Mounting structure of side roller and chain with side roller

Abstract

A side roller mounting structure has a side roller (40) supported rotatably by an insertion shaft (32) protruding from a side portion of a moving body and having a circular cross section. The side roller (40) has a roller member (42), a bearing (41) supporting the roller member (42) rotatably, and a cylindrical sleeve (33) fitted to an inner peripheral side of the bearing (41). The insertion shaft (32) has a locking unit (50) having a locking member (50a) protruding radially outward of the insertion shaft (32). The sleeve (33) receives the locking unit (50) at an inner periphery of the sleeve (33) and allows the locking unit (50) to slide, and has a locking portion (33d). The locking portion (33d) locks the locking unit (50).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a mounting structure for side rollers and a chain with side rollers, and more specifically, to a mounting structure for side rollers that are easily attachable and detachable relative to a moving body such as a chain and a chain with side rollers. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, for example, side rollers are used to move items stably by rolling, which are installed on the side of a moving body such as a chain, and chains with side rollers are provided on the side of the chain.

[0003] Figure 15 This is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of the side roller 140 assembled on the outer connecting plate 117 of the chain 112 as described in Patent Document 1, which is prior art. Figure 16 This shows a cross-sectional view prior to inserting the insert pin 132 into the existing side roller 140. Figure 17 It is shown in Figure 16 The cross-sectional view shown shows the side roller 140 with the insert pin 132 inserted.

[0004] like Figure 16 As shown, in the chain 112 equipped with the side roller 140 disclosed in Patent Document 1, the insert pin retainer 135 is fitted into the sleeve groove 133a on the inner circumference of the sleeve 133. Then, as... Figure 17 As shown, an insert pin groove 132a is formed at the front end of the insert pin 132. When the insert pin 132 is inserted into the sleeve 133, the fixing plate 136 expands the insert pin retaining ring 135 along its outer surface while being inserted. When the insert pin groove 132a reaches the position of the insert pin retaining ring 135, it is embedded in the insert pin groove 132a due to the elasticity of the insert pin retaining ring 135. Then, the insert pin 132 is fixed by the sleeve 133. Through this sequence of operations, the side roller 140 is fixed to the insert pin 132. Existing technical documents Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2017 / 103183 Summary of the Invention The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0006] However, in the structure described in Patent Document 1, the operation of installing the side roller 140 onto the insert pin 132 is cumbersome. In addition, since the side roller 140 is fixed by the flexible insert pin retaining ring 135, the fixing strength is weak, and an improvement in fixing strength is desired.

[0007] The problem to be solved by the side roller mounting structure and chain with side roller disclosed herein is to facilitate the mounting and dismounting of the side roller of the moving body such as the chain, and to securely fix it. Solution for solving the problem

[0008] One aspect of the side roller mounting structure disclosed herein includes a side roller supported by an insert shaft with a circular cross-section protruding from the side of a movable body, enabling it to rotate. The side roller includes a roller component, a bearing supporting the roller component for rotation, and a cylindrical sleeve fitted to the inner circumference of the bearing. The roller component is mounted to the insert shaft via the sleeve. The insert shaft has a locking unit with a locking member that can protrude radially outward from the insert shaft. The sleeve receives the locking unit on its inner circumference and allows the locking unit to slide, and has a locking portion that locks the locking unit.

[0009] One embodiment of the present disclosure is a chain with side rollers, comprising the aforementioned side rollers and a chain serving as the aforementioned moving body. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Figure 1 A portion of a chain with side rollers, illustrating one embodiment, is shown in a partially sectional top view. Figure 2 It is a perspective view showing the insert pin and the side roller before the insert pin is inserted. Figure 3 It is a cross-sectional view showing the insert pin and the side roller before the insert pin is inserted. Figure 4 This is a front view of the side roller of this embodiment as seen from the Y direction. Figure 5 It is shown Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of section VV. Figure 6 It is shown Figure 4 A sectional view of section VI-VI. Figure 7 This is a three-dimensional view showing the cross-section of the sleeve. Figure 8 This is an exploded 3D view of the claw unit. Figure 9 This is the front view of the claw unit as seen from the direction of movement X. Figure 10 It is shown Figure 9 The cross-sectional view of section XX shown. Figure 11 It is shown Figure 10 A sectional view of section XI-XI. Figure 12 This is a perspective view of the second embodiment. Figure 13A This is a front view of the insert pin of the second embodiment as viewed from the Y direction. Figure 13B yes Figure 13A Sectional view of section XII(b)-XII(b). Figure 14A This is a side view of the sleeve of the second embodiment as seen from the X direction. Figure 14B yes Figure 14A A sectional view of section XIV(b)-XIV(b). Figure 15 It is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of the side roller of the outer connecting rod of the chain described in Patent Document 1. Figure 16 It shows the direction Figure 15 The cross-sectional view shown shows the state of the existing side roller before the insert pin is inserted. Figure 17 It is shown in Figure 16 The shown is a cross-sectional view of the side roller with insert pins inserted. Detailed Implementation

[0011] Hereinafter, the mounting structure of the side roller 40 in the chain 11 with the side roller 40 mounted on the chain 12 will be described as one embodiment of the mounting structure of the side roller of this disclosure, and reference will be made to... Figures 1 to 14B Please provide an explanation.

[0012] <Problems with existing technology> The existing mounting structure of the side roller 140 has the problems mentioned above, and in this embodiment, there are also the following issues, which will be further explained.

[0013] In the prior art disclosed in Patent Document 1, such as Figure 17 As shown, in Figure 16 The side roller 140 shown is inserted into the insert pin 132, which serves as the insertion shaft. At the front end of the insert pin 132, a ring-shaped fixing plate 136 that tapers towards the front end is tightened and fixed by bolts 134. The fixing plate 136 has a recess on the periphery of its base end side, and when it is assembled to the insert pin 132 by bolts 134, an annular insert pin groove 132a is formed on the periphery of the front end of the insert pin 132.

[0014] On the other hand, an annular sleeve groove 133a is formed on the inner circumferential surface of the sleeve 133 in the insertion direction. A flexible insert pin retainer 135 is embedded in the annular sleeve groove 133a.

