Drive device

Abstract

A drive device is capable of being stably lifted at the time of assembly or at the time of assembly to a vehicle. A drive device is provided with: a motor having a rotor rotatable about a first axis; a transmission mechanism which is located on one side of the motor in the axial direction and transmits the rotation of the rotor; and a housing having a first housing part for housing the motor and a second housing part for housing the transmission mechanism. A first hole part and a second hole part are arranged on the outer side surface of the shell. An imaginary line connecting the first hole portion and the second hole portion passes through the first housing portion. The housing has a housing main body having a cylindrical peripheral wall portion surrounding the motor from the outside in the radial direction of the first axis. At least one of the center of gravity of the housing body and the center of gravity of the drive device overlaps the imaginary line in the vertical direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to a drive device. Background Technology

[0002] As a drive device for driving vehicles, drive devices that include a motor and a transmission mechanism for transmitting the power of the motor to the wheels are known. For example, Patent Document 1 describes a rear-drive axle that drives the rear wheels as such a drive device.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-44237 Utility Model Content

[0006] The problem to be solved by utility models

[0007] The aforementioned drive equipment is sometimes lifted using hooks or similar devices during assembly processes or vehicle assembly. However, drive equipment not only contains heavy components such as motors and transmission mechanisms, but also has a complex shape, making it difficult to maintain stability when lifted.

[0008] In view of the above, one of the objectives of this invention is to provide a drive device that can be stably lifted during assembly or assembly into a vehicle.

[0009] Methods for solving problems

[0010] One embodiment of the driving device of this utility model is a driving device comprising: a motor having a rotor capable of rotating about a first axis; a transmission mechanism located on one side of the axial direction of the motor and transmitting the rotation of the rotor; and a housing having a first receiving portion for housing the motor and a second receiving portion for housing the transmission mechanism. A first hole and a second hole are provided on the outer surface of the housing. An imaginary line connecting the first hole and the second hole passes through the first receiving portion. The housing has a housing body having a cylindrical peripheral wall portion that surrounds the motor radially outward from the first axis. At least one of the center of gravity of the housing body and the center of gravity of the driving device overlaps with the imaginary line in the vertical direction.

[0011] Utility Model Effect

[0012] According to one aspect of this utility model, one objective is to provide a drive device that can be stably lifted during assembly or assembly into a vehicle. Attached Figure Description

[0013] Figure 1This is a conceptual diagram of a driving device according to one implementation method.

[0014] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of a drive device according to one embodiment.

[0015] Figure 3 This is a front view of a drive device according to one embodiment.

[0016] Figure 4 This is a top view of a drive device according to one embodiment.

[0017] Figure 5 This is a side view of a drive device according to one embodiment.

[0018] Figure 6 This is a top view of the housing body of one embodiment.

[0019] Figure 7 This is a top view of the drive device in variation 1.

[0020] Figure 8 This is a top view of the drive device in variation 2.

[0021] Figure 9 This is a top view of the drive device in variation 3.

[0022] Figure 10 This is a top view of the drive device in variation 4.

[0023] Figure 11 This is a top view of the drive device in variation 5.

[0024] Figure 12 This is the front view of the drive device in variation 6.

[0025] Figure 13 This is the front view of the drive device in variation 7.

[0026] Figure 14 This is an enlarged perspective view of the protrusion in variation example 8.

[0027] Figure 15 This is an enlarged perspective view of the protrusion in variation example 9. Detailed Implementation

[0028] The drive device according to the embodiments will now be described based on the accompanying drawings. In the following description, the direction of gravity is defined based on the positional relationship of the drive device when mounted on a vehicle located on a horizontal road surface. Furthermore, XYZ coordinates are appropriately represented in each figure. The Z-axis is the vertical direction, with +Z side being the upper side and -Z side being the lower side. The Y-axis is the left-right direction of the vehicle with the drive device mounted. The X-axis is the front-back direction of the vehicle with the drive device mounted.

[0029] In the following description, unless otherwise specified, the direction parallel to the first axis J1 of motor 2 (Y-axis direction) will be referred to as "axial direction Y", the radial direction centered on the first axis J1 will be referred to as "radial direction", and the circumferential direction centered on the first axis J1, i.e., the direction around the first axis J1, will be referred to as "circumferential direction". Furthermore, in the following description, the longitudinal direction of the vehicle (i.e., the direction parallel to the X-axis) will be referred to as the first direction X. The first direction X is orthogonal to both the axial direction Y and the vertical direction Z.

