Nut and ball screw device

Abstract

The present invention provides a nut capable of suppressing an increase in the number of components. The nut of the present disclosure includes a nut main body and a circulation member. The nut main body has a receiving portion in an arc shape when viewed in the axial direction, a seating surface, a through-hole, and a pair of side surfaces. The circulation member has a circulation member main body, two arm portions extending from the circulation member main body to both sides in the direction of the seating surface, ribs protruding from the two arm portions, respectively, and a riveted portion formed by riveting the ribs. A recess for the riveted portion to enter is provided in the pair of side surfaces. A ball passage is provided in the circulation member main body. The circulation member is formed by joining an inner peripheral side member and an outer peripheral side member, which are divided along the ball passage when viewed in the axial direction. The inner peripheral side member has a tongue portion that scoops up the balls, an inner peripheral side rolling surface that surrounds the inner peripheral side of the ball passage, and one of the two arm portions. The outer peripheral side member has an outer peripheral side rolling surface that surrounds the outer peripheral side of the ball passage and the other of the two arm portions.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to nuts and ball screw devices. Background Technology

[0002] A ball screw assembly comprises a nut, a screw passing through the nut, and multiple balls rolling on a track between the nut and the screw. The nut comprises a nut body and a circulation component. The circulation component is a component that circulates the balls, which have moved from one end of the track to the other end, back to one end of the track.

[0003] As one of the circulation components, an intermediate deflector can be cited. The intermediate deflector is generally disposed in a recess on the outer peripheral surface of the nut body. As a method for fixing such an intermediate deflector, in the following patent document, through holes extending axially from the end face of the nut body are provided in both the nut body and the intermediate deflector. A pin is then inserted into the through hole. Therefore, the intermediate deflector is engaged with the pin and will not detach from the nut body.

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 6511463 Summary of the Invention

[0007] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0008] In the pin-based fixing method, the number of components increases. Furthermore, through holes are required in both the nut body and the circulation component, restricting the layout. Therefore, the development of a method for fixing the nut of the circulation component using a method other than pins is desired.

[0009] This disclosure was made in view of the above, and its object is to provide a nut and ball screw device capable of suppressing the increase in the number of components.

[0010] Solution for solving the problem

[0011] To achieve the above objectives, the nut of the first technical solution of this disclosure comprises: a nut body formed in a cylindrical shape and penetrated by a lead screw; and a circulation component assembled to the nut body. The nut body has: a receiving portion, which is a recessed portion provided on the outer peripheral surface of the nut body and is bow-shaped when viewed from an axial direction parallel to the lead screw; a seat surface, which serves as the bottom surface of the receiving portion; a through hole, which penetrates the seat surface and the inner peripheral surface of the nut body; and a pair of side surfaces, which are disposed on both sides of the receiving portion in an axial direction parallel to the lead screw and are opposite to each other. The direction parallel to the seat surface when viewed from the axial direction is the seat surface direction. The direction perpendicular to the seat surface and the direction in which the seat surface faces is the first vertical direction. The circulation component includes: a circulation component body disposed in the receiving portion and the through hole; two arms extending from the circulation component body to both sides in the direction of the seat surface and abutting against the seat surface; ribs projecting from the two arms in a first vertical direction and extending along the side surfaces in the direction of the seat surface; and a riveting portion formed by riveting at least a portion of the ribs toward the side surfaces. Recesses are provided on the pair of side surfaces, the recesses being grooves extending along the direction of the seat surface, opposite the ribs in the axial direction, and for the riveting portion to enter. A ball passage extending tangentially relative to the ball track is provided in the circulation component body. The circulation component is formed by joining an inner peripheral side component and an outer peripheral side component, divided by a dividing surface extending along the ball passage when viewed from the axial direction. The inner peripheral side component has a tongue that scoops up the ball from the track, an inner peripheral side rolling surface surrounding the inner peripheral side of the ball passage, and one of the two arms. The outer peripheral component has an outer peripheral rolling surface surrounding the outer peripheral side of the ball passage and another of the two arms.

[0012] According to the structure described, when a load in the first vertical direction is applied to the circulation component, the riveting portion engages with the recess. Therefore, the circulation component will not misalign in the first vertical direction. That is, the circulation component will not detach from the nut body. Even assuming the engagement between the inner and outer peripheral components is disengaged, both the inner and outer peripheral components each have an arm. Therefore, neither the inner nor outer peripheral components will detach from the through hole nor from the nut body. Furthermore, although the circulation component of this disclosure is composed of two components (the inner and outer peripheral components), the dividing surface between the two components is not orthogonal to the axial direction. If the dividing surface of the circulation component were orthogonal to the axial direction, the tongue would be divided axially, reducing the strength of the tongue. On the other hand, the tongue of this disclosure is not divided but integrally provided on the inner peripheral component. Therefore, the strength of the tongue can be maintained, and the ball bearing can be smoothly lifted.

[0013] To achieve the above objectives, the nut of the second technical solution of this disclosure comprises: a nut body formed in a cylindrical shape and penetrated by a lead screw; and a circulation component assembled to the nut body. The nut body has: a receiving portion, which is a recessed portion provided on the outer peripheral surface of the nut body and is bow-shaped when viewed from an axial direction parallel to the lead screw; a seat surface, which serves as the bottom surface of the receiving portion; a through hole, which penetrates the seat surface and the inner peripheral surface of the nut body; and a pair of side surfaces, which are disposed on both sides of the receiving portion in an axial direction parallel to the lead screw and are opposite to each other. The direction parallel to the seat surface when viewed from the axial direction is the seat surface direction. The direction perpendicular to the seat surface and the direction in which the seat surface faces is the first vertical direction. The circulation component includes: a circulation component body disposed in the receiving portion and the through hole; two arms extending from the circulation component body to both sides in the direction of the seat surface and abutting against the seat surface; ribs projecting from the two arms in a first vertical direction and extending along the side surfaces in the direction of the seat surface; and a riveting portion formed by riveting at least a portion of the ribs toward the side surfaces. Recesses are provided on the pair of side surfaces, the recesses being grooves extending along the direction of the seat surface, opposite the ribs in the axial direction, and for the riveting portion to enter. A ball passage extending tangentially relative to the ball track is provided in the circulation component body. The circulation component is formed by joining an inner peripheral side component and an outer peripheral side component, divided by a dividing surface extending along the ball passage when viewed from the axial direction. The inner peripheral side component has a tongue that scoops up the ball from the track, an inner peripheral side rolling surface surrounding the inner peripheral side of the ball passage, and an inner peripheral side dividing surface extending along the dividing surface. The outer peripheral component has an outer peripheral rolling surface surrounding the outer peripheral side of the ball passage, two arms, and an outer peripheral dividing surface extending along the dividing surface. One of the inner peripheral dividing surface and the outer peripheral dividing surface has a protrusion protruding toward the seat surface and extending along the axial direction. The other of the inner peripheral dividing surface and the outer peripheral dividing surface has a groove recessed toward the seat surface and extending along the axial direction for the protrusion to engage.

[0014] According to the structure described, when a load in the first vertical direction is applied to the circulation component, the riveting portion engages with the recess. Therefore, the circulation component will not misalign in the first vertical direction. That is, the circulation component will not detach from the nut body. Furthermore, assuming the engagement between the inner and outer peripheral components is disengaged, the outer peripheral component has two arms. Therefore, the outer peripheral component will not detach into the through hole and will not detach from the nut body. On the other hand, the protrusion of the inner peripheral component engages with the groove and will not misalign in a direction parallel to the vertical line relative to the seat surface. Therefore, the inner peripheral component will not detach into the through hole. Additionally, the tongue of this disclosure is integrally provided on the inner peripheral component without being divided. Therefore, the strength of the tongue can be maintained, and the ball bearing can be smoothly lifted.

[0015] As a preferred embodiment of the nut, the dividing surface has: an inclined surface, which, when viewed from the axial direction, is parallel to the tangential direction and is located on one side of the seat surface direction as it moves towards the first vertical direction; and a longitudinal surface, which is positioned on one side of the seat surface direction than the inclined surface and extends along the first vertical direction. The longitudinal surface provides the protrusion and the groove. The movement of the inner peripheral component in the direction of disengaging the protrusion from the groove is restricted by the inclined surface.

[0016] According to the structure described, even if the engagement between the inner and outer peripheral components is disengaged, the engagement between the protrusion and the groove will not be disengaged. Therefore, the inner peripheral component will not detach from the through hole.

[0017] As a preferred embodiment of the nut, the pair of sides have: a first side disposed on one side axially closer than the recirculating member; and a second side disposed on the other side axially closer than the recirculating member. The rib has: a first rib extending along the first side; and a second rib extending along the second side. The riveting portion has: a first riveting portion, which is a portion of the first rib and riveted to the first side; and a second riveting portion, which is a portion of the second rib and riveted to the second side.

[0018] According to the structure, there are many rivet parts that are fastened to the nut body, which makes the circulation component securely prevented from detaching.

[0019] As a preferred embodiment of the nut, the seat surface has an expanded seat surface, which is the edge of the through hole and is disposed axially relative to the through hole. The inner peripheral component has an expanded seat surface that abuts against the expanded seat surface.

[0020] According to the aforementioned structure, the area in contact with the seat surface is increased. Therefore, the posture of the circulation component is more stable, and the ball bearings are lifted smoothly. Furthermore, even assuming the engagement between the inner and outer peripheral components is disengaged, the expanded seat surface remains engaged with the expanded seat surface, and the inner peripheral component will not detach into the through hole.

[0021] As a preferred embodiment of the nut, the inner circumferential rolling surface of the inner circumferential component and the outer circumferential rolling surface of the outer circumferential component are respectively groove surfaces.

[0022] According to the structure described, the balls roll smoothly in the ball path.

[0023] As a preferred embodiment of the nut, the outer peripheral rolling surface is a plane.

