Conductive structure and conductive sealing device

Abstract

The invention provides a conductive structure which can save space and can restrain reduction of conductive performance in a use state. A conductive structure (1) is provided with a holding member (2) that is a conductive member that is annular about an axis (x), and a conductive member (3) that is an annular member about the axis (x). The electrically conductive component (3) has at least one radially extending gap (10) and at least one electrically conductive body (20) extending about an axis (x). The conductive member (3) is held by the holding member (2). The conductor (20) has a pair of end portions (20a, 20b) in the direction around the axis (x). The gap (10) is connected to the ends (20a, 20b) of the conductor (20).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a conductive structure and a conductive sealing device, in particular to a conductive structure and a conductive sealing device which form a conductive path on a rotating shaft. Background Art

[0002] For example, in vehicles equipped with electric motors such as electric vehicles (EVs), electromagnetic wave noise may be generated due to reasons such as the induced current generated by the motor. This electromagnetic wave noise sometimes causes communication problems in AM radios or other wireless communication devices. In addition, this electromagnetic wave noise may cause electrical corrosion of metal parts such as bearings. Therefore, research has been conducted to remove this electromagnetic wave noise, and conductive structures and conductive devices that form a conductive path on a rotating shaft have been proposed. For example, the following technology is disclosed: an oil seal for sealing the rotating shaft of a motor is used as an oil seal made of conductive rubber, a conductive path is formed on the rotating shaft, and the electromagnetic wave noise is released from the rotating shaft to the housing (for example, refer to Patent Document 1).

[0003] Prior Art Literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2000-244180 Summary of the invention

[0006] Problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] In an oil seal, a lubricant is used for lubrication, and an oil film is formed between the sealing lip and the rotating shaft when in use. For an oil seal having conductive rubber, a conductive lubricant is used for lubrication. Even if the oil film formed between the conductive sealing lip and the rotating shaft is formed by a conductive lubricant, the oil film between the conductive sealing lip and the rotating shaft can become a resistance to the current. Therefore, even if a conductive lubricant is used, there is a case where the conductivity between the sealing lip and the rotating shaft is reduced. On the other hand, an oil seal having conductive rubber does not require additional space in the installation space of the oil seal. In this way, the existing conductive structures and conductive devices as described above can achieve space saving, but the conductive performance may be reduced when in use. Therefore, for the existing conductive structures and conductive devices, a structure that can save space and suppress the reduction of conductive performance when in use is required.

[0008] The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a conductive structure and a conductive sealing device that can save space and suppress reduction in conductive performance when in use.

[0009] Means of solving the problem

[0010] In order to achieve the above-mentioned purpose, the conductive structure involved in the present invention includes: a retaining component, which is a component that is annular around an axis and has conductivity; and a conductive component, which is a component that is annular around the axis, the conductive component has at least one gap extending radially and at least one conductive conductor extending around the axis, the conductive component is retained by the retaining component, the conductor has a pair of ends in the direction around the axis, and the gap is connected to the ends of the conductor.

[0011] In one aspect of the conductive structure involved in the present invention, the conductive component has a conductor and has a gap, the pair of ends of the conductor are opposite to each other in the direction around the axis, and the gap is the gap between the opposite ends of the conductor.

[0012] In one aspect of the conductive structure involved in the present invention, the conductive component has two conductors and two gaps, one of the pair of ends of one conductor is opposite to one of the pair of ends of the other conductor in the direction around the axis, the other of the pair of ends of one conductor is opposite to the other of the pair of ends of the other conductor in the direction around the axis, one gap is formed between the one end of the one conductor and the one end of the other conductor, and another gap is formed between the other end of the one conductor and the other end of the other conductor.

[0013] In one aspect of the conductive structure according to the present invention, the conductor is held on the outer peripheral side by the holding member.

[0014] In one aspect of the conductive structure according to the present invention, a spring member is provided which is annular around the axis and generates elastic force in a direction toward the axis. The spring member is arranged in parallel with the conductive member in the axis direction.

[0015] In one aspect of the conductive structure according to the present invention, the holding member has at least one protrusion, the protrusion is received in the gap, and the protrusion protrudes in the axial direction.

[0016] In one aspect of the conductive structure according to the present invention, the conductor is formed of PTFE having conductivity.

[0017] In order to achieve the above-mentioned purpose, the conductive sealing device involved in the present invention is a conductive sealing device for realizing the sealing between the shaft and the hole through which the shaft passes, comprising: a reinforcement ring, which is a component that is annular around an axis; an elastomeric portion, which is installed on the reinforcement ring and is formed by an elastomer that is annular around the axis; and a conductive structure, which is annular around the axis, the elastomeric portion has a sealing lip that contacts the shaft, the conductive structure has a retaining component of the component that is annular around the axis and a conductive component of the component that is annular around the axis, the conductive component has at least one gap extending in the radial direction and at least one conductive conductor extending around the axis, the retaining component is installed on the elastomeric portion and retains the conductor between it and the elastomeric portion, the conductor has a pair of ends in the direction around the axis, and the gap is connected to the ends of the conductor.

[0018] In one aspect of the conductive sealing device involved in the present invention, the conductive component has a conductor and has a gap, the pair of ends of the conductor are opposite to each other in the direction around the axis, and the gap is the gap between the opposite ends of the conductor.

[0019] In one aspect of the conductive sealing device involved in the present invention, the conductive component has two conductive bodies and two gaps, one of the pair of ends of one conductive body is opposite to one of the pair of ends of the other conductive body in the direction around the axis, the other of the pair of ends of one conductive body is opposite to the other of the pair of ends of the other conductive body in the direction around the axis, one gap is formed between the one end of the one conductive body and the one end of the other conductive body, and another gap is formed between the other end of the one conductive body and the other end of the other conductive body.

[0020] In one aspect of the conductive seal device according to the present invention, the holding member has at least one protrusion, the protrusion is received in the gap, and the protrusion protrudes in the axial direction.

[0021] In one aspect of the conductive sealing device according to the present invention, the conductor is formed of PTFE having conductivity.

[0022] Effects of the Invention

[0023] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a conductive structure and a conductive sealing device that can save space and suppress reduction in conductive performance when in use. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] Figure 1 It is a perspective view showing a schematic structure of a conductive structure according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A front view of the conductive structure shown.

[0026] Figure 3 It is shown Figure 1 The cross-sectional view of the conductive structure shown is a cross-sectional view taken along a plane including the axis and on one side of the axis.

[0027] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A front view of a conductive component in the conductive structure shown.

[0028] Figure 5 It is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the conductor.

[0029] Figure 6 It is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the conductor.

[0030] Figure 7 is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the section taken along line AA.

[0031] Figure 8 is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the cross section taken along line BB.

[0032] Fig. 9 It is used to show Figure 1 A conceptual diagram of an example of an application target of the conductive structure shown.

[0033] Fig.10 It is shown Fig. 9 Among the applicable objects shown, Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of an example of a use state of the conductive structure shown.

[0034] Fig.11 It is a front view of the conductive member 3 according to the modification.

[0035] Fig.12 It is a perspective view showing a schematic structure of a conductive structure according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Fig.13 Yes Fig.12 The conductive structure shown is a partially cutaway perspective view.

[0037] Fig.14 yes Fig.12 A front view of the conductive structure shown.

[0038] Fig.15 It is shown Fig.12 The cross-sectional view of the conductive structure shown is a cross-sectional view taken along a plane including the axis and on one side of the axis.

[0039] Fig.16 The schematic structure of the conductive seal device according to the first embodiment of the present invention is shown, and is a cross-sectional view showing a cross section of the conductive seal device taken along a plane including the axis line on one side of the axis line.

[0040] Fig.17 It is used to show Fig.16 A conceptual diagram of an example of an application target of the conductive sealing device shown.

[0041] Fig.18 It is shown Fig.17 Among the applicable objects shown, Fig.16 The shown cross-sectional view is an example of a use state of the conductive seal device 5.

[0042] Fig.19 It is a front view of a conductive member according to a modification.

[0043] Fig. 20 Is installed Fig.19 A cross-sectional view of a conductive sealing device of a modified example of a conductive component. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0044] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In addition, in the accompanying drawings, not all of the components are denoted by reference numerals, and reference numerals of some of the components are sometimes omitted.

