Spherical constant velocity universal joint

Abstract

A ball-type constant velocity universal joint is disclosed, comprising an inner race including a plurality of first peripheral grooves formed therein; an inner cage race including a plurality of second peripheral grooves and a plurality of first grooves formed therein and surrounding the inner race; an intermediate cage race including a plurality of first inner peripheral grooves, a plurality of third peripheral grooves and a plurality of second grooves formed therein and surrounding the inner cage race; an outer cage race including a plurality of second inner peripheral grooves and a plurality of third grooves formed therein and surrounding the intermediate cage race; and an outer race including a plurality of third inner peripheral grooves formed therein and surrounding the outer cage race; and a plurality of first balls, a plurality of second balls and a plurality of third balls respectively disposed between the plurality of corresponding outer peripheral grooves and the plurality of corresponding inner peripheral grooves to constrain the plurality of first balls, a plurality of second balls and a plurality of third balls by the plurality of corresponding grooves, each groove having an arcuate bottom surface, each pair of grooves for the track of a corresponding one of the plurality of balls, and inclined relative to each other in opposite directions.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a ball-type constant velocity universal joint. Background Technology

[0002] Typically, a vehicle's ball constant velocity joint includes multiple inner races, an outer race, multiple balls, and a cage. The outer race is mounted outside the inner races, and the multiple balls are mounted between the inner and outer races to transmit the rotational power of the inner races to the outer races. The cage has multiple grooves formed therein to support the multiple balls respectively.

[0003] The balls are supported by a cage and an inner race and move longitudinally within a groove formed on the inner circumferential surface of the outer race, depending on the vehicle's steering.

[0004] In a traditional ball constant velocity joint, the articulation occurs according to the vehicle's displacement as the outer race rotates at different angles due to the balls.

[0005] To achieve the function of a constant velocity joint, multiple inner races need to operate sequentially during the hinge phase of a conventional constant velocity joint. However, conventional structures cannot control the operating sequence of the inner races.

[0006] Although conventional constant velocity universal joints allow for hinges and control, they introduce clearance in the rotational direction, which is detrimental to meshing clearance and cannot ensure sufficient wall thickness for each component, resulting in insufficient strength. Summary of the Invention

[0007] One aspect of this disclosure is to provide a ball-type constant velocity universal joint that allows for hinge and control at a greater angle than the prior art, and which, compared to the prior art, helps to reduce engagement clearance and ensure joint strength.

[0008] A ball-type constant velocity universal joint according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes an inner race, an inner cage race, an intermediate cage race, an outer cage race, an outer race, a plurality of first balls, a plurality of second balls, and a plurality of third balls. The inner race includes a plurality of first outer peripheral grooves formed therein. The inner cage race includes a plurality of second outer peripheral grooves and a plurality of first grooves formed therein, and surrounds the inner race. The intermediate cage race includes a plurality of first inner peripheral grooves, a plurality of third outer peripheral grooves, and a plurality of second grooves formed therein, and surrounds the inner cage race. The outer cage race includes a plurality of second inner peripheral grooves formed therein. The outer retainer ring includes a plurality of third inner circumferential grooves formed therein and surrounds the intermediate retainer ring. A plurality of first balls are respectively positioned between the plurality of first outer circumferential grooves and the plurality of first inner circumferential grooves to be constrained by the plurality of first grooves. A plurality of second balls are respectively positioned between the plurality of second outer circumferential grooves and the plurality of second inner circumferential grooves to be constrained by the plurality of second grooves. A plurality of third balls are respectively positioned between the plurality of third outer circumferential grooves and the plurality of third inner circumferential grooves to be constrained by the plurality of third grooves. When viewed in a longitudinal section of the constant velocity universal joint, each of the plurality of grooves is formed with an arcuate bottom surface, and each pair of grooves forms a track for a corresponding one of the plurality of balls. Each pair of grooves is inclined at a predetermined angle relative to the central axis of the constant velocity universal joint in opposite directions so as to be inclined relative to each other.

[0009] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a ball-type constant velocity universal joint includes an inner race, an inner cage race, an intermediate cage race, an outer cage race, an outer race, a plurality of first balls, a plurality of second balls, and a plurality of third balls. The inner race includes a plurality of first peripheral grooves formed therein. The inner cage race includes a plurality of second peripheral grooves and a plurality of first grooves formed therein, and surrounds the inner race. The intermediate cage race includes a plurality of first inner peripheral grooves, a plurality of third peripheral grooves, and a plurality of second grooves formed therein, and surrounds the inner cage race. The outer cage race includes a plurality of second... The outer retainer ring includes an inner circumferential groove and a plurality of third grooves, surrounding the intermediate retainer ring. The outer retainer ring includes a plurality of third inner circumferential grooves formed therein and surrounds the outer retainer ring. A plurality of first balls are respectively positioned between the plurality of first outer circumferential grooves and the plurality of first inner circumferential grooves to be constrained by the plurality of first grooves. A plurality of second balls are respectively positioned between the plurality of second outer circumferential grooves and the plurality of second inner circumferential grooves to be constrained by the plurality of second grooves. A plurality of third balls are respectively positioned between the plurality of third outer circumferential grooves and the plurality of third inner circumferential grooves to be constrained by the plurality of third grooves. When viewed in a longitudinal section of the constant velocity universal joint, each of the plurality of grooves is formed with an arcuate bottom surface.