[0015] When the insert pin 132 is inserted into the sleeve 133, the fixing plate 136 causes the flexible annular insert pin retainer 135 to flex and expand, thereby allowing the insert pin 132 to enter. When the insert pin groove 132a reaches the position of the insert pin retainer 135, it is embedded in the insert pin groove 132a due to the elasticity of the insert pin retainer 135. Then, the insert pin 132 is fixed to the sleeve 133 by the insert pin retainer 135. Through this sequence of operations, the side roller 140 is fixed to the insert pin 132. The roller component 142 can rotate smoothly relative to the insert pin 132 via the ball bearing 141.

[0016] In the structure disclosed in Patent Document 1, the insert pin 132 and the sleeve 133 are fixed by friction between the insert pin groove 132a and the insert pin retainer ring 135, and by friction between the sleeve groove 133a and the insert pin retainer ring 135. However, the ball bearing 141 sometimes experiences increased rotational friction due to wear, the entry of foreign matter, or deterioration of the lubricant. In such cases, when the rotational resistance of the ball bearing 141 increases due to the friction between the insert pin 132 and the sleeve 133, slippage may occur between the insert pin 132 and the sleeve 133. When such slippage occurs, wear also occurs on the insert pin 132, the fixing plate 136, the insert pin retainer ring 135, and the sleeve groove 133a.

[0017] Therefore, in Patent Document 1, rotation of the sleeve 133 is suppressed by engaging the rotation prevention device 137 at the base end of the insert pin 132 with the notch of the stop device 133b at the opening of the sleeve 133. This aligns the notch position during the final stage of inserting the insert pin 132 into the sleeve 133. In this case, there is no gap between the outer circumferential surface of the insert pin 132 and the outer circumferential surface of the sleeve 133. Furthermore, when the insert pin retainer ring 135 is flexed and pressed in by the fixing plate 136 of the insert pin 132, the outward force of the insert pin retainer ring 135 strongly acts on the outer circumferential surface of the fixing plate 136. Therefore, it is difficult to rotate the insert pin 132 to align the notch position.

[0018] In addition, the insert pin retainer ring 135 needs to be flexible and has low strength in order to be assembled into the sleeve groove 133a and insert pin groove 132a through elastic deformation, so it is also easy to deviate in the insertion direction.

[0019] <Summary of this implementation method> In this embodiment, firstly, when the insert pin 32, which serves as the insertion shaft, is inserted into the side roller 40, the side roller 40 can be fixed to the insert pin 32 in one operation without tightening the bolt 134 as in the prior art, thanks to the structure of the claw unit 50.

[0020] In addition, since the claw component 51 of the claw unit 50 has high rigidity, the side roller 40 can be fixed to the insert pin 32 with high fixing strength. In addition, a guide groove 32g is provided on the insert pin 32 along the insertion direction, and the relative rotation between the insert pin 32 and the sleeve 33 is restricted by the positioning pin 33h protruding inward from the sleeve 33.

[0021] The above features will be explained in detail below. <First Implementation> The following is for reference Figures 1 to 11 The chain 11 with side rollers in the first embodiment will be described.

[0022] like Figure 1 As shown, the chain 11 with side rollers includes a chain 12 as an example of a moving body and a side roller 40 rotatably provided in an insert pin 32 protruding from the side of the chain 12. The side roller 40 moves along the moving direction X while rolling on a track (not shown) as the chain 12 moves.

[0023] <Chain 12> The chain 12 includes a plurality of inner links 16 and a plurality of outer links 18. Each inner link 16 has a pair of inner connecting plates 15 that are arranged opposite each other in the width direction Y. Each outer link 18 has a pair of outer connecting plates 17 that are arranged to clamp the inner connecting plates 15 of two adjacent inner links 16 from the outside in the width direction Y. The inner connecting plates 15 of the inner links 16 and the outer connecting plates 17 of the outer links 18 are generally rectangular plates extending in the movement direction X.

[0024] Furthermore, the inner connecting plate 15 and the outer connecting plate 17, which are opposite each other in the width direction Y, are arranged to be parallel to each other. Therefore, the chain 12 of this embodiment is a so-called flat-type chain in which the spacing between the inner connecting plates 15 and the spacing between the outer connecting plates 17 are equal on one end side and the other end side of the inner connecting rod 16 and the outer connecting rod 18 in the movement direction X, respectively.

[0025] At both ends of the inner connecting plate 15 in the moving direction X, circular bushing insertion holes 15a are formed, extending through the thickness direction (i.e., the width direction Y) of the inner connecting plate 15. Two cylindrical bushings 19 are assembled between a pair of opposing inner connecting plates 15 in the inner connecting rod 16, maintaining the distance between the pair of inner connecting plates 15. The two ends of the bushings 19 are respectively fitted into the bushing insertion holes 15a of the pair of inner connecting plates 15. The bushings 19 support the cylindrical roller 20 for rotation by being inserted into it. That is, the bushings 19 and the roller 20 are loosely fitted.

[0026] <Shaft component 30> At both ends of the outer connecting plate 17 in the moving direction X, circular pin insertion holes 17a are formed in a manner that extends through the thickness direction, i.e., the width direction Y, of the outer connecting plate 17. A cylindrical shaft component 30 having an outer diameter slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the bushing 19 is inserted into each pin insertion hole 17a.

[0027] The shaft component 30 has a chain pin 31 at its central portion in the width direction Y. The chain pin 31 functions as a connecting shaft for connecting the outer connecting plates 17 to each other. In addition, the shaft component 30 has insert pins 32 protruding from the outer connecting plates 17 at both ends in the width direction Y.

[0028] The inner connecting rod 16 is formed by assembling a bushing 19 between a pair of inner connecting plates 15. In addition, the outer connecting plate 17 of the outer connecting rod 18 is rotatably connected to the inner connecting plate 15 of the inner connecting rod 16 from the outside of the inner connecting plate 15 via a shaft member 30.