[0024] According to the structure described, the manufacture of the outer peripheral components becomes easier.

[0025] As a preferred embodiment of the nut, the nut body has a positioning hole that is recessed from the side towards the axial direction and opens on the outer peripheral surface of the nut body. The recirculating component body has a positioning protrusion that protrudes towards the axial direction and inserts into the positioning hole.

[0026] According to the structure, the circulation component will not be misaligned in the seat direction.

[0027] In addition, in order to achieve the above objectives, a ball screw device of one technical solution disclosed herein includes the aforementioned nut, a screw passing through the nut, and a plurality of balls disposed between the nut and the screw.

[0028] According to the ball screw device, the circulation component will not detach from the nut body.

[0029] The effects of the invention

[0030] According to the nut and ball screw device disclosed herein, there is no need for pins to fix the circulating components, thus suppressing the increase in the number of components. Attached Figure Description

[0031] Figure 1 This is a side view of the ball screw device of Embodiment 1 viewed from a direction orthogonal to the axial direction.

[0032] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view obtained by cutting the nut of Embodiment 1 along the axial direction.

[0033] Figure 3 Is Figure 1 The nut body is cut at line III-III, and the cross-sectional view of its section is viewed from the direction of the arrow.

[0034] Figure 4 From Figure 3 The side view viewed in the direction of arrow IV.

[0035] Figure 5 From Figure 3 The side view viewed in the direction of arrow V.

[0036] Figure 6 It is Figure 1 An enlarged view of the intermediate deflector and its surrounding area.

[0037] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 Sectional view along line VII-VII.

[0038] Figure 8 This is a perspective view of the intermediate deflector before riveting in Embodiment 1, viewed from an oblique angle in the first vertical direction.

[0039] Figure 9 This is a perspective view of the intermediate deflector before riveting in Embodiment 1, viewed from a second vertical oblique angle.

[0040] Figure 10 yes Figure 6 XX-line sectional view.

[0041] Figure 11 yes Figure 6 Sectional view along line XI-XI.

[0042] Figure 12 From Figure 6 The side view is viewed in the direction of arrow Ⅻ.

[0043] Figure 13 This is a perspective view showing the preparation steps of the assembly method in Embodiment 1.

[0044] Figure 14 This is a side view of the state before riveting, viewed from the direction of the second seat surface, during the riveting process of the assembly method in Embodiment 1.

[0045] Figure 15 This is a side view of the riveting state as observed from the second seat surface direction during the riveting process of the assembly method in Embodiment 1.

[0046] Figure 16 This is a top view of the riveting process of Embodiment 1 as viewed from the first vertical direction.

[0047] Figure 17 This is a perspective view of the riveting process in Embodiment 1, showing the riveting state using two jigs from an oblique angle.

[0048] Figure 18This is a side view of the nut in Embodiment 2, showing the state before the riveting rib is attached, viewed from the direction of the second seat surface.

[0049] Figure 19 This is a side view of the nut in Embodiment 2, showing the state after the riveting rib is attached, viewed from the direction of the second seat surface.

[0050] Figure 20 This is a side view of the nut in Embodiment 3, showing the state before the riveting rib is attached, viewed from the direction of the second seat surface.

[0051] Figure 21 This is a side view of the nut in Embodiment 3, showing the state after the riveting rib is attached, viewed from the direction of the second seat surface.

[0052] Figure 22 This is a perspective view of the intermediate deflector of Embodiment 4 as seen from the second axis.

[0053] Figure 23 This is an enlarged view of the gap between the second side surface and the second opposing surface when viewed from the first vertical direction in the nut of Embodiment 4.

[0054] Figure 24 This is a perspective view of the intermediate deflector in embodiment 5, viewed from an oblique angle.

[0055] Figure 25 This is a side view of the intermediate deflector of Embodiment 6 as viewed from the first axis.

[0056] Figure 26 This is a cross-sectional view obtained by cutting the intermediate deflector of Embodiment 6 with a plane extending along the seat surface direction and the vertical direction. Detailed Implementation

[0057] The methods for carrying out the invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. This disclosure is not limited to the contents described below. Furthermore, the constituent elements described below include elements readily conceived by those skilled in the art, and substantially the same elements. Moreover, the constituent elements described below can be appropriately combined.

[0058] (Implementation Method 1)

[0059] Figure 1 This is a side view of the ball screw device of Embodiment 1, viewed from a direction orthogonal to the axial direction. (Example) Figure 1 As shown, the ball screw assembly 100 includes a nut 101, a screw 102 passing through the nut 101, and a plurality of balls 103 disposed between the nut 101 and the screw 102 (see reference). Figure 2The lead screw 102 is a cylindrical component made of steel. A helical outer circumferential track surface 102a is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the lead screw 102. Hereinafter, the direction parallel to the axis O of the lead screw 102 will be referred to as the axial direction.

[0060] The ball screw device 100 is a device that converts rotary motion into linear motion or vice versa. In this embodiment, an inner ring 104 is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the nut 101. Furthermore, the inner ring 104 is positioned at the axial end of the outer circumferential surface of the nut 101. Hereinafter, the direction in which the inner ring 104 is positioned when viewed from the central portion of the nut 101 in the axial direction will be referred to as the first axial direction (one direction in the axial direction) X1. The direction opposite to the first axial direction X1 will be referred to as the second axial direction (the other direction in the axial direction) X2.

[0061] The inner ring 104 is a component that supports the nut 101 for rotation. An outer peripheral track surface 105 for the rotation of the balls is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the inner ring 104. Therefore, in this embodiment, the nut 101 is supported for rotation in a housing (not shown) or the like, and the lead screw 102 moves linearly along the axial direction. In other words, the ball screw device 100 of this embodiment is used to convert rotary motion into linear motion. Furthermore, in this embodiment, a nut with an integrally formed inner ring is illustrated, but this disclosure also allows for nuts without an integrally formed inner ring. Additionally, this disclosure can also be applied to ball screw devices that convert linear motion into rotary motion.

[0062] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view obtained by cutting the nut of Embodiment 1 along the axial direction. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the nut 101 includes a nut body 1 and an intermediate deflector (circulation device) 30 and an end deflector 110 assembled on the nut body 1.

[0063] The nut body 1 is a cylindrical component made of steel. A helical inner circumferential track surface 3 is provided on the inner circumferential surface 2 of the nut body 1. The inner circumferential track surface 3 and the outer circumferential track surface 102a form a helical track 106. Multiple balls 103 are arranged on this track 106. When the nut 101 rotates, the balls 103 roll on the inner circumferential track surface 3 and the outer circumferential track surface 102a, moving along the track 106 in a helical direction.

[0064] A first receiving portion (receiving portion) 5 is provided on the outer peripheral surface 4 of the nut body 1, near the end of the second axial direction X2, and recessed radially inward from the outer peripheral surface 4 of the nut body 1. A second receiving portion 7 is provided on the end face 6 of the nut body 1 on the first axial direction X1, and recessed towards the second axial direction X2. In addition, a return path 8 is provided on the nut body 1, which extends axially and connects the first receiving portion 5 and the second receiving portion 7. The intermediate deflector 30 is housed in the first receiving portion 5. In addition, the end deflector 110 is housed in the second receiving portion 7.

[0065] When the ball screw assembly 100 is driven, the ball 103, moving along the track 106 towards the second axis X2, is picked up by the intermediate deflector 30 and guided towards the return path 8. The ball 103 rolls along the return path 8 towards the first axis X1 and enters the interior of the end deflector 110. Then, the end deflector 110 causes the ball 103 to circulate towards the end of the track 106 along the first axis X1. Conversely, when the rotation direction of the nut 101 is reversed, the end deflector 110 picks up the ball 103 from the track 106, and the intermediate deflector 30 causes the ball 103 to circulate towards the rolling path. Thus, the ball 103 continues to roll on the track 106.

[0066] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the intermediate deflector 30 and the end deflector 110 are provided as two circulation components, but in this disclosure, both components may be intermediate deflectors (circulation components). Next, details of the nut body 1 and the intermediate deflector 30 will be described.

[0067] Figure 3 Is Figure 1 Cut the nut body along line III-III and view the cross-section from the direction of the arrow. (See the image.) Figure 3 As shown, the nut body 1 has a first receiving portion 5, a seat surface 10 that forms the bottom surface of the first receiving portion 5, a through hole 17 that penetrates the seat surface 10, and a pair of side surfaces 20 disposed on both sides axially opposite to the first receiving portion 5. Figure 3 (Only one is shown in the image).

[0068] The first storage section 5 is a space that is formed in the shape of an arc when viewed from the axial direction. Furthermore, the arc shape refers to the shape formed by combining the arc portion that overlaps with the outer peripheral surface 4 of the nut body 1 and the straight portion (the straight portion that connects the two ends of the arc portion) that overlaps with the seat surface 10 when viewed from the axial direction.

[0069] The seat surface 10 is the surface on which the intermediate deflector 30 abuts (seated). Furthermore, the seat surface 10 is a plane orthogonal to a virtual line K1 extending radially from the axis O when viewed axially. Hereinafter, the direction in which the seat surface 10 extends when viewed axially (the direction orthogonal to both the virtual line K1 and the axis) is referred to as the seat surface direction. On the other hand, the direction parallel to the virtual line K1 (the direction perpendicular to the seat surface) is referred to as the vertical direction. Furthermore, the direction in the vertical direction towards which the seat surface 10 faces is referred to as the first vertical direction Z1. The direction opposite to the first vertical direction Z1 is referred to as the second vertical direction Z2. In this embodiment, the seat surface 10 (first receiving portion 5) extends along a direction orthogonal to the axis O when viewed from the outer periphery (see reference...). Figure 4 ).