[0045] The conductive structure according to the embodiment of the present invention forms a conductive path on a rotating shaft, for example, a conductive path between the shaft and a hole into which the shaft is inserted. However, the conductive structure according to the embodiment of the present invention is not limited to this. Figure 1 1 is a perspective view showing a schematic structure of a conductive structure 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The front view of the conductive structure 1 shown, Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view showing a cross section of the conductive structure 1 taken along a plane including the axis line x, on one side of the axis line x.

[0046] like Figures 1 to 3As shown, the conductive structure 1 includes: a retaining component 2, which is a component that is annular around the axis x and has conductivity; and a conductive component 3, which is a component that is annular around the axis x. The conductive component 3 has at least one gap 10 extending in the radial direction and at least one conductive conductor 20 extending around the axis x. The conductive component 3 is retained by the retaining component 2. The conductor 20 has a pair of ends 20a, 20b in the direction around the axis x. The gap 10 is connected to the ends 20a, 20b of the conductor 20. The structure of the conductive structure 1 is described in detail below.

[0047] For example, Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the conductive component 3 has two gaps 10 and two conductors 20. Specifically, the conductive component 3 has gaps 11 and 12 as the gaps 10 and conductors 21 and 22 as the conductors 20. The conductors 21 and 22 have conductivity and are formed of a conductive material. The material of the conductor 20 (conductors 21 and 22) is, for example, PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) having conductivity. The material of the conductor 20 is not limited to PTFE having conductivity, and may be, for example, other conductive resins, conductive rubber, or conductive fibers such as non-woven fabrics.

[0048] Figure 4 3 is a front view of the conductive component 3 in the conductive structure 1. Figures 1 to 4 As shown, the conductive member 3 is a ring-shaped plate-shaped structure composed of two gaps 10 (gaps 11, 12) and two conductors 20 (conductors 21, 22) in the conductive structure 1. Figure 4 As shown, the conductor 21 has a pair of ends 21a and 21b as a pair of ends 20a and 20b, and the conductor 22 has a pair of ends 22a and 22b as a pair of ends 20a and 20b. One end (end 21a) of the pair of ends of one conductor 20 (for example, the conductor 21) and one end (end 22a) of the pair of ends of the other conductor 20 (for example, the conductor 22) are opposite in the direction around the axis x (circumferential direction). In addition, the other end (end 21b) of the pair of ends of the conductor 21 and the other end (end 22b) of the pair of ends of the conductor 22 are opposite in the direction around the axis x (circumferential direction). A gap 10 (for example, gap 11) is formed between the end 21a of the conductor 21 and the end 22a of the conductor 22, and another gap 10 (for example, gap 12) is formed between the end 21b of the conductor 21 and the end 22b of the conductor 22.

[0049] like Figure 2 , Figure 4As shown, the conductors 21 and 22 are plate-like components extending along an arc around the axis x, for example, along an arc or a substantially arc centered or substantially centered on the axis x. Figure 3 As shown, the conductor 21 has a base portion 23 as a portion extending along a plane and a contact portion 24 as a portion extending obliquely from the base portion 23 in the direction of the axis x.

[0050] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the base 23 is a plate-like portion, for example, having surfaces 23a and 23b facing each other in the direction of the axis x. The side surface 23a extends along a plane orthogonal to the axis x, for example, extending on a surface parallel to or substantially parallel to the plane orthogonal to the axis x. Similarly, the side surface 23b extends along a plane orthogonal to the axis x, for example, extending on a surface parallel to or substantially parallel to the plane orthogonal to the axis x. In addition, the side surface 23a faces the front side (in the direction of the axis x). Figure 3 In the x-axis direction, it is the right side. Figure 4 As shown, the side surface 23a and the side surface 23b extend in a circular arc or a substantially circular arc. In addition, the end portion (outer peripheral end portion 23c) on the outer peripheral side of the base portion 23 extends along a circle centered on the axis x.

[0051] like Figure 3 As shown in FIG. 1 , the contact portion 24 extends obliquely from the end of the inner peripheral side of the base 23 toward the side (front side) facing the side 23a of the base 23. The contact portion 24 is a plate-like portion, for example, having sides 24a and 24b facing each other. The contact portion 24 is formed in a shape whose diameter decreases as it moves toward the front side in the direction of the axis x. For example, Figure 3 As shown in FIG. 1 , the contact portion 24 is formed such that a cross section of a plane including the axis x (hereinafter, also referred to as a “cross section”) is formed along an arc. Specifically, for example, Figure 3 As shown, in the cross section, the side surface 24a describes an arc or a substantially arc convex to the inner peripheral side. Similarly, the side surface 24b describes an arc or a substantially arc convex to the inner peripheral side. The side surface 24a is connected to the side surface 23a of the base 23, and the side surface 24b is connected to the side surface 23b of the base 23. In addition, the end portion (inner peripheral end portion 24c) on the inner peripheral side of the contact portion 24 extends along a circle centered on the axis x, for example, extends on a circle or a substantially circle centered on or substantially centered on the axis x.

[0052] As for the contact portion 24, when the conductive structure 1 is installed in the use state of the applicable object, the end of the inner peripheral side of the contact portion 24 contacts the outer peripheral surface of the shaft of the applicable object. Specifically, the diameter of the inner peripheral end 24c of the contact portion 24 is set corresponding to the diameter of the outer peripheral surface of the shaft of the applicable object, for example, the same as or smaller than the diameter of the outer peripheral surface of the shaft. Figure 3As shown, for example, in a cross section, the conductor 21 has a uniform or substantially uniform thickness. In addition, the thickness of the conductor 21 is the distance between the side 23a and the side 23b in the base 23, and the distance between the side 24a and the side 24b in the contact portion 24. In addition, the conductor 21 may not have a uniform thickness.

[0053] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the conductor 21 extends in the circumferential direction to be shorter than the semicircle of the circle along which the conductor 21 extends. That is, both the end 21a and the end 21b of the conductor 21 are located on a plane including the axis x, or do not exceed a plane including the axis x, and the conductor 21 extends in the circumferential direction. Figure 4 As shown, the ends 21a and 21b of the conductor 21 extend parallel or substantially parallel to a plane including the axis x and face each other in a direction perpendicular to the axis x. The ends 21a and 21b of the conductor 21 may not extend parallel to the plane including the axis x.

[0054] In addition, the cross-sectional shape of the conductor 21 is not limited to the above cross-sectional shape, but can have various cross-sectional shapes. Figure 5 As shown in FIG. 1 , the contact portion 24 of the conductor 21 may also have a shape extending along a conical surface with the axis x as the central axis. Figure 6 As shown, the contact portion 24 of the conductor 21 is not inclined relative to the base 23, and the side surface 23a and the side surface 24a are coplanar, and the side surface 23b and the side surface 24b can also be coplanar. In addition, the contact portion 24 of the conductor 21 can be a shape extending along other curves in cross section, and can also be a shape extending along a line composed of a curve and a straight line.

[0055] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, similarly to the conductor 21, the conductor 22 includes a base 25 and a contact portion 26. The conductor 22 is formed similarly to the conductor 21 and has the same or substantially the same shape as the conductor 21. The ends 22a and 22b of the conductor 22 correspond to the ends 21a and 21b of the conductor 21. The base 25 and the contact portion 26 of the conductor 22 correspond to the base 23 and the contact portion 24 of the conductor 21, respectively. The side 25a, the side 25b and the outer peripheral end 25c of the base 25 of the conductor 22 correspond to the side 23a, the side 23b and the outer peripheral end 23c of the base 23 of the conductor 21, respectively, and the side 26a, the side 26b and the inner peripheral end 26c of the contact portion 26 of the conductor 22 correspond to the side 24a, the side 24b and the inner peripheral end 24c of the contact portion 24 of the conductor 21, respectively. Furthermore, the conductor 22 may not be formed in the same manner as the conductor 21 , and may not have the same shape as the conductor 21 .