[0029] In this configuration, the shaft component 30 is positioned such that a chain pin 31 is inserted into the bushing 19 between a pair of inner connecting plates 15 assembled on the inner connecting rod 16. In this configuration, both ends of the chain pin 31 engage with pin insertion holes 17a in a pair of outer connecting plates 17 of the outer connecting rod 18. Therefore, the shaft component 30 passes through one outer connecting plate 17. Furthermore, the inner connecting plates 15 of adjacent inner connecting rods 16 and the outer connecting plates 17 of adjacent outer connecting rods 18 are rotatably connected to each other at their ends in the X-direction of movement via the chain pin 31 and the bushing 19. Additionally, the chain 12 in this embodiment is made of steel.

[0030] <Insertion pin 32> Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing a cross-sectional view of the insert pin 32 and the side roller 40 before inserting the insert pin 32. Figure 3 It is a cross-sectional view showing the insert pin 32 and the side roller 40 before inserting the insert pin 32. Figure 4 This is a side view of the side roller 40 with the insert pin 32 inserted, viewed from the outside in the width direction Y. Figure 5 It is shown Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of section VV. Figure 6 It is shown Figure 4 A sectional view of section VI-VI.

[0031] like Figure 1 As shown, the two ends of the shaft component 30 form insert pins 32 with tapered diameters. The shaft component 30 restricts movement in the width direction Y by mounting side rollers 40 on the insert pins 32.

[0032] like Figure 2As shown, the insert pin 32 has a cylindrical shape. The insert pin 32 has an outer peripheral surface 32c forming its side surface. The outer peripheral surface 32c has a shape having a large diameter portion 32d forming the base side (chain 12 side), a small diameter portion 32e forming the front end side and having a diameter smaller than that of the large diameter portion 32d, and a stepped portion 32f formed by an inclined surface connecting the large diameter portion 32d and the small diameter portion 32e.

[0033] <Side Roller 40> like Figure 2 , Figure 3 As shown, the side roller 40 is fixed by inserting a pin 32. The side roller 40 includes a cylindrical roller component 42, a ball bearing 41 (an example of a bearing), and a sleeve 33. The roller component 42 is supported by the ball bearing 41 so that it can rotate relative to the insert pin 32 and rolls as the chain 12 moves in the direction of movement X. In this embodiment, two ball bearings 41 are arranged adjacent to each other in their axial direction, i.e., the width direction Y.

[0034] <Ball Bearing 41> like Figure 5 As shown, the ball bearing 41 has an annular inner sleeve 41a (inner ring) fixed to the outer peripheral surface 32c of the insert pin 32 via a sleeve 33. Additionally, the ball bearing 41 has an annular outer sleeve 41b (outer ring) fixed to the inner peripheral surface 42a of the roller member 42. The ball bearing 41 also has a plurality of balls 41c. These balls 41c are held by a retainer (not shown) in a state where they are sandwiched between the inner sleeve 41a and the outer sleeve 41b and arranged in a row at predetermined intervals in the circumferential direction.

[0035] like Figure 5 As shown, one of the two ball bearings 41 is located on the side closest to the chain 12. Figure 5 The inner sleeve 41a of the ball bearing 41 (lower side) abuts against the stepped portion 33c of the sleeve 33. In addition, the outer sleeve 41b of the ball bearing 41 abuts against the corner 42b below the inner circumferential surface 42a of the roller member 42 to limit the positional displacement in the insertion direction (width direction Y).

[0036] In addition, the outermost of the two ball bearings 41 ( Figure 5 The upper side of the outer sleeve 41b of the ball bearing 41 (upper side) abuts against the annular retaining ring 45 embedded in the annular groove 42c provided on the inner circumferential surface 42a of the roller member 42, thereby limiting the positional offset in the width direction Y.

[0037] Additionally, one of the two ball bearings 41 is located on the side opposite to the chain 12. Figure 5 The upper side of the inner sleeve 41a of the ball bearing 41 (middle and upper side) Figure 5The upper middle side) abuts against the annular retaining ring 33g embedded in the annular groove 33f provided on the outer peripheral surface 33e of the sleeve 33, limiting the positional offset in the width direction Y.

[0038] In addition, as the internal lubricant of the ball bearing 41, a lubricant made by impregnating grease in synthetic resin is used. <Sleeve 33> Figure 7 This is a perspective view showing a cross-section of the sleeve 33. As described above, the sleeve 33 is disposed on the inner circumferential side of the side roller 40. Specifically, the sleeve 33 is disposed further inward than the inner sleeve 41a of the ball bearing 41 disposed on the inner circumference of the roller member 42. The roller member 42 is mounted to the insert pin 32 by fitting the sleeve 33 to the insert pin 32. In other words, the roller member 42 is fitted to the insert pin 32 via the sleeve 33. The sleeve 33 is located on the inner circumferential side of the side roller 40. Figure 7 The part not shown in the image is related to Figure 7 The cross-section shown is symmetrically represented, indicating an integrally cylindrical component. Sleeve 33 is in... Figure 7 The chain 12, located on the lower side, has a large-diameter portion 33a. Additionally, the sleeve 33... Figure 7 The upper side of the sleeve 33, opposite to the chain 12, has a smaller diameter portion 33b, which is smaller than the diameter of the large diameter portion 33a. Furthermore, the portion of the sleeve 33 slightly below the center in the height direction (width direction Y) of the outer peripheral surface 33e has a stepped portion 33c that connects the large diameter portion 33a and the small diameter portion 33b. This stepped portion 33c supports the lower end of the inner sleeve 41a of the ball bearing 41 on the chain 12 side. Additionally, the upper end of the outer peripheral surface 33e has a groove 33f for fixing the upper part of the inner sleeve 41a of the outer ball bearing 41, via a retaining ring 33g (see reference). Figure 5 ) to fix the ball bearing 41.