[0070] The through hole 17 extends vertically and penetrates the inner circumferential surface 2 of the seat surface 10 and the nut body 1. Furthermore, the through hole 17 penetrates the central portion of the seat surface 10 in the seat surface direction. Therefore, the seat surface 10 is divided into a first seat surface 11 located in a position relative to the through hole 17 in the seat surface direction, and a second seat surface 12 located in a position relative to the through hole 17 in the seat surface direction. Hereinafter, regarding the seat surface direction, the direction in which the first seat surface 11 is located when viewed from the through hole 17 will be referred to as the first seat surface direction Y1. The direction opposite to the first seat surface direction Y1 will be referred to as the second seat surface direction Y2.

[0071] Figure 4 From Figure 3 The side view viewed in the direction of arrow IV. (e.g.) Figure 4 As shown, the through hole 17 is rectangular when viewed from the first vertical direction Z1. The through hole 17 penetrates the central portion of the seat surface 10 in the axial direction. Furthermore, the axial length L1 of the through hole 17 is shorter than the axial length L2 of the seat surface 10. Therefore, the seat surface 10 has an expanded seat surface 13, which forms the edge 17a of the through hole 17 and is adjacent to both sides of the through hole 17 in the axial direction. In addition, the four corners of the through hole 17 in this embodiment are right angles, but they can also be rounded. Furthermore, the through hole 17 is not limited to being rectangular.

[0072] The expansion seat surface 13 has a first expansion seat surface 14 disposed on a first axial direction X1 relative to the through hole 17 and a second expansion seat surface 15 disposed on a second axial direction X2 relative to the through hole 17. The first expansion seat surface 14 and the second expansion seat surface 15 extend in the seat surface direction, and their respective ends are connected to the first seat surface 11 and the second seat surface 12.

[0073] Furthermore, the expanded seat surface 13 only needs to be able to accommodate the intermediate deflector 30 (seating), and does not need to be continuous in the seat surface direction as in the embodiment. Therefore, this disclosure may also be an expanded seat surface that is partially cut off in the seat surface direction and is discontinuous in the seat surface direction.

[0074] like Figure 4 As shown, a pair of side surfaces 20 have a first side surface 20a disposed on a first axial direction X1 relative to the seat surface 10 and a second side surface 20b disposed on a second axial direction X2 relative to the seat surface 10. The first side surface 20a and the second side surface 20b are axially opposite to each other. Hereinafter, details of the pair of side surfaces 20 will be described. For the technical content common to both the first side surface 20a and the second side surface 20b, the subject of the description will be "side surface 20". For the technical content provided on the first side surface 20a or the second side surface 20b, the subject of the description will be respectively.

[0075] like Figure 3 As shown, the side surface 20 is formed in an arc shape. Therefore, the side surface 20 has an arc-shaped outer peripheral edge 21. A recess 22 is provided on the side surface 20, which is recessed axially from the side surface 20 and extends in the seat surface direction. One end of the recess 22 extends to the outer peripheral edge 21. Therefore, the recess 22 opens on the side of the first receiving portion 5 and on the outer peripheral side of the nut body 1.

[0076] Two recesses 22 are provided relative to one side surface 20. One of the two recesses 22 is located in the direction Y1 of the first seat surface, above the through hole 17, and its outer peripheral portion 21 is cut off, opening into the direction Y1 of the first seat surface. The other of the two recesses 22 is located in the direction Y2 of the second seat surface, above the through hole 17, and its outer peripheral portion 21 is cut off, opening into the direction Y2 of the second seat surface. In other words, the two recesses 22 provided on one side surface 20 are divided into one side and the other side in the seat surface direction by the through hole 17.

[0077] Figure 5 From Figure 3 The side view is viewed in the direction of arrow V. The recess 22 is spaced apart from the seat surface 10 in the first vertical direction Z1. The cross-sectional shape of the recess 22 is triangular. Therefore, the inner surface of the recess 22 has a first inclined surface 23 that moves away from the first receiving portion 5 as it moves toward the first vertical direction Z1 and a second inclined surface 24 that moves toward the first receiving portion 5 as it moves toward the first vertical direction Z1.

[0078] Hereinafter, the recess 22 provided on the first side surface 20a will be referred to as the first recess 22a, and the recess 22 provided on the second side surface 20b will be referred to as the second recess 22b. Furthermore, the first inclined surface 23 and the second inclined surface 24 provided on the first recess 22a will be referred to as the first inclined surface 23a and the second inclined surface 24a. The first inclined surface 23 and the second inclined surface 24 provided on the first recess 22a will be referred to as the first inclined surface 23b and the second inclined surface 24b.

[0079] like Figure 3 As shown, the first side surface 20a has an opening 8a serving as the entrance / exit of the return path 8 and a positioning hole 26. The positioning hole 26 is a hole recessed from the first side surface 20a into the first axial direction X1. Furthermore, the positioning hole 26 also opens on the outer peripheral surface 4 of the nut body 1. The inner surface of the positioning hole 26 has a pair of opposing surfaces 26a that clamp the positioning hole 26 from the seat surface direction, a side surface 26b disposed relative to the positioning hole 26 in the first axial direction X1, and a bottom surface 26c disposed relative to the positioning hole 26 in the second vertical direction Z2. Next, the intermediate deflector 30 will be described.

[0080] Figure 6 It is Figure 1 An enlarged view of the intermediate deflector and its surroundings. The intermediate deflector 30 is a metal component manufactured by methods such as metal powder injection molding, machining, or forging. Figure 6 As shown, the intermediate deflector 30 is disposed in the first receiving section 5. Therefore, when viewed from the outer periphery, the intermediate deflector 30 is in the same direction as the first receiving section 5 (seat surface 10) (a direction orthogonal to the axis O). (Refer to...) Figure 4 The intermediate deflector 30 includes a deflector body (circulation component body) 31, an arm 50 protruding from the deflector body 31 toward the seat surface, a rib 60 protruding from the arm 50 in a first vertical direction Z1, and a riveting portion 70 formed by partially riveting the rib 60. Furthermore, the riveting portion 70 is formed by riveting the rib 60 when assembling the intermediate deflector 30 to the nut body 1. Therefore, the riveting portion 70 is not shown in the accompanying drawings showing the intermediate deflector 30 before assembly.

[0081] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A sectional view along lines VII-VII. (See attached image.) Figure 7 As shown, a ball passage 34 for the balls 103 to pass through is provided inside the deflector body 31. Furthermore, the deflector body 31 has a main body 32 disposed in the first storage section 5 and a scooping section 33 disposed in the through hole 17. The ball passage 34 extends along the tangent direction (refer to virtual line K2) of the virtual circle C that connects the centers of the balls 103 on the track 106. The scooping section 33 has a tongue 35 for scooping up the balls 103 from the track 106.

[0082] The outer peripheral surface 32a of the main body 32 in the first vertical direction Z1 is formed into an arc shape. Furthermore, when viewed axially, the outer peripheral surface 32a of the main body 32 overlaps with the outer peripheral surface 4 of the nut body 1. That is, the distance from the axis O to the outer peripheral surface 32a of the intermediate deflector 30 is the same as the outer diameter of the nut body 1. Therefore, the intermediate deflector 30 does not protrude from the first receiving portion 5.

[0083] Figure 8 This is a perspective view of the intermediate deflector before riveting in Embodiment 1, viewed from an oblique angle in the first vertical direction. Figure 9 This is a perspective view of the intermediate deflector before riveting in Embodiment 1, viewed from a second vertical oblique angle. Figure 10 yes Figure 6 A sectional view along the XX line. Figure 11 yes Figure 6 Sectional view along line XI-XI. Figure 12 From Figure 6 The side view is viewed in the direction of arrow Ⅻ.

[0084] like Figure 8 , Figure 9 As shown, the main body 32 has a first opposing surface 36 as a side facing the first axial direction X1. The first opposing surface 36 is opposite to the first side surface 20a. Furthermore, the first opposing surface 36 is provided with an opening 37 serving as an inlet / outlet for the ball bearing passage 34. Figure 10 As shown, opening 37 and opening 8a of return path 8 are axially continuous (adjacent). Therefore, ball 103 can move from ball passage 34 to return path 8 or from return path 8 to ball passage 34. Furthermore, to ensure smooth ball 103 transfer, openings 8a and 37 are chamfered (see reference). Figure 2 , Figure 10 Furthermore, the chamfering of openings 8a and 37 in this disclosure can also be used to perform straight chamfering instead of rounded chamfering.

[0085] like Figure 8 , Figure 9 As shown, a positioning protrusion 38 protruding towards the first axial direction X1 is provided on the first opposing surface 36. The positioning protrusion 38 is formed in the shape of a quadrangular prism. Figure 6 As shown, the positioning protrusion 38 is inserted into the positioning hole 26. Furthermore, the positioning protrusion 38 abuts against a pair of opposing surfaces 26a of the positioning hole 26. Therefore, the intermediate deflector 30 is prevented from shifting from its designated assembly position toward the seat surface.

[0086] like Figure 11As shown, the front end face 38a of the positioning protrusion 38 is separated from the side face 26b of the positioning hole 26. That is, a gap S10 is created between the front end face 38a and the side face 26b. Therefore, if the positioning protrusion 38 is manufactured with a protrusion amount larger than specified, its manufacturing error is absorbed by the gap S10. In other words, the situation where the positioning protrusion 38 contacts the side face 26b of the positioning hole 26 and the first side face 20a is separated from the first opposing face 36 is avoided.

[0087] Furthermore, the separation of the first side surface 20a from the first opposing surface 36 causes the separation of the opening 8a of the return path 8 from the opening 37 of the ball passage 34, preventing the smooth transfer of the balls 103. Therefore, in order to smoothly transfer the balls 103, it is desirable for the first side surface 20a to come into contact with the first opposing surface 36.