[0056] like Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, in the conductive component 3 in the conductive structure 1, the conductors 21, 22 and the gaps 11, 12 as the respective components are located on a circle or a substantially circle centered on or approximately centered on the axis x. Specifically, for example, the conductors 21 and 22 are arranged in a symmetrical manner with respect to a plane containing the axis x. In addition, the conductors 21 and 22 are arranged in a manner such that the inner peripheral end 24c of the contact portion 24 of the conductor 21 and the inner peripheral end 26c of the contact portion 26 of the conductor 22 are located on a circle or a substantially circle centered on or approximately centered on the axis x. The end 21a of the conductor 21 and the end 22a of the conductor 22 are opposed to each other in a direction orthogonal to the axis x, and the end 21b of the conductor 21 and the end 22b of the conductor 22 are opposed to each other in a direction orthogonal to the axis x. Thus, a gap 11 is formed between the end 21a of the conductor 21 and the end 22a of the conductor 22, and a gap 12 is formed between the end 21b of the conductor 21 and the end 22b of the conductor 22. Thus, the gap 11 is connected to the end 21a of the conductor 21 and the end 22a of the conductor 22, and the gap 12 is connected to the end 21b of the conductor 21 and the end 22b of the conductor 22.

[0057] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, specifically, the holding member 2 has an inner holding member 30 located inside and an outer holding member 40 located outside. The inner holding member 30 and the outer holding member 40 are annular members around the axis x, and can hold the conductive member 3 therebetween.

[0058] like Figure 3 As shown, the inner retaining member 30 includes, for example, a fitting portion 31 that is annular about the axis x and a retaining portion 32 that is annular about the axis x. The fitting portion 31 is a cylindrical portion extending along the axis x, and the retaining portion 32 is an annular portion extending from the end of the fitting portion 31 toward the inner circumference.

[0059] like Figure 3 As shown, the fitting portion 31 has, for example, an outer peripheral surface 31a and an inner peripheral surface 31b, which are opposite to each other in the radial direction orthogonal to the axis x direction, and the cross-sectional shape is rectangular or substantially rectangular. The outer peripheral surface 31a is a surface facing the outer peripheral side, and the inner peripheral surface 31b is a surface facing the inner peripheral side. The outer peripheral surface 31a is a cylindrical surface extending along the axis x, for example, a cylindrical surface or a substantially cylindrical surface with the axis x as the center axis or the substantially center axis. Similarly, the inner peripheral surface 31b is a cylindrical surface extending along the axis x, for example, a cylindrical surface or a substantially cylindrical surface with the axis x as the center axis or the substantially center axis.

[0060] like Figure 3As shown, the retaining portion 32 has, for example, sides 32a and 32b that face each other in the direction of the axis x, and the cross-sectional shape is rectangular or substantially rectangular. The side 32a extends along a plane orthogonal to the axis x, for example, extending on a surface parallel to or substantially parallel to the plane orthogonal to the axis x. Similarly, the side 32b extends along a plane orthogonal to the axis x, for example, extending on a surface parallel to or substantially parallel to the plane orthogonal to the axis x. Figure 2 , Figure 3 As shown, the side surfaces 32a and 32b extend along a circle centered on the axis x. The side surface 32a is connected to the outer peripheral surface 31a of the fitting portion 31, and the side surface 32b is connected to the inner peripheral surface 31b of the fitting portion 31.

[0061] like Figure 3 As shown, the outer retaining member 40 includes, for example, a fitting portion 41 that is annular about the axis x and a retaining portion 42 that is annular about the axis x. The fitting portion 41 is a cylindrical portion extending along the axis x, and the retaining portion 42 is an annular portion extending from the end of the fitting portion 41 toward the inner circumference.

[0062] like Figure 3 As shown, the interlocking portion 41 has, for example, an outer peripheral surface 41a and an inner peripheral surface 41b that are opposite to each other in the direction of the axis x, and the cross-sectional shape is roughly rectangular. The outer peripheral surface 41a is a surface facing the outer peripheral side, and the inner peripheral surface 41b is a surface facing the inner peripheral side. The outer peripheral surface 41a is a cylindrical surface extending along the axis x, for example, a cylindrical surface or a roughly cylindrical surface with the axis x as the center axis or the roughly center axis. Similarly, the inner peripheral surface 31b is a cylindrical surface extending along the axis x, for example, a cylindrical surface or a roughly cylindrical surface with the axis x as the center axis or the roughly center axis. In addition, as Figure 3 As shown in FIG. 1 , a protruding portion, that is, a pressing portion 43, which protrudes toward the inner circumference is formed at the end of the front side of the fitting portion 41. Specifically, the pressing portion 43 protrudes toward the inner circumference from the inner circumferential surface 41b. Figure 1 , Figure 3 As shown, the pressing portion 43 extends in an annular shape around the axis x. In addition, the pressing portion 43 may not extend continuously in an annular shape around the axis x, but may extend intermittently in an annular shape around the axis x. The pressing portion 43 may be, for example, a protrusion extending in an arc shape along a circle centered on the axis x intermittently arranged.

[0063] like Figure 3As shown, the retaining portion 42 has, for example, surfaces facing each other in the direction of the axis x, namely, side surfaces 42a and 42b, and the cross-sectional shape is rectangular or substantially rectangular. The side surface 42a extends along a plane orthogonal to the axis x, for example, on a surface parallel to or substantially parallel to the plane orthogonal to the axis x. Similarly, the side surface 42b extends along a plane orthogonal to the axis x, for example, on a surface parallel to or substantially parallel to the plane orthogonal to the axis x. The side surfaces 42a and 42b extend along a circle centered on the axis x. The side surface 42a is connected to the outer peripheral surface 41a of the fitting portion 41, and the side surface 42b is connected to the inner peripheral surface 41b of the fitting portion 41.

[0064] like Figure 3 As shown, the fitting portion 31 of the inner retaining member 30 and the fitting portion 41 of the outer retaining member 40 fit into each other. Specifically, for example, the outer peripheral surface 31a of the fitting portion 31 of the inner retaining member 30 and the inner peripheral surface 41b of the fitting portion 41 of the outer retaining member 40 are in contact with each other. For example, the diameter of the outer peripheral surface 31a of the fitting portion 31 is larger than the diameter of the inner peripheral surface 41b of the fitting portion 41, and the outer peripheral surface 31a of the fitting portion 31 and the inner peripheral surface 41b of the fitting portion 41 are pressed against each other in the radial direction. In addition, the diameter of the outer peripheral surface 31a of the fitting portion 31 may be the same as the diameter of the inner peripheral surface 41b of the fitting portion 41, or may be smaller than the diameter of the inner peripheral surface 41b of the fitting portion 41.

[0065] In addition, if Figure 3 As shown, in the state where the fitting portion 31 of the inner retaining member 30 and the fitting portion 41 of the outer retaining member 40 are fitted with each other, the side surface 32a of the retaining portion 32 of the inner retaining member 30 and the side surface 42b of the retaining portion 42 of the outer retaining member 40 have portions that are opposed to each other in the direction of the axis x. In the example shown in the figure, in the state where the fitting portion 31 and the fitting portion 41 are fitted with each other, the side surface 32a of the retaining portion 32 is entirely or substantially entirely opposed to a portion of the side surface 42b of the retaining portion 42 in the direction of the axis x. That is, the diameter of the end portion 32c of the retaining portion 32 is larger than the diameter of the end portion 42c of the retaining portion 42, and the end portion 32c of the retaining portion 32 is located on the outer peripheral side in the radial direction than the end portion 42c of the retaining portion 42. In addition, the diameter of the end portion 32c of the retaining portion 32 and the diameter of the end portion 42c of the retaining portion 42 may be the same. Furthermore, the diameter of the end 32 c of the holding portion 32 may be smaller than the diameter of the end 42 c of the holding portion 42 , and the end 32 c of the holding portion 32 may be located radially inward of the end 42 c of the holding portion 42 .

[0066] In addition, if Figure 3As shown, in the state where the fitting portion 31 of the inner holding member 30 and the fitting portion 41 of the outer holding member 40 are fitted with each other, the side surface 32a of the holding portion 32 of the inner holding member 30 and the side surface 42b of the holding portion 42 of the outer holding member 40 are respectively opposed to the bases 23 and 25 of the conductors 21 and 22 in the direction of the axis x. In the example shown in the figure, in the state where the fitting portion 31 and the fitting portion 41 are fitted with each other, the side surface 32a of the holding portion 32 or substantially the whole thereof and the side surface 42b of the holding portion 42 or substantially the whole thereof are respectively opposed to the bases 23 and 25 of the conductors 21 and 22 in the direction of the axis x.