[0030] In the following explanation, one side of the axial direction refers to the direction in which the arrow pointing to the Y-axis in the figure points (+Y side), and the other side of the axial direction refers to the direction opposite to the direction in which the arrow pointing to the Y-axis in the figure points (-Y side). Additionally, one side of the first direction X refers to the direction opposite to the direction in which the arrow pointing to the X-axis in the figure points (-X side), and the other side of the first direction X refers to the direction in which the arrow pointing in the figure points (+X side).

[0031] <Driver Device>

[0032] Figure 1 This is a conceptual diagram of the driving device 1 in the implementation method. Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the driving device 1 according to the implementation method. Figure 3 This is a front view of the drive device 1 of the embodiment, viewed from the other side (-Y side) of the axial direction. Figure 4 This is a top view of the drive device 1 of the embodiment as viewed from above. Figure 5 This is a side view of the drive device 1 of the embodiment, viewed from one side (-X side) in the first direction.

[0033] The drive device 1 of this embodiment is installed in vehicles such as hybrid electric vehicles (HEV), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHV), and electric vehicles (EV) that use motor 2 as a power source, and is used as their power source.

[0034] like Figure 1 As shown, the drive device 1 includes a motor 2, a transmission mechanism 3, a control unit 7, and a housing 6. The housing 6 houses the motor 2, the transmission mechanism 3, and the control unit 7. Furthermore, in this embodiment, a fluid O, such as oil, can be stored inside the housing 6. The housing 6 may be provided with a flow path for circulating the fluid O. In this case, a pump for pressurizing the fluid O and a cooler for cooling the fluid O may also be provided on the outer surface of the housing 6 or inside the housing 6.

[0035] <Motor>

[0036] The motor 2 includes: a rotor 20 capable of rotating about a first axis J1 extending in a horizontal direction; and a stator 25 located radially outside the rotor 20. The motor 2 in this embodiment is, for example, an internal rotor type three-phase AC motor. The motor 2 serves both as a motor output power source and as a generator power source. The motor 2 can be used as an engine or a generator. Furthermore, the structure of the motor 2 is not limited to this embodiment; for example, it could be a four-phase or higher AC motor.

[0037] <Stator>

[0038] The stator 25 is held within the housing 6. The stator 25 surrounds the rotor 20 radially outward. The stator 25 has: an annular stator core 27 centered on a first axis J1; coils 26 mounted on the stator core 27; and an insulator (not shown) between the stator core 27 and the coils 26. The stator core 27 has an annular core back and a plurality of teeth extending radially inward from the core back and arranged circumferentially. A plurality of coil wires constituting the coils 26 are arranged between the teeth.

[0039] <rotor>

[0040] The rotor 20 has a shaft 21, a rotor core 24 fixed to the outer circumferential surface of the shaft 21, and a plurality of magnets (not shown) fixed to the rotor core 24. The shaft 21 extends along a first axis J1. The shaft 21 is supported on the housing 6 in a manner that allows it to rotate about the first axis J1. The rotor core 24 is fixed to the outer circumferential surface of the shaft 21. The rotor core 24 is cylindrical, extending along the first axis J1. The rotor core 24 has a through hole through which the shaft 21 passes. A retaining hole (not shown) extending, for example, along the axial direction Y, is provided on the rotor core 24, in which magnets are housed.

[0041] <Transmission Mechanism>

[0042] The transmission mechanism 3 is located on one side (+Y side) of the axial direction of the motor 2. The transmission mechanism 3 is connected to the rotor 20, transmitting the rotation of the rotor 20 and outputting it from the output shaft 55. The transmission mechanism 3 has a first shaft 44, a second shaft 45, a first gear 41, a second gear 42, a third gear 43, and a differential device 5. The differential device 5 has a gear ring (gear) 51, a differential mechanism 5a, and a pair of output shafts 55. That is, the transmission mechanism 3 has a gear ring 51, a differential mechanism 5a, and a pair of output shafts 55. Additionally, the transmission mechanism 3 has multiple gears 41, 42, 43, and 51. Wheels (not shown) are respectively mounted on the pair of output shafts 55.