[0088] Furthermore, the bottom surface 38b of the positioning protrusion 38 is separated from the bottom surface 26c of the positioning hole 26. That is, a gap S11 is created between the bottom surface 38b and the bottom surface 26c. Therefore, if the thickness of the positioning protrusion 38 in the vertical direction is manufactured larger than the specified amount, the manufacturing error is absorbed by the gap S11. Thus, the situation where the positioning protrusion 38 abuts (hooks) with the bottom surface 26d of the positioning hole 26 and the intermediate deflector 30 is not seated (abuts) on the seat surface 10 is avoided.

[0089] Furthermore, the positioning protrusion 38 and the positioning hole 26 are only provided in the first axis X1 relative to the intermediate deflector 30. Therefore, when the intermediate deflector 30 is disposed in the first receiving part 5, the situation where the positioning protrusion 38 is mistakenly disposed with the second axis X2 (the opening 37 is disposed with the second axis) is avoided.

[0090] like Figure 7 As shown, the length L3 of the main body 32 in the seat direction is longer than the length L4 of the lifting part 33 in the seat direction. Therefore, the main body 32 has a seat surface 40 that faces the second vertical direction Z2 and abuts (seated) against the seat surface 10. In addition, the seat surface 40 has a first seat surface 41 that abuts against the first seat surface 11 and a second seat surface 42 that abuts against the second seat surface 12. That is, the intermediate deflector 30 has seat surfaces 40 on both sides in the seat direction, sandwiching the through hole 17.

[0091] like Figure 11As shown, the axial length L5 of the main body 32 is longer than the axial length L6 of the lifting portion 33. Therefore, the seating surface 40 has an expanded seating surface 43 disposed axially relative to the lifting portion 33. The expanded seating surface 43 has a first expanded seating surface 44 disposed axially relative to the lifting portion 33 in a first axial direction X1 and a second expanded seating surface 45 disposed axially relative to the lifting portion 33 in a second axial direction X2. The first expanded seating surface 44 abuts against the first expanded seating surface 14 of the seating surface 10. The second expanded seating surface 45 abuts against the second expanded seating surface 15.

[0092] like Figure 11 As shown, the main body 32 has a second opposing surface 46 as a side facing the second axial direction X2. The second opposing surface 46 is opposite to the second side surface 20b. Furthermore, the second opposing surface 46 is planar. Additionally, due to tolerances, the axial length L5 of the main body 32 is slightly smaller than the axial width L7 of the first receiving portion 5. That is, a small gap (not shown) is generated between the first side surface 20a and the first opposing surface 36, or between the second side surface 20b and the second opposing surface 46, or between both of them. Therefore, the intermediate deflector 30 can be reliably received in the first receiving portion 5.

[0093] like Figure 7 As shown, the arm portion 50 has a first arm portion 51 extending from the main body portion 32 in the direction Y1 towards the first seat surface and a second arm portion 52 extending from the main body portion 32 in the direction Y2 towards the second seat surface. The first arm portion 51 has a side facing the second vertical direction Z2 with a first seat surface 53. The second arm portion 52 has a side facing the second vertical direction Z2 with a second seat surface 54. Furthermore, the arm portion abuts against the first seat surface 11 with the first seat surface 53. The arm portion abuts against the second seat surface 12 with the second seat surface 54.

[0094] Next, rib 60 will be explained, as follows: Figure 6 As shown, ribs 60 are respectively provided in the first arm portion 51 and the second arm portion 52. Therefore, in the following description, the ribs 60 provided in the second arm portion 52 will be described, and the ribs 60 provided in the first arm portion 51 will be omitted.

[0095] like Figure 8 As shown, rib 60 is a protrusion that protrudes from the plane 55 of the second arm 52 toward the first vertical direction Z1 and extends linearly in the seat surface direction. The length of rib 60 in the seat surface direction is the same as that of the second arm 52. The end of rib 60 in the first seat surface direction Y1 is connected to the main body 32 (deflector body 31). Hereinafter, the end of rib 60 connected to the main body 32 will be referred to as the base 60a, and the end on the opposite side will be referred to as the front end 60b.

[0096] Rib 60 has a first rib 61 extending along a first axial direction X1 of plane 55 and a second rib 62 extending along a second axial direction X2 of plane 55. The first rib 61 extends along the first side surface 20a and is axially adjacent to the first recess 22a (see reference). Figure 14 Additionally, the second rib 62 extends along the second side surface 20b and is axially adjacent to the second recess 22b relative to the second side surface 20b (see reference). Figure 14 ).

[0097] like Figure 6 As shown, the riveting portion 70 is formed by riveting a rib 60 extending along the side surface 20 to the side surface 20. The riveting portion 70 is provided only at the front end 60b of the rib 60. The riveting portion 70 has a first riveting portion 71 provided on the first rib 61 and a second riveting portion 72 provided on the second rib 62.

[0098] like Figure 12 As shown, the first riveting portion 71 enters the first recess 22a. Furthermore, the first riveting portion 71 is shaped along the inner surface of the first recess 22a. Specifically, the first riveting portion 71 is inclined in a manner that it lies along the first axial direction X1 as it moves from the plane 55 toward the first vertical direction Z1. Moreover, the side surface 71a of the first riveting portion 71 facing the first axial direction X1 abuts against the first inclined surface 23a. Additionally, the end face 71b of the first riveting portion 71 facing the first vertical direction Z1 abuts against the second inclined surface 24a.

[0099] The second riveting portion 72 enters the second recess 22b. The second riveting portion 72 is shaped along the inner surface of the second recess 22b. Specifically, the second riveting portion 72 is inclined in a way that it is located in the second axial direction X2 as it moves from the plane 55 toward the first vertical direction Z1. Furthermore, the side surface 72a of the second riveting portion 72 facing the second axial direction X2 abuts against the first inclined surface 23b. In addition, the end face 72b of the second riveting portion 72 facing the first vertical direction Z1 abuts against the second inclined surface 24b. Based on the above, the first riveting portion 71 and the second riveting portion 72 are inclined in a way that they are axially separated from each other as they move toward the first vertical direction Z1.

[0100] like Figure 8 , Figure 9 As shown, the intermediate deflector 30 of this embodiment is formed by combining two parts (inner peripheral part 81 and outer peripheral part 82) that are divided along the dividing plane 80. Figure 7As shown, the dividing surface 80 extends along the axial direction. When viewed from the axial direction, the dividing surface 80 is parallel to the tangent relative to the virtual circle C (refer to virtual line K2). That is, the dividing surface 80 is inclined in a manner that it lies in the first vertical direction Z1 as it moves toward the first seat surface direction Y1. Hereinafter, the component that is disposed on the inner circumferential side of the dividing surface 80, which constitutes the intermediate deflector 30, will be referred to as the inner circumferential side component 81, and the component that is disposed on the outer circumferential side of the dividing surface 80 will be referred to as the outer circumferential side component 82.

[0101] Furthermore, the various structures of the intermediate deflector 30 are divided into an inner peripheral component 81 and an outer peripheral component 82 by the dividing surface 80. In this embodiment, the inner peripheral component 81 has a first arm portion 51, a tongue portion 35, and an expanded seating surface 43 (see reference). Figure 9 On the other hand, the outer peripheral member 82 has a second arm portion 52. Hereinafter, the end face of the inner peripheral member 81 extending along the dividing surface 80 will be referred to as the inner peripheral dividing surface 83. In addition, the end face of the outer peripheral member 82 extending along the dividing surface 80 will be referred to as the outer peripheral dividing surface 84.

[0102] The dividing surface 80 overlaps with the outer peripheral side of the ball passage 34. Therefore, as Figure 11 As shown, the inner peripheral side component 81 has a C-shaped or U-shaped groove, i.e., an inner peripheral side rolling surface 85, on its inner peripheral side dividing surface 83, which opens in the first vertical direction Z1. On the other hand, the outer peripheral side component 82 has a planar dividing surface 84. Furthermore, a portion of the outer peripheral side dividing surface 84 becomes an outer peripheral side rolling surface 86 that covers the inner peripheral side rolling surface 85 from the first vertical direction Z1. In addition, since the outer peripheral side dividing surface 84 is planar, the manufacture of the outer peripheral side component 82 is facilitated.

[0103] The inner peripheral component 81 and the outer peripheral component 82 are manufactured independently. Furthermore, the inner peripheral dividing surface 83 and the outer peripheral dividing surface 84 are joined together, making the inner peripheral component 81 and the outer peripheral component 82 an integral unit. In addition, joining methods include heat fusion, bonding, etc.

[0104] In addition, such as Figure 7 As shown, the end of the dividing surface 80 in the first seat surface direction Y1 extends in the first vertical direction Z1. In other words, the end of the inner peripheral dividing surface 83 in the first seat surface direction Y1 is provided with a stepped surface 87 extending in the first vertical direction Z1 and facing the second seat surface direction. On the other hand, the end of the outer peripheral dividing surface 84 in the first seat surface direction Y1 is provided with an end face 88 extending in the first vertical direction Z1 and facing the first seat surface direction Y1. The stepped surface 87 abuts against the end face 88. Therefore, when the inner peripheral component 81 and the outer peripheral component 82 are joined, misalignment is prevented in the seat surface direction.

[0105] Next, the assembly method S for assembling the intermediate deflector 30 into the nut body 1 will be described. The assembly method S includes a preparation step S1 and a riveting step S2.

[0106] Figure 13 This is a perspective view showing the preparation steps of the assembly method in Embodiment 1. Preparation step S1 is the step of placing the intermediate deflector 30 onto the seat surface 10 of the nut body 1. Specifically, as... Figure 13 As shown, firstly, an intermediate deflector 30 is disposed on the first vertical direction Z1 of the first receiving portion 5 of the nut body 1. The orientation of the intermediate deflector 30 is such that it rests on the seating surface 40 (in...). Figure 13 (Not shown in the figure) and the scooping part 33 faces the first receiving part 5. In addition, the positioning protrusion 38 of the intermediate deflector 30 points towards the first axis X1. Furthermore, the intermediate deflector 30 of this embodiment has a positioning protrusion 38, but in the case where the intermediate deflector 30 does not have a positioning protrusion 38, the opening 37 is checked to see if it faces the first axis X1 instead of the positioning protrusion 38.