[0039] The upper end face of the sleeve 33 forms the locking portion 33d of the locking claw 51b of the feeding claw component 51 (see reference). Figure 6 ). In addition, such as Figure 7 As shown, a pair of locating pin holes 33i, 33i are arranged on the upper part of the sleeve 33 along the insertion direction (width direction Y), penetrating the inner circumferential surface 33k and the outer circumferential surface 33e. Figure 5 As shown, a locating pin 33h is inserted into the pair of locating pin holes 33i, 33i. (As indicated...) Figure 2 As shown, the locating pin 33h protrudes inward toward the sleeve 33. Furthermore, when the insert pin 32 is inserted, the pair of locating pin holes 33i, 33i are located in the guide groove 32g (see reference) on the outer peripheral surface 32c of the insert pin 32. Figure 2 Slide inside.

[0040] <Cover component 43> like Figure 5 As shown, at the top end of the cylindrical roller component 42 ( Figure 5 On the inner side of the opening (upper side), a step 42d is provided in a ring shape in the circumferential direction, with the inner diameter decreasing from the opening. A circular plate-shaped cover member 43 is assembled on this step 42d to seal the interior of the roller member 42. A seal member storage groove 42e for storing a seal member 43a is provided on the inner circumference of the opening of the roller member 42 and on the upper side of the step 42d. The cover member 43 is fitted with the seal member 43a stored in the seal member storage groove 42e in a sealed state with its outer periphery sealed by the seal member 43a.

[0041] The cover member 43 seals the opening by abutting its lower periphery against the step 42d. An annular retaining ring storage groove 42f is provided on the inner peripheral surface 42a of the opening of the roller member 42. The retaining ring 43b is stored in the retaining ring storage groove 42f by applying an elastic outward force. The cover member 43 is prevented from detaching from the roller member 42 by the retaining ring 43b.

[0042] <Sealed Chamber 46> like Figure 6 As shown, in the width direction Y, an annular sealing chamber 46 is formed between the roller member 42 and the sleeve 33 at a position adjacent to the ball bearing 41 on the chain 12 side. The sealing chamber 46 is formed by the roller member 42, the insert pin 32, and the ball bearing 41. An oil seal (not shown) is provided in the sealing chamber 46 as an example of a sealing component. In this sealing chamber 46, metal powder and sewage are prevented from entering from the chain 12 side. As this oil seal, contact sealing components utilizing elastic force, non-contact labyrinth seals, felt seals, etc., can be used.

[0043] <Claw Unit 50> like Figure 2 , Figure 3 As shown, a claw unit 50, as an example of a locking unit, is disposed at the insertion-side front end of the insert pin 32. The claw unit 50 is bolted to the front end of the insert pin 32 by a bolt 34. The claw unit 50 consists of a claw component 51, a support plate 52, a sliding bar 53, a spring 54, and a bushing 55.

[0044] Figure 8 This is an exploded perspective view of claw unit 50. Figure 9 This is a front view of the claw unit 50 as seen from the direction of movement X. Figure 10 It is shown Figure 9 The cross-sectional view of section XX shown. Figure 11 It is shown Figure 10 A sectional view of section XI-XI.

[0045] <Support Plate 52> like Figure 8As shown, the front end face 32i of the cylindrical insert pin 32 is flat. A portion of the bottom 52a of a disc-shaped support plate 52 with a cutout 52f is disposed on the front end face 32i, covering the front end face 32i of the insert pin 32. The cutout 52f is shaped to cut a portion of the outer periphery of the disc-shaped support plate 52 in a straight line along the thickness direction of the support plate 52. The cutout 52f corresponds to the position of the limiting portion 32j protruding axially from the front end face 32i of the insert pin 32. Therefore, the support plate 52 abuts against the limiting portion 32j protruding in a manner that fills the cutout 52f. The height of the limiting portion 32j of the insert pin 32 becomes coplanar with the height of the bottom 52a. Therefore, the rotation of the support plate 52 about the central axis C is restricted. The support plate 52 has wall portions 52b and 52c that stand upright in a wall-like manner on the radial side of the support plate 52, on the side opposite to the cutout 52f. The wall portions 52b and 52c extend curvedly along the outer periphery of the support plate 52 and have a substantially constant thickness. Between the aforementioned wall portions 52b and 52c, a pair of flat, opposing openings 52d and 52d without walls are formed.

[0046] <Claw Component 51> like Figure 10 As shown, a pair of claw members 51 are provided on the inner periphery of the wall portions 52b and 52c on the bottom 52a of the support plate 52. The claw member 51 has a main body 51a with an arc shape along the inner periphery of the wall portions 52b and 52c. In addition, the tongue-shaped locking claw 51b is provided to extend outward from the center of the main body 51a.

[0047] <Main Body 51a> like Figure 11 As shown, the locking claw 51b of the claw component 51 is guided by the inner surface of the opening 52d and can be displaced radially outward and inward in a direction orthogonal to the width direction Y. Therefore, by displacing the claw component 51 between the protruding position shown by the solid line and the retracted position shown by the double-dotted line, the locking claw 51b can protrude from the support plate 52 or be retracted within the support plate. Figure 8 , Figure 10As shown, each claw component 51 has an arc-shaped body 51a. Guide holes 51c, 51c are provided through both ends of the body 51a. The guide holes 51c, 51c of the claw components 51 are opposite each other in the protruding direction. A sliding bar 53 is inserted into the opposite guide holes 51c, 51c in the protruding direction. Therefore, the pair of claw components 51 are guided by the sliding bar 53, protruding relative to each other while maintaining their posture, and moving in the storage direction. In the most separated state of the pair of claw components 51, the body 51a is restricted in the protruding direction by abutting against the inner circumference of the walls 52b, 52c. Furthermore, the locking claw 51b protrudes from the opening 52d of the support plate 52. Additionally, springs 54, each composed of a helical spring, are fitted into the sliding bar 53 as compression springs, applying force in the direction that separates the bodies 51a of the pair of claw components 51.