[0067] In addition, if Figure 3 As shown, in a state where the outer peripheral surface 31a of the fitting portion 31 of the inner holding member 30 contacts the inner peripheral surface 41b of the fitting portion 41 of the outer holding member 40, and the pressing portion 43 of the fitting portion 41 contacts the end portion 31c of the fitting portion 31 in the axis x direction (hereinafter also referred to as "assembled state"), a gap is formed between the side surface 32a of the holding portion 32 and the side surface 42b of the holding portion 42. The width of the gap in the axis x direction, that is, the width in the axis x direction between the side surface 32a of the holding portion 32 and the side surface 42b of the holding portion 42 in the assembled state, is, for example, greater than the thickness of the base portions 23 and 25 of the conductors 21 and 22, respectively. Thus, in the assembled state of the inner holding member 30 and the outer holding member 40, the base portions 23 and 25 of the conductors 21 and 22, respectively, can be clamped between the holding portion 32 and the holding portion 42. In addition, when the inner holding member 30 and the outer holding member 40 are assembled, the bases 23 and 25 of the conductors 21 and 22 can be pressed and clamped between the holding portion 32 and the holding portion 42 in the axis x direction, so that the conductors 21 and 22 can be firmly clamped.

[0068] For example, Figure 2 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, on the side surface 42b of the holding portion 42 of the outer holding member 40, convex portions 2a and 2b are provided as portions protruding toward the front side at circumferential positions corresponding to the gaps 11 and 12 of the conductive member 3, respectively. Figure 7 is along Figure 2 The cross-sectional view of the section along the AA line, Figure 8 is along Figure 2A cross-sectional view of a cross section taken along line BB of the conductive structure 1. In the conductive structure 1, the protrusion 2a is accommodated in the gap 11, and the protrusion 2b is accommodated in the gap 12. In the gap 11, the protrusion 2a is in contact with the end 21a of the conductor 21 and the end 22a of the conductor 22, and in the gap 12, the protrusion 2b is in contact with the end 21b of the conductor 21 and the end 22b of the conductor 22. In addition, in the gap 11, a gap may be formed between the protrusion 2a and the end 21a of the conductor 21. In addition, in the gap 11, a gap may be formed between the protrusion 2a and the end 22a of the conductor 22. Similarly, in the gap 12, a gap may be formed between the protrusion 2b and the end 21b of the conductor 21. In addition, in the gap 12, a gap may be formed between the protrusion 2b and the end 22b of the conductor 22. In addition, the projections 2a and 2b may be provided on the side 32a of the holding portion 32 of the inner holding member 30 instead of the side 42b of the holding portion 42 of the outer holding member 40, and similarly, they may be accommodated in the gaps 11 and 12, respectively. In addition, the projections 2a and 2b may be provided on the side 32a of the holding portion 32 of the inner holding member 30 in addition to the side 42b of the holding portion 42 of the outer holding member 40. In addition, a plurality of projections 2a may be provided. In addition, a plurality of projections 2b may be provided.

[0069] The inner holding member 30 is integrally formed of the same material, and the fitting portion 31 and the holding portion 32 are integrally formed parts of the inner holding member 30, and are integrally connected to each other. Similarly, the outer holding member 40 is integrally formed of the same material, and the fitting portion 41 and the holding portion 42 are integrally formed parts of the outer holding member 40, and are integrally connected to each other. The inner holding member 30 and the outer holding member 40 are made of a metal having conductivity, but may be integrally formed of other materials having conductivity.

[0070] Each component of the conductive structure 1 has the above-mentioned structure, and after being assembled, it becomes an assembled state. Figure 3The conductive structure 1 shown. In the conductive structure 1, the fitting portion 31 of the inner holding member 30 is fitted with the fitting portion 41 of the outer holding member 40, and the fitting portion 31 of the inner holding member 30 is pressed toward the back side, which is the side opposite to the front side, by the pressing portion 43 of the fitting portion 41 of the outer holding member 40. In addition, the conductors 21 and 22 are sandwiched between the holding portion 32 of the inner holding member 30 and the holding portion 42 of the outer holding member 40. The conductors 21 and 22 are held by the inner holding member 30 and the outer holding member 40 on the outer peripheral side. In this way, the inner holding member 30 is fixed to the outer holding member 40, and the conductors 21 and 22 are fixed between the inner holding member 30 and the outer holding member 40. In addition, the conductors 21 and 22 are attached to the inner holding member 30 and the outer holding member 40 in such a manner that the respective contact portions 24 and 26 protrude toward the front side. Alternatively, the conductors 21 and 22 may be attached to the inner holding member 30 and the outer holding member 40 so that the contact portions 24 and 26 thereof protrude toward the rear surface side.

[0071] In such Figure 3 Before the assembly state shown, the engaging portion 41 of the outer retaining member 40 may not have the pressing portion 43. For example, the conductive member 3 may be mounted on the outer retaining member 40 without the pressing portion 43 formed on the engaging portion 41, and then, after the engaging portion 31 of the inner retaining member 30 is mounted on the engaging portion 41 of the outer retaining member 40, the pressing portion 43 may be formed on the engaging portion 41. That is, by forming the pressing portion 43, the engaging portion 31 and the engaging portion 41 are caulked, and the end portion 31c of the engaging portion 31 is pressed toward the back side in the direction of the axis x by the pressing portion 43, as shown in FIG. Figure 3 As shown, the conductive member 3, the inner holding member 30, and the outer holding member 40 are put into an assembled state.

[0072] In addition, Figure 3 In the assembled state shown, the protrusions 2a, 2b formed on the retaining portion 42 of the outer retaining member 40 are respectively received in the gaps 11, 12 of the conductive member 3, and contact the ends 21a, 21b of the conductor 21 and the ends 22a, 22b of the conductor 22.

[0073] Next, the function of the conductive structure 1 will be described. Fig. 9 This is a conceptual diagram for illustrating an example of an application target of the conductive structure 1. Fig.10 It is shown Fig. 9 sectional view of an example of a use state of the conductive structure 1 in the applicable object shown. As an example, Fig. 9 As shown, the conductive structure 1 is suitable for use in a driving device 100 of a battery electric vehicle (BEV). Fig. 9As shown, the drive device 100 includes an electric motor 101, a speed reducer 102, an inverter 103 for controlling the electric motor 101, and a battery 104 as a power source. In the electric motor 101, a shaft 110 is rotatably supported on a bearing 112 supported in a housing 111, and extends to the outside of the housing 111 through an axial hole 113 of the housing 111. The shaft 110 of the electric motor 101 enters the housing 120 through an axial hole 124 of the housing 120 of the speed reducer 102, and is rotatably supported on a bearing 123 supported in the housing 120. In addition, the shaft 110 is connected to a speed reduction gear section 121 in the housing 120. In addition, the speed reducer 102 is provided with a shaft 122 for outputting a rotational driving force reduced by the speed reduction gear section 121. The shaft 122 is rotatably supported on a bearing 123 supported in the housing 120, and is connected to the wheel 105, and can transmit the rotational driving force to the wheel 105. An oil seal 125 is installed in the shaft hole 124 of the housing 120 of the speed reducer 102 for sealing the gap between the shaft hole 124 and the shaft 110 of the electric motor 101. An oil seal 127 is installed in the shaft hole 126 of the housing 120 through which the shaft 122 of the speed reducer 102 passes for sealing the gap between the shaft hole 126 and the shaft 122. In addition, the shaft 110 and the housing 111 of the electric motor 101 are made of metal, and the housing 120 and the shaft 122 of the speed reducer 102 are made of metal.

[0074] As an example, the conductive structure 1 is disposed between the housing 111 and the shaft 110 of the electric motor 101 and is in use. Fig.10 As shown, the fitting portion 41 of the outer holding member 40 of the holding member 2 is fitted into the shaft hole 113 of the housing 111, and the conductive structure 1 is fixed to the shaft hole 113. In addition, the shaft 110 is inserted into the conductive member 3, and the conductive structure 1 is in use. In the use state, the inner peripheral ends 24c, 26c of the conductors 21, 22 of the conductive member 3 are in contact with the outer peripheral surface 110a of the shaft 110. In addition, the holding member 2 (the inner holding member 30 and the outer holding member 40) to which the conductive member 3 is mounted is made of a conductive metal and is in contact with the inner peripheral surface 113a of the shaft hole 113 of the housing 111. In this way, when the conductive member 3 and the holding member 2 are in use, a conductive path for electricity is formed between the shaft 110 of the electric motor 101 and the housing 111.

