36 in the through hole 26. Therefore, working oil blocked by the inner surface 65a of the connecting space 65 flows through the connecting groove 27 to the through hole 26. Since the peripheral wall 62 forming the connecting space 65 and the cover 64 covering the electrode 36 are integrally formed, it is possible to suppress working oil from adhering to the electrode 36. Furthermore, compared with the case where the peripheral wall 62 and the cover 64 are formed separately, the hydraulic control device 10 can suppress working oil from seeping into the gap between the tilting member 37 and other components, and can allow working oil to flow smoothly from the connecting space 65 to the through hole 26. In addition, since the hydraulic control device 10 can allow working oil to flow to the through hole 26, it is possible to store working oil in a larger space.

[0133] In the above embodiments, the pump shaft 81 of the pump 13 is an example of a rotating component. However, the rotating component is not limited to this example and may also be a gear, an arm, or other rotating component. In the case where the motor shaft 32 is connected to a rotating component different from that of the pump 13, the tilting component 37, for example, prevents lubricating oil from the rotating component from seeping into the internal space 41.

[0134] As an example, the motor unit of at least one embodiment described above includes: a motor having a shaft capable of rotating about a rotation axis, a rotor capable of rotating together with the shaft about the rotation axis, and a stator surrounding the rotor, and having a first space for accommodating the rotor and the stator; a rotating member connected to the shaft outside the first space and capable of rotating about the rotation axis; a housing on which the motor is mounted and having a second space for accommodating at least a portion of the rotating member; and a guide member having a peripheral wall located between the first space and the second space and surrounding the rotation axis, a third space communicating with the second space being provided inside the peripheral wall, and a fourth space located outside the first space opening in at least one of the inner surfaces of the second space and the third space in a direction intersecting the rotation axis, the inner surface of the third space having a guide portion, the guide portion being closer to the fourth space than the rotation axis in a radial direction orthogonal to the rotation axis, and the guide portion being further away from the rotation axis the closer it is to the fourth space in the axial direction along the rotation axis. Therefore, as an example, when liquid adheres to the rotating shaft and rotating components, the liquid splashes due to centrifugal force. Since the peripheral wall surrounds the rotating shaft, the inner surface of the third space can block the splashed liquid. When the motor unit is configured such that the fourth space is located below the rotating shaft, the liquid blocked by the inner surface of the third space flows along the guide to the fourth space due to gravity. Therefore, the motor unit can prevent splashed liquid from seeping into the first space and can also prevent liquid from adhering to the rotor and stator.

[0135] In the aforementioned motor unit, as an example, the inner surface of the third space is further away from the rotation axis as it gets closer to the fourth space in the axial direction. Therefore, as an example, liquid blocked by the inner surface of the third space at a position higher than the rotation axis can move downwards and towards the fourth space due to gravity. Thus, the motor unit can more effectively suppress splashed liquid from entering the first space.

[0136] In the aforementioned motor unit, as an example, the motor has an outer surface facing the housing and a concave surface recessed from the outer surface in the axial direction and located outside the first space. The shaft is connected to the rotating component inside the concave surface, and the peripheral wall is located inside the concave surface. Therefore, as an example, the peripheral wall is disposed in the space inside the concave surface where the shaft connects to the rotating component. Therefore, compared to the case where the peripheral wall is located outside the concave surface, the motor unit can suppress its large size in the axial direction.

[0137] In the aforementioned motor unit, as an example, the lowermost portion of the guide portion near the second space at both ends in the axial direction is located below the lowermost portion of the other end of the guide portion in the axial direction. Therefore, as an example, the guide portion extends downward toward the second space. Consequently, liquid flows along the guide portion toward the fourth space. Thus, the motor unit is able to prevent splashed liquid from entering the first space.

[0138] In the aforementioned motor unit, as an example, the guide member has a flange that protrudes from one end of the peripheral wall in the axial direction, closer to the first space, toward the rotation axis and surrounds the rotation axis. Therefore, as an example, the flange can block liquid traveling along the inner surface of the third space toward the first space. Thus, the motor unit can more reliably suppress splashed liquid from entering the first space.

[0139] In the aforementioned motor unit, as an example, the shaft, the rotating component, or the joint connecting the shaft and the rotating component has a first outer peripheral surface surrounded by the flange, a second outer peripheral surface closer to the second space than the first outer peripheral surface, and a third outer peripheral surface connecting the first and second outer peripheral surfaces and intersecting both. The outer diameter of the second outer peripheral surface is shorter than the outer diameter of the first outer peripheral surface. Therefore, as an example, liquid traveling along the second outer peripheral surface to the first outer peripheral surface is blocked by the third outer peripheral surface. The liquid blocked by the third outer peripheral surface splashes radially due to centrifugal force. That is, the third outer peripheral surface can inhibit the movement of liquid from the second outer peripheral surface to the first outer peripheral surface. Therefore, the motor unit can prevent liquid adhering to the second outer peripheral surface from penetrating the first outer peripheral surface and entering the first space.