[0043] The first shaft 44 extends axially Y with the first axis J1 as its center. The end of the first shaft 44 on the other side of the axial direction (-Y side) is connected to the end of the shaft 21 on one side of the axial direction (+Y side). Thus, the first shaft 44 is connected to the rotor 20 of the motor 2 and rotates together with the rotor 20. A first gear 41 is disposed on the outer circumferential surface of the first shaft 44. The first gear 41 rotates around the first axis J1. The second shaft 45 is rotatable around a third axis J3 parallel to the first axis J1. A second gear 42 and a third gear 43 are disposed on the outer circumferential surface of the second shaft 45. The second gear 42 and the third gear 43 rotate around the third axis J3. The second gear 42 meshes with the first gear 41. The third gear 43 meshes with the gear ring 51 of the differential device 5. The differential device 5 is rotatable around a second axis J2 parallel to the first axis J1. That is, the gear ring 51 is rotatable around the second axis J2. The differential device 5 absorbs the speed difference between the left and right wheels when the vehicle turns and transmits the torque from the third gear 43 to the output shaft 55. The torque output from the motor 2 is transmitted to the gear ring 51 of the differential device 5 via the first shaft 44, the first gear 41, the second gear 42, the second shaft 45, and the third gear 43, and is then output to a pair of output shafts 55 via the differential mechanism of the differential device 5. The pair of output shafts 55 are each capable of rotating around the second axis J2.

[0044] The lower end of the gear ring 51 is immersed in the fluid O stored within the housing 6. The gear ring 51 supplies fluid O to the tooth surfaces of other gears by agitating the fluid O, thereby improving the lubrication between the gears. Alternatively, the gear used to agitate the fluid O can be another gear besides the gear ring 51.

[0045] like Figure 3 As shown, when viewing the drive device 1 from the Y-axis, the first axis J1, the third axis J3, and the second axis J2 are arranged sequentially along the first direction X. When viewing the drive device 1 from the Y-axis, the second axis J2 is located on one side (-X side) of the first direction relative to the first axis J1. That is, in this specification, one side of the first direction X refers to the side in the first direction X where the second axis J2 is disposed relative to the first axis J1. Furthermore, in this specification, the other side of the first direction X refers to the side in the first direction X where the first axis J1 is disposed relative to the second axis J2.

[0046] <Control Department>

[0047] like Figure 1As shown, the control unit 7 is located radially outward of the motor 2 and on the opposite side (-Y side) axially relative to the transmission mechanism 3. The control unit 7 is located above the motor 2. The control unit 7 includes an inverter 7A and a power integration system 7B. In this embodiment, the case where the control unit 7 includes both the inverter 7A and the power integration system 7B has been described, but the control unit 7 may also have only the inverter 7A without the power integration system 7B.

[0048] Inverter 7A is connected to the battery and converts the DC current supplied from the battery into AC current. Additionally, inverter 7A is connected to stator 25 and supplies AC current to stator 25.

[0049] The power integrated system 7B may include, for example, an on-board charger (OBC), a power distribution unit (PDU), and a DC / DC converter. The on-board charger is a system that converts AC voltage supplied via a plug into DC voltage to charge the battery. The power distribution unit distributes the current supplied from the battery to various electrical components within the vehicle, including the inverter 7A. The DC / DC converter converts the voltage supplied from the battery to charge other batteries with lower voltage. Alternatively, the power integrated system 7B may include at least one of the on-board charger, power distribution unit, and DC / DC converter. Furthermore, the power integrated system 7B may also include systems other than the on-board charger, power distribution unit, and DC / DC converter, such as a battery management system for controlling the battery.

[0050] <Shell>

[0051] like Figure 1 As shown, the housing 6 has a housing body 61, a first cover component 63, a second cover component 62, and a third cover component 64. The housing body 61, the first cover component 63, the second cover component 62, and the third cover component 64 are different components. The first cover component 63 is disposed on the opposite side (-Y side) of the axial direction of the housing body 61. The second cover component 62 is disposed on one side (+Y side) of the axial direction of the housing body 61. The third cover component 64 is disposed on the upper side of the housing body 61.

[0052] In addition, the housing 6 has a first receiving section 6A, a second receiving section 6B, and a third receiving section 6C. The first receiving section 6A houses the motor 2. The second receiving section 6B houses the transfer mechanism 3. The third receiving section 6C houses the control section 7. The first receiving section 6A, the second receiving section 6B, and the third receiving section 6C are composed of the housing body 61, the first cover component 63, the second cover component 62, and the third cover component 64.

[0053] The first receiving portion 6A comprises a cylindrical first peripheral wall portion 6d of the housing body 61, a dividing portion 6p of the housing body 61, and a first cover member 63. The dividing portion 6p covers the opening on one axial side (+Y side) of the first peripheral wall portion 6d. The first cover member 63 covers the opening on the other axial side (-Y side) of the first peripheral wall portion 6d. A first flange portion 61f extending radially outward is provided at the end on the other axial side (-Y side) of the first peripheral wall portion 6d. The first flange portion 61f and the first cover member 63 are fastened in the axial Y direction, for example, by a fastening mechanism such as screws. The motor 2 is disposed in the space surrounded by the housing body 61 and the first cover member 63.

