Vehicle drive device

Abstract

A backlash in the rotational direction exists between the lock member in the locked position and the first rotational member, and the rotational position of the target rotational member detected by the rotational position sensor in the locked state of the parking lock mechanism is set as a detected rotational position. When there is no backlash in the locked state of the parking lock mechanism, the rotation position of the target rotation member is set as a theoretical lock position, and the control device executes a torque orientation determination process for determining the wheel torque orientation (Ct) on the basis of the orientation of the deviation of the detected rotation position with respect to the theoretical lock position due to the backlash.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle drive device including a rotary electric machine functioning as a driving force source for wheels and a parking lock mechanism for selectively restricting rotation of a rotary member that rotates in conjunction with the wheels. Background Art

[0002] An example of such a vehicle drive device is disclosed in the following Patent Document 1. In the following description of the background art, the reference numerals in Patent Document 1 are cited in parentheses.

[0003] In the vehicle drive device (10) disclosed in Patent Document 1, a parking lock mechanism (78) comprises: a parking lock gear (76) arranged in a power transmission path connecting a rotating motor (12) and wheels (68, 74); a parking pawl (80) which restricts the rotation of the parking lock gear; and a driving device (82) which drives the parking pawl (see Patent Document 1). Figure 1 ).

[0004] Prior art literature

[0005] Patent Literature

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2003-264908 Summary of the invention

[0007] Problem that the invention aims to solve

[0008] However, when the vehicle is parked on an inclined road, torque is transmitted from the wheels (68, 74) to the parking lock gear (76) due to the vehicle's own weight, so a load acts on the engagement portion between the parking lock gear (76) and the parking pawl (80). As a result, the driving force of the driving device (82) may not release the engagement of the parking pawl (80) with respect to the parking lock gear (76).

[0009] Patent document 1 discloses that, in the above-mentioned case, the torque of the rotary electric machine (12) is controlled to reduce the load acting on the engaging portion between the parking lock gear (76) and the parking pawl (80).

[0010] However, Patent Document 1 does not show that the direction of the load acting on the engaging portion between the parking lock gear (76) and the parking pawl (80) is determined. Therefore, in the above-mentioned vehicle drive device (10), it is difficult to appropriately control the torque of the rotary motor (12) to reduce the load acting on the engaging portion between the parking lock gear (76) and the parking pawl (80).

[0011] Therefore, it is desired to realize a vehicle drive device that can appropriately control the torque of a rotary electric machine when the parking lock mechanism is released.

[0012] Means used to solve problems

[0013] In view of the above, a characteristic structure of a vehicle drive device is that it has:

[0014] A rotating electric machine functions as a driving force source for the wheels;

[0015] a parking lock mechanism that selectively restricts rotation of a first rotating member that rotates in conjunction with the wheel;

[0016] a rotational position sensor for detecting a rotational position of a second rotational member or the first rotational member as a target rotational member, the second rotational member rotating in conjunction with the wheel and arranged at a position closer to the wheel than the first rotational member in a power transmission path connecting the rotating electric machine and the wheel; and

[0017] A control device obtains the detection value of the rotation position sensor and controls the rotating motor and the parking lock mechanism, wherein:

[0018] The parking lock mechanism comprises: a locking member capable of moving to a locking position in which the locking member engages with the first rotating member to restrict the rotation of the first rotating member and an unlocking position in which the locking member is separated from the first rotating member to allow the rotation of the first rotating member; and a driving device for driving the locking member.

[0019] There is a backlash in the rotation direction between the locking member in the locking position and the first rotating member,

[0020] the state of the parking lock mechanism when the locking member is in the locking position is defined as a locked state, the rotational position of the target rotating member detected by the rotational position sensor in the locked state is defined as a detected rotational position, and the rotational position of the target rotating member when the backlash does not exist in the locked state is defined as a theoretical locked position,

[0021] The control device performs a torque direction determination process in which a direction of the torque transmitted from the wheel to the first rotating member, i.e., a wheel torque direction, is determined based on a direction of the deviation of the detected rotational position relative to the theoretical locking position caused by the backlash.

[0022] According to this characteristic structure, in the torque direction determination process, the wheel torque direction is determined based on the direction of the deviation of the detected rotation position relative to the theoretical locking position caused by the backlash. As a result, the rotating motor can appropriately output a torque in a direction that weakens the engagement force between the locking member and the first rotating member. Therefore, when the parking lock mechanism is unlocked, the torque of the rotating motor can be appropriately controlled. In this way, even when the locking member cannot be moved from the locking position to the non-locking position side by the driving force of the driving device, the torque of the rotating motor can be used to weaken the engagement force between the locking member and the first rotating member, so the parking lock mechanism can be unlocked by the driving force of the driving device.

[0023] In addition, according to this characteristic structure, various sensors such as a tilt angle sensor for determining the direction of wheel torque can be eliminated. Therefore, it is easy to simplify the structure of the vehicle drive device and reduce the cost. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] Figure 1 It is a cross-sectional view showing a part of the vehicle drive device according to the embodiment.

[0025] Figure 2 It is a framework diagram of a vehicle drive device according to an embodiment.

[0026] Figure 3 1 is a diagram showing the positional relationship between the target rotation member and the locking member in the theoretical locking position.

[0027] Figure 4 This is a control block diagram of the vehicle drive device according to the embodiment.

[0028] Figure 5 It is a diagram showing the positional relationship between the counterpart rotation member and the lock member when the torque toward one side in the circumferential direction is transmitted to the counterpart rotation member.

[0029] Figure 6 It is a diagram showing the positional relationship between the counterpart rotation member and the lock member when the torque toward one side in the circumferential direction is transmitted to the counterpart rotation member.

[0030] Figure 7 It is a diagram showing the positional relationship between the counterpart rotation member and the lock member when the torque toward one side in the circumferential direction is transmitted to the counterpart rotation member.

[0031] Figure 8 It is a diagram showing the positional relationship between the counterpart rotation member and the lock member when the torque toward the other side in the circumferential direction is transmitted to the counterpart rotation member.

[0032] Fig. 9It is a diagram showing the positional relationship between the counterpart rotation member and the lock member when the torque toward the other side in the circumferential direction is transmitted to the counterpart rotation member.

[0033] Fig.10 It is a diagram showing the positional relationship between the counterpart rotation member and the lock member when the torque toward the other side in the circumferential direction is transmitted to the counterpart rotation member.

[0034] Fig.11 This is a flowchart showing an example of the torque direction determination process and the lock release assist process performed by the control device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] Hereinafter, a vehicle drive device 100 according to an embodiment will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 1 As shown, a vehicle drive device 100 includes a rotary electric machine 1 , a rotational position sensor 8 , and a parking lock mechanism 10 .