[0048] <Claw 51b> The locking claw 51b is a tongue-shaped portion that can be displaced radially outward from the center of the body 51a inside the opening 52d, and is configured to extend radially outward. The locking claw 51b is tapered in a protruding direction from its front end in the insertion direction to its base end in the insert pin 32 direction. The locking claw 51b has an inclined surface 51d that is generally planar (see reference). Figure 8 The claw shape of the insert pin 32 is such that the normal of the inclined surface 51d faces the insertion direction and slopes outward. Furthermore, the surface of the locking claw 51b on the side facing the support plate 52 is a flat surface parallel to the bottom 52a. When the insert pin 32 is inserted, the locking claw 51b is pressed radially inward by abutting the inclined surface 33l of the inner circumferential surface 33k of the sleeve 33 with the inclined surface 51d against it. That is, the locking claw 51b is pressed into the interior of the support plate 52. Therefore, the locking claw 51b of the claw member 51 is formed to be movable in the insertion direction along the inner circumferential surface 33k of the sleeve 33. Therefore, the insert pin 32 can be smoothly inserted into the sleeve 33.

[0049] <Shirt 55> Here, Figure 8 The bushing 55 shown is a component comprising a cylindrical portion 55a and a flange portion 55b formed in the insertion direction front end of the cylindrical portion 55a. The cylindrical portion 55a of the bushing 55 is inserted into a circular through-hole 52e opening in the center of the support plate 52. The outer diameter of the cylindrical portion 55a is approximately equal to the inner diameter of the through-hole 52e. Furthermore, the outer diameter of the flange portion 55b is the outer diameter of the inner circumference of the walls 52b and 52c of the support plate 52, where the periphery of the flange portion 55b abuts. Therefore, when the cylindrical portion 55a of the bushing 55 is inserted into the through-hole 52e of the support plate 52, where the claw member 51 is housed, the flange portion 55b holds the claw member 51 in a displaceable manner. The inner diameter of the cylindrical portion 55a of the bushing 55 is approximately equal to the thread diameter of the bolt 34.

[0050] <Bolt 34> like Figure 8 As shown, the bolt 34 can be threaded into the threaded hole 32h of the insert pin 32. That is, when the bolt 34 passes through the through hole 55c of the bushing 55 and is threaded into the threaded hole 32h of the insert pin 32, the claw unit 50 is assembled and fixed to the front end of the insert pin 32.

[0051] (Function of the first embodiment) The chain 11 with side rollers constructed as described above has the following function. <Mounting of side roller 40 relative to insert pin 32> like Figure 2 As shown, the insert pin 32 is inserted into the sleeve 33 of the side roller 40. Thus, Figure 8 The locking claw 51b shown protrudes through the inner circumferential surface 33k of the large diameter portion 33a of the sleeve 33. Therefore, the insert pin 32 can be easily rotated relative to the side roller 40 about the central axis C.

[0052] Furthermore, when the insert pin 32 is inserted, the front end of the locking pawl 51b abuts against the inclined surface 33l of the inner circumferential surface 33k of the sleeve 33 (see reference). Figure 7 Additionally, the locating pin 33h sometimes interferes with a portion of the claw unit 50. In this case, the insert pin 32 cannot be inserted into the sleeve 33. At this point, when the sleeve 33 is rotated relative to the insert pin 32, the interference between the locating pin 33h and the portion of the claw unit 50 is resolved when the guide groove 32g aligns with the locating pin 33h. Therefore, the insert pin 32 can be further inserted into the sleeve 33.

[0053] Then, when the insert pin 32 is further inserted, the inclined surface 51d of the locking claw 51b abuts against the inclined surface 33l of the inner circumference of the sleeve 33, and the locking claw 51b displaces radially inward. Therefore, the claw unit 50 does not interfere with the sleeve 33 when the insert pin 32 is inserted, and the positioning pin 33h of the sleeve 33 is guided into the sleeve by the guide groove 32g. Thus, the positioning pin 33h restricts the rotation of the insert pin 32 and the sleeve 33 through the guide groove 32g.

[0054] Furthermore, when the insert pin 32 is inserted into the sleeve 33, such as Figure 6 As shown, the stepped portion 32f of the insert pin 32 (refer to...) Figure 2 The pawl 50 abuts against the inclined surface 33l of the sleeve 33, restricting further insertion. During this stage, the locking pawl 51b of the pawl unit 50 protrudes in a direction orthogonal to the insertion direction. Therefore, the locking pawl 51b engages with the locking portion 33d of the sleeve 33 (see reference 33d). Figure 7 Insert pin 32 becomes a state in which it will not detach from sleeve 33.

[0055] That is, the side roller 40 is fixed to the insert pin 32. In this way, only the side roller 40 is pressed against the insert pin 32. Figure 1 The insert pin 32 of the chain 12 shown allows the side roller 40 to be assembled onto the chain 12 in a single operation.

[0056] <Use of Chain 11 with Side Rollers> like Figure 1 As shown, in the use of the chain 11 with side rollers, the insert pin 32 moves along with the movement of the chain 12, and the side roller 40 rolls along with this movement. At this time, as... Figure 5 As shown, the inner sleeve 41a of the ball bearing 41 is fastened to the insert pin 32 via the sleeve 33 and bolts 34. The outer sleeve 41b of the ball bearing 41 is fixed to the rolling roller component 42. In this state, due to wear, rust, the entry of liquid or solid foreign matter, or deterioration of the lubricating oil, the rotational resistance of the ball bearing 41 may increase. Thus, sometimes the rotational resistance of the ball bearing 41 becomes greater than the frictional resistance between the insert pin 32 and the sleeve 33, causing slippage between the insert pin 32 and the sleeve 33. When such slippage occurs, there is concern about wear and deformation of the insert pin 32 and the sleeve 33. Therefore, in this embodiment, by providing locating pins 33h and 33h on the sleeve 33 and inserting the insert pin 32 into the guide groove 32g, slippage between the insert pin 32 and the sleeve 33 is restricted.

[0057] <Disengagement of Side Roller 40> From Figure 6 The method for disengaging the side roller 40 from the insert pin 32 in the shown state will be explained. First, the cover member 43 that seals the outer side of the roller member 42 in the width direction Y of the side roller 40 is removed, and therefore the retaining ring 43b that fixes the cover member 43 is removed. Figure 4 The C-shaped retaining ring 43b is applied in an outward-expanding manner using elastic force, fitting into the retaining ring storage groove 42f on the inner circumference of the roller component 42. This causes the retaining ring 43b to flex inward and be removed from the roller component 42. In this way, the cover component 43 can be removed.