[0054] The second receiving portion 6B consists of a concave portion of the housing body 61 that opens on one axial side (+Y side) and a second cover member 62 that covers the opening of the concave portion. The second cover member 62 covers the transfer mechanism 3 from one axial side (+Y side). A second flange portion 61k extending radially outward is provided at the end of the housing body 61 on one axial side (+Y side). On the other hand, a third flange portion 62k extending radially outward is provided at the end of the second cover member 62 on the other axial side (-Y side). The second flange portion 61k and the third flange portion 62k are fastened in the axial Y direction, for example, by fastening units such as screws. The transfer mechanism 3 is disposed in the space surrounded by the housing body 61 and the second cover member 62. In addition, in this embodiment, the second receiving portion 6B can store fluid O in its internal space.

[0055] like Figure 2 As shown, the second receiving portion 6B has a protrusion 6Ba that protrudes in a first direction (-X side) relative to the first receiving portion 6A. Figure 1 As shown, the protrusion 6Ba is the part of the second housing section 6B that mainly houses the differential device 5.

[0056] The third housing 6C consists of a box-shaped portion 6f with an opening on the upper side of the housing body 61 and a third cover member 64 that covers the opening of the box-shaped portion 6f. The control unit 7 is disposed in the space surrounded by the housing body 61 and the third cover member 64.

[0057] Furthermore, within the housing 6, each of the housing body 61, the first cover member 63, the second cover member 62, and the third cover member 64 comprises a first side wall portion 6a, a second side wall portion 6b, a third side wall portion 6c, a first peripheral wall portion (peripheral wall portion) 6d, a second peripheral wall portion 6e, a box-shaped portion 6f, and a top wall portion 6g. The first side wall portion 6a, the second side wall portion (wall portion) 6b, and the third side wall portion 6c extend along a plane orthogonal to the first axis J1. The first peripheral wall portion 6d and the second peripheral wall portion 6e are generally cylindrical, extending along the axial direction Y. The first peripheral wall portion 6d connects the second side wall portion 6b to the first side wall portion 6a. The second peripheral wall portion 6e connects the third side wall portion 6c to the second side wall portion 6b. The box-shaped portion 6f and the top wall portion 6g are located above the first peripheral wall portion 6d.

[0058] A first sidewall portion 6a is provided on the first cover member 63. Furthermore, the first sidewall portion 6a forms part of the first receiving portion 6a. The first sidewall portion 6a is located on the other side (-Y side) of the axial direction of the motor 2. The first sidewall portion 6a covers the motor 2 from the other side (-Y side) of the axial direction.

[0059] The second sidewall portion 6b is provided on the housing body 61. The second sidewall portion 6b is located on one side (+Y side) of the axial direction of the motor 2 and on the other side (-Y side) of the axial direction of the transmission mechanism 3. That is, the second sidewall portion 6b covers the motor 2 from one side (+Y side) of the axial direction and covers the transmission mechanism 3 from the other side (-Y side) of the axial direction.

[0060] The second sidewall portion 6b has a dividing portion 6p and a protruding portion 6q. The dividing portion 6p separates the internal space of the first receiving portion 6A from the internal space of the second receiving portion 6B. On the other hand, the protruding portion 6q extends radially outward from the dividing portion 6p. The dividing portion 6p in the second sidewall portion 6b constitutes a part of the first receiving portion 6A. A first hole 61a is provided on the dividing portion 6p to communicate with the internal space of the first receiving portion 6A and the internal space of the second receiving portion 6B. A connection portion between the shaft 21 and the first shaft 44 is disposed in the first hole 61a. Alternatively, the connection portion between the shaft 21 and the first shaft 44 may be disposed in the internal space of either the first receiving portion 6A or the second receiving portion 6B. A second hole 61b is provided on the protruding portion 6q. The output shaft 55 passes through the second hole 61b.

[0061] A third sidewall portion 6c is provided on the second cover member 62. The third sidewall portion 6c forms part of the second receiving portion 6B. The third sidewall portion 6c is disposed on one side (+Y side) of the axial direction of the transmission mechanism 3. The third sidewall portion 6c covers the transmission mechanism 3 from one side (+Y side) of the axial direction. A third hole 62a is provided on the third sidewall portion 6c, extending through the third sidewall portion 6c along the axial direction Y. The output shaft 55 passes through the third hole 62a.