[0036] The rotating electrical machine 1 is a wheel W (see Figure 2 ) to function as a driving force source. The rotating electric machine 1 has the function of a motor (electric motor) that generates power by receiving a supply of electric power and the function of a generator (generator) that generates electric power by receiving a supply of power. Specifically, the rotating electric machine 1 is electrically connected to a power storage device such as a battery or a capacitor (not shown). Moreover, the rotating electric machine 1 uses the electric power stored in the power storage device to perform power operation and generate driving force. In addition, the rotating electric machine 1 generates electricity by the driving force transmitted from the wheel W side to charge the power storage device.

[0037] The rotating electric machine 1 includes a stator 11 and a rotor 12. The stator 11 includes a cylindrical stator core 11a. The stator core 11a is fixed to a non-rotating member NR. The rotor 12 includes a cylindrical rotor core 12a. The rotor core 12a is supported rotatably relative to the stator core 11a. In the present embodiment, the rotor 12 further includes a rotor shaft 12b connected to the rotor core 12a so as to rotate integrally therewith.

[0038] In the following description, the direction along the rotation axis of the rotor 12 is referred to as "axial direction L". In addition, one side of the axial direction L is referred to as "axial first side L1", and the other side of the axial direction L is referred to as "axial second side L2". In addition, the direction orthogonal to the axial direction L is referred to as "radial direction R". The radial direction R is defined with reference to each rotation axis of the rotating member such as the rotor 12. In addition, when it is not necessary to distinguish which rotation axis is used as the reference, or when it is clear which rotation axis is used as the reference, it may be simply described as "radial direction R".

[0039] In the present embodiment, the rotor shaft 12 b is formed in a cylindrical shape having an axis along the axial direction L. The rotor shaft 12 b is arranged so as to protrude from the rotor core 12 a to each of the axial first side L1 and the axial second side L2 .

[0040] In the present embodiment, the rotating electrical machine 1 is an inner rotor type rotating electrical machine. Therefore, the rotor core 12a is arranged inside the stator core 11a in the radial direction R. In addition, the rotor shaft 12b is arranged inside the rotor core 12a in the radial direction R.

[0041] In addition, in the present embodiment, the rotary electric machine 1 is a rotary excitation type rotary electric machine. Therefore, a stator coil is wound and installed on the stator core 11a. In the present embodiment, the stator coil is wound and installed on the stator core 11a in a manner to form a coil end portion 11b protruding to the axial first side L1 and the axial second side L2 relative to the stator core 11a. In addition, although not shown in the figure, a permanent magnet is provided on the rotor core 12a.

[0042] The rotation position sensor 8 is a sensor for detecting the rotation position of one of the first and second rotation elements RT1 and RT2 , that is, the target rotation element T. In the present embodiment, the target rotation element T is the first rotation element RT1 , and the first rotation element RT1 is the rotor shaft 12 b.

[0043] The first rotating element RT1 and the second rotating element RT2 are respectively connected to the wheel W (see Figure 2 The second rotating element RT2 is arranged in a power transmission path connecting the rotating electric machine 1 and the wheel W, at a position closer to the wheel W than the first rotating element RT1.

[0044] The parking lock mechanism 10 selectively restricts the rotation of the first rotating element RT1. The detailed structure of the parking lock mechanism 10 will be described later.

[0045] like Figure 2 As shown, in the present embodiment, the vehicle drive device 100 further includes a power transmission mechanism 2 , a differential gear mechanism 3 , and a case 9 .

[0046] The power transmission mechanism 2 transmits the rotation of the rotor 12 to the differential gear mechanism 3. In the present embodiment, the power transmission mechanism 2 includes a planetary gear mechanism 21, a first gear 22, and a second gear 23. In the present embodiment, the planetary gear mechanism 21 and the first gear 22 are arranged on a first axis X1 which is the rotation axis of the rotor 12. In addition, the second gear 23 is arranged on a second axis X2 which is different from the first axis X1.

[0047] The planetary gear mechanism 21 is configured to reduce the speed of rotation of the rotor 12 and transmit the rotation to the first gear 22. The planetary gear mechanism 21 includes a sun gear SG, a carrier CR, and a ring gear RG.

[0048] The sun gear SG is connected to the rotor 12 so as to rotate integrally. That is, the sun gear SG is an input element of the planetary gear mechanism 21. In the present embodiment, the sun gear SG is connected to the rotor shaft 12b so as to rotate integrally via the input shaft I. The input shaft I is formed to extend in the axial direction L. In the present embodiment, the input shaft I is formed to extend from the sun gear SG to the axial first side L1.

[0049] The planetary carrier CR supports the first pinion gear PG1 and the second pinion gear PG2 which rotate integrally with each other so as to rotate freely. The first pinion gear PG1 and the second pinion gear PG2 rotate (rotate) around their own axes respectively, and rotate (revolve) around the sun gear SG together with the planetary carrier CR. A plurality of the first pinion gear PG1 and the second pinion gear PG2 are provided at intervals along their own revolution trajectories.

[0050] The first pinion gear PG1 meshes with the sun gear SG. The second pinion gear PG2 meshes with the ring gear RG. The second pinion gear PG2 is formed to have a smaller diameter than the first pinion gear PG1. In the present embodiment, the second pinion gear PG2 is arranged closer to the first axial side L1 than the first pinion gear PG1.

[0051] The carrier CR is connected to the first gear 22 so as to rotate integrally with the first gear 22. That is, the carrier CR is an output element of the planetary gear mechanism 21. In the present embodiment, the first gear 22 is arranged on the second axial side L2 relative to the planetary gear mechanism 21. In addition, in the present embodiment, the first gear 22 is the second rotating member RT2.

[0052] The ring gear RG is fixed to the non-rotating member NR. In the present embodiment, the ring gear RG is fixed to the case 9 which is the non-rotating member NR.

[0053] The first gear 22 meshes with the second gear 23. In the present embodiment, the second gear 23 is formed to have a larger diameter than the first gear 22. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the rotation of the carrier CR of the planetary gear mechanism 21 is decelerated between the first gear 22 and the second gear 23 and transmitted to the differential gear mechanism 3.

[0054] The differential gear mechanism 3 distributes the rotation transmitted from the power transmission mechanism 2 to the pair of wheels W. In the present embodiment, the differential gear mechanism 3 is disposed on the second axis X2.

[0055] In the present embodiment, the differential gear mechanism 3 is a bevel gear type differential gear mechanism. Specifically, the differential gear mechanism 3 includes a pair of pinion gears, a first side gear and a second side gear meshing with the pair of pinion gears, and a differential case accommodating these gears.