[0107] Next, the intermediate deflector 30 is moved in the second vertical direction Z2 (refer to...). Figure 13 Following arrow A1), insert the intermediate deflector 30 into the first receiving part 5. Then, adjust the position of the intermediate deflector 30 along the axial and seat surface directions, insert the lifting part 33 into the through hole 17, and insert the positioning protrusion 38 into the positioning hole 26. Furthermore, after the lifting part is inserted into the through hole 17 and the positioning protrusion 38 is inserted into the positioning hole 26, when the intermediate deflector 30 is further moved in the second vertical direction Z2, the sitting surface 40 of the intermediate deflector 30 abuts against the seat surface 10. Thus, the intermediate deflector 30 sits on the seat surface 10, and the preparation process S1 ends.

[0108] Figure 14 This is a side view of the state before riveting, viewed from the direction of the second seat surface, during the riveting process of the assembly method in Embodiment 1. Riveting process S2 is the process of riveting rib 60 using jig 120. Furthermore, as... Figure 14 As shown, the axial clearance between the first rib 61 and the second rib 62 is L8.

[0109] The jig 120 has a head 121 that is inserted between the first rib 61 and the second rib 62, and a gripping portion 122 disposed on the head 121 in a first vertical direction Z1. A front end portion 123 is provided at the end of the head 121 in a second vertical direction Z2. The axial width of the front end portion 123 narrows as it moves toward the second vertical direction Z2.

[0110] The front end portion 123 has a front end face 124 facing the second vertical direction Z2, a first pressing surface 125 facing the first axial direction X1, and a second pressing surface 126 facing the second axial direction X2. The axial width L9 of the front end face 124 is smaller than the separation distance L8 between the first rib 61 and the second rib 62.

[0111] Furthermore, the axial width of the first pressing surface 125 and the second pressing surface 126 gradually increases as they move toward the first vertical direction Z1, reaching a maximum of L10. Also, the maximum axial width L10 of the first pressing surface 125 and the second pressing surface 126 is greater than the separation distance L8 between the first rib 61 and the second rib 62.

[0112] In the riveting method using jig 120, firstly, the front end 123 of jig 120 is inserted between the first rib 61 and the second rib 62 from the first vertical direction Z1 (refer to...). Figure 14 (Arrow A2). Thus, although not specifically illustrated, the front end face 124 is inserted between the first rib 61 and the second rib 62, the first pressing surface 125 abuts against the first rib 61, and the second pressing surface 126 abuts against the second rib 62. In addition, the front end face 124 is in a state of being lifted (separated) from the plane 55 of the arm portion 50.

[0113] Figure 15 This is a side view of the riveting state observed from the direction of the second mounting surface during the riveting process of the assembly method in Embodiment 1. Furthermore, as... Figure 15 As shown, the jig 120 is pressed in the second vertical direction Z2, with the front end face 124 abutting against the plane 55. Thus, the first rib 61 is riveted to the first axial direction X1 by the first pressing surface 125. Additionally, the second rib 62 is riveted to the second axial direction X2 by the second pressing surface 126.

[0114] Furthermore, the riveted portion in the first rib 61 tilts towards the first recess 22a disposed on the first axial direction X1, becoming the first riveting portion 71. Additionally, the first riveting portion 71 is axially compressed between the inner surface of the first recess 22a and the first pressing surface 125, forming a shape along the inner surface of the first recess 22a. That is, the first riveting portion 71 has a side surface 71a extending along the first inclined surface 23a and an end surface 71b extending along the second inclined surface 24a.

[0115] Similarly, the riveted portion in the second rib 62 tilts toward the second recess 22b disposed on the second axial direction X2, becoming the second riveting portion 72. Furthermore, the second riveting portion 72 is axially compressed between the inner surface of the second recess 22b and the second pressing surface 126, forming a shape along the inner surface of the first recess 22a. That is, the second riveting portion 72 has a side surface 72a extending along the first inclined surface 23b and an end surface 72b extending along the second inclined surface 24b.

[0116] Furthermore, after the first riveting part 71 and the second riveting part 72 are generated, the jig 120 is separated in the first vertical direction Z1, and the riveting process S2 ends.

[0117] Figure 16 This is a top view of the riveting process in Embodiment 1, viewed from the first vertical direction. (Example) Figure 16 As shown, in the riveting process S2, the part riveted by the jig 120 is not the entire rib 60, but the front end 60b of the rib 60. This is because the base 60a of the rib 60 is connected to the deflector body 31 and is not easily tilted. In addition, if the base 60a of the rib 60 is forcibly riveted, the deflector body 31 may deform.

[0118] Furthermore, when the front end portion 60b of the riveting rib 60 is riveted, when viewed from the first vertical direction Z1, the first riveting portion 71 and the second riveting portion 72 are formed in a shape roughly resembling the Japanese kana "ハ". That is, the amount by which the first riveting portion 71 and the second riveting portion 72 tilt axially increases as they move toward the front end portion 60b. In addition, not only the front end portion 60b of the riveting but also the central portion in the seat direction of the rib 60 tilts slightly axially.

[0119] On the other hand, during the riveting operation, a load is applied to the intermediate deflector 30 in a direction that avoids the load from the jig 120 (refer to arrows A3 and A4). Specifically, when riveting the rib 60 of the first arm 51, a load in the second seat surface direction Y2 is applied to the intermediate deflector 30 (refer to arrow A3). On the other hand, when riveting the rib 60 of the second arm 52, a load in the first seat surface direction Y1 is applied to the intermediate deflector 30 (refer to arrow A4). Therefore, the positioning protrusion 38 may deform, and the intermediate deflector 30 may become misaligned.

[0120] Figure 17 This is a perspective view of the riveting process in Embodiment 1, showing the riveting state using two jigs from an oblique angle. Therefore, in the riveting process S2, as... Figure 17 As shown, two jigs 120 are prepared to simultaneously rivet the ribs 60 of the first arm 51 and the second arm 52. Thus, the load acting on the first arm 51 (refer to...) Figure 16 Arrow A3) and the load acting on the second arm 52 (refer to) Figure 16 The arrows A4 and A4 cancel each other out. Therefore, deformation of the positioning protrusion 38 is avoided.

[0121] Furthermore, the stepped surface 87 of the inner peripheral side member 81 having the first arm portion 51 and the end face 88 of the outer peripheral side member 82 having the second arm portion 52 abut (see reference). Figure 7Therefore, even if the first arm 51 and the second arm 52 are riveted together using two jigs 120, the engagement between the inner peripheral component 81 and the outer peripheral component 82 will not be released.

[0122] Next, the effects of the ball screw device 100 in Embodiment 1 will be explained. In Embodiment 1, when a load is applied to the intermediate deflector 30 along the first vertical direction Z1, the riveting portion 70 is engaged with the recess 22. Therefore, the intermediate deflector 30 will not shift in the first vertical direction Z1. That is, the intermediate deflector 30 will not detach from the nut body 1. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the base 60a of the rib 60 is connected to the deflector body 31, and the rib 60 and the riveting portion 70 have high rigidity and are not easily tipped over. Therefore, even when a load is applied to the intermediate deflector 30 along the first vertical direction Z1, the riveting portion 70 is engaged with the second inclined surface 24, and the riveting portion 70 is not easily deformed (and therefore not easily tipped over). As a result, the intermediate deflector 30 will not shift in the first vertical direction Z1.

[0123] Furthermore, riveting portions 70 are respectively provided on the first arm portion 51 and the second arm portion 52. That is, according to Embodiment 1, there are more riveting portions (riveting portions 70) compared to the case where the riveting portion 70 is provided only on one of the two arms 50. Therefore, the anti-detachment of the intermediate deflector 30 becomes more secure. In addition, one of the two arms 50 is provided on the inner peripheral side member 81, and the other is provided on the outer peripheral side member 82. Therefore, even if the engagement between the inner peripheral side member 81 and the outer peripheral side member 82 is released, the inner peripheral side member 81 and the outer peripheral side member 82 will not detach from the nut body 1.

[0124] Furthermore, the riveting portion 70 has a first riveting portion 71 and a second riveting portion 72 relative to one arm portion 50. That is, compared to the case where there is only one riveting portion 70 relative to one arm portion 50, there are more riveting portions (riveting portions 70). Therefore, the anti-detachment of the intermediate deflector 30 becomes more secure.

[0125] Furthermore, if the intermediate deflector 30 is positioned on one side of the seat surface axial direction relative to the through hole 17 at the point where it abuts the seat surface 10, the deflector body 31 may fall into the through hole 17, and the intermediate deflector 30 may tilt. As a result, the tongue 35 may misalign, and the ball 103 cannot be lifted smoothly. On the other hand, the intermediate deflector 30 of this embodiment has a first seat surface 41 and a first arm seat surface 53 disposed relative to the through hole 17 in the first seat surface direction Y, and a second seat surface 42 and a second arm seat surface 54 disposed relative to the through hole 17 in the second seat surface direction Y2. That is, the intermediate deflector 30 has seat surfaces 40 on both sides in the seat surface direction while clamping the through hole 17. Therefore, the deflector body 31 will not fall into the through hole 17, and the posture of the intermediate deflector 30 is stable. As a result, the scooping of ball 103 proceeded smoothly.

[0126] Furthermore, the intermediate deflector 30 has an expanded seating surface 43 that abuts against the expanded seating surface 13 of the seat surface 10. Therefore, the posture of the intermediate deflector 30 is further stabilized. Additionally, the expanded seating surface 43 is provided on the inner peripheral member 81. Therefore, even if the engagement between the inner peripheral member 81 and the outer peripheral member 82 is released, the expanded seating surface 43 remains engaged with the expanded seating surface 13, preventing the inner peripheral member 81 from detaching from the through hole 17.