[0010] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a ball-type constant velocity universal joint includes: an inner race, an inner cage race, an intermediate cage race, an outer cage race, an outer race, a plurality of first balls, a plurality of second balls, and a plurality of third balls. The inner race includes a plurality of first outer peripheral grooves formed therein. The inner cage race includes a plurality of second outer peripheral grooves and a plurality of first grooves formed therein, and surrounds the inner race. The intermediate cage race includes a plurality of first inner peripheral grooves, a plurality of third outer peripheral grooves, and a plurality of second grooves formed therein, and surrounds the inner cage race. The outer cage race includes a plurality of second... The outer retainer ring includes an inner circumferential groove and a plurality of third grooves, surrounding the intermediate retainer ring. The outer retainer ring includes a plurality of third inner circumferential grooves formed therein and surrounds the outer retainer ring. A plurality of first balls are respectively positioned between the plurality of first outer circumferential grooves and the plurality of first inner circumferential grooves to be constrained by the plurality of first grooves. A plurality of second balls are respectively positioned between the plurality of second outer circumferential grooves and the plurality of second inner circumferential grooves to be constrained by the plurality of second grooves. A plurality of third balls are respectively positioned between the plurality of third outer circumferential grooves and the plurality of third inner circumferential grooves to be constrained by the plurality of third grooves. Each pair of grooves forms a track for a corresponding one of the plurality of balls. Each pair of grooves is inclined at a predetermined angle relative to the central axis of the constant velocity universal joint in opposite directions so as to be inclined relative to each other.

[0011] A ball-type constant velocity universal joint according to another embodiment of the present disclosure includes: an inner race, an inner cage race, an intermediate cage race, an outer cage race, an outer race, a plurality of first balls, a plurality of second balls, and a plurality of third balls. The inner race includes a plurality of first peripheral grooves formed therein. The inner cage race includes a plurality of second peripheral grooves and a plurality of first grooves formed therein and surrounds the inner race. The intermediate cage race includes a plurality of first inner peripheral grooves, a plurality of third peripheral grooves, and a plurality of second grooves formed therein and surrounds the inner cage race. The outer cage race includes a plurality of second... The outer retainer ring includes an inner circumferential groove and a plurality of third grooves, surrounding the intermediate retainer ring. The outer retainer ring includes a plurality of third inner circumferential grooves formed therein, surrounding the outer retainer ring. A plurality of first balls are respectively positioned between the plurality of first outer circumferential grooves and the plurality of first inner circumferential grooves to be constrained by the plurality of first grooves. A plurality of second balls are respectively positioned between the plurality of second outer circumferential grooves and the plurality of second inner circumferential grooves to be constrained by the plurality of second grooves. A plurality of third balls are respectively positioned between the plurality of third outer circumferential grooves and the plurality of third inner circumferential grooves to be constrained by the plurality of third grooves. In the plurality of grooves formed in the inner retainer ring and the intermediate retainer ring, each pair of grooves forms a track for a corresponding one of the plurality of first balls, and each pair of grooves is inclined at a predetermined angle relative to the central axis of the constant velocity universal joint in opposite directions. In the plurality of grooves formed in the intermediate retainer ring and the outer retainer ring, each pair of grooves forms a track for a corresponding one of the plurality of third balls, and each pair of grooves is inclined at a predetermined angle relative to the central axis of the constant velocity universal joint in opposite directions. In the plurality of grooves formed in the inner and outer cage races, each pair of grooves forms a track for a corresponding one of the plurality of second balls, and each pair of grooves is formed parallel to each other.

[0012] Multiple grooves have curved bottom surfaces and can be arranged such that the centers of curvature of the multiple grooves coincide with each other.

[0013] Multiple grooves have arc-shaped bottom surfaces and can be arranged such that the curvature centers of the multiple grooves coincide with the rotation center of the constant velocity universal joint.

[0014] Multiple grooves have arc-shaped bottom surfaces and can be arranged such that the centers of curvature of the multiple grooves coincide with the center of rotation of the constant velocity joint in the longitudinal direction of the constant velocity joint, and are offset from the center of rotation of the constant velocity joint in the radial direction of the constant velocity joint.

[0015] Multiple grooves have arc-shaped bottom surfaces, and the curvature centers of the multiple grooves can be positioned closer to the corresponding grooves in the multiple grooves in the radial direction of the constant velocity universal joint than the rotation center of the constant velocity universal joint.

[0016] Multiple grooves have arc-shaped bottom surfaces, and the curvature centers of the multiple grooves can be positioned in the radial direction of the constant velocity universal joint, further away from the corresponding grooves in the multiple grooves than the rotation center of the constant velocity universal joint.

[0017] In the plurality of grooves formed in each of the seat rings, each pair of adjacent grooves can be tilted at a predetermined angle in opposite directions relative to the central axis of the constant velocity universal joint.