[0056] In the present embodiment, the differential case is connected in such a manner that it rotates integrally with the second gear 23. In addition, the differential case is connected in such a manner that it rotates integrally with the pinion shaft that supports a pair of pinion gears so as to rotate freely. In the present embodiment, the first side gear is connected to the first drive shaft DS1 via the transmission shaft 35 extending in the axial direction L in such a manner that it rotates integrally with the first drive shaft DS1 that is drive-connected to the wheel W on the first axial side L1. In addition, the second side gear is connected to the second drive shaft DS2 in such a manner that it rotates integrally with the second drive shaft DS2 that is drive-connected to the wheel W on the second axial side L2.

[0057] The housing 9 accommodates the rotary electric machine 1, the power transmission mechanism 2, the differential gear mechanism 3, and the parking lock mechanism 10. Figure 1 As shown, in the present embodiment, the housing 9 includes a first tubular portion 91 , a second tubular portion 92 , a third tubular portion 93 , a first side wall portion 94 , a second side wall portion 95 , and a third side wall portion 96 .

[0058] The first cylindrical portion 91 and the second cylindrical portion 92 are each formed in a cylindrical shape coaxial with the rotor 12. In the present embodiment, the first cylindrical portion 91 is arranged at a position further outward in the radial direction R than a portion of the rotor shaft 12b protruding from the rotor core 12a to the first axial side L1. In addition, the second cylindrical portion 92 is arranged at a position further inward in the radial direction R than a portion of the rotor shaft 12b protruding from the rotor core 12a to the first axial side L1. In the present embodiment, the rotor shaft 12b is supported rotatably relative to the housing 9 via a first rotor bearing B1 arranged between the rotor shaft 12b and the first cylindrical portion 91 in the radial direction R.

[0059] The first side wall portion 94 is formed to extend from the first tubular portion 91 to the outer side in the radial direction R. The first side wall portion 94 is configured to cover the axial first side L1 of the rotating electrical machine 1. The second side wall portion 95 is formed to extend from the first tubular portion 91 to the inner side in the radial direction R. The second side wall portion 95 is configured at a position closer to the axial first side L1 than the first side wall portion 94. In the present embodiment, the second side wall portion 95 is connected to the end of the axial first side L1 of the first tubular portion 91 in a manner covering the first tubular portion 91 from the axial first side L1. In addition, in the present embodiment, the second tubular portion 92 is formed to extend from the second side wall portion 95 to the axial second side L2.

[0060] The third cylindrical portion 93 is formed in a cylindrical shape coaxial with the rotor 12. In the present embodiment, the portion of the rotor shaft 12b protruding from the rotor core 12a to the second axial side L2 has a small diameter portion 12c, which is formed to have a smaller diameter than the portion of the rotor shaft 12b connected to the rotor core 12a. In addition, the third cylindrical portion 93 is arranged on the outer side of the radial direction R than the small diameter portion 12c of the rotor shaft 12b. In the present embodiment, the rotor shaft 12b is supported to be rotatable relative to the housing 9 via the second rotor bearing B2 arranged between the small diameter portion 12c and the radial direction R of the third cylindrical portion 93.

[0061] The third side wall portion 96 is formed to extend from the third cylindrical portion 93 to the outside in the radial direction R. The third side wall portion 96 is arranged to cover the second axial side L2 of the rotating electrical machine 1. In the present embodiment, the third cylindrical portion 93 is formed to extend from the inner end of the third side wall portion 96 in the radial direction R to the second axial side L2.

[0062] like Figure 1 As shown, the rotational position sensor 8 has a sensor stator 81 fixed to the non-rotating member NR and a sensor rotor 82 supported to be rotatable relative to the sensor stator 81. In the present embodiment, the rotational position sensor 8 is configured as a resolver. Therefore, the rotational position sensor 8 detects the phase of the AC voltage corresponding to the relative angle of the sensor rotor 82 relative to the sensor stator 81 when an AC current is passed through a coil provided on the sensor stator 81, thereby detecting the rotational position of the target rotating member T. In addition, the rotational position sensor 8 is not limited to a resolver, and can be configured by various sensors such as a Hall element sensor, an encoder, and a magnetic rotation sensor.

[0063] In the present embodiment, the sensor stator 81 is fixed to the third side wall portion 96 of the housing 9 as the non-rotating member NR. Furthermore, the sensor stator 81 is configured to protrude from the third cylindrical portion 93 of the housing 9 to the inner side in the radial direction R. In addition, the sensor rotor 82 is connected to the small diameter portion 12c so as to rotate integrally with the rotor shaft 12b as the target rotating member T. Furthermore, the sensor rotor 82 is configured to face the sensor stator 81 from the inner side in the radial direction R.

[0064] The parking lock mechanism 10 includes a lock member 4 and a drive device 5 .

[0065] The locking member 4 is configured to be movable to a locking position P1 that engages with the first rotating member RT1 to restrict the rotation of the first rotating member RT1, and an unlocking position P2 that is separated from the first rotating member RT1 and allows the rotation of the first rotating member RT1. The locking member 4 is supported so as not to rotate relative to the non-rotating member NR. In the present embodiment, the locking member 4 has a cylindrical portion 41 that is formed coaxially with the rotor 12 and is in a cylindrical shape. The cylindrical portion 41 is arranged on the outside of the radial direction R relative to the second cylindrical portion 92 of the housing 9.

[0066] The locking member 4 has a plurality of first engaging portions 411. The housing 9 has a plurality of first engaged portions 921 engaged with the plurality of first engaging portions 411. In the following description, the direction along the rotation direction of the first rotating member RT1 is referred to as "circumferential direction C". Also, one side of the circumferential direction C is referred to as "circumferential direction first side C1", and the other side of the circumferential direction C is referred to as "circumferential direction second side C2".

[0067] like Figure 3 As shown, the plurality of first engaging portions 411 and the plurality of first engaged portions 921 are respectively arranged along the circumferential direction C. In the present embodiment, the plurality of first engaging portions 411 are respectively teeth portions formed on the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion 41 of the locking member 4. In addition, the plurality of first engaged portions 921 are respectively teeth portions formed on the outer circumferential surface of the second cylindrical portion 92 of the housing 9. Moreover, the plurality of first engaging portions 411 mesh with the plurality of first engaged portions 921 in a manner that allows movement along the axial direction L and prevents relative rotation. Figure 1 and Figure 3 In the illustrated example, the plurality of first engaging portions 411 and the plurality of first engaged portions 921 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction C and are continuously formed along the axial direction L. As shown in FIG.

[0068] The lock member 4 has a second engagement portion 412. The first rotation member RT1 has a plurality of second engaged portions Ta engaged with the second engagement portion 412. In the present embodiment, the second engagement portion 412 corresponds to an "engaging portion", and the second engaged portion Ta corresponds to an "engaged portion".

[0069] The plurality of second engaged portions Ta are arranged along the circumferential direction C. In the present embodiment, the plurality of second engaged portions Ta are teeth formed on the inner peripheral surface of the first rotating element RT1 (here, the rotor shaft 12b). Figure 3 In the example shown, a plurality of second engaged portions Ta are arranged in the circumferential direction C at equal intervals.