[0062] A first peripheral wall portion 6d is provided on the housing body 61. The first peripheral wall portion 6d forms part of the first receiving portion 6A. The first peripheral wall portion 6d is cylindrical, surrounding the outer periphery of the motor 2 radially outward from the first axis J1. For example, a stator core 27 is fixed to the inner peripheral surface of the first peripheral wall portion 6d. A first flange portion 61f protruding radially outward from the first peripheral wall portion 6d is provided at the end on the other side (-Y side) of the axial direction of the first peripheral wall portion 6d. Alternatively, a cylindrical water jacket centered on the central axis J can be disposed between the inner peripheral surface of the first peripheral wall portion 6d and the stator core 27. In this case, the stator core 27 can be cooled by fluid flowing in the water jacket.

[0063] The second peripheral wall portion 6e is formed by a part of the housing body 61 and a part of the second cover member 62. Specifically, the second peripheral wall portion 6e is formed by a part of a concave portion of the housing body 61 that opens on one side (+Y side) in the axial direction and a part of the second cover member 62 that covers the opening of the concave portion. The second peripheral wall portion 6e constitutes a part of the second receiving portion 6B. The second peripheral wall portion 6e surrounds the transmission mechanism 3 from the radially outer side. More specifically, the second peripheral wall portion 6e surrounds gears 41, 42, 43, and 51 from the radially outer side of the first axis J1, the third axis J3, and the second axis J2. A fastening portion 69 is provided on the second peripheral wall portion 6e to fasten the second flange portion 61k and the third flange portion 62k. This fastening portion 69 protrudes radially outward from the radially outer side of the second peripheral wall portion 6e.

[0064] like Figure 2 As shown, a box-shaped portion 6f is disposed on the housing body 61. The box-shaped portion 6f constitutes part of the third receiving portion 6C. The box-shaped portion 6f is located above the first peripheral wall portion 6d. The box-shaped portion 6f is connected to the outer surface of the first peripheral wall portion 6d. In this embodiment, the box-shaped portion 6f appears as a rectangular frame when viewed from above, but it may also be a shape other than a rectangular frame.

[0065] In this embodiment, the box-shaped portion 6f is part of the housing body 61. The box-shaped portion 6f and the first peripheral wall portion 6d are integrally formed as a single component. However, the box-shaped portion 6f can also be formed as a component different from the housing body 61 and assembled to the first peripheral wall portion 6d. In this case, the box-shaped portion 6f is fixed to the housing body 61 using fasteners such as bolts.

[0066] A top wall portion 6g is provided on the third cover member 64. The top wall portion 6g forms part of the third receiving portion 6C. The top wall portion 6g is plate-shaped and extends along the horizontal plane (XY plane). The top wall portion 6g is fixed to the upper end of the box-shaped portion 6f. The top wall portion 6g and the bottom of the box-shaped portion 6f are opposite each other in the vertical direction Z. The box-shaped portion 6f and the top wall portion 6g surround the internal space of the third receiving portion 6C. Figure 1As shown, a control unit 7 is fixed to the top wall portion 6g in this embodiment. Alternatively, the control unit 7 may also be fixed to the inner side surface of the box-shaped portion 6f.

[0067] <First Hole Section, Second Hole Section>

[0068] like Figure 2 As shown, two protrusions 31 and 32 are provided on the housing 6. Holes 31h and 32h are respectively provided on the two protrusions 31 and 32. That is, two holes 31h and 32h are provided on the outer surface of the housing 6. Figure 2 As shown, in this embodiment, when assembling the drive device 1 or installing the drive device 1 onto a vehicle, hooks F can be attached to the holes 31h and 32h, for example. Hooks F are fixed to the front end of the chain C. The chain C is wound up or unwound, for example, by a chain trolley. Thus, the drive device 1 or the housing 6 can be lifted upwards or lowered downwards by the two chains C.

[0069] In this embodiment, the case where the drive device 1 is lifted by inserting the hook F into the holes 31h and 32h is described, but the tool used to lift the drive device 1 is not limited to this embodiment. For example, the drive device 1 can also be lifted by inserting a rod-shaped component into the holes 31h and 32h and supporting both ends of the rod-shaped component.