[0018] If the inner retainer ring is hinged at an angle N relative to the central axis of the constant velocity universal joint, then the inner cage retainer ring can be hinged at an angle 3N / 4, the middle cage retainer ring can be hinged at an angle N / 2, and the outer cage retainer ring can be hinged at an angle N / 4. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Exemplary embodiments are illustrated in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which, together with the detailed description of the exemplary embodiments below, are provided to further illustrate the technical concepts of this disclosure, and this disclosure should not be construed as limited to what is shown in these drawings. In the drawings: Figure 1 This is an exploded perspective view of a ball-type constant velocity universal joint according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 2 This is a front view of the connection of a ball-type constant velocity universal joint according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 3A It is along Figure 2 The longitudinal section cut by line A-A' in the middle; Figure 3B It is along Figure 2 The longitudinal section cut by line B-B' in the middle; Figure 3C It is along Figure 2 The longitudinal section taken by line C-C' in the middle; Figure 4A This is a front view of the intermediate cage seat ring of a ball-type constant velocity universal joint according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 4B This is a perspective view of the intermediate retainer ring of a ball-type constant velocity universal joint according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the relationship between the central axis of the constant velocity universal joint and the inclination angle of the first inner circumferential groove. Figure 4C This is a view showing the relationship between the inclination angle of the first inner circumferential groove and the inclination angle of the first outer circumferential groove in a ball constant velocity universal joint according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, with the inner race, the intermediate retainer race and the first ball engaged with each other. Figure 4D This is a view showing the intermediate retainer ring of a ball-type constant velocity universal joint according to an embodiment of the present disclosure when cut in the longitudinal direction at the location of the first inner circumferential groove; Figure 5 These are views showing the articulation operation of a ball-type constant velocity universal joint according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 6 This is a view illustrating a first variation of a ball-type constant velocity universal joint according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and Figure 7 This is a view illustrating a second variation of a ball-type constant velocity universal joint according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0020] In the following, a ball-type constant velocity universal joint according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0021] It should be understood that the terms used in the specification and appended claims should not be construed as limited to their general or dictionary meanings, but rather are interpreted based on the principle of allowing the inventors to define appropriate terms for the best interpretation, and on the meaning and concepts in accordance with the spirit of this disclosure.

[0022] The embodiments described in the specification and the configurations shown in the accompanying drawings are considered to be preferred embodiments only and do not represent all the technical ideas of this disclosure. Therefore, it should be understood that various equivalents and modifications may exist at the time of filing this application.

[0023] Figure 1 This is an exploded perspective view of a ball-type constant velocity universal joint 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 This is a front view of the connection of a ball-type constant velocity universal joint 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3A It is along Figure 2 The longitudinal section view taken by line A-A' in the figure. Figure 3B It is along Figure 2 The longitudinal section view taken by line B-B' in the middle, and Figure 3C It is along Figure 2 The longitudinal section view taken by line C-C' in the figure. Figure 4A This is a front view of the intermediate cage seat ring 300 of a ball-type constant velocity universal joint 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 4B This is a perspective view of the intermediate retainer ring 300 of a ball-type constant velocity universal joint 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the relationship between the central axis C of the constant velocity universal joint 1000 and the inclination angle L1 of the first inner circumferential groove 310. Figure 4C This is a view showing the relationship between the inclination angle L1 of the first inner circumferential groove 310 and the inclination angle L2 of the first outer circumferential groove 110 in a ball constant velocity universal joint 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, with the inner race 100, the intermediate retainer race 300 and the first ball 600 engaged with each other. Figure 4DThis is a view showing the intermediate retainer ring 300 of the ball constant velocity universal joint 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure when it is cut in the longitudinal direction at the location of the first inner circumferential groove 310. Figure 5 The views sequentially illustrate the hinge operation of a ball-type constant velocity universal joint 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] Reference Figures 1 to 3C According to embodiments of the present disclosure, a ball constant velocity universal joint 1000 may include an inner retainer 100, an inner cage retainer 200, an intermediate cage retainer 300, an outer cage retainer 400, an outer retainer 500, a plurality of first balls 600, a plurality of second balls 700, and a plurality of third balls 800.

[0025] The inner ring 100 may be formed in a generally annular shape and may include a plurality of first peripheral grooves 110 formed therein.

[0026] The first outer peripheral groove 110 can be formed at regular intervals in the circumferential direction along the outer periphery of the inner seat ring 100.

[0027] like Figures 3A to 3C As shown, when viewed in a longitudinal section of the constant velocity universal joint 1000, each of the first outer peripheral grooves 110 can be formed with an arcuate bottom surface.

[0028] In the first outer peripheral groove 110 formed in the inner seat ring 100, each pair of adjacent first outer peripheral grooves 110 can be tilted at a predetermined angle relative to the central axis C of the constant velocity universal joint 1000 in opposite directions.

[0029] The inner cage seat 200 may be formed generally annularly and may include a plurality of second peripheral grooves 210 and a plurality of first grooves 220 formed therein. The inner cage seat 200 may be mounted to surround the inner seat 100.

[0030] The second outer peripheral groove 210 can be formed at regular intervals in the circumferential direction along the outer periphery of the inner retainer ring 200.