[0070] In the present embodiment, the plurality of second engagement portions 412 are arranged along the circumferential direction C. Furthermore, the plurality of second engagement portions 412 are teeth formed on the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion 41 of the locking member 4. Figure 3In the illustrated example, the plurality of second engagement portions 412 are arranged in the circumferential direction C at equal intervals.

[0071] In the present embodiment, the plurality of second engaging portions 412 are configured to engage with the plurality of second engaged portions Ta from the first axial side L1 to restrict the rotation of the first rotating element RT1. Figure 1 In the example shown, the plurality of second engagement portions 412 are formed continuously from the end surface on the axial second side L2 toward the axial first side L1 of the cylindrical portion 41. In addition, the plurality of second engaged portions Ta are formed continuously from the end surface on the axial first side L1 toward the axial second side L2 of the rotor shaft 12b.

[0072] In the following description, the state of the parking lock mechanism 10 when the lock member 4 is in the locked position P1 is referred to as a “locked state”, and the state of the parking lock mechanism 10 when the lock member 4 is in the unlocked position P2 is referred to as an “unlocked state”.

[0073] In the present embodiment, when the locking member 4 moves from the unlocking position P2 to the axial second side L2 and is located at the locking position P1, the plurality of second engaging portions 412 in the cylindrical portion 41 engage with the plurality of second engaged portions Ta in the first rotating member RT1, and the parking lock mechanism 10 is in a locked state. On the other hand, when the locking member 4 is located at the unlocking position P2, the locking member 4 is separated from the first rotating member RT1 to the axial first side L1, and the parking lock mechanism 10 is in an unlocking state. In addition, in the present embodiment, not only the position closest to the axial first side L1 in the movable area of ​​the locking member 4 corresponds to the unlocking position P2, but also the position closer to the axial second side L2 than this position corresponds to the unlocking position P2. That is, in this embodiment, when the locking member 4 is located within a specified range on the axial second side L2 from the position closest to the axial first side L1 in the movable area, the plurality of second engaging portions 412 do not engage with the plurality of second engaged portions Ta, and when the locking member 4 moves from this range to the axial second side L2, the plurality of second engaging portions 412 engage with the plurality of second engaged portions Ta.

[0074] like Figure 1 As shown, the driving device 5 is a device for driving the locking member 4. In the present embodiment, the driving device 5 includes a position holding portion 6 and an electromagnetic driving portion 7.

[0075] The position holding portion 6 has a permanent magnet 61 supported by the lock member 4. The position holding portion 6 holds the lock member 4 at the lock position P1 and the unlock position P2 by the magnetic force of the permanent magnet 61. The permanent magnet 61 may be formed by joining a plurality of split magnets.

[0076] The permanent magnet 61 is a permanent magnet having an N pole and an S pole. In the present embodiment, the permanent magnet 61 is configured so that the N pole and the S pole are arranged in the axial direction L. Specifically, the permanent magnet 61 is configured on the electromagnetic drive unit 7 side (in the present embodiment, on the outer side of the radial direction R) in such a manner that the N pole and the S pole are arranged in the axial direction L. For example, one permanent magnet 61 is configured so that the N pole and the S pole of the permanent magnet 61 are arranged in the axial direction L on the electromagnetic drive unit 7 side, or two permanent magnets 61 are configured so that the N pole of one permanent magnet 61 and the S pole of the other permanent magnet 61 are arranged in the axial direction L on the electromagnetic drive unit 7 side. In the following description, one of the N pole and the S pole of the permanent magnet 61 is set as the "first pole 61A", and the other is set as the "second pole 61B". The permanent magnet 61 is configured so that the first pole 61A and the second pole 61B are arranged in the order of the first pole 61A and the second pole 61B from the axial first side L1 toward the axial second side L2.

[0077] In the present embodiment, the permanent magnet 61 is formed in a cylindrical shape coaxial with the rotor 12. Furthermore, the permanent magnet 61 is fixed to the cylindrical portion 41 of the lock member 4. Figure 1 In the illustrated example, the permanent magnet 61 is fixed to a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion 41 that is closer to the first axial side L1 than the second engagement portion 412 .

[0078] The electromagnetic drive unit 7 moves the locking member 4 from the unlocked position P2 to the locked position P1 and from the locked position P1 to the unlocked position P2 by electromagnetic force generated by the power from the power source (not shown). In the present embodiment, the electromagnetic drive unit 7 is formed into a cylindrical shape coaxial with the permanent magnet 61. In addition, in the present embodiment, the electromagnetic drive unit 7 has a fixing portion 70, a first magnetic body portion 71, a second magnetic body portion 72, a third magnetic body portion 73 and a coil 74.

[0079] The fixing portion 70 is fixed to the non-rotating member NR. In the present embodiment, the fixing portion 70 is formed in a cylindrical shape coaxial with the first cylindrical portion 91 of the housing 9. The fixing portion 70 is fixed to the inner peripheral surface of the first cylindrical portion 91.

[0080] The first magnetic body 71, the second magnetic body 72, and the third magnetic body 73 are respectively composed of magnetic bodies. The first magnetic body 71, the second magnetic body 72, and the third magnetic body 73 are arranged in the order of the description with intervals between them in the axial direction L. In the present embodiment, the first magnetic body 71, the second magnetic body 72, and the third magnetic body 73 are formed in a manner protruding from the fixing portion 70 toward the inner side of the radial direction R. Moreover, the first magnetic body 71, the second magnetic body 72, and the third magnetic body 73 are arranged in the order of the description from the axial first side L1 toward the axial second side L2.

[0081] The coil 74 is configured to generate a magnetic flux passing through the first magnetic body 71, the second magnetic body 72, and the third magnetic body 73 by energizing. In the present embodiment, the coil 74 is wound between the first magnetic body 71 and the second magnetic body 72 in the axial direction L, and between the second magnetic body 72 and the third magnetic body 73 in the axial direction L on the inner circumferential surface of the fixing portion 70, respectively.

[0082] like Figure 4 As shown, the vehicle drive device 100 includes a control device 20 that controls the rotary electric machine 1 and the parking lock mechanism 10 .