[0127] Furthermore, the dividing surface 80 between the inner peripheral component 81 and the outer peripheral component 82 extends axially along the ball passage 34. Assuming the dividing surface is in a direction orthogonal to the axial direction (a plane extending along both the seat surface direction and the vertical direction), the tongue is divided axially, reducing its strength. That is, in this embodiment, by cutting the ball passage 34 axially, the inner peripheral component 81 is constructed without dividing the tongue 35. Therefore, the strength of the tongue 35 is maintained.

[0128] In summary, the ball screw device 100 of Embodiment 1 includes a nut 101, a screw 102 passing through the nut 101, and a plurality of balls 103 disposed between the nut 101 and the screw 102. The nut 101 includes a nut body 1 formed in a cylindrical shape and penetrated by the screw 102, and a circulation component (intermediate deflector 30) assembled to the nut body 1. The nut body 1 has: a receiving portion (first receiving portion 5), which is a recessed portion provided on the outer peripheral surface 4 of the nut body 1 and is bow-shaped when viewed from an axial direction parallel to the screw 102; a seat surface 10, which serves as the bottom surface of the receiving portion; a through hole 17, which passes through the seat surface 10 and the inner peripheral surface 2 of the nut body 1; and a pair of side surfaces 20, which are disposed on both sides of the receiving portion (first receiving portion 5) in an axial direction parallel to the screw 102 and are opposite to each other. The direction parallel to the seat surface when viewed from the axial direction is the seat surface direction. The direction parallel to the perpendicular line (virtual line K2) relative to the seat surface and the direction in which the seat surface 10 faces is the first vertical direction Z1. The circulation component (intermediate deflector 30) has: a circulation component body (deflector body 31) disposed in the receiving portion and the through hole 17; two arms 50 extending from the circulation component body to both sides in the seat surface direction and abutting against the seat surface; ribs 60 protruding from the two arms 50 respectively in the first vertical direction Z1 and extending along the side surface 20 in the seat surface direction; and a riveting portion 70 formed by riveting at least a portion of the ribs 60 toward the side surface. A recess 22 is provided on a pair of side surfaces 20, which is a groove extending along the seat surface direction, axially opposite to the ribs 60, and for the riveting portion 70 to enter. A ball passage 34 extending tangentially (virtual line K1) relative to the track 106 of the ball 103 is provided in the circulation component body (deflector body 31). The circulation component (intermediate deflector 30) is formed by joining an inner circumferential component 81, divided by a dividing surface 80 extending along the ball passage 34 when viewed axially, with an outer circumferential component 82E. The inner circumferential component 81 has a tongue 35 that scoops up the ball 103 from the track 106, an inner circumferential rolling surface 85 surrounding the inner circumferential side of the ball passage 34, and one of two arms 50. The outer circumferential component 82 has an outer circumferential rolling surface 86 surrounding the outer circumferential side of the ball passage 34 and the other of the two arms 50.

[0129] According to Embodiment 1, the circulation component (intermediate deflector 30) will not detach from the nut body 1. Furthermore, no pin is needed to secure the circulation component (intermediate deflector 30), thus preventing an increase in the number of components. Additionally, even assuming the engagement between the inner peripheral component 81 and the outer peripheral component 82 is disengaged, both the inner peripheral component 81 and the outer peripheral component 82 have an arm 50. Therefore, neither the inner peripheral component 81 nor the outer peripheral component 82 will detach into the through hole 17 nor detach from the nut body 1. Furthermore, the tongue 35 is integrally provided on the inner peripheral component 81 without being divided. Therefore, the strength of the tongue 35 is maintained, allowing for smooth scooping of the ball 103.

[0130] Furthermore, in Embodiment 1, the pair of side surfaces 20 have a first side surface 20a positioned axially upwards from the circulation member (intermediate deflector 30) and a second side surface 20b positioned axially upwards from the circulation member. The rib 60 has a first rib 61 extending along the first side surface 20a and a second rib 62 extending along the second side surface 20b. The riveting portion 70 has a first riveting portion 71 riveted to the first side surface 20a as a part of the first rib 61 and a second riveting portion 72 riveted to the second side surface 20b as a part of the second rib 62.

[0131] According to Embodiment 1, there are more riveted parts (riveted parts 70), which makes the anti-detachment of the intermediate deflector 30 more secure.

[0132] Additionally, the nut body 1 of Embodiment 1 has a positioning hole 26 that is recessed axially from the side 20 and opens on the outer peripheral surface 4 of the nut body 1. The circulation component body (deflector body 31) has a positioning protrusion 38 that protrudes axially and is inserted into the positioning hole 26.

[0133] According to Embodiment 1, the misalignment of the intermediate deflector 30 in the seat surface direction is limited. Therefore, the tongue 35 is positioned in a predetermined position, and the scooping of the ball 103 is performed smoothly.

[0134] Furthermore, in Embodiment 1, the seat surface 10 has an expansion seat surface 13 that serves as an edge 17a of the through hole 17 and is disposed on both sides in the axial direction relative to the through hole 17. The inner peripheral side component 81 has an expansion seat surface 43 that abuts against the expansion seat surface 13.

[0135] According to Embodiment 1, the increased contact area with the seat surface 10 further stabilizes the posture of the intermediate deflector 30. Additionally, it prevents the inner peripheral component 81 from detaching from the through hole 17.

[0136] The ball screw device 100 of Embodiment 1 has been described above. Next, another embodiment with partial deformation of the nut of Embodiment 1 will be described. In the nut 101 of Embodiment 1, from the viewpoint of tolerance, a small gap (not shown) is generated between the first side surface 20a and the first opposing surface 36, or between the second side surface 20b and the second opposing surface 46, or between both of them. If the gap between the first side surface 20a and the first opposing surface 36 is large, the opening 37 of the ball passage 34 separates from the opening 8a of the return path 8, and the handover of the balls 103 becomes unsmooth. Hereinafter, the second to fourth embodiments, which improve this point, will be described. Furthermore, in the following description, the changes relative to Embodiment 1 will be highlighted.

[0137] (Implementation Method 2)

[0138] Figure 18 This is a side view of the nut in Embodiment 2, showing the state before the riveting rib is attached, viewed from the direction of the second seat surface. Figure 19 This is a side view of the nut in Embodiment 2, showing the state after the riveting ribs are attached, viewed from the direction of the second seat surface. (Example) Figure 18 As shown, the intermediate deflector 30A of Embodiment 2 differs from the intermediate deflector 30 of Embodiment 1 in that it has a first rib 61A and a second rib 62A with different thicknesses in the axial direction. Furthermore, in Figure 18 The diagram only shows the ribs of the second arm, but the first arm 51 also has a first rib 61A and a second rib 62A.

[0139] The axial thickness L12 of the second rib 62A is smaller than the axial thickness L11 of the first rib 61A. Using jig 120 (see reference) Figure 14 When riveting the first rib 61A, such as Figure 19 As shown, the first riveting part 71A is generated. Additionally, using the jig 120 (see reference...) Figure 14 When riveting the second rib 62A, the second riveting part 72A is generated.

[0140] When the first rib 61A and the second rib 62A are simultaneously riveted using the jig 120, the second rib 62A, which has a smaller axial thickness and lower stiffness, begins to tilt (deform) earlier than the first rib 61A. Furthermore, the riveted portion of the second rib 62A (the second riveted portion 72A) abuts against the inner surface of the recess 22 earlier than the riveted portion of the first rib 61A (the first riveted portion 71A), pressing down on the inner surface of the recess 22. Therefore, a reaction force against the pressing of the second riveted portion 72A acts on the intermediate deflector 30A (refer to arrow A5). Furthermore, the intermediate deflector 30A moves along the first axial direction X1, and the first opposing surface 36 comes into contact with the first side surface 20a.

[0141] According to the above implementation method 2, the opening 37 of the ball bearing passage 34 and the opening 8a of the return path 8 are continuous (adjacent), and the handover of the ball bearing 103 becomes smooth.

[0142] (Implementation Method 3)

[0143] Figure 20 This is a side view of the nut in Embodiment 3, showing the state before the riveting rib is attached, viewed from the direction of the second seat surface. Figure 21 This is a side view of the nut in Embodiment 3, showing the state after the riveting ribs are attached, viewed from the direction of the second seat surface. (Example) Figure 20 As shown, the intermediate deflector 30B of Embodiment 3 differs from the intermediate deflector 30 of Embodiment 1 in that it has a first rib 61B and a second rib 62B instead of a first rib 61 and a second rib 62.

[0144] The first rib 61B has a first riveting surface 61a facing the second axial direction X2. The second rib 62B has a second riveting surface 62a facing the first axial direction X1. The first riveting surface 61a and the second riveting surface 62a are opposite to each other. The first riveting surface 61a is an inclined surface that is inclined in a way that approaches the first side surface 20a as it moves toward the first vertical direction Z1 (towards the first axial direction X1).

[0145] When the first riveting surface 61a is riveted using the jig 120, a portion of the riveting load acting on the first riveting surface 61a (the load in the first axial direction X1) is converted into a load in the second vertical direction Z2. That is, the load acting on the first rib 61B in the first axial direction X1 is reduced. Furthermore, the base side of the first rib 61B (the portion near the arm 50) has a large axial thickness and high rigidity. Based on the above, the first rib B is less prone to deformation compared to the second rib 62B. Therefore, when both the first rib 61B and the second rib 62B are riveted simultaneously using the jig 120, the first rib 61B tilts later than the second rib 62B. Therefore, the riveted portion of the second rib 62B (the second riveting portion 72B) abuts against the inner surface of the recess 22 earlier than the first rib 61B, thereby pressing the inner surface of the recess 22. As a result, the second riveting part 72B receives a reaction force from the inner surface of the recess 22 (refer to arrow A7), the intermediate deflector 30B moves toward the first axis X1, and the first opposing surface 36 comes into contact with the first side surface 20a.