[0031] like Figures 3A to 3C As shown, when viewed in a longitudinal section of the constant velocity universal joint 1000, each of the second outer peripheral grooves 210 can be formed with an arc-shaped bottom surface.

[0032] In the second outer peripheral groove 210 formed in the inner retainer seat ring 200, each pair of adjacent second outer peripheral grooves 210 can be tilted at a predetermined angle relative to the central axis C of the constant velocity universal joint 1000 in opposite directions.

[0033] The first groove 220 may be formed at regular intervals in the circumferential direction of the inner retainer ring 200. The first groove 220 and the second outer peripheral groove 210 may be alternately arranged. The first groove 220 may be positioned corresponding to the first outer peripheral groove 110 in the inner retainer ring 100. Each of the first balls 600 may be disposed in a corresponding one of the first grooves 220.

[0034] The intermediate cage seat ring 300 may be formed generally annularly and may include a plurality of first inner peripheral grooves 310, a plurality of third outer peripheral grooves 320, and a plurality of second grooves 330 formed therein. The intermediate cage seat ring 300 may be mounted to surround the inner cage seat ring 200.

[0035] The first inner circumferential groove 310 can be formed at regular intervals in the circumferential direction along the inner circumference of the intermediate retainer ring 300, and can be positioned corresponding to the first groove 220 in the inner retainer ring 200 and the first outer circumferential groove 110 in the inner ring 100.

[0036] like Figures 3A to 3C As shown, when viewed in a longitudinal section of the constant velocity universal joint 1000, each of the first inner circumferential grooves 310 can be formed to have an arcuate bottom surface.

[0037] from Figure 4B As can be clearly seen, in the first inner circumferential groove 310 formed in the intermediate retainer seat ring 300, each pair of adjacent first inner circumferential grooves 310 can be tilted at a predetermined angle (L1) relative to the central axis C of the constant velocity universal joint 1000 in opposite directions.

[0038] The first outer peripheral groove 110 in the inner retainer ring 100 and the first inner peripheral groove 310 in the intermediate retainer ring 300 can form a first track, which is ensured to be at the same speed by the first ball 600. Because the inner retainer ring 200 is installed between the inner retainer ring 100 and the intermediate retainer ring 300, the first ball 600 can be constrained by the first groove 220 in the inner retainer ring 200.

[0039] from Figure 4C As can be clearly seen, the first outer peripheral groove 110 and the first inner peripheral groove 310 can be tilted at a predetermined angle relative to the central axis C of the constant velocity universal joint 1000 in opposite directions, so as to be tilted relative to each other in an X-shape (L1 and L2). Therefore, an X-shaped tilt angle can be formed between the first outer peripheral groove 110 and the first inner peripheral groove 310, and each of the first balls 600 can be positioned at the intersection of the X-shape to be constrained by the corresponding one of the first grooves 220.

[0040] The force that pushes the first ball 600 can be generated by the first outer peripheral groove 110 and the first inner peripheral groove 310 that form an X-shaped tilt angle between them, and thus the operability of the constant velocity universal joint 1000 can be ensured.

[0041] The rotation center C of the constant velocity universal joint 1000 can coincide with the curvature center of the arc-shaped first outer peripheral groove 110 and the first inner peripheral groove 310. Therefore, as in Figure 4D As can be clearly seen, the wall thickness D of each groove can be uniformly ensured, which is advantageous in terms of strength. This feature can be applied to all pairs of X-shaped grooves positioned above and below, with the ball placed between them.

[0042] Because the first outer peripheral groove 110 and the first inner peripheral groove 310 are inclined in an X-shape relative to each other, the mating clearance can be reduced compared to grooves formed in an II shape, which is advantageous in terms of meshing clearance. This feature can be applied to all pairs of X-shaped grooves positioned above and below, with the ball positioned between them.

[0043] The third outer peripheral groove 320 can be formed at regular intervals in the circumferential direction along the outer periphery of the intermediate retainer ring 300.

[0044] like Figures 3A to 3C As shown, when viewed in the longitudinal section of the constant velocity universal joint 1000, each of the third outer peripheral grooves 320 can be formed with an arc-shaped bottom surface.

[0045] In the third outer peripheral groove 320 formed in the intermediate retainer seat ring 300, each pair of adjacent third outer peripheral grooves 320 can be tilted at a predetermined angle relative to the central axis C of the constant velocity universal joint 1000 in opposite directions.

[0046] The second groove 330 may be formed at regular intervals in the circumferential direction of the intermediate cage seat ring 300. The second groove 330 and the third outer peripheral groove 320 may be arranged alternately. The second groove 330 may be positioned corresponding to the second outer peripheral groove 210 in the inner cage seat ring 200. Each of the second balls 700 may be provided in a corresponding one of the second grooves 330.

[0047] The outer cage seat ring 400 may be formed generally annularly and may include a plurality of second inner circumferential grooves 410 and a plurality of third grooves 420 formed therein. The outer cage seat ring 400 may be mounted to surround the intermediate cage seat ring 300.

[0048] The second inner circumferential groove 410 can be formed at regular intervals in the circumferential direction along the inner circumference of the outer retainer ring 400, and can be positioned corresponding to the second groove 330 in the intermediate retainer ring 300 and the second outer circumferential groove 210 in the inner retainer ring 200.