[0083] In the present embodiment, the control device 20 controls the operation of the lock member 4 by controlling the current flowing through the coil 74. To explain, when the control device 20 does not flow current through the coil 74 and the lock member 4 is located at the unlocked position P2, the first pole 61A attracts the first magnetic body 71 and the second pole 61B attracts the second magnetic body 72. Furthermore, when the control device 20 moves the lock member 4 from the unlocked position P2 to the locked position P1, the control device 20 flows current through the coil 74 so that the first magnetic body 71 becomes a pole that repels the first pole 61A, the second magnetic body 72 becomes a pole that repels the second pole 61B, and the third magnetic body 73 becomes a pole that attracts the second pole 61B. Furthermore, when the control device 20 does not flow current through the coil 74 and the lock member 4 is located at the locked position P1, the first pole 61A attracts the second magnetic body 72 and the second pole 61B attracts the third magnetic body 73. Moreover, when the control device 20 moves the locking member 4 from the locking position P1 to the unlocking position P2, the current flows through the coil 74 in such a manner that the second magnetic body 72 becomes a pole that repels the first pole 61A, the third magnetic body 73 becomes a pole that repels the second pole 61B, and the first magnetic body 71 becomes a pole that attracts the first pole 61A.

[0084] However, when the vehicle equipped with the vehicle drive device 100 stops on an inclined road, the weight of the vehicle transmits torque from the wheel W to the first rotating member RT1 (here, the rotor shaft 12b). Therefore, torque acts on the first rotating member RT1 in a manner that increases the engagement force between the locking member 4 and the first rotating member RT1 (here, the engagement force between the second engagement portion 412 and the second engaged portion Ta).

[0085] At this time, depending on the strength of the engagement force between the locking member 4 and the first rotating member RT1, the engagement of the locking member 4 with respect to the first rotating member RT1 may not be released by the driving force (here, electromagnetic force) of the driving device 5. Therefore, when the driving device 5 generates a driving force for moving the locking member 4 from the locked position P1 to the unlocked position P2, the control device 20 performs a lock release auxiliary process in which the rotating electric machine 1 outputs a torque in a direction opposite to the direction of the torque transmitted from the wheel W to the first rotating member RT1, that is, the wheel torque direction Ct. Through the lock release auxiliary process, the engagement force between the locking member 4 and the first rotating member RT1 can be weakened, so the engagement of the locking member 4 with respect to the first rotating member RT1 can be released by the driving force of the driving device 5.

[0086] In addition, when executing the above-mentioned lock release auxiliary processing, the control device 20 executes a torque direction determination processing for determining the wheel torque direction Ct. Among them, there is a tooth backlash in the rotation direction (circumferential direction C) between the locking member 4 located in the locking position P1 and the first rotating member RT1. Therefore, when a vehicle equipped with the vehicle drive device 100 is parked on an inclined road surface, a deviation occurs in the rotation position of the object rotating member T due to the tooth backlash. Therefore, in the torque direction determination processing, the control device 20 determines the wheel torque direction Ct based on the direction of the deviation of the detected rotation position relative to the theoretical locking position P0 caused by the tooth backlash. Among them, the "theoretical locking position P0" is the rotation position of the object rotating member T when there is no tooth backlash in the locked state of the parking lock mechanism 10 ( Figure 3 ). In addition, the “detected rotational position” is the rotational position of the target rotational member T detected by the rotational position sensor 8 when the parking lock mechanism 10 is in the locked state.

[0087] In the present embodiment, the control device 20 determines the wheel torque direction Ct based on the remainder when θ is divided by (360 / N). Here, "θ" is the detected rotation position [°]. Moreover, "N" is the number of second engaged parts Ta [pieces], and " / " is a division operator. Therefore, "360 / N" represents the pitch [°] between adjacent second engaged parts Ta.

[0088] Below, refer to Figures 5 to 10 An example of torque direction determination processing performed by the control device 20 is described below. Figures 5 to 10 In the example shown, the number of the second engaged portions Ta is 12 (N=12). Therefore, in this example, the pitch between adjacent second engaged portions Ta is 30[°] (360 / N=360 / 12=30).

[0089] Figures 5 to 71 is a diagram showing the positional relationship between the rotor shaft 12b and the lock member 4 when the torque toward the first circumferential side C1 is transmitted to the first rotating element RT1 and the rotor shaft 12b as the target rotating element T. Figures 8 to 10 1 and 2 , which are diagrams showing the positional relationship between the rotor shaft 12 b and the lock member 4 when the torque toward the second circumferential side C2 is transmitted to the first rotation element RT1 and the rotor shaft 12 b as the target rotation element T. FIG.

[0090] In the present embodiment, the rotation position sensor 8 is set so that the detected value of the rotation position of the target rotating member T is zero (θ=0) at one of the N theoretical locking positions P0. Figure 3 The rotation position sensor 8 is set so that the detection value of the rotation position of the target rotation member T at the theoretical lock position P0 shown is zero (θ=0).

[0091] According to this configuration, the calculation process for determining the wheel torque direction Ct can be simplified.

[0092] Figure 5 The rotor shaft 12b shown is Figure 3 The rotational position (theoretical locking position P0) of the rotor shaft 12b shown is a state where the rotor shaft 12b is rotated toward the first circumferential side C1 by the size of the backlash. Figure 5 In the example shown, the detected rotational position is 5[°] (θ=5).

[0093] Figure 6 The rotor shaft 12b shown becomes Figure 5 The rotor shaft 12b shown is in a state where it is offset by 30[°] to the first circumferential side C1 compared to the rotational position. Figure 6 The plurality of second engaged portions Ta shown are Figure 5 The plurality of second engaged portions Ta shown are shifted toward the first circumferential side C1 by a size of the second engaged portion Ta and engage with the plurality of second engaging portions 412. Figure 6 In the example shown, the detected rotational position is 35[°] (θ=35).

[0094] Figure 7 The rotor shaft 12b shown becomes Figure 6 The rotor shaft 12b shown is in a state where it is offset by 30[°] to the first circumferential side C1 relative to the rotational position. Figure 7 The plurality of second engaged portions Ta shown are Figure 6 The plurality of second engaged portions Ta shown are shifted toward the first circumferential side C1 by a size of the second engaged portion Ta and engage with the plurality of second engaging portions 412. Figure 7 In the example shown, the detected rotational position is 65[°] (θ=65).

[0095] in addition, Figure 8 The rotor shaft 12b shown is Figure 3 The rotational position (theoretical locking position P0) of the rotor shaft 12b shown is a state where the rotor shaft 12b is rotated toward the second circumferential side C2 by the size of the backlash. Figure 8 In the example shown, the detected rotational position is 85[°] (θ=85). In this example, the rotational position sensor 8 is a resolver having 4 poles, and therefore the detected rotational position is detected within the range of 0 to 90[°]. Therefore, 85[°] in this example corresponds to -5[°] (see FIG. 1 ) when a sensor that detects the detected rotational position within the range of -180 to 180[°] is used as the rotational position sensor 8. Figure 8 θ′ shown).