[0146] According to the above implementation method 3, the opening 37 of the ball passage 34 and the opening 8a of the return path 8 are continuous (adjacent), and the handover of the ball 103 becomes smooth.

[0147] (Implementation Method 4)

[0148] Figure 22 This is a perspective view of the intermediate deflector of Embodiment 4 as seen from the second axis. Figure 23This is an enlarged view of the gap between the second side surface and the second opposing surface, viewed from the first vertical direction in the nut of embodiment 4. Figure 22 As shown, the intermediate deflector 30C of Embodiment 4 differs from the intermediate deflector 30 of Embodiment 1 in that a plurality of protrusions 47 are provided on the second opposing surface 46.

[0149] The protrusion 47 is integrally formed on the intermediate deflector 30C. The protrusion 47 is hemispherical. Therefore, the cross-section obtained by cutting the protrusion 47 with a plane extending along the seat surface direction and the vertical direction is circular. The axial protrusion of the protrusion 47 is larger than the minute axial gap (tolerance) generated between the first receiving part 5 and the intermediate deflector 30C.

[0150] like Figure 23 As shown, when the intermediate deflector 30C of Embodiment 4 is inserted into the first receiving portion 5, the protrusion 47 is pressed by the second side surface 20b, and the front end of the protrusion 47 is flattened. Thus, the intermediate deflector 30C is pressed along the first axial direction X1 (see reference). Figure 23 Arrow A8), the first opposing surface 36 abuts against the first side surface 20a. According to the above embodiment 4, the opening 37 of the ball passage 34 and the opening 8a of the return path 8 are also continuous (adjacent), and the transfer of the ball 103 becomes smooth. In addition, although there are multiple protrusions 47 in this embodiment, the present disclosure may have at least one or more protrusions 47. Furthermore, the shape of the protrusion 47 is not limited to hemispherical, and may also be a cylinder, prism, cone, or frustum, without particular limitation.

[0151] The embodiments 2 to 4 have been described above, but the technical content of embodiments 2 to 4 can also be combined in this disclosure. That is, all of embodiments 2 to 4 can be applied in this disclosure. Alternatively, two of embodiments 2 to 4 can be selected and applied.

[0152] (Implementation Method 5)

[0153] Figure 24 This is a perspective view of the intermediate deflector of Embodiment 5 viewed from an oblique angle. The intermediate deflector 30D of Embodiment 5 differs from the intermediate deflector 30 of Embodiment 1 in that its length in the seat surface direction of the arm portion 50D is longer than that of the rib 60 in the seat surface direction. That is, in Embodiment 5, the front end portion 50a of the arm portion 50D protrudes outward in the seat surface direction than the front end portion 60b of the rib 60. With this intermediate deflector 30D, the contact area with the seat surface 10 is increased, and the posture of the intermediate deflector 30D is more stable.

[0154] Furthermore, in embodiment 5, the intermediate deflector 30D has a positioning protrusion 38 provided on the first opposing surface 36 and the second opposing surface 46 (in Figure 24Not shown in the image, please refer to the diagram. Figure 11 , Figure 12 This differs from the intermediate deflector 30 of Embodiment 1 in that respect. Furthermore, although not specifically illustrated, positioning holes 26 are provided on the first side 20a and the second side 20b of the nut body 1. This ensures that the intermediate deflector 30D is securely positioned in the seat surface direction. Additionally, this disclosure may also be like the intermediate deflector 30D of Embodiment 5, without the expanded seat surface 43 (see...). Figure 9 ).

[0155] Furthermore, according to Embodiment 5, the positioning protrusion 38 is provided on both the first opposing surface 36 and the second opposing surface 46, which may allow it to be placed in the first storage section 5 if the orientation of the intermediate deflector 30 is mistaken. Therefore, in the intermediate deflector 30D of Embodiment 5, it is preferable to mark an indicator on the outer peripheral surface of the deflector body (circulation component body) 31 indicating the assembly direction of the deflector body (circulation component body) 31 relative to the first storage section (storage section) 5.

[0156] (Implementation Method 6)

[0157] Figure 25 This is a side view of the intermediate deflector of Embodiment 6 as viewed from the first axis. Figure 26 This is a cross-sectional view obtained by cutting the intermediate deflector of Embodiment 6 with a plane extending along the seat surface direction and the vertical direction. For example... Figure 25 As shown, the intermediate deflector 30E of Embodiment 6 differs from the intermediate deflector 30 of Embodiment 1 in that it has an inner peripheral side component 81E and an outer peripheral side component 82E instead of an inner peripheral side component 81 and an outer peripheral side component 82.

[0158] The dividing surface 90 between the inner peripheral component 81E and the outer peripheral component 82E includes: an inclined surface 91 that extends along the ball passage 34 when viewed axially; a transverse surface 92 that extends from the radially outer end of the two ends of the inclined surface 91 toward the first seat surface direction Y1; and a longitudinal surface 93 that extends from the first seat surface direction Y1 of the transverse surface 92 toward the second vertical direction Z2. Additionally, a fitting portion 94 is provided on the longitudinal surface 93.

[0159] Hereinafter, the portion of the inner peripheral side component 81E located on the inclined surface 91 of the inner peripheral side dividing surface 83E will be referred to as the inner peripheral side inclined surface 91a, the portion located on the transverse surface 92 will be referred to as the inner peripheral side transverse surface 92a, and the portion located on the longitudinal surface 93 will be referred to as the inner peripheral side longitudinal surface 93a. Similarly, the portion of the outer peripheral side component 82E located on the inclined surface 91 of the outer peripheral side dividing surface 84E will be referred to as the outer peripheral side inclined surface 91b, the portion located on the transverse surface 92 will be referred to as the outer peripheral side transverse surface 92b, and the portion located on the longitudinal surface 93 will be referred to as the outer peripheral side longitudinal surface 93b.

[0160] The inclined surface 91 is inclined in a manner that it lies in the first seat surface direction Y1 as it moves toward the first vertical direction Z1. Furthermore, the inclined surface 91 overlaps with the central portion of the ball bearing passage 34 when viewed axially. Therefore, as... Figure 26 As shown, the inner peripheral side component 81E has an inner peripheral side rolling surface 85 in the shape of the letter C, opening in the first vertical direction Z1, on its inner peripheral side inclined surface 91a. Similarly, the outer peripheral side component 82E has an outer peripheral side rolling surface 86 in the shape of the letter C, opening in the second vertical direction Z2, on its outer peripheral side inclined surface 91b. Therefore, grooves (inner peripheral side rolling surface 85 and outer peripheral side rolling surface 86) are provided on the inner peripheral side dividing surface 83E and the outer peripheral side dividing surface 84E, respectively. Thus, compared to Embodiment 1, the ball 103 rolls smoothly in the ball passage 34.

[0161] The transverse surface 92 is parallel to the seat surface 10. The longitudinal surface 93 is parallel to the vertical direction. The fitting portion 94 has a protrusion 95 and a groove 96. The protrusion 95 protrudes from the inner peripheral longitudinal surface 93a toward the first seat surface in the direction Y1. The groove 96 is recessed from the outer peripheral longitudinal surface 93b toward the first seat surface in the direction Y1. The protrusion 95 and the groove 96 extend axially. Furthermore, the protrusion 95 is inserted into and fitted with the groove 96 axially.

[0162] Additionally, the inner peripheral side component 81E of embodiment 6 has a tongue 35 and an inner peripheral side rolling surface 85. The outer peripheral side component 82E has an outer peripheral side rolling surface 86 and two arm portions 50.

[0163] In summary, the intermediate deflector (circulation component) 30E of Embodiment 6 is formed by joining an inner peripheral side component 81E and an outer peripheral side component 82E, which are divided by a dividing surface 90 extending along the ball passage 34 when viewed axially. The inner peripheral side component 81E has a tongue 35 that scoops up the ball 103 from the track 106, an inner peripheral side rolling surface 85 that surrounds the inner peripheral side of the ball passage 34, and an inner peripheral side dividing surface 83E that extends along the dividing surface. The outer peripheral side component 82E has an outer peripheral side rolling surface 86 that surrounds the outer peripheral side of the ball passage 34, two arms 50, and an outer peripheral side dividing surface 84E that extends along the dividing surface 90. One of the inner peripheral side dividing surface 83E and the outer peripheral side dividing surface 84E of the outer peripheral side component 82E is provided with a protrusion 95 that protrudes toward the seat surface and extends axially. The other of the inner peripheral side dividing surface 83E and the outer peripheral side dividing surface 84E of the outer peripheral side component 82E is provided with a groove 96 that is recessed toward the seat surface and extends axially for the protrusion 95 to fit into.

[0164] According to the intermediate deflector 30E of Embodiment 6 above, it also has a riveting part (in Embodiment 1) in the same way. Figure 25 , Figure 26(Not shown in the diagram) It will not misalign in the first vertical direction Z1. Furthermore, assuming the engagement between the inner peripheral component 81E and the outer peripheral component 82E is released, the outer peripheral component 82E, having two arms 50, will not misalign in the vertical direction. On the other hand, although the inner peripheral component 81E does not have arms 50, the protrusion 95 engages with the groove 96, preventing misalignment in the second vertical direction Z2. In other words, the inner peripheral component 81E is prevented from detaching from the through hole 17. Additionally, the tongue 35 is integrally provided on the inner peripheral component 81E without being separated. Therefore, the strength of the tongue 35 is maintained, allowing for smooth scooping of the ball 103.

[0165] Furthermore, when the engagement between the inner peripheral component 81E and the outer peripheral component 82E is released, and the inner peripheral component 81E slides axially, it interacts with the edge 17a of the through hole 17 (see reference). Figure 4 Therefore, the protrusion 95 will not slide axially and disengage from the groove 96. Furthermore, an outer peripheral inclined surface 91b is provided on the groove 96 in the second seat surface direction Y2. Therefore, the movement of the inner peripheral component 81E in the second seat surface direction Y2 is restricted. Therefore, the protrusion 95 will not move in the second seat surface direction Y2 and disengage from the groove 96. Based on the above, the movement of the inner peripheral component 81E in the direction of disengagement is restricted. Therefore, the inner peripheral component 81E will not separate from the outer peripheral component 82E, and therefore will not fall into the through hole 17.