[0075] In addition, the conductive structure 1 may also be disposed between the housing 120 and the shaft 110 of the reducer 102. Fig. 9As shown, the conductive structure 1 may be provided in the gap between the shaft hole 124 of the housing 120 and the shaft 110 outside the oil seal 125. In this case, similarly to the conductive structure 1 mounted on the electric motor 101, the conductive member 3 and the retaining member 2 of the conductive structure 1 form a conductive path for electricity between the shaft 110 of the electric motor 101 and the housing 120 of the speed reducer 102. In addition, similarly, the conductive structure 1 may be provided in the gap between the shaft hole 126 of the housing 120 and the shaft 122 outside the oil seal 127.

[0076] In addition, the above-mentioned drive device 100 is an example of an applicable object of the conductive structure 1, and the applicable objects of the conductive structure 1 are not limited to this. The conductive structure 1 is used, for example, for drive devices of electric vehicles (EVs) such as hybrid vehicles (HVs) and fuel cell vehicles (FCVs) other than battery electric vehicles (BEVs). In vehicles such as electric vehicles (EVs) equipped with electric motors, electromagnetic wave noise may be generated due to reasons such as the induced current generated by the motor. In addition, electromagnetic wave noise may be generated due to reasons such as the on-off action of an inverter for current control supplied to an electric motor such as an electric motor, or the induced voltage of the motor itself. As described above, the conductive structure 1 forms a conductive path so that the electromagnetic wave noise transmitted to the shaft 110 flows to the housings 111 and 120. Thereby, communication failures or malfunctions in electronic equipment and electrical corrosion in metal parts such as bearings can be prevented.

[0077] The conductors 21 and 22 of the conductive member 3 in contact with the shaft 110 are made of PTFE, which has high heat resistance and wear resistance. Therefore, in order to suppress the wear or collapse of the conductors 21 and 22, it is not necessary to provide a conductive lubricant between the conductors 21 and 22 and the shaft 110. Therefore, in the conductive path between the shaft 110 and the housings 111 and 120, there is no lubricant that can become a resistor in the conductive path, so that the conductive performance of the conductive structure 1 can be suppressed from being reduced in use.

[0078] In addition, in the conductive member 3, the conductors 21 and 22 are arranged in a ring shape with the gaps 11 and 12 therebetween. Therefore, in the use state, even if an external force is applied to the conductors 21 and 22 by the rotation of the shaft 110, the conductors 21 and 22 can escape to the gaps 11 and 12, thereby suppressing the conductors 21 and 22 from deforming due to stress concentration and contacting with the shaft 110. Thus, it is possible to suppress the conductors 21 and 22 from being worn or collapsing. In this regard, the conductive structure 1 does not need to provide a conductive lubricant between the conductors 21 and 22 and the shaft 110.

[0079] In addition, the conductive structure 1 can be installed around the shaft 110 by embedding the retaining member 2 into the shaft hole 113 of the housing 111. In this way, in order to install the conductive structure 1, only an annular space surrounding the outer peripheral surface 110a of the shaft 110 is required. In the case where there is a space for installing the conductive structure 1 between the outer peripheral surface 110a of the shaft 110 and the inner peripheral surface 113a of the shaft hole 113, since the conductive structure 1 is installed in the shaft holes 113 and 124, it is not necessary to increase the space for installing the conductive structure 1 in the housing 111. In addition, even if there is no space for installing the conductive structure 1 between the outer peripheral surface 110a of the shaft 110 and the inner peripheral surface 113a of the shaft hole 113, since the cross-section of the conductive structure 1 is not large, in order to install the conductive structure 1, it is sufficient to set a small annular space on the inner peripheral surface 113a of the shaft hole 113. In this way, the conductive structure 1 can reduce the space for installing the conductive structure 1, and can save space.

[0080] In addition, in the conductive member 3, the conductors 21 and 22 are arranged in a ring shape with the gaps 11 and 12 therebetween. Therefore, when the conductive member 3 is fixed to the holding member 2, the conductors 21 and 22 can escape into the gaps 11 and 12. Thus, when the conductive member 3 is fixed to the holding member 2, deformation such as wrinkles of the conductors 21 and 22 can be suppressed.

[0081] In addition, the conductors 21 and 22 can be manufactured by cutting out a plurality of intermediate products formed into the shapes of the conductors 21 and 22 from a sheet-like material. Therefore, the conductors 21 and 22 can be manufactured efficiently with a good yield.

[0082] In addition, Figure 3 In the assembled state shown, the protrusions 2a and 2b formed on the holding portion 42 of the outer holding member 40 are respectively received in the gaps 11 and 12 of the conductive member 3 and contact the ends 21a and 21b of the conductor 21 and the ends 22a and 22b of the conductor 22. Therefore, the conductors 21 and 22 do not rotate relative to the holding member 2 due to the rotation of the shaft 110.

[0083] As described above, the conductive structure 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention can save space and suppress a decrease in conductive performance when in use.

[0084] Next, a modification of the above-mentioned conductive member 3 will be described. Fig.11 FIG. 2 is a front view of a conductive component 3A according to a modified example of the conductive component 3. Fig.11As shown, the conductive component 3A has a conductor 20 and a gap 10. The conductive component 3A does not have one of the gaps 11 or 12 of the conductive component 3, and the conductor 21 or 22 also extends into one of the gaps 11 or 12. The conductor 21 and the conductor 22 are connected in one of the gaps 11 or 12 to form a conductor 20. Fig.11 As shown, the conductor 20 of the conductive component 3A involved in the modification extends, for example, on a circle or a substantially circle centered on or substantially centered on the axis x, and the end 20a and the end 20b are opposite to each other in the circumferential direction, specifically, for example, opposite to each other in a direction orthogonal to the axis x. The cross-sectional shape of the conductor 20 is the cross-sectional shape of the conductor 21. In addition, the conductive component 3 may also have more than three gaps 10 and more than three conductors 20. In this case, the plurality of gaps 10 and the plurality of conductors 20 are also connected in a ring shape.

[0085] Next, a conductive structure 4 according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. Fig.12 4 is a perspective view showing a schematic structure of the conductive structure 4. Fig.13 Yes Fig.12 The conductive structure 4 is a partially cutaway perspective view. Fig.14 yes Fig.11 The front view of the conductive structure 4 shown, Fig.15 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross section of a plane including the axis x of the conductive structure 4 on one side relative to the axis x. The conductive structure 4 according to the present embodiment is different from the conductive structure 1 described above mainly in that it has a spring member 50. Hereinafter, regarding the structure of the conductive structure 4, the same reference numerals are given to the same structures as those of the conductive structure 1 described above or structures having the same functions, and the description thereof is omitted, and the different structures are described.

[0086] As described above, the conductive structure 4 has the spring member 50. Figures 11 to 15 As shown, the spring component 50 is a spring component that is annular around the axis x and generates elastic force in the direction toward the axis x. In addition, the spring component 50 is arranged side by side with the conductive component 3 in the direction of the axis x. In addition, the direction toward the axis x is not limited to the direction toward the inner circumference in the radial direction, as long as it has a component in the direction toward the inner circumference in the radial direction. Specifically, the spring component 50 is an annular leaf spring that can generate a spring force between the contact portions 24, 26 of the conductors 21, 22 of the conductive component 3 and the outer circumferential surface 110a of the shaft 110 (refer to Fig.10 ) to support the elastic force of the contact parts 24 and 26. Fig.15 As shown in FIG. 1 , the spring member 50 is shaped along the side surfaces 23a, 24a and the side surfaces 25a, 26a of the conductors 21, 22. Fig.15As shown, the spring member 50 is sandwiched between the holding portion 32 of the inner holding member 30 and the bases 23 and 25 of the conductors 21 and 22, and is fixed in the conductive structure 4, so that the conductive structure 4 can hold the spring member 50. Specifically, in the assembled state of the inner holding member 30 and the outer holding member 40, the distance between the holding portion 32 and the holding portion 42 in the axis x direction is set so that the base 23 of the conductor 21 and the base 51 of the spring member 50 can be pressed and clamped in the axis x direction, and the base 25 of the conductor 22 can be pressed and clamped in the axis x direction.