[0096] Fig. 9 The rotor shaft 12b shown becomes Figure 8 The rotor shaft 12b shown is in a state where it is offset by 30[°] to the second circumferential side C2 compared to the rotational position. That is, Fig. 9 The plurality of second engaged portions Ta shown are Figure 8 The plurality of second engaged portions Ta shown are shifted to the second circumferential side C2 by a size of the second engaged portion Ta and engage with the plurality of second engaging portions 412. Fig. 9 In the example shown, the detected rotational position is 55[°] (θ=55). In addition, 55[°] in this example corresponds to -35[°] when a sensor that detects the detected rotational position in the range of -180 to 180[°] is used as the rotational position sensor 8 (see Fig. 9 θ′ shown).

[0097] Fig.10 The rotor shaft 12b shown becomes Fig. 9 The rotor shaft 12b shown is in a state where it is offset by 30[°] to the second circumferential side C2 compared to the rotational position. That is, Fig.10 The plurality of second engaged portions Ta shown are Fig. 9 The plurality of second engaged portions Ta shown are shifted to the second circumferential side C2 by a size of the second engaged portion Ta and engage with the plurality of second engaging portions 412. Fig.10 In the example shown, the detected rotational position is 25[°] (θ=25). In addition, 25[°] in this example corresponds to -65[°] when a sensor that detects the detected rotational position in the range of -180 to 180[°] is used as the rotational position sensor 8 (see Fig.10 θ′ shown).

[0098] exist Figures 5 to 7 In the example shown, the remainder when θ is divided by (360 / N) is 5[°]. Figures 8 to 10 In the example shown, the remainder when θ is divided by (360 / N) is 25[°]. Figures 5 to 10 The "r" shown is the remainder when θ is divided by (360 / N).

[0099] In this way, the remainder when θ is divided by (360 / N) is allocated to two groups according to whether the wheel torque direction Ct is the circumferential first side C1 or the circumferential second side C2. In this example, when the remainder when θ is divided by (360 / N) is within the range of 5±α[°], the control device 20 determines that the wheel torque direction Ct is the circumferential first side C1. Figures 5 to 7 In the example shown, the remainder when θ is divided by (360 / N) is 5[°], which is within the range of 5±α[°]. In addition, when the remainder when θ is divided by (360 / N) is within the range of 25±α[°], the control device 20 determines that the wheel torque direction Ct is the second circumferential side C2. Figures 8 to 10 In the example shown, the remainder when θ is divided by (360 / N) is 25[°], which is within the range of 25±α[°]. Here, “α” is a value preset based on the error of the output value of the rotation position sensor 8 (for example, including the error caused by the installation location of the rotation position sensor 8, the error caused by the temperature, etc.).

[0100] Fig.11 1 is a flowchart showing an example of the torque direction determination process and the lock release assist process performed by the control device 20 .

[0101] like Fig.11 As shown, first, the control device 20 calculates the remainder when θ is divided by (360 / N) (step #1). In addition, Fig.11 In the mathematical formula shown in step #1, "r" represents the remainder when θ is divided by (360 / N), and "mod" represents the operator for remainder calculation.

[0102] Next, the control device 20 determines whether the remainder (r) when θ is divided by (360 / N) is within the specified range of r1±α (step #2). If the remainder (r) when θ is divided by (360 / N) is within the specified range of r1±α (step #2: yes), the control device 20 determines that the wheel torque direction Ct is toward the circumferential first side C1 (step #3). Figures 5 to 7In the example shown, r and r1 are 5[°] respectively. r1 is set to, for example, a value of half the rotatable range (angle range) of the target rotating member T (in this example, the first rotating member RT1) allowed by the backlash in the locked state. When r1 is set in this way, when the rotatable range is 10[°], r1 is set to 5[°].

[0103] On the other hand, when the remainder when θ is divided by (360 / N) is not within the prescribed range of r1±α (step #2: No), the control device 20 determines whether the remainder (r) when θ is divided by (360 / N) is within the prescribed range of r2±α (step #4). When the remainder (r) when θ is divided by (360 / N) is within the prescribed range of r2±α (step #4: Yes), the control device 20 determines that the wheel torque direction Ct is toward the second circumferential side C2 (step #5). In addition, Figures 8 to 10 In the example shown, r and r2 are each 25[°]. r2 is set to a value obtained by subtracting the set value of r1 from (360 / N), for example.

[0104] The above-mentioned steps #1 to #5 correspond to the torque direction determination process. After the torque direction determination process, the control device 20 executes a lock release assist process (step #6) to cause the rotary electric machine 1 to output a torque in a direction opposite to the wheel torque direction Ct.

[0105] In the lock release auxiliary processing, the control device 20 determines whether the detected rotational position changes in a direction opposite to the direction of the deviation from the theoretical lock position P0 caused by the backlash (step #7). When it is detected that the detected rotational position changes in a direction opposite to the direction of the deviation from the theoretical lock position P0 caused by the backlash (step #7: yes), the control device 20 maintains or reduces the absolute value of the torque of the rotating electrical machine 1 (step #8). For example, Figures 5 to 7 In the example shown, in the lock release auxiliary processing, when the control device 20 detects that the detected rotational position changes to the second circumferential side C2, the absolute value of the torque of the rotary electric machine 1 is maintained or reduced. On the other hand, when the control device 20 does not detect that the detected rotational position changes in the direction opposite to the direction of the deviation from the theoretical lock position P0 caused by the backlash (step #7: No), it returns to the above step #6 to continue the processing.

[0106] According to this configuration, it is possible to avoid a situation in which the engagement force between the lock member 4 and the first rotating element RT1 increases due to an excessive increase in the absolute value of the torque of the rotary electric machine 1 during the lock release auxiliary process, thereby preventing the lock member 4 from moving.

[0107] Thus, in this embodiment, the direction along the rotation direction of the first rotation member RT1 is defined as the circumferential direction C.

[0108] The first rotating member RT1 has a plurality of second engaged portions Ta arranged along the circumferential direction C and engaged with the second engaging portion 412 of the lock member 4.

[0109] The detected rotation position is θ[°], the number of the second engaged parts Ta is N[pieces],

[0110] The control device 20 determines the wheel torque direction Ct based on the remainder when θ is divided by (360 / N).

[0111] According to this configuration, the wheel torque direction Ct can be determined through relatively simple calculation processing.

[0112] As described above, the vehicle drive device 100 includes:

[0113] The rotating electric machine 1 functions as a driving force source for the wheels W;

[0114] The parking lock mechanism 10 selectively restricts the rotation of the first rotating member RT1 that rotates in conjunction with the wheel W;

[0115] a rotational position sensor 8 for detecting the rotational position of the target rotational member T by taking as a target rotational member T any one of the second rotational member RT2 and the first rotational member RT1, the second rotational member RT2 rotating in conjunction with the wheel W and arranged at a position closer to the wheel W than the first rotational member RT1 in the power transmission path connecting the rotary electric machine 1 and the wheel W; and

[0116] The control device 20 obtains the detection value of the rotation position sensor 8 and controls the rotary motor 1 and the parking lock mechanism 10, wherein:

[0117] The parking lock mechanism 10 includes: a locking member 4 that can move to a locked position P1 that engages with the first rotating member RT1 to restrict the rotation of the first rotating member RT1 and an unlocked position P2 that separates from the first rotating member RT1 to allow the rotation of the first rotating member RT1; and a driving device 5 that drives the locking member 4.