[0166] The various embodiments have been described above, but this disclosure is not limited to the view of the intermediate deflector 30 and the first receiving portion 5 (seat surface 10) from the outer periphery, along the direction orthogonal to the axis O (refer to...). Figure 4 The extension method is as follows. For example, the intermediate deflector 30 and the first receiving part 5 (seat surface 10) may also extend in a direction parallel to the track 106. That is, when viewed from the outer periphery, they may also be tilted in a direction other than the direction orthogonal to the axis O, without particular limitation. In addition, when the intermediate deflector 30 and the seat surface 10 are arranged at an angle, the through hole 17 may also be tilted in the same direction as the seat surface 10.

[0167] Furthermore, in one embodiment, riveting portions 70 (first riveting portion 71 and second riveting portion 72) are provided on both axial sides of the arm portion 50. However, in this disclosure, the riveting portion 70 may be provided only on one side of the arm portion 50 in the axial direction. Additionally, in one embodiment, the riveting portion 70 is provided on both the first arm portion 51 and the second arm portion 52. However, it is also possible that the riveting portion 70 is provided only on one of the first arm portion 51 and the second arm portion 52.

[0168] Furthermore, in the embodiment, the outer peripheral surface 32a of the intermediate deflector 30 is arc-shaped, but in this disclosure, the outer peripheral surface 32a of the intermediate deflector 30 may not be arc-shaped. Additionally, in this disclosure, the distance from the axis O to the outer peripheral surface 32a of the intermediate deflector 30 may be smaller than the outer diameter of the nut body 1.

[0169] In addition, the expansion seat surface 13 of the embodiment has a first expansion seat surface 14 and a second expansion seat surface 15, but the present disclosure may also have an expansion seat surface 13 composed of the first expansion seat surface 14 or the second expansion seat surface 15.

[0170] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0171] 1. Nut body; 5. First storage section (storage section); 8. Return path; 10. Seat surface; 11. First seat surface; 12. Second seat surface; 13. Expanding seat surface; 14. First expanding seat surface; 15. Second expanding seat surface; 17. Through hole; 20. Side surface; 20a. First side surface; 20b. Second side surface; 22. Recess; 22a. First recess; 22b. Second recess; 23. 23a, 23b. First inclined surface; 24. 24a, 24b. Second inclined surface; 26. Positioning hole; 30. 30A. 30B, 30C, 30D, 30E, Intermediate deflector (circulation device); 31, Deflector body (circulation component body); 32, Main body; 33, Lifting part; 34, Ball bearing passage; 36, First opposing surface; 38, Positioning protrusion; 40, Sealing surface; 41, First seating surface; 42, Second seating surface; 43, Expanding seating surface; 44, First expanding seating surface; 45, Second expanding seating surface; 46, Second opposing surface; 47, Protrusion; 50, 50D, Arm; 51, First arm; 52, Second... Arm portion; 53. First seat surface for arm portion; 54. Second seat surface for arm portion; 60. Rib; 61, 61A, 61B. First rib; 61a. First riveting surface; 62, 62A, 62B. Second rib; 62a. Second riveting surface; 70. Riveting part; 71, 71A, 71B. First riveting part; 72, 72A, 72B. Second riveting part; 80, 90. Parting surface; 81, 81E. Inner peripheral side component; 82, 82E. Outer peripheral side component; 83, 83E. Inner peripheral side parting surface; 84, 84 E. Outer peripheral side dividing surface; 85. Inner peripheral side rolling surface; 86. Outer peripheral side rolling surface; 87. Step surface; 88. End face; 91. Inclined surface; 91a. Inner peripheral side inclined surface; 91b. Outer peripheral side inclined surface; 92. Transverse surface; 92a. Inner peripheral side transverse surface; 92b. Outer peripheral side transverse surface; 93. Longitudinal surface; 93a. Inner peripheral side longitudinal surface; 93b. Outer peripheral side longitudinal surface; 94. Fitting part; 95. Protrusion; 96. Groove part; 100. Ball screw assembly; 101. Nut; 102. Screw; 103. Ball; 120. Fixture.

Claims

1. A nut, wherein, This nut has the following features: The nut body is cylindrical and is pierced by a lead screw; and The circulation component, which is assembled on the nut body, The nut body has: The receiving part is a recessed part provided on the outer peripheral surface of the nut body, and is bow-shaped when viewed from the axial direction parallel to the lead screw; The seat surface, which becomes the bottom surface of the storage section; A through hole that penetrates the inner circumferential surface of the seat surface and the nut body; and A pair of side surfaces, positioned relative to the storage portion on both sides along an axial direction parallel to the lead screw, and facing each other. When viewed from the axial direction, the direction parallel to the seat surface is the seat surface direction. The direction perpendicular to the seat surface and the direction in which the seat surface faces is the first vertical direction. The circulation component has: A circulation component body is disposed in the storage portion and the through hole; Two arms extend from the main body of the circulation component to both sides in the direction of the seat surface and abut against the seat surface; Ribs, which respectively protrude from the two said arms in the first vertical direction and extend along the side in the direction of the seat surface; as well as The riveted portion is formed by riveting at least a portion of the rib toward the side. The pair of sides are provided with recesses, which are grooves extending along the seat surface, opposite the rib in the axial direction, and into which the riveting part enters. The main body of the circulation component has a ball passage that extends tangentially relative to the ball track. The circulation component is formed by joining an inner peripheral component and an outer peripheral component, which are divided by a segmented surface extending along the ball path when viewed from the axial direction. The inner peripheral component has: The tongue scoops up the ball from the track; An inner peripheral rolling surface that surrounds the inner peripheral side of the ball passage; and One of the two said arms, The outer peripheral component has: The outer peripheral rolling surface surrounds the outer peripheral side of the ball passage; and The other of the two arms.

2. A nut, wherein, This nut has the following features: The nut body is cylindrical and is pierced by a lead screw; and The circulation component, which is assembled on the nut body, The nut body has: The receiving part is a recessed part provided on the outer peripheral surface of the nut body, and is bow-shaped when viewed from the axial direction parallel to the lead screw; The seat surface, which becomes the bottom surface of the storage section; A through hole that penetrates the inner circumferential surface of the seat surface and the nut body; and A pair of side surfaces, positioned relative to the storage portion on both sides along an axial direction parallel to the lead screw, and facing each other. When viewed from the axial direction, the direction parallel to the seat surface is the seat surface direction. The direction perpendicular to the seat surface and the direction in which the seat surface faces is the first vertical direction. The circulation component has: A circulation component body is disposed in the storage portion and the through hole; Two arms extend from the main body of the circulation component to both sides in the direction of the seat surface and abut against the seat surface; Ribs, which respectively protrude from the two said arms in the first vertical direction and extend along the side in the direction of the seat surface; as well as The riveted portion is formed by riveting at least a portion of the rib toward the side. The pair of sides are provided with recesses, which are grooves extending along the seat surface, opposite the rib in the axial direction, and into which the riveting part enters. The main body of the circulation component has a ball passage that extends tangentially relative to the ball track. The circulation component is formed by joining an inner peripheral component and an outer peripheral component, which are divided by a segmented surface extending along the ball path when viewed from the axial direction. The inner peripheral component has: The tongue scoops up the ball from the track; The inner peripheral rolling surface surrounds the inner peripheral side of the ball passage; as well as An inner peripheral dividing surface, which extends along the dividing surface. The outer peripheral component has: The outer peripheral rolling surface surrounds the outer peripheral side of the ball passage; The two arms described; as well as The outer peripheral dividing surface extends along the dividing surface. One of the inner peripheral side dividing surface and the outer peripheral side dividing surface is provided with a protrusion that protrudes toward the seat surface and extends along the axial direction. The other of the inner peripheral side dividing surface and the outer peripheral side dividing surface is provided with a groove that is recessed toward the seat surface and extends along the axial direction for the protrusion to fit.

3. The nut according to claim 2, wherein, The dividing surface has: The inclined plane, when viewed from the axial direction, is parallel to the tangential direction and is located on one side of the seat surface direction as it moves toward the first perpendicular direction; as well as The longitudinal surface, positioned at a point closer to the seat surface than the inclined surface, extends along the first vertical direction. The longitudinal surface is provided with the protrusions and the grooves. The movement of the inner peripheral component in the direction of disengaging the protrusion from the groove is restricted by the inclined surface.

4. The nut according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The pair of sides have: The first side, which is positioned on one side of the axial direction relative to the circulating component; and The second side is positioned on the opposite side of the axial direction compared to the circulating component. The rib has: A first rib, which extends along the first side; and The second rib extends along the second side. The riveting portion has: The first riveting part is a portion of the first rib and is riveted to the first side surface; as well as The second riveting part is a portion of the second rib and is riveted to the second side.

5. The nut according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The seat surface has an expanded seat surface, which is the edge of the through hole and is disposed axially relative to the through hole. The inner peripheral component has an expanded seating surface that abuts against the expanded seat surface.

6. The nut according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The inner circumferential rolling surface and the outer circumferential rolling surface are respectively groove surfaces.

7. The nut according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The outer peripheral rolling surface is a plane.

8. The nut according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The nut body has a positioning hole that is recessed from the side towards the axial direction and opens on the outer peripheral surface of the nut body. The main body of the circulation component has a positioning protrusion that protrudes axially and inserts into the positioning hole.

9. A ball screw device, wherein, This ball screw device has the following features: The nut according to any one of claims 1 to 8; A lead screw, which passes through the nut; and Multiple balls are disposed between the nut and the lead screw.

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