[0087] For example, Fig.14 and Fig.15 As shown, the spring component 50 has a base 51 and an elastic portion 52. The base 51 is a portion sandwiched between the retaining portion 32 of the inner retaining component 30 and the bases 23 and 25 of the conductors 21 and 22, respectively. The elastic portion 52 is a portion that applies an elastic force toward the axis x to the contact portions 24 and 26 of the conductors 21 and 22, respectively, and is in contact with the side surfaces 24a and 26a of the contact portions 24 and 26 of the conductors 21 and 22, respectively. The elastic portion 52 extends, for example, along a cylindrical surface that decreases in diameter as it approaches the front side in the direction of the axis x. The thickness of the spring component 50 is set, for example, according to the elastic force applied to the contact portions 24 and 26 of the conductors 21 and 22, respectively. Specifically, for example, Fig.13 , Fig.14 As shown, the spring component 50 is a leaf spring having a plurality of spring leaves protruding toward the inner circumference side arranged around the axis x. The specific form of the spring component 50 may also be other forms. In addition, the spring component 50 may also be extended into an end ring shape, rather than continuously extending into an endless ring shape, and further, multiple spring components extending into an arc shape may be intermittently arranged into an annular shape. For example, the spring component 50 may also be two spring components extending on an arc corresponding to the conductors 21 and 22, respectively, rather than an endless ring shape as shown in the figure.

[0088] As described above, in the conductive structure 4, elastic forces toward the axis line x are generated on the contact portions 24 and 26 of the conductors 21 and 22 of the conductive member 3. Therefore, the conductors 21 and 22 are supported by the spring member 50 so as to contact the outer peripheral surface 110a of the shaft 110. Thus, it is possible to suppress the conductors 21 and 22 from being weakened or deformed due to time changes, so that the conductors 21 and 22 are not in contact with the shaft 110.

[0089] The conductive structure 4 is also used in the same manner as the conductive structure 1 to form a conductive path. In addition, the conductive structure 4 does not require a lubricant like the conductive structure 1, and can suppress the reduction of the conductive performance of the conductive structure 1 when in use. In addition, the conductive structure 4 can also eliminate or reduce the space for installing the conductive structure 4, which can save space. In addition, in the conductive structure 4, when the conductive component 3 is fixed to the retaining component 2, it is also possible to suppress the generation of deformations such as wrinkles in the conductors 21 and 22. In addition, the conductors 21 and 22 of the conductive structure 4 can also be manufactured with a good yield and high efficiency. In addition, in the conductive structure 4, the conductors 21 and 22 will not rotate relative to the retaining component 2 through the rotation of the shaft 110.

[0090] As described above, the conductive structure 4 according to the second embodiment of the present invention can save space and suppress a decrease in conductive performance when in use.

[0091] Next, a conductive sealing device 5 according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described. Fig.16 The schematic structure of the conductive sealing device 5 is shown, and is a cross-sectional view showing a cross section of the plane including the axis x of the conductive sealing device 5 on one side relative to the axis x. The conductive sealing device 5 is a sealing device for achieving a seal between the shaft of the applicable object and the hole through which the shaft passes, and is also a conductive structure that forms a conductive path between the shaft and the hole through which the shaft passes.

[0092] like Fig.16 As shown, the conductive sealing device 5 includes: a reinforcing ring 60, which is a member in the shape of a ring around the axis x; an elastic body portion 70, which is mounted on the reinforcing ring 60 and is formed of an elastic body in the shape of a ring around the axis x; and a conductive structure 6, which is in the shape of a ring around the axis x. The elastic body portion 70 has a sealing lip 71 that contacts the shaft. The conductive structure 6 has a retaining member 7 of a member in the shape of a ring around the axis x and a conductive member 3 of a member in the shape of a ring around the axis x (see Figure 4 ). The conductive component 3 has at least one gap 10 extending in the radial direction and at least one conductive conductor 20 extending around the axis x. The retaining component 45 is installed on the elastic body portion 70 and retains the conductor 20 between it and the elastic body portion 70. The conductor 20 has a pair of end portions 20a in the direction around the axis x, and the gap 10 is connected to the end portions 20a and 20b of the conductor 20. The structure of the conductive sealing device 5 is described in detail below.

[0093] like Fig.16As shown, the conductive sealing device 5 has, for example, a reinforcement ring 60 and an elastomer portion 70 that are the same as a known oil seal, and the reinforcement ring 60 has a barrel portion 61 and an annular portion 62. In addition, the elastomer portion 70 has a base portion 72, a gasket portion 73, and a cover portion 74 in addition to a sealing lip 71. The sealing lip 71 extends from the base portion 72 toward the sealing object side. The gasket portion 73 is a portion that covers the barrel portion 61 of the reinforcement ring 60 from the outer peripheral side and is a portion that is pressed into the hole of the applicable object. The outer peripheral surface 73a of the gasket portion 73 is formed to have a diameter that is pressed on the hole of the applicable object. The cover portion 74 is a portion that covers the annular portion 62 of the reinforcement ring 60 from the side opposite to the sealing object side.

[0094] like Fig.16 As shown, an annular surface facing the outer circumference, i.e., a mating surface 75, is formed at the end portion (outer circumferential end portion 74a) on the outer circumference side of the cover portion 74. The mating surface 75 is, for example, a cylindrical surface extending along a cylindrical surface with the axis x as the center axis. The mating surface 75 is, for example, a cylindrical surface extending along a cylindrical surface with the axis x as the center axis. Specifically, the mating surface 75 is, for example, a cylindrical surface or a substantially cylindrical surface with the axis x as the center axis or the substantially center axis. For example, Fig.16 As shown, the fitting surface 75 is located on the outer peripheral side than other parts of the outer peripheral end 74a, and an annular recessed portion 76 recessed toward the inner peripheral side is formed between the gasket portion 73. The fitting surface 75 of the cover portion 74 is located on the inner peripheral side than the outer peripheral surface 73a of the gasket portion 73 in the radial direction.

[0095] In addition, the cover 74 also has a retaining surface 77, which is an annular surface facing the opposite side of the sealed object side. The retaining surface 77 is, for example, a surface extending along a plane orthogonal to the axis x. Specifically, the retaining surface 77 is, for example, a surface extending on a plane parallel or substantially parallel to the plane orthogonal to the axis x.

[0096] The conductive structure 6 includes a holding member 45 similar to the outer holding member 40 of the holding member 2 of the conductive structure 1 and the conductive member 3 of the conductive structure 1 (see Figure 4 ). The holding member 45 is made of the same conductive material as the outer holding member 40. Fig.16 As shown, the retaining member 45 includes, for example, a fitting portion 46 that is annular about the axis x and a retaining portion 47 that is annular about the axis x. The fitting portion 46 is a cylindrical portion extending along the axis x, and the retaining portion 47 is an annular portion extending from the end of the fitting portion 46 toward the inner circumference. Fig.16As shown, the fitting portion 46 has, for example, an outer peripheral surface 46a and an inner peripheral surface 46b that face each other in the direction of the axis x, and the cross-sectional shape is approximately rectangular. The outer peripheral surface 46a is an annular surface facing the outer peripheral side, and the inner peripheral surface 46b is an annular surface facing the inner peripheral side. The inner peripheral surface 46b is a cylindrical surface extending along the axis x, for example, a cylindrical surface or an approximately cylindrical surface with the axis x as the central axis or the approximately central axis. In addition, as shown in FIG. Fig.16 As shown, the retaining portion 47 has, for example, side surfaces 47a and 47b facing each other in the direction of the axis x, and the cross-sectional shape is rectangular or substantially rectangular. The side surface 47b connected to the inner peripheral surface 46b of the fitting portion 46 extends along a plane orthogonal to the axis x, for example, extends on a plane parallel or substantially parallel to the plane orthogonal to the axis x.

[0097] The fitting portion 46 of the holding member 45 can be fitted into the outer peripheral end portion 74a of the cover portion 74 of the elastic body portion 70. Specifically, for example, the diameter of the inner peripheral surface 46b of the fitting portion 46 is smaller than the diameter of the fitting surface 75 of the outer peripheral end portion 74a of the cover portion 74. Thus, the cover portion 74 of the elastic body portion 70 is pressed into the fitting portion 46 of the holding member 45, and the holding member 45 is fixed to the elastic body portion 70.