[0118] There is a backlash in the rotation direction between the locking member 4 in the locking position P1 and the first rotating member RT1.

[0119] The state of the parking lock mechanism 10 when the lock member 4 is in the lock position P1 is defined as the lock state, the rotation position of the target rotation member T detected by the rotation position sensor 8 in the lock state is defined as the detected rotation position, and the rotation position of the target rotation member T when there is no backlash in the lock state is defined as the theoretical lock position P0.

[0120] The control device 20 executes a torque direction determination process for determining the direction of the torque transmitted from the wheel W to the first rotating element RT1 , that is, the wheel torque direction Ct, based on the direction of the deviation of the detected rotational position from the theoretical lock position P0 due to the backlash.

[0121] According to this structure, in the torque direction determination process, the wheel torque direction Ct is determined based on the direction of the deviation of the detected rotation position relative to the theoretical locking position P0 caused by the backlash. As a result, the rotating electric machine 1 can appropriately output a torque in a direction that weakens the engagement force between the locking member 4 and the first rotating member RT1. Therefore, when the parking lock mechanism 10 is unlocked, the torque of the rotating electric machine 1 can be appropriately controlled. In this way, even when the locking member 4 cannot be moved from the locking position P1 to the unlocking position P2 side by the driving force of the driving device 5, the torque of the rotating electric machine 1 can be used to weaken the engagement force between the locking member 4 and the first rotating member RT1, so the parking lock mechanism 10 can be unlocked by the driving force of the driving device 5.

[0122] In addition, according to this configuration, various sensors such as a tilt angle sensor for determining the wheel torque direction Ct can be eliminated. Therefore, it is easy to simplify the configuration and reduce the cost of the vehicle drive device 100.

[0123] As described above, in this embodiment, when the drive device 5 generates a driving force for moving the lock member 4 from the locked position P1 to the unlocked position P2, the control device 20 executes the lock release assisting process to cause the rotary electric machine 1 to output a torque in a direction opposite to the wheel torque direction Ct.

[0124] According to this configuration, in the lock release assisting process, the rotary electric machine 1 can appropriately output torque in a direction that weakens the engagement force between the lock member 4 and the first rotary element RT1 .

[0125] In this embodiment, the backlash is set larger than the error of the output value of the rotation position sensor 8. The error of the output value of the rotation position sensor 8 includes, for example, an error caused by the installation location of the rotation position sensor 8 and an error caused by temperature, which can be grasped in advance through experiments.

[0126] According to this configuration, it is easy to avoid erroneous determination of the wheel torque direction Ct due to an error in the output value of the rotational position sensor 8.

[0127] [Other embodiments]

[0128] (1) In the above-mentioned embodiment, the first rotating element RT1 is described as an example of a structure in which the rotor shaft 12b is used. However, the present invention is not limited to such a structure. For example, the first rotating element RT1 may be a planetary carrier CR. Alternatively, the parking gear connected to the rotating element may be the first rotating element RT1 instead of the rotating element itself constituting the power transmission path connecting the rotating electric machine 1 and the wheels W.

[0129] (2) In the above-mentioned embodiment, the structure in which the first rotating member RT1 is the target rotating member T is described as an example. However, it is not limited to such a structure, and the second rotating member RT2 may also be the target rotating member T. In this case, in the above-mentioned embodiment, since the first gear 22 is the second rotating member RT2, the first gear 22 becomes the target rotating member T. In addition, the rotation position sensor for detecting the rotation position of the first gear 22 may be provided separately from the rotation position sensor 8.

[0130] (3) In the above-mentioned embodiment, the structure in which the drive device 5 moves the locking member 4 from the locked position P1 to the unlocked position P2 by electromagnetic force is described as an example. However, it is not limited to such a structure, and for example, the locking member 4 may be moved from the locked position P1 to the unlocked position P2 by the driving force of an electric motor.

[0131] (4) In the above-mentioned embodiment, the structure in which the number of the second engaged parts Ta is 12 (N=12) is described as an example, but the present invention is not limited to such a structure. When the rotation position sensor 8 is a rotary transformer, the number of the second engaged parts Ta is preferably an integer multiple of the number of poles of the rotary transformer. For example, when the number of poles of the rotary transformer is 4, the number of the second engaged parts Ta is preferably 8, 16, 20, etc., in addition to 12.

[0132] (5) In addition, the structure disclosed in each of the above-mentioned embodiments can also be combined with the structure disclosed in other embodiments for application as long as no contradiction occurs. With regard to other structures, the embodiments disclosed in this specification are merely illustrative in all aspects. Therefore, various changes can be appropriately made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0133] [Summary of this embodiment]

[0134] Hereinafter, the outline of the vehicle drive device (100) described above will be described.

[0135] A vehicle driving device (100) comprises:

[0136] A rotating electric machine (1) functions as a driving force source for wheels (W);

[0137] A parking lock mechanism (10) selectively restricts the rotation of a first rotating member (RT1) that rotates in conjunction with the wheel (W);

[0138] a rotational position sensor (8) for detecting the rotational position of a target rotational member (T) by taking one of a second rotational member (RT2) and the first rotational member (RT1) as a target rotational member (T), wherein the second rotational member (RT2) rotates in conjunction with the wheel (W) and is arranged at a position closer to the wheel (W) than the first rotational member (RT1) in a power transmission path connecting the rotating electric machine (1) and the wheel (W); and

[0139] A control device (20) acquires the detection value of the rotation position sensor (8) and controls the rotating motor (1) and the parking lock mechanism (10), wherein:

[0140] The parking lock mechanism (10) comprises: a locking member (4) capable of moving to a locking position (P1) in which the locking member (4) is engaged with the first rotating member (RT1) to restrict the rotation of the first rotating member (RT1) and to an unlocking position (P2) in which the locking member (4) is separated from the first rotating member (RT1) to allow the rotation of the first rotating member (RT1); and a driving device (5) for driving the locking member (4).

[0141] There is a backlash in the rotation direction between the locking member (4) in the locking position (P1) and the first rotating member (RT1),

[0142] The state of the parking lock mechanism (10) when the locking member (4) is in the locking position (P1) is set as a locked state, the rotation position of the target rotating member (T) detected by the rotation position sensor (8) in the locked state is set as a detected rotation position, and the rotation position of the target rotating member (T) when there is no backlash in the locked state is set as a theoretical locked position (P0),

[0143] The control device (20) performs a torque direction determination process in which the direction of the torque transmitted from the wheel (W) to the first rotating member (RT1), i.e., the wheel torque direction (Ct), is determined based on the direction of the offset of the detected rotational position relative to the theoretical locking position (P0) caused by the tooth backlash.