[0058] Next, when the cover component 43 is disassembled, the claw unit 50 is exposed. Using tools, the locking claw 51b of the claw unit 50 is pressed into the support plate 52 to release the lock from the locking part 33d. Then, the lock is released and the side roller 40 is pulled out from the insert pin 32, thereby allowing the side roller 40 to be removed from the chain 12.

[0059] Furthermore, when the cover component 43 is disassembled, the bolt 34 is exposed. Therefore, the bolt 34 can also be removed using a tool. In this way, the claw unit 50 that fixes the insert pin 32 to the sleeve 33 can be removed. Therefore, the insert pin 32 can be detached from the sleeve 33. That is, the side roller 40 can be removed from the chain 12. Alternatively, if the claw unit 50 is fixed with the bolt 34, the side roller 40 can be assembled to the insert pin 32 in a single operation.

[0060] (Effects of the first embodiment) (1-1) The mounting structure of the side roller 40 in this embodiment has the effect of easily loading and unloading the side roller 40 relative to the movable body composed of the chain 12 and being able to be firmly fixed.

[0061] (1-2) The mounting structure of the side roller 40 in this embodiment includes a claw unit 50 disposed at the front end of the insert pin 32. The claw unit 50 has a locking claw 51b that can protrude radially outward, orthogonal to the insertion direction (width direction Y) in which the insert pin 32 is inserted into the sleeve 33. The sleeve 33 receives the locking claw 51b on its inner circumference and slides therethrough. The sleeve 33 has a locking portion 33d that locks the locking claw 51b of the insert pin 32 (claw unit 50).

[0062] Therefore, by utilizing the locking portion 33d to make the locking claw 51b of the claw member 51 protrude, the side roller 40 is able to be locked against the insert pin 32. When the locking claw 51b of the claw member 51 protrudes due to the locking portion 33d, a clicking sound is generated. Therefore, the operator can easily confirm that the assembly is complete by the clicking sound.

[0063] (1-3) The locking claw 51b is configured to be forceped in the protruding direction (radially outward), and when the insert pin 32 is inserted into the sleeve 33, the locking claw 51b can be displaced radially inward. Therefore, during insertion, the locking claw 51b can be smoothly inserted by displacing it radially inward, and once insertion is complete, the locking claw 51b protrudes, thus enabling the side roller 40 to be locked in place by the insert pin 32 in a single operation.

[0064] (1-4) The locking claw 51b has a claw shape and an inclined surface 51d that slopes in the protruding direction from its front end in the insertion direction (width direction Y) to the base end of the insert pin 32. Furthermore, when the insert pin 32 is inserted, the inclined surface 51d abuts against the inner circumferential surface 33k of the sleeve 33, causing the locking claw 51b to move radially inward. Thus, the locking claw 51b is configured to move along the inner circumferential surface 33k of the sleeve 33 in the insertion direction. Therefore, when the insert pin 32 is inserted into the sleeve 33, the locking claw 51b does not obstruct the insertion, and after insertion, it has the effect of firmly fixing the sleeve 33 to the insert pin 32 by the locking claw 51b.

[0065] (1-5) The cylindrical sleeve 33 has a large-diameter portion 33a forming the base end in the insertion direction, a small-diameter portion 33b forming the top end in the insertion direction, and a stepped portion 33c that connects the large-diameter portion 33a and the small-diameter portion 33b with a bevel. In the large-diameter portion 33a, the locking pawl 51b protrudes radially but does not interfere with the sleeve 33. In the stepped portion 33c, the locking pawl 51b is displaced radially inward as the insert pin 32 is inserted. In the small-diameter portion 33b, the locking pawl 51b is maintained in a radially inward displacement state, and in the locking portion 33d, the locking pawl 51b protrudes radially outward and locks. Therefore, insertion can be performed without resistance and can be rotated until the insert pin 32 is inserted halfway. During this stage, the alignment of the guide groove 32g and the positioning pin 33h can be easily achieved.

[0066] (1-6) A pair of claw components 51 are provided on both sides of the central axis C of the insert pin 32. The pair of claw components 51 are exerted in the protruding direction by the spring 54. Therefore, it has the effect of keeping the locking claw 51b in a protruding state at all times.

[0067] (1-7) The claw unit 50 is provided at the front end of the insert pin 32 in the insertion direction (width direction Y). In addition, the mounting structure of the side roller 40 in this embodiment includes a bolt 34 that fixes the claw unit 50 so that it can be installed and removed from the front end. By removing the bolt 34, the side roller 40 can be removed from the insert pin 32.

[0068] (1-8) The insert pin 32 has a guide groove 32g on its outer peripheral surface 32c along the insertion direction. In addition, a positioning pin 33h is provided on the inner peripheral surface 33k of the sleeve 33, which slides relative to the guide groove 32g. Therefore, it has the effect of limiting the relative rotation between the insert pin 32 and the sleeve 33.

[0069] (1-9) The moving body is the chain 12, and the insert pin 32 is configured to be coaxial with the chain pin 31 of the shaft member 30 that constitutes the chain pin 31 that connects the chain 12. Therefore, a side roller 40 can be provided at the bend of the chain 12, which has the effect of making the chain 11 with side rollers that can operate smoothly.

[0070] (1-10) The claw unit 50 has a disc-shaped support plate 52 fixed to the front end of the insert pin 32. The support plate 52 holds the locking claws 51b of the pair of claw members 51 in a slidable manner within the support plate 52. A spring 54 disposed between the pair of claw members 51 applies force to the pair of claw members 51 in a protruding direction, causing the locking claws 51b of the claw members 51 to protrude in a locking manner. This structure has the effect of making the claw unit 50 an integral part of the support plate 52.

[0071] <Second Implementation Method> Next, a second embodiment, which is another example of this disclosure, will be described. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that it has a structure that restricts the relative rotation of the insert pin 32 and the sleeve 33. Furthermore, descriptions of common structures are omitted.