[0049] like Figures 3A to 3C As shown, when viewed in a longitudinal section of the constant velocity universal joint 1000, each of the second inner circumferential grooves 410 can be formed with an arc-shaped bottom surface.

[0050] In the second inner circumferential groove 410 formed in the outer retainer seat ring 400, each pair of adjacent second inner circumferential grooves 410 can be tilted at a predetermined angle relative to the central axis C of the constant velocity universal joint 1000 in opposite directions.

[0051] The second outer peripheral groove 210 in the inner cage seat 200 and the second inner peripheral groove 410 in the outer cage seat 400 can form a second track, which is ensured to be at the same speed by the second ball 700. Because the intermediate cage seat 300 is installed between the inner cage seat 200 and the outer cage seat 400, the second ball 700 can be constrained by the second groove 330 in the intermediate cage seat 300.

[0052] Similar to the above configuration, the second outer peripheral groove 210 and the second inner peripheral groove 410 can be tilted at a predetermined angle relative to the central axis C of the constant velocity universal joint 1000 in opposite directions, so as to be tilted relative to each other in an X-shape. Therefore, an X-shaped tilt angle can be formed between the second outer peripheral groove 210 and the second inner peripheral groove 410, and each of the second balls 700 can be positioned at the intersection of the X-shape to be constrained by the corresponding one of the second grooves 330.

[0053] The force that pushes the second ball 700 can be generated by the second outer peripheral groove 210 and the second inner peripheral groove 410 that form an X-shaped tilt angle between them, and thus the operability of the constant velocity universal joint 1000 can be ensured.

[0054] The rotation center C of the constant velocity universal joint 1000 can coincide with the curvature center of the arc-shaped second outer peripheral groove 210 and the second inner peripheral groove 410. Therefore, the wall thickness of each groove can be uniformly ensured, which is advantageous in terms of strength.

[0055] Because the second outer circumferential groove 210 and the second inner circumferential groove 410 are inclined in an X-shape relative to each other, the mating clearance can be reduced compared to the groove formed in an II shape, which is advantageous in terms of meshing clearance.

[0056] The outer retainer ring 500 may include a plurality of third inner circumferential grooves 510 formed therein and may be mounted to surround the outer retainer ring 400. For example, the outer retainer ring 500 may have a shape that combines a generally cylindrical structure and a generally conical structure and may accommodate the inner retainer ring 100, the inner retainer ring 200, the intermediate retainer ring 300 and the outer retainer ring 400.

[0057] The third inner circumferential groove 510 can be formed at regular intervals in the circumferential direction along the inner circumference of the outer retainer ring 500, and can be positioned corresponding to the third groove 420 in the outer retainer ring 400 and the third outer circumferential groove 320 in the intermediate retainer ring 300.

[0058] like Figures 3A to 3C As shown, when viewed in a longitudinal section of the constant velocity universal joint 1000, each of the third inner circumferential grooves 510 can be formed with an arc-shaped bottom surface.

[0059] The third inner circumferential groove 510 in the outer retainer ring 500 and the third outer circumferential groove 320 in the intermediate retainer ring 300 can form a third track, which is ensured to be at the same speed by the third ball 800. Because the outer retainer ring 400 is installed between the outer retainer ring 500 and the intermediate retainer ring 300, the third ball 800 can be constrained by the third groove 420 in the outer retainer ring 400.

[0060] Similar to the above configuration, the third inner circumferential groove 510 and the third outer circumferential groove 320 can be tilted at a predetermined angle relative to the central axis C of the constant velocity universal joint 1000 in opposite directions, so as to be tilted relative to each other in an X-shape. Therefore, an X-shaped tilt angle can be formed between the third inner circumferential groove 510 and the third outer circumferential groove 320, and each of the third balls 800 can be positioned at the intersection of the X-shape to be constrained by the corresponding one of the third grooves 420.

[0061] The force that pushes the third ball 800 can be generated by the third inner circumferential groove 510 and the third outer circumferential groove 320 that form an X-shaped tilt angle between them, and thus the operability of the constant velocity universal joint 1000 can be ensured.

[0062] The rotation center C of the constant velocity universal joint 1000 can coincide with the curvature center of the arc-shaped third inner circumferential groove 510 and the third outer circumferential groove 320. Therefore, the wall thickness of each groove can be uniformly ensured, which is advantageous in terms of strength.

[0063] Because the third inner circumferential groove 510 and the third outer circumferential groove 320 are inclined in an X-shape relative to each other, the mating clearance can be reduced compared to the groove formed in an II shape, which is advantageous in terms of meshing clearance.

[0064] Each of the plurality of first balls 600 may be positioned between a corresponding one in the first outer peripheral groove 110 and a corresponding one in the first inner peripheral groove 310, and may be constrained by a corresponding one in the first groove 220.

[0065] Each of the plurality of second balls 700 may be positioned between a corresponding one in the second outer peripheral groove 210 and a corresponding one in the second inner peripheral groove 410, and may be constrained by a corresponding one in the second groove 330.

[0066] Each of the plurality of third balls 800 can be positioned between a corresponding one in the third outer peripheral groove 320 and a corresponding one in the third inner peripheral groove 510, and can be constrained by a corresponding one in the third groove 420.