[0144] According to this structure, in the torque direction determination process, the wheel torque direction (Ct) is determined based on the direction of the deviation of the detected rotation position relative to the theoretical locking position (P0) caused by the backlash. As a result, the rotating motor (1) can appropriately output a torque in a direction that weakens the engagement force between the locking member (4) and the first rotating member (RT1). Therefore, when the parking lock mechanism (10) is unlocked, the torque of the rotating motor (1) can be appropriately controlled. In this way, even when the locking member (4) cannot be moved from the locking position (P1) to the non-locking position (P2) side by the driving force of the driving device (5), the torque of the rotating motor (1) can be used to weaken the engagement force between the locking member (4) and the first rotating member (RT1), so that the parking lock mechanism (10) can be unlocked by the driving force of the driving device (5).

[0145] In addition, according to this structure, various sensors such as an inclination angle sensor for determining the wheel torque direction (Ct) can be eliminated. Therefore, it is easy to simplify the structure and reduce the cost of the vehicle drive device (100).

[0146] Here, it is preferred that, when the drive device (5) generates a driving force for moving the locking member (4) from the locking position (P1) to the unlocking position (P2), the control device (20) performs a lock release auxiliary process to cause the rotating motor (1) to output a torque in a direction opposite to the wheel torque direction (Ct).

[0147] According to this configuration, in the lock release assisting process, the rotary electric machine (1) can appropriately output torque in a direction that weakens the engagement force between the lock member (4) and the first rotary member (RT1).

[0148] In addition, a direction along the rotation direction of the first rotating member (RT1) is defined as a circumferential direction (C),

[0149] The first rotating member (RT1) has a plurality of engaged portions (Ta) arranged along the circumferential direction (C) and engaged with the engaging portion (412) of the locking member (4).

[0150] The detected rotation position is set to θ [°], the number of the engaged parts (Ta) is set to N [pieces],

[0151] The control device (20) determines the wheel torque direction (Ct) based on a remainder when θ is divided by (360 / N).

[0152] According to this configuration, the wheel torque direction (Ct) can be determined through relatively simple calculation processing.

[0153] In the above-mentioned configuration, it is preferable that the backlash be set to be larger than an error in the output value of the rotational position sensor 8 .

[0154] According to this structure, it is easy to avoid erroneous determination of the wheel torque direction (Ct) caused by an error in the output value of the rotational position sensor (8).

[0155] In the above configuration, it is preferred that the rotation position sensor (8) is set so that a detected value of the rotation position of the target rotating member (T) is zero in one of the N theoretical locking positions (P0).

[0156] According to this configuration, the calculation process for determining the wheel torque direction (Ct) can be simplified.

[0157] In addition, in the above-mentioned structure, it is preferred that, in the lock release auxiliary processing, when it is detected that the detected rotation position changes in a direction opposite to the direction of the offset relative to the theoretical locking position (P0) caused by the tooth gap, the control device (20) maintains or reduces the absolute value of the torque of the rotating motor (1).

[0158] According to this structure, it is possible to avoid a situation in which the engagement force between the lock member (4) and the first rotating member (RT1) increases due to an excessive increase in the absolute value of the torque of the rotating motor (1) during the lock release auxiliary process, thereby hindering the movement of the lock member (4).

[0159] Industrial Applicability

[0160] The technology according to the present disclosure can be utilized in a vehicle drive device including a rotary electric machine functioning as a driving force source for wheels and a parking lock mechanism for selectively restricting rotation of a rotary member that rotates in conjunction with the wheels.

[0161] Description of Reference Numerals

[0162] 100: vehicle drive device, 1: rotating electric machine, 4: locking member, 412: second engaging portion (engaging portion), 5: drive device, 8: rotation position sensor, 10: parking lock mechanism, 20: control device, RT1: first rotating member, RT2: second rotating member, T: target rotating member, Ta: second engaged portion (engaged portion), W: wheel, P0: theoretical locking position, P1: locking position, P2: unlocking position, C: circumferential direction, Ct: wheel torque direction.

Claims

1. A vehicle drive device, comprising: A rotating electric machine functions as a driving force source for the wheels; a parking lock mechanism that selectively restricts rotation of a first rotating member that rotates in conjunction with the wheel; a rotational position sensor for detecting a rotational position of a second rotational member or the first rotational member as a target rotational member, the second rotational member rotating in conjunction with the wheel and arranged at a position closer to the wheel than the first rotational member in a power transmission path connecting the rotating electric machine and the wheel; as well as A control device obtains the detection value of the rotation position sensor and controls the rotating motor and the parking lock mechanism, wherein: The parking lock mechanism includes: a locking member movable to a locking position in which the locking member is engaged with the first rotating member to restrict the rotation of the first rotating member and an unlocking position in which the locking member is separated from the first rotating member to allow the rotation of the first rotating member; and a driving device for driving the locking member, There is a backlash in the rotation direction between the locking member in the locking position and the first rotating member, the state of the parking lock mechanism when the locking member is in the locking position is defined as a locked state, the rotational position of the target rotating member detected by the rotational position sensor in the locked state is defined as a detected rotational position, and the rotational position of the target rotating member when the backlash does not exist in the locked state is defined as a theoretical locked position, The control device performs a torque direction determination process in which a direction of the torque transmitted from the wheel to the first rotating member, i.e., a wheel torque direction, is determined based on a direction of the deviation of the detected rotational position relative to the theoretical locking position caused by the backlash.

2. The vehicle drive device according to claim 1, wherein: When the drive device generates a drive force for moving the lock member from the lock position to the unlock position, the control device performs a lock release assist process for causing the rotary electric machine to output a torque in a direction opposite to a direction of the wheel torque.

3. The vehicle drive device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: Let a direction along the rotation direction of the first rotation member be a circumferential direction, The first rotating member has a plurality of engaged portions arranged along the circumferential direction and engaged with the engaging portion of the locking member. The detected rotation position is set to θ [°], the number of the engaged parts is set to N [pieces], The control device determines the wheel torque direction based on a remainder when θ is divided by (360 / N).

4. The vehicle drive device according to claim 3, wherein: The backlash is set to be larger than an error in the output value of the rotational position sensor.

5. The vehicle drive device according to claim 3, wherein: The rotation position sensor is set so that a detection value of the rotation position of the target rotation member is zero in one of the N theoretical lock positions.

6. The vehicle drive device according to claim 2, wherein: In the lock release assisting process, when it is detected that the detected rotational position changes in a direction opposite to a direction of a deviation from the theoretical lock position caused by the backlash, the control device maintains or reduces the absolute value of the torque of the rotating electric machine.

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