[0140] In the aforementioned motor unit, as an example, the shaft has a first outer peripheral surface, a second outer peripheral surface, and a third outer peripheral surface. Therefore, as an example, among the shaft, rotating component, and connector, since the shaft is closest to the first space, most of the liquid adhering to the rotating component and connector splashes radially due to centrifugal force. That is, the rotating component and connector reduce the amount of liquid moving towards the shaft along them. The liquid moving towards the shaft from the rotating component and connector is blocked by the third outer peripheral surface and splashes radially due to centrifugal force. Therefore, the motor unit can reduce the amount of liquid moving towards the third outer peripheral surface through the rotating component and connector, and can more reliably prevent liquid from penetrating the first space through the first outer peripheral surface.

[0141] In the aforementioned motor unit, as an example, a fifth space communicating with the fourth space is provided within the housing. The motor has electrodes at least partially housed in the fifth space, and the guide member has a cover integrally formed with the peripheral wall and covering the electrodes in the fifth space. Therefore, as an example, liquid blocked by the inner surface of the third space flows through the fourth space to the fifth space. Since the peripheral wall forming the third space is integrally formed with the cover covering the electrodes, liquid adhesion to the electrodes can be suppressed. Furthermore, compared to the case where the peripheral wall and cover are formed separately, the motor unit can suppress liquid intrusion into the gap between the guide member and other components, allowing liquid to flow smoothly from the third space to the fifth space. Additionally, since the motor unit allows liquid to flow into the fifth space, liquid can be stored in a more spacious area.

[0142] In the above description, suppression is defined, for example, as preventing an event, action, or effect from occurring, or reducing the degree of an event, action, or effect. Similarly, in the above description, restriction is defined, for example, as preventing movement or rotation, or allowing movement or rotation within a specified range and preventing movement or rotation beyond that specified range.

[0143] The above examples illustrate embodiments of the present invention. However, these embodiments and modifications are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. The above embodiments and modifications can be implemented in various other ways, and various omissions, substitutions, combinations, and changes can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. Furthermore, the structure and shape of each embodiment and modification can be partially replaced and implemented.

Claims

1. A motor unit comprising: An electric motor has a shaft capable of rotating about a rotation axis, a rotor capable of rotating together with the shaft about the rotation axis, and a stator surrounding the rotor, and is provided with a first space for accommodating the rotor and the stator; A rotating component is connected to the shaft outside the first space and is capable of rotating about the rotation axis; The housing has the motor mounted on it and a second space provided to accommodate at least a portion of the rotating component; as well as The guide component has a peripheral wall located between the first space and the second space and surrounding the rotation axis, and a third space communicating with the second space is provided inside the peripheral wall. A fourth space located outside the first space opens in at least one of the inner surfaces of the second space and the third space in a direction intersecting the axis of rotation. The inner surface of the third space has a guide portion, which is closer to the fourth space than the rotation axis in a radial direction orthogonal to the rotation axis. The closer the guide portion is to the fourth space and the further away it is from the rotation axis in the axial direction along the rotation axis.

2. The motor unit according to claim 1, wherein, The closer the inner surface of the third space is to the fourth space in the axial direction, the further away it is from the rotation axis.

3. The motor unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The motor has an outer surface facing the housing and a concave surface recessed from the outer surface in the axial direction and located outside the first space. The shaft is connected to the rotating component on the inner side of the concave surface. The peripheral wall is located inside the concave surface.

4. The motor unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The lowermost portion of the guide portion at one end of the guide portion in the axial direction, which is closer to the second space, is located further down than the lowermost portion of the other end of the guide portion in the axial direction.

5. The motor unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The guide member has a flange that protrudes from one of the two ends of the peripheral wall in the axial direction near the first space toward the rotation axis and surrounds the rotation axis.

6. The motor unit according to claim 5, wherein, The shaft, the rotating component, or the joint connecting the shaft and the rotating component has a first outer peripheral surface surrounded by the flange, a second outer peripheral surface closer to the second space than the first outer peripheral surface, and a third outer peripheral surface connecting the first outer peripheral surface and the second outer peripheral surface and intersecting the first outer peripheral surface and the second outer peripheral surface. The outer diameter of the second outer peripheral surface is shorter than the outer diameter of the first outer peripheral surface.

7. The motor unit according to claim 6, wherein, The shaft has a first outer peripheral surface, a second outer peripheral surface, and a third outer peripheral surface.

8. The motor unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, A fifth space communicating with the fourth space is provided within the outer casing. The motor has electrodes that are at least partially housed in the fifth space. The guide component has a cover integrally formed with the peripheral wall and covering the electrode in the fifth space.

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