[0098] like Fig.16 As shown, the conductive component 3 is held between the retaining portion 47 of the retaining component 45 and the retaining surface 77 of the cover portion 74 of the elastomer portion 70. Specifically, the side surface 47b of the retaining portion 47 contacts the side surfaces 23a, 25a of the base portions 23, 25 of the conductors 21, 22 of the conductive component 3, respectively, to press the base portions 23, 25 against the retaining surface 77 of the cover portion 74. As described above, the engaging portion 46 of the retaining component 45 engages with the outer peripheral end portion 74a of the cover portion 74 of the elastomer portion 70, and the retaining component 45 is fixed to the elastomer portion 70 in a state where the retaining portion 47 presses the base portions 23, 25 against the retaining surface 77 of the cover portion 74. In addition, a convex portion 48 (see FIG. 4 ) which is received in the concave portion 76 of the cover portion 74 may be provided at the end portion 46c of the engaging portion 46 of the retaining component 45. Fig.16 As described above, when the fitting portion 46 of the retaining member 45 is fitted into the outer peripheral end portion 74a of the cover portion 74 of the elastic body portion 70, the protrusion 48 is received in the recess 76, thereby, the retaining member 45 can be more firmly fixed to the elastic body portion 70 in a state where the retaining portion 47 presses the base 23, 25 against the retaining surface 77 of the cover portion 74.

[0099] In the conductive sealing device 5, the contact portions 24 and 26 of the conductors 21 and 22 are in contact with the outer peripheral surface of the shaft of the applicable object. Fig.16 As shown, the contact portions 24 and 26 of the conductors 21 and 22 protrude to the side opposite to the sealing target side.

[0100] In addition, the convex parts 2a and 2b of the above-mentioned conductive structure 1 are similarly provided on the side surface 47b of the holding part 47 of the holding member 45, and in the conductive sealing device 5, the convex parts 2a and 2b are respectively accommodated in the gaps 11 and 12 of the conductive member 3. In addition, the convex part 2a is in contact with the end 21a of the conductor 21 and the end 22a of the conductor 22, and the convex part 2b is in contact with the end 21b of the conductor 21 and the end 22b of the conductor 22. In addition, in the gap 11, a gap may be formed between the convex part 2a and the end 21a of the conductor 21. In addition, in the gap 11, a gap may be formed between the convex part 2a and the end 22a of the conductor 22. Similarly, in the gap 12, a gap may be formed between the convex part 2b and the end 21b of the conductor 21. In addition, in the gap 12, a gap may be formed between the convex part 2b and the end 22b of the conductor 22. In addition, the projections 2a and 2b may be provided on the holding surface 77 of the cover 74 of the elastic body part 70 instead of the side surface 47b of the holding part 47 of the holding member 45, and similarly, they are respectively accommodated in the gaps 11 and 12. In addition, the projections 2a and 2b may be provided on the holding surface 77 of the cover 74 of the elastic body part 70 in addition to being provided on the side surface 47b of the holding part 47 of the holding member 45. In addition, a plurality of projections 2a may be provided. In addition, a plurality of projections 2b may be provided.

[0101] The components of the conductive sealing device 5 have the above-mentioned structures and are assembled to form an assembled state. Fig.16 The conductive sealing device 5 shown. In the conductive sealing device 5, the fitting portion 46 of the retaining member 45 is fitted with the outer peripheral end portion 74a of the cover portion 74 of the elastic body portion 70, and the conductors 21 and 22 are clamped between the retaining portion 47 of the retaining member 45 and the retaining surface 77 of the cover portion 74 of the elastic body portion 70. In this way, the retaining member 45 is fixed to the elastic body portion 70, and the conductors 21 and 22 are fixed between the retaining member 45 and the elastic body portion 70. In addition, the conductors 21 and 22 are installed between the retaining member 45 and the elastic body portion 70 in a manner that the respective contact portions 24 and 26 protrude to the side opposite to the sealing lip 71 side. In addition, the conductors 21 and 22 may be installed in a manner that the respective contact portions 24 and 26 protrude to the sealing lip 71 side, for example, as long as they do not interfere with the elastic body portion 70.

[0102] Fig.17 This is a conceptual diagram for illustrating an example of an application target of the conductive sealing device 5. Fig.18 It is shown Fig.17 A cross-sectional view of an example of a use state of the conductive sealing device 5 in the applicable object shown. As an example, Fig.17As shown, the conductive sealing device 5 is suitable for a driving device 200 of a battery electric vehicle (BEV). The driving device 200 has the same structure as the driving device 100 (see Fig. 9 , Fig.10 ) has the same structure as the drive device 100, but the difference is that the conductive structure 1 is not installed relative to the drive device 100. In addition, on the drive device 200, a conductive sealing device 5 is installed instead of the oil seals 125 and 127 of the drive device 100. As an example, the conductive sealing device 5 is arranged between the housing 120 and the shafts 110 and 122 of the reducer 102, and is in a use state. Specifically, the gasket portion 73 of the elastomer portion 70 is embedded in the shaft holes 124 and 126 of the housing 120, and the conductive sealing device 5 is fixed to the shaft holes 124 and 126. In addition, the shafts 110 and 122 are inserted into the sealing lip 71 and the conductive component 3, and the conductive sealing device 5 is in a use state. In the use state, the sealing lip 71 contacts the outer peripheral surfaces 110a and 122a of the shafts 110 and 122, and the sealed object side is sealed. Furthermore, in the use state, the inner peripheral ends 24c, 26c of the conductors 21, 22 of the conductive component 3 are in contact with the outer peripheral surfaces 110a, 122a of the shafts 110, 122. Furthermore, the holding component 45 to which the conductive component 3 is mounted is made of a conductive metal and is in contact with the inner peripheral surfaces 124a, 126a of the shaft holes 124, 126 of the housing 120. Thus, the conductive component 3 and the holding component 45 form an electrically conductive conductive path between the shafts 110, 122 and the housing 120 in the use state.

[0103] In addition, the above-mentioned drive device 200 is an example of an applicable object of the conductive sealing device 5, and the applicable objects of the conductive sealing device 5 are not limited thereto. The conductive sealing device 5 is used, for example, for drive devices of electric vehicles (EVs) other than battery electric vehicles (BEVs), hybrid electric vehicles (HVs), fuel cell vehicles (FCVs), and the like. In vehicles equipped with motors such as electric vehicles (EVs), electromagnetic wave noise may be generated due to reasons such as the induced current generated by the motor. In addition, electromagnetic wave noise may be generated due to reasons such as the on-off action of an inverter for current control supplied to an electric motor such as an electric motor, or the induced voltage of the motor itself. As described above, the conductive sealing device 5 forms a conductive path so that the electromagnetic wave noise transmitted to the shafts 110 and 122 flows to the housing 120. Thereby, communication failures or malfunctions in electronic equipment and electrical corrosion in metal parts such as bearings can be prevented.

[0104] The conductive structure 6 of the conductive sealing device 5 is also used in the same manner as the conductive structure 1 to form a conductive path. In addition, the conductive structure 6 may not require a lubricant as in the conductive structure 1, and the conductive performance of the conductive structure 6 may be suppressed from being reduced in the use state. In addition, in the conductive component 3 of the conductive sealing device 5, even if an external force is applied to the conductors 21 and 22 by the rotation of the shafts 110 and 122, the conductors 21 and 22 may be suppressed from being deformed such as stress concentration and from being in contact with the shafts 110 and 122. In this regard, the conductive sealing device 5 may not be provided with a conductive lubricant between the conductors 21 and 22 and the shafts 110 and 122, as in the conductive structure. In addition, since the conductive structure 6 is installed between the radial width of the sealing device, there is no need for a space for installing the conductive structure 6, and space can be saved. In addition, in the conductive sealing device 5, when the conductive component 3 is fixed between the retaining component 45 and the elastic body portion 70, deformation such as wrinkles of the conductors 21 and 22 may be suppressed. Furthermore, the conductors 21 and 22 of the conductive structure 6 can be manufactured efficiently with good yield. In the conductive seal device 5 , the conductors 21 and 22 do not rotate relative to the holding member 45 and the elastic body portion 70 due to the rotation of the shafts 110 and 122 .