[0072] Figure 12 This is a perspective view of the second embodiment. Figure 13A This is a front view of the insert pin 32 of the second embodiment as viewed from the Y direction. Figure 13B yes Figure 13A Sectional view of section XII(b)-XII(b). Figure 14A This is a side view of a modified example of the sleeve 33 of the second embodiment, viewed from the X direction. Figure 14B yes Figure 14A A sectional view of section XIV(b)-XIV(b).

[0073] exist Figure 2 In the first embodiment shown, the insert pin 32 has a guide groove 32g, but... Figure 12 , Figure 13A , Figure 13B In the second embodiment shown, the insert pin 32 does not have a guide groove 32g. The structure of the other parts is basically the same as that of the insert pin 32 and the claw unit 50 in the first embodiment.

[0074] In addition, Figure 2 In the first embodiment shown, the sleeve 33 is equipped with a locating pin 33h, but... Figure 12 , Figure 14A , Figure 14B In the second embodiment shown, the sleeve 33 does not have a locating pin 33h.

[0075] On the other hand, such as Figure 12 As shown, in the second embodiment, the sleeve 33 has a guide groove 33m on its inner circumferential surface that is not present in the first embodiment. This guide groove 33m is a groove extending in the small-diameter portion 33b of the sleeve 33 along the insertion direction of the sleeve 33. The width of the guide groove 33m is approximately equal to the width of the locking claw 51b of the claw unit 50, allowing the locking claw 51b to slide along the insertion direction while being guided without gap within the guide groove 33m.

[0076] Furthermore, similar to the sleeve 33 of the first embodiment, the sleeve 33 of the second embodiment includes a locking portion 33d′. In the locking portion 33d of the first embodiment, as shown... Figure 2 , Figure 7 As shown, the end face of the front end of the sleeve 33 is a flat locking portion 33d. Therefore, the locking claw 51b itself does not serve to restrict the relative rotation of the insert pin 32 and the sleeve 33.

[0077] On the other hand, in the second embodiment, the locking portion 33d′ extends along the front end direction on both sides to form rotation limiting portions 33j. Therefore, the circumferential width of the locking portion 33d′ in the second embodiment is formed to be approximately equal to the width of the locking pawl 51b due to the rotation limiting portions 33j on both sides. In other words, the locking portion 33d′ in the second embodiment uses the rotation limiting portions 33j to restrict the locking pawl 51b from rotating around the central axis C.

[0078] (The function of the second embodiment) Reference Figure 12 When the insert pin 32 is inserted into the sleeve 33, the locking pawl 51b of the claw unit 50 protrudes through the large-diameter portion 33a. When the insert pin 32 is further inserted, the locking pawl 51b abuts against the stepped portion 33c. In this state, when the insert pin 32 is further inserted, the locking pawl 51b passes through the small-diameter portion 33b in a state where it is pressed in by the stepped portion 33c. At this time, even if the rotational position of the locking pawl 51b and the guide groove 33m is offset, the insert pin 32 can still be inserted. If the rotational position of the locking pawl 51b and the guide groove 33m is the same, then insertion can be performed in this state. If the rotational position of the locking pawl 51b and the guide groove 33m is offset, and the insert pin 32 is rotated relative to the sleeve 33, then when the rotational position of the locking pawl 51b and the guide groove 33m is the same, the locking pawl 51b is embedded in the guide groove 33m.

[0079] (Variation example) In addition, Figure 12 In the second embodiment shown, similar to the first embodiment, the sleeve 33 has a large-diameter portion 33a and a small-diameter portion 33b. On the other hand, it can also be... Figure 14B As shown in the modified example, the step portion 33c is omitted. In this case, when insertion begins, if the rotational position of the locking pawl 51b is aligned with that of the guide groove 33m under visual inspection, insertion can proceed smoothly. However, the locking pawl 51b may sometimes deviate from the rotational position of the guide groove 33m. Similarly, in this case, if the insert pin 32 is rotated relative to the sleeve 33, the locking pawl 51b will engage with the guide groove 33m when their rotational positions are aligned.

[0080] In either case, if insertion continues in this state, the locking claw 51b protrudes and locks into the locking portion 33d′, thereby completing the assembly of the side roller 40 relative to the insert pin 32. Furthermore, insertion can still be performed even when the locking pawl 51b and the guide groove 33m are offset in rotation. However, if insertion is performed in the offset state, the locking pawl 51b will not engage with the locking portion 33d′. Therefore, the side roller 40 cannot be assembled to the insert pin 32, and there is no clicking sound when the locking pawl 51b engages with the locking portion 33d′, allowing the operator to easily confirm that the assembly is completely completed.

[0081] (Effects of the second implementation method) In the second embodiment, in addition to the same effects as in the first embodiment, the following effects are also present.

[0082] (2-1) When the insert pin 32 is inserted into the side roller 40, the locking claw 51b of the claw component 51 assembled at the front end of the insert pin 32 is guided in the guide groove 33m of the sleeve 33. Therefore, it has the effect of suppressing the relative rotation of the insert pin 32 and the side roller 40 about the central axis C.

[0083] (2-2) The locking claw 51b of the claw unit 50, which slides in the guide groove 33m of the sleeve 33, is locked in the locking part 33d′ in this state by insertion, thus having the effect of easily assembling the side roller 40 to the insert pin 32.

[0084] (2-3) The locking claw 51b, which is locked in the locking part 33d′, has the effect of limiting the circumferential movement by the rotation limiting parts 33j, 33j on both sides of its circumferential direction. (2-4) Even if the locking claw 51b of the claw component 51 is not guided in the guide groove 33m of the sleeve 33, if the sleeve 33 and the insert pin 32 are rotated relative to each other about the central axis C, the locking claw 51b can be easily guided into the guide groove 33m.

[0085] (2-5) Since it is not necessary to provide a positioning pin hole 33i through the sleeve 33 to fix the positioning pin 33h as in the first embodiment, it has the effect of simple construction. <Variation Example> The first and second embodiments can be implemented with the following modifications.