[0067] In the constant velocity universal joint 1000 according to this embodiment, such as Figure 5 As shown, if the inner retainer ring 100 is hinged at an angle N (e.g., 60°) relative to the central axis of the constant velocity universal joint 1000, then the inner retainer ring 200 can be hinged at an angle 3N / 4 (e.g., 45°), the intermediate retainer ring 300 can be hinged at an angle N / 2 (e.g., 30°), and the outer retainer ring 400 can be hinged at an angle N / 4 (e.g., 15°).

[0068] Figure 6 This is a view illustrating a first variation of a ball-type constant velocity universal joint according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0069] According to the first variant, when viewed in a longitudinal section of the constant velocity joint 1000, the rotation center C of the constant velocity joint 1000 and the curvature center of the arc groove can coincide with each other in the longitudinal direction of the constant velocity joint 1000, and can be offset from each other in the radial direction of the constant velocity joint 1000.

[0070] For example, such as Figure 6 As shown, when viewed in the longitudinal section of the constant velocity universal joint 1000, the rotation center C of the constant velocity universal joint 1000 can coincide with the curvature centers of the arc-shaped third outer peripheral groove 320 and the third inner peripheral groove 510 in the X-axis direction, and can be offset from each other in the Y-axis direction.

[0071] For example, such as Figure 6 As shown on the left, the curvature centers of the arc-shaped third outer peripheral groove 320 and the third inner peripheral groove 510 can be positioned above the X-axis relative to the rotation center C of the constant velocity universal joint 1000, and as... Figure 6 As shown on the right, the curvature centers of the arc-shaped third outer peripheral groove 320 and the third inner peripheral groove 510 can be positioned below the X-axis relative to the rotation center C of the constant velocity universal joint 1000.

[0072] Figure 6 The construction shown on the left is relatively advantageous in ensuring sufficient wall thickness of the groove, and Figure 6 The configuration shown on the right is relatively advantageous in improving the torque transmission efficiency of the constant velocity joint 1000. Therefore, the wall thickness allowance and strength of a specific seat ring can be selectively ensured, thereby optimizing the constant velocity joint 1000.

[0073] although Figure 6The third outer circumferential groove 320 and the third inner circumferential groove 510 are shown representatively, but the same construction can be applied to all grooves located above and below, with balls placed in pairs between them.

[0074] For example, when viewed in a longitudinal section of the constant velocity universal joint 1000, the rotation center C of the constant velocity universal joint 1000 and the curvature centers of the arc-shaped first outer peripheral groove 110 and the first inner peripheral groove 310 can coincide with each other in the X-axis direction (the longitudinal direction of the constant velocity universal joint 1000), and can be offset from each other positively or negatively (+ / -) in the Y-axis direction (the radial direction of the constant velocity universal joint 1000). When viewed in a longitudinal section of the constant velocity universal joint 1000, the rotation center C of the constant velocity universal joint 1000 and the curvature centers of the arc-shaped second outer peripheral groove 210 and the second inner peripheral groove 410 can coincide with each other in the X-axis direction (the longitudinal direction of the constant velocity universal joint 1000), and can be offset from each other positively or negatively (+ / -) in the Y-axis direction (the radial direction of the constant velocity universal joint 1000).

[0075] Figure 7 This is a view showing a second variation of a ball-type constant velocity universal joint 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0076] According to the second variation, the second outer peripheral groove 210' in the inner cage seat ring 200' and the second inner peripheral groove 410' in the outer cage seat ring 400' can be formed as II-shaped grooves that are not inclined relative to each other.

[0077] The vehicle's power can be transmitted in the order of inner retainer ring 100, intermediate retainer ring 300, and outer retainer ring 500. The inner retainer ring 200' and outer retainer ring 400' can be used to control the articulation of the constant velocity universal joint 1000, without directly receiving the vehicle's power. Therefore, since the inner retainer ring 200' and outer retainer ring 400' do not require grooves with relatively high strength and relatively large wall thickness, the second outer peripheral groove 210' and the second inner peripheral groove 410' can be formed as II-shaped grooves that are not inclined relative to each other.

[0078] Because the inner race 100, the intermediate cage race 300, and the outer race 500 directly receive the vehicle's power, they need to ensure high strength and sufficient wall thickness. Therefore, the first outer peripheral groove 110 and the first inner peripheral groove 310 can be formed as inclined grooves relative to each other, and the third inner peripheral groove 510 and the third outer peripheral groove 320 can be formed as inclined grooves relative to each other.

[0079] As the groove becomes more inclined, the width (dimensional in the circumferential direction) of the groove constraining the balls needs to be increased. However, in the above configuration, the width of the second groove 330 formed in the intermediate cage seat ring 300 can be minimized to enhance strength. This allows for a reduction in the size of the second groove 330 in the intermediate cage seat ring 300, thereby increasing the strength of the component.