[0105] In addition, the conductive component 3 of the conductive structure 6 has gaps 11 and 12 between the conductor 21 and the conductor 22. Since the gaps 11 and 12 are through holes that penetrate the conductive component 3 along the axis x direction, when the conductive sealing device 5 is in use, a through hole that penetrates the conductive component 3 along the axis x direction is formed between the shafts 110 and 122 and the shaft holes 124 and 126. Fig.16 As shown, the sealing lip 71 has a plurality of helically extending protrusions 71a, and the protrusions 71a act as pumps. Therefore, in the use state, the sealing lip 71 introduces air to the sealing object side. As described above, the conductive component 3 is formed with a through hole that penetrates the conductive component 3 along the axis x direction between the shaft 110, 122 and the shaft hole 124, 126. Therefore, even if air is introduced to the sealing object side by the pumping action of the sealing lip 71, the space between the conductors 21, 22 of the conductive component 3 and the sealing lip 71 will not become a negative pressure state. As a result, the wear of the sealing lip 71 and the increase of the sliding resistance can be prevented, and the wear of the conductors 21, 22 of the conductive component 3 and the increase of the sliding resistance can be prevented.

[0106] As described above, the conductive sealing device 5 according to the first embodiment of the present invention can save space and suppress a decrease in conductive performance when in use.

[0107] In addition, in the conductive structure 6 of the conductive sealing device 5, various modifications can be made similarly to the case of the conductive structure 1.

[0108] The present invention has been described above by the above-mentioned embodiments, but the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the scope described in the above-mentioned embodiments. It is obvious to those skilled in the art that various changes or improvements can be made to the above-mentioned embodiments. According to the description of the claims, such changes or improved solutions are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

[0109] The above-described embodiments are intended to facilitate understanding of the present invention, rather than to limit and explain the present invention. In addition, the above-described embodiments do not limit the objects of use of the present invention, and the present invention may include all objects of use as its objects of use. The various components and their configurations, materials, conditions, shapes, and sizes of the above-described embodiments are not limited to the illustrated contents and may be appropriately changed. For example, the present invention includes differences arising from the implementation of manufacturing tolerances, etc. In addition, within the scope of technical non-contradiction, the components shown in different embodiments may be partially replaced or combined. In addition, in order to achieve at least a portion of the above-mentioned problems and effects, the various structures may be appropriately and selectively combined.

[0110] For example, the shape of the outer peripheral end portion (end portion 23c, 25c) of the conductive member 3 may not be a shape along a circle, but may have a shape along a straight line portion. Fig.19 As shown in FIG. 1 , two pairs of straight portions, namely a pair of straight portions 3a and a pair of straight portions 3b, may be provided at the outer peripheral end portions (end portions 23c, 25c) of the conductive member 3. In this case, by providing a step portion or a protrusion corresponding to the straight portion on the cover portion 74 of the retaining member 2, 7 or the elastic body portion 70, the conductors 21, 22 can be prevented from rotating. For example, Fig. 20 As shown, the holding surface 77 of the cover portion 74 of the elastic body portion 70 of the conductive sealing device 5 may be formed with a pattern depicting the same as that of the conductive sealing device 5. Fig.19 The conductive member 3 is accommodated in the recessed portion 77a having a contour corresponding to the contour of the outer peripheral end step of the conductive member 3 shown. In this case, the convex portions 2a and 2b may not be provided. Even if the convex portions 2a and 2b are not provided, the conductors 21 and 22 can be prevented from rotating relative to the retaining member 45 and the elastic member 70 by the rotation of the shaft 110. In addition, an adhesive may be used to bond the conductive member 20 (conductors 21 and 22) and the retaining member 2, 7 or the elastic member 70. In this case, the adhesive is applied in a manner that does not become a resistor of the conductive path. In this case, an adhesive having conductivity is used.

[0111] Explanation of symbols

[0112] 1, 4, 6-conductive structure, 2, 7-holding member, 2a, 2b-convex portion, 3, 3A-conductive member, 3a, 3b-straight portion, 5-conductive sealing device, 10, 11, 12-gap, 20, 21, 22-conductive body, 20a, 20b, 21a, 21b, 22a, 22b-end portion, 23, 25-base portion, 23a, 23b, 25a, 25b-side portion, 23c, 25c-end portion, 24, 26-contact portion, 2 4a, 24b, 26a, 26b-side, 24c, 26c-inner peripheral end, 30-inner holding member, 31-fitting portion, 31a-outer peripheral surface, 31b-inner peripheral surface, 31c-end, 32-holding portion, 32a, 32b-side, 32c-end, 40-outer holding member, 45-holding member, 41, 46-fitting portion, 41a, 46a-outer peripheral surface, 41b, 46b-inner peripheral surface, 42, 47-holding portion, 42a, 42 b, 47a, 47b-side, 42c-end, 43-pressing portion, 46c-end, 48-convex portion, 50-spring component, 51-base, 52-elastic portion, 60-reinforcement ring, 61-cylindrical portion, 62-annular portion, 70-elastic body portion, 71-sealing lip, 71a-convex portion, 72-base, 73-gasket portion, 73a-outer peripheral surface, 74-cover portion, 74a-outer peripheral end, 75-fitting surface, 76-recessed portion, 77-holding surface, 77a -recess, 100, 200-drive device, 101-electric motor, 102-reducer, 103-inverter, 104-battery, 105-wheel, 110, 122-axle, 110a, 122a-outer circumference, 111, 120-housing, 121-reduction gear section, 112, 123-bearing, 113, 124, 126-axle hole, 113a, 124a, 126a-inner circumference, 125, 127-oil seal, x-axis line.

Claims

1. A conductive structure, comprising: A retaining member, which is a conductive member that is annular around the axis; as well as a conductive member, which is a member in a ring shape around the axis, The conductive component has at least one gap extending in the radial direction and at least one conductive body extending around the axis. The conductive member is held by the holding member, The conductor has a pair of ends in a direction around the axis. The gap is connected to the end of the electrical conductor.

2. The conductive structure according to claim 1, wherein: The conductive component has one conductive body and one gap. The pair of ends of the conductor are opposed to each other in a direction around the axis, The gap is a gap between the opposing ends of the electrical conductor.

3. The conductive structure according to claim 1, wherein: The conductive component has two conductive bodies and two gaps. One of the pair of ends of one of the conductors is opposed to one of the pair of ends of the other conductor in a direction around the axis, The other end of the pair of ends of one of the conductors is opposed to the other end of the pair of ends of the other conductor in a direction around the axis, A gap is formed between the one end of the one conductor and the one end of the other conductor, Another of the gaps is formed between the other end of the one conductor and the other end of the other conductor.

4. The conductive structure according to claim 1, wherein: The conductor is held on the outer peripheral side by the holding member.

5. The conductive structure according to claim 1, wherein: having a spring member in an annular shape around the axis, The spring member generates elastic force in the direction toward the axis, The spring member is disposed in parallel with the conductive member in the axial direction.

6. The conductive structure according to claim 1, wherein: The holding member has at least one protrusion, and the protrusion is received in the gap. The protrusion protrudes in the axial direction.

7. The conductive structure according to claim 1, wherein: The conductor is formed of PTFE having conductivity.

8. A conductive sealing device for achieving sealing between a shaft and a hole through which the shaft passes, comprising: A reinforcement ring, which is a ring-shaped component around the axis; an elastic body portion, which is mounted on the reinforcing ring and is formed of an elastic body in a ring shape around the axis; as well as a conductive structure, which is annular around the axis, The elastic body portion has a sealing lip in contact with the shaft, The conductive structure includes a retaining member that is a member that is annular around the axis and a conductive member that is a member that is annular around the axis. The conductive component has at least one gap extending in the radial direction and at least one conductive body extending around the axis. The holding member is mounted on the elastic body portion and holds the conductor between the holding member and the elastic body portion. The conductor has a pair of ends in a direction around the axis. The gap is connected to the end of the electrical conductor.

9. The conductive sealing device according to claim 8, wherein: The conductive component has one conductive body and one gap. The pair of ends of the conductor are opposed to each other in a direction around the axis, The gap is a gap between the opposing ends of the electrical conductor.

10. The conductive sealing device according to claim 8, wherein: The conductive component has two conductive bodies and two gaps. One of the pair of ends of one of the conductors is opposed to one of the pair of ends of the other conductor in a direction around the axis, The other end of the pair of ends of one of the conductors is opposed to the other end of the pair of ends of the other conductor in a direction around the axis, A gap is formed between the one end of the one conductor and the one end of the other conductor, Another of the gaps is formed between the other end of the one conductor and the other end of the other conductor.

11. The conductive sealing device according to claim 8, wherein: The holding member has at least one protrusion, and the protrusion is received in the gap. The protrusion protrudes in the axial direction.

12. The conductive sealing device according to claim 8, wherein: The conductor is formed of PTFE having conductivity.

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