[0086] For those skilled in the art, the first and second embodiments can be implemented by appropriate combination without creating contradictions. As a locking component of this disclosure, this embodiment exemplifies a pair of claw components 51, 51 positioned on either side of the central axis C of the insert pin 32. However, the locking component is not limited to a pair; it may be one or more locking components. From a balance perspective, the number of locking components is preferably even.

[0087] As exemplified by the guide groove 32g and positioning pin 33h in the first embodiment, and the guide groove 33m and locking claw 51b in the second embodiment, the structure that guides and inserts the insert pin 32 and sleeve 33 while restricting their rotation is not limited to these examples. For instance, it may be constructed by a rib-shaped portion replacing the groove and a slider that slides on the rib-shaped portion.

[0088] The locking claw 51b of the claw unit 50 is not limited to a tapered shape with a thinner front end, but can also be a shape with uniform thickness. In this case, the sleeve 33 can be pressed into the locking claw 51b by having an inclined surface 33l.

[0089] In addition, if the locking pawl 51b of the claw unit 50 has a tapered shape with a thinner front end, then even if a vertical step is used instead of the inclined surface 33l of the sleeve 33, the locking pawl 51b can still be pressed in.

[0090] In this embodiment, a spring 54 consisting of a helical spring is shown as an example of the elastic component disclosed herein, but the elastic body is not limited to this, and a leaf spring can also be used. Furthermore, an elastic body such as rubber can also be used to apply force.

[0091] In this embodiment, the locking claw 51b is forcefully protruded by the spring 54, but this force is not always necessary. For example, the locking claw 51b can also be manually protruded when the side roller 40 is fitted into the insert pin 32.

[0092] Either of the two ball bearings 41 can be omitted. Alternatively, three or more ball bearings 41 can be used. The type of bearing disclosed herein is not limited; roller bearings may be used instead of ball bearings 41. Other types of bearings may also be used.

[0093] As an example of the fixing member of the present disclosure for fixing the locking unit so that it can be installed and removed from the front end, the bolt 34 of the fixing claw unit 50 is shown. However, the fixing member is not limited to the bolt 34 as long as it can fix the locking unit so that it can be installed and removed from the front end.

[0094] The moving body disclosed herein is not limited to chain 12; belt conveyors, pallets for handling, housings, etc., may also be used as moving bodies. In this embodiment, a structure with side rollers 40 on both sides of the chain 12 is shown as an example, but it is also possible to have a structure with side rollers 40 on only one side.

[0095] In this embodiment, a shaft component 30 is shown as integrally comprising a chain pin 31 and an insert pin 32, but the chain pin 31 and the insert pin 32 may also be separately constructed. The accompanying drawings are schematic diagrams used to illustrate the structure of this embodiment, and their number, shape, size, etc. do not reflect the actual situation.

[0096] The quantities, shapes, dimensions, and other numerical values ​​and ranges, as well as the shapes and materials, are merely examples and do not limit this disclosure. It is self-evident that those skilled in the art can make appropriate optimizations. In this disclosure, although metal components are used, the type of metal is not limited. Furthermore, resin components can be used when the load is relatively small. Additionally, the roller component 42 can also be made of rubber or the like.

[0097] In addition, this disclosure can be implemented by adding, deleting or modifying its structure without departing from the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A mounting structure for a side roller, comprising a side roller supported by an insert shaft with a circular cross-section protruding from the side of a movable body, enabling it to rotate. The side roller includes a roller assembly, a bearing supporting the roller assembly for rotatability, and a cylindrical sleeve fitted onto the inner circumference of the bearing. The roller assembly is mounted to the insertion shaft via the sleeve. In the mounting structure of the side roller, The insertion shaft has a locking unit, which includes a locking member capable of protruding radially outward from the insertion shaft. The sleeve receives the locking unit on its inner circumference and allows the locking unit to slide, and has a locking portion. The locking part locks the locking unit.

2. The side roller mounting structure according to claim 1, wherein, The locking component is configured to be subjected to force in the protruding direction and to be able to displace radially inward when the insertion shaft is inserted into the sleeve.

3. The side roller mounting structure according to claim 2, wherein, The locking member has a claw shape, and the claw shape has an inclined surface that slopes in the protruding direction from the front end of the insertion shaft in the insertion direction to the base end of the insertion shaft. The inclined surface abuts against and slides against the inner circumferential surface of the sleeve when the insertion shaft is inserted, thereby the locking member is configured to move along the inner circumferential surface of the sleeve in the insertion direction of the insertion shaft.

4. The side roller mounting structure according to claim 2, wherein, The sleeve includes a large-diameter portion forming the base end portion in the insertion direction of the insertion shaft, a small-diameter portion forming the top end portion in the insertion direction, and a stepped portion that connects the large-diameter portion and the small-diameter portion by an inclined surface. In the large diameter portion, the locking member does not shift; in the stepped portion, the locking member shifts as the insertion shaft is inserted; in the small diameter portion, the shifted locking member is maintained; and in the locking portion, the locking member protrudes and locks into the locking portion.

5. The side roller mounting structure according to claim 2, wherein, The locking component is one of a pair of locking components positioned on either side of the central axis of the insertion shaft. The pair of locking components are subjected to force in the protruding direction by an elastomer.

6. The side roller mounting structure according to claim 2, wherein, Either the outer circumferential surface of the insertion shaft or the inner circumferential surface of the sleeve has a guide groove along the insertion direction of the insertion shaft. A locating pin is provided on either the outer circumferential surface of the insertion shaft or the inner circumferential surface of the sleeve. The locating pin is movable relative to each other within the guide groove.

7. The side roller mounting structure according to claim 1, wherein, The sleeve has a guide groove that guides the locking component in the insertion direction of the insertion shaft. The locking component protrudes and locks into the locking portion when the insertion shaft is fully inserted. The locking part has a rotation limiting part. After the locking part locks the locking component, the rotation limiting part restricts the locking component from rotating about the central axis of the insertion shaft.

8. A chain with side rollers, wherein, It comprises a side roller as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 7 and a chain as the moving body.

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