[0080] As described above, if the bottom surfaces of each groove are formed to have an arc shape, even if no tilt angle is formed in the second outer peripheral groove 210' and the second inner peripheral groove 410', the vehicle's power can still be transmitted in the order of the inner race 100, the intermediate cage race 300, and the outer race 500. This is because there is an X-shaped tilt angle between the first outer peripheral groove 110 and the first inner peripheral groove 310 forming the first track for the first ball 600, and between the third outer peripheral groove 320 and the third inner peripheral groove 510 forming the third track for the third ball 800. Therefore, the operability of the constant velocity universal joint 1000 can still be ensured.

[0081] In the second variant, the parts other than the aforementioned features are the same as those referenced above. Figures 1 to 5 The parts of the described embodiments are substantially the same. Therefore, redundant descriptions will be omitted, and the same reference numerals will be used in the drawings.

[0082] The first and second structures can be applied simultaneously to the constant velocity joint 1000. In the first structure, when viewed in a longitudinal section of the constant velocity joint 1000, each groove is formed to have an arc-shaped bottom surface. In the second structure, each pair of grooves forming the track for the balls are tilted at a predetermined angle in opposite directions relative to the central axis of the constant velocity joint 1000 so as to be tilted relative to each other in an X-shape. Alternatively, only one of the two structural features can be applied to the constant velocity joint 1000.

[0083] The third structure can be applied together with the first structure to the constant velocity universal joint 1000, or it can be implemented independently. In the third structure, both an X-shaped inclined groove and a II-shaped inclined groove are formed.

[0084] As can be clearly seen from the above description, the ball-type constant velocity universal joint disclosed herein allows for hinge and control at a larger angle than the prior art, and compared to the prior art, it can help reduce the meshing clearance and ensure joint strength.

[0085] Although the present disclosure has been described above with reference to exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and it should be understood that various changes and modifications may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A ball-type constant velocity universal joint, characterized in that, include: An inner race, the inner race including a plurality of first peripheral grooves formed therein; An inner cage seat ring, the inner cage seat ring including a plurality of second peripheral grooves and a plurality of first grooves formed therein, the inner cage seat ring surrounding the inner seat ring; An intermediate cage seat ring, the intermediate cage seat ring including a plurality of first inner peripheral grooves, a plurality of third outer peripheral grooves and a plurality of second grooves formed therein, the intermediate cage seat ring surrounding the inner cage seat ring; An outer cage seat ring, the outer cage seat ring including a plurality of second inner circumferential grooves and a plurality of third grooves formed therein, the outer cage seat ring surrounding the intermediate cage seat ring; An outer race, the outer race including a plurality of third inner circumferential grooves formed therein, the outer race surrounding the outer cage race; A plurality of first balls are respectively placed between a plurality of first outer peripheral grooves and a plurality of first inner peripheral grooves, so as to be constrained by the plurality of first grooves; A plurality of second balls are respectively positioned between a plurality of second outer peripheral grooves and a plurality of second inner peripheral grooves, so as to be constrained by the plurality of second grooves; as well as A plurality of third ball bearings are respectively positioned between a plurality of third outer peripheral grooves and a plurality of third inner peripheral grooves, so as to be constrained by the plurality of third grooves. When viewed in a longitudinal section of the constant velocity universal joint, each of the plurality of grooves is formed to have an arcuate bottom surface, and each pair of grooves forms a track for a corresponding one of the plurality of balls. Each pair of grooves is inclined at a predetermined angle relative to the central axis of the constant velocity universal joint in opposite directions so as to be inclined relative to each other.

2. A ball-type constant velocity universal joint, characterized in that, include: An inner race, the inner race including a plurality of first peripheral grooves formed therein; An inner cage seat ring, the inner cage seat ring including a plurality of second peripheral grooves and a plurality of first grooves formed therein, the inner cage seat ring surrounding the inner seat ring; An intermediate cage seat ring, the intermediate cage seat ring including a plurality of first inner peripheral grooves, a plurality of third outer peripheral grooves and a plurality of second grooves formed therein, the intermediate cage seat ring surrounding the inner cage seat ring; An outer cage seat ring, the outer cage seat ring including a plurality of second inner circumferential grooves and a plurality of third grooves formed therein, the outer cage seat ring surrounding the intermediate cage seat ring; An outer race, the outer race including a plurality of third inner circumferential grooves formed therein, the outer race surrounding the outer cage race; A plurality of first balls are respectively placed between a plurality of first outer peripheral grooves and a plurality of first inner peripheral grooves, so as to be constrained by the plurality of first grooves; A plurality of second balls are respectively positioned between a plurality of second outer peripheral grooves and a plurality of second inner peripheral grooves, so as to be constrained by the plurality of second grooves; as well as A plurality of third ball bearings are respectively positioned between a plurality of third outer peripheral grooves and a plurality of third inner peripheral grooves, so as to be constrained by the plurality of third grooves. When viewed in the longitudinal section of the constant velocity universal joint, each of the plurality of grooves is formed to have an arc-shaped bottom surface.

3. A ball-type constant velocity universal joint, characterized in that, include: An inner race, the inner race including a plurality of first peripheral grooves formed therein; An inner cage seat ring, the inner cage seat ring including a plurality of second peripheral grooves and a plurality of first grooves formed therein, the inner cage seat ring surrounding the inner seat ring; An intermediate cage seat ring, the intermediate cage seat ring including a plurality of first inner peripheral grooves, a plurality of third outer peripheral grooves and a plurality of second grooves formed therein, the intermediate cage seat ring surrounding the inner cage seat ring; An outer cage seat ring, the outer cage seat ring including a plurality of second inner circumferential grooves and a plurality of third grooves formed therein, the outer cage seat ring surrounding the intermediate cage seat ring; An outer race, the outer race including a plurality of third inner circumferential grooves formed therein, the outer race surrounding the outer cage race; A plurality of first balls are respectively placed between a plurality of first outer peripheral grooves and a plurality of first inner peripheral grooves, so as to be constrained by the plurality of first grooves; A plurality of second balls are respectively positioned between a plurality of second outer peripheral grooves and a plurality of second inner peripheral grooves, so as to be constrained by the plurality of second grooves; as well as A plurality of third ball bearings are respectively positioned between a plurality of third outer peripheral grooves and a plurality of third inner peripheral grooves, so as to be constrained by the plurality of third grooves. In this plurality of grooves, each pair of grooves forms a track for a corresponding one of the plurality of balls, and each pair of grooves is inclined at a predetermined angle relative to the central axis of the constant velocity universal joint in opposite directions so as to be inclined relative to each other.

4. A ball-type constant velocity universal joint, characterized in that, include: An inner race, the inner race including a plurality of first peripheral grooves formed therein; An inner cage seat ring, the inner cage seat ring including a plurality of second peripheral grooves and a plurality of first grooves formed therein, the inner cage seat ring surrounding the inner seat ring; An intermediate cage seat ring, the intermediate cage seat ring including a plurality of first inner peripheral grooves, a plurality of third outer peripheral grooves and a plurality of second grooves formed therein, the intermediate cage seat ring surrounding the inner cage seat ring; An outer cage seat ring, the outer cage seat ring including a plurality of second inner circumferential grooves and a plurality of third grooves formed therein, the outer cage seat ring surrounding the intermediate cage seat ring; An outer race, the outer race including a plurality of third inner circumferential grooves formed therein, the outer race surrounding the outer cage race; A plurality of first balls are respectively placed between a plurality of first outer peripheral grooves and a plurality of first inner peripheral grooves, so as to be constrained by the plurality of first grooves; A plurality of second balls are respectively positioned between a plurality of second outer peripheral grooves and a plurality of second inner peripheral grooves, so as to be constrained by the plurality of second grooves; as well as A plurality of third ball bearings are respectively positioned between a plurality of third outer peripheral grooves and a plurality of third inner peripheral grooves, so as to be constrained by the plurality of third grooves. In the plurality of grooves formed in the inner race and the intermediate cage race, each pair of grooves forms a track for a corresponding one of the plurality of first balls, and each pair of grooves is inclined at a predetermined angle relative to the central axis of the constant velocity universal joint in opposite directions. In the plurality of grooves formed in the intermediate cage race and the outer race, each pair of grooves forms a track for a corresponding one of the plurality of third balls, and each pair of grooves is inclined at a predetermined angle relative to the central axis of the constant velocity universal joint in opposite directions. In the plurality of grooves formed in the inner cage seat ring and the outer cage seat ring, each pair of grooves forms a track for a corresponding one of the plurality of second balls, and each pair of grooves is formed parallel to each other.

5. The ball-type constant velocity universal joint according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The plurality of grooves have an arc-shaped bottom surface and are arranged such that the centers of curvature of the plurality of grooves coincide with each other.

6. The ball-type constant velocity universal joint according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The plurality of grooves have the arc-shaped bottom surface and are arranged such that the center of curvature of the plurality of grooves coincides with the center of rotation of the constant velocity universal joint.

7. The ball-type constant velocity universal joint according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The plurality of grooves have the arc-shaped bottom surface and are arranged such that the center of curvature of the plurality of grooves coincides with the center of rotation of the constant velocity joint in the longitudinal direction of the constant velocity joint and is offset from the center of rotation of the constant velocity joint in the radial direction of the constant velocity joint.

8. The ball-type constant velocity universal joint according to claim 7, characterized in that, The plurality of grooves have the arc-shaped bottom surface, and the curvature center of the plurality of grooves is positioned closer to the corresponding groove in the plurality of grooves in the radial direction of the constant velocity universal joint than the rotation center of the constant velocity universal joint.

9. The ball-type constant velocity universal joint according to claim 7, characterized in that, The plurality of grooves have the arc-shaped bottom surface, and the curvature center of the plurality of grooves is positioned in the radial direction of the constant velocity universal joint, further away from the corresponding groove among the plurality of grooves than the rotation center of the constant velocity universal joint.

10. The ball-type constant velocity universal joint according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, In each of the plurality of grooves formed in the seat ring, each pair of adjacent grooves is tilted at a predetermined angle in opposite directions relative to the central axis of the constant velocity universal joint.

11. The ball-type constant velocity universal joint according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, If the inner retainer ring is hinged at an angle N relative to the central axis of the constant velocity universal joint, then the inner cage retainer ring is hinged at an angle 3N / 4, the intermediate cage retainer ring is hinged at an angle N / 2, and the outer cage retainer ring is hinged at an angle N / 4.

Images