[0070] In this embodiment, both protrusions 31 and 32 are provided on the outer surface of the housing body 61. In this embodiment, one of the two protrusions 31 and 32 is located at the end of the housing body 61 on one side (+Y side) of the axial direction, and the other is located at the end of the housing body 61 on the other side (-Y side) of the axial direction. In the following description, when distinguishing between the two protrusions 31 and 32, the protrusion located on one side (+Y side) of the axial direction is referred to as the first protrusion 31, and the protrusion located on the other side (-Y side) of the axial direction is referred to as the second protrusion 32. Furthermore, in the following description, when distinguishing between the two holes 31h and 32h, the hole provided in the first protrusion 31 is referred to as the first hole 31h, and the hole provided in the second protrusion 32 is referred to as the second hole 32h.

[0071] In this embodiment, the first protrusion 31 protrudes radially outward from the second flange portion 61k. Therefore, the first protrusion 31 is provided on the outer surface of the second receiving portion 6B. In addition, the first protrusion 31 is provided on the second peripheral wall portion 6e. The first protrusion 31 protrudes from the outer side of the housing 6 towards the side facing the first direction (-X side).

[0072] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the second protrusion 32 protrudes radially outward from the first flange portion 61f. Therefore, the second protrusion 32 is provided on the outer surface of the first receiving portion 6A. In addition, the second protrusion 32 is provided at the end on the other side (-Y side) of the first peripheral wall portion 6d in the axial direction. The second protrusion 32 protrudes from the outer side of the housing 6 to the other side (+X side) in the first direction.

[0073] In this embodiment, the first protrusion 31 and the second protrusion 32 are plate-shaped extending along a plane orthogonal to the axial direction Y. However, the first protrusion 31 and the second protrusion may also be plate-shaped extending along other planes, or they may not be plate-shaped. Furthermore, the first protrusion 31 and the second protrusion 32 may also be provided in other parts of the housing 6.

[0074] The first hole 31h penetrates the first protrusion 31 in the thickness direction. Similarly, the second hole 32h penetrates the first protrusion in the thickness direction. That is, the first hole 31h is a through hole that penetrates the first protrusion 31 in the axial direction, and the second hole 32h is a through hole that penetrates the second protrusion 32 in the axial direction.

[0075] In this embodiment, the first hole 31h and the second hole 32h are circular when viewed from the axial direction. Furthermore, the diameters of the first hole 31h and the second hole 32h are equal. However, the shapes of the first hole 31h and the second hole 32h are not limited to this embodiment. The shapes of the first hole 31h and the second hole 32h may not be circular, or they may be different shapes. Moreover, either or both of the first hole 31h and the second hole 32h may be concave holes with a bottom. Either or both of the first hole 31h and the second hole 32h may also be threaded holes with internal threads on their inner circumferential surfaces. When the holes 31h and 32h are threaded holes, lifting devices such as eye bolts can be fixed to the holes 31h and 32h. Additionally, the hook F is attached to the lifting device fixed to the holes 31h and 32h. Either or both of the first hole 31h and the second hole 32h may also be axially continuous and cut in a direction orthogonal to the axial direction. In addition, the protrusions 31 and 32 with such holes 31h and 32h are hook-shaped.

[0076] According to this embodiment, since holes 31h and 32h are through holes that pass through plate-shaped protrusions 31 and 32, hook F can be stably hooked onto holes 31h and 32h without using lifting tools such as eye bolts. Therefore, during lifting operations, the step of inserting lifting tools into the holes by the operator or equipment (hereinafter referred to as the operator, etc.) can be omitted, reducing the operation time for the operator during lifting. Furthermore, according to this embodiment, since the through direction of holes 31h and 32h is axial Y, hook F can be hooked onto holes 31h and 32h from axial Y. In this embodiment, the case where both the first hole 31h and the second hole 32h are through holes that pass through protrusions 31 and 32 is illustrated. However, the above-mentioned effects can be obtained for any hole as long as at least one of the first hole 31h and the second hole 32h is a through hole that passes through protrusions 31 and 32.

[0077] As described above, the protrusions 31 and 32 in this embodiment are both provided on the housing body 61. According to this embodiment, since the first hole 31h and the second hole 32h are provided on a single component, compared to the case where they are provided on different components that are connected and fixed to each other, it is less likely to apply force to the connecting portions of the components constituting the housing 6 when lifting. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the displacement of the connecting portions of the housing 6 when lifting. Furthermore, by providing the first hole 31h and the second hole 32h on a single component, the rigidity between the first hole 31h and the second hole 32h can be improved, and deformation of the housing 6 when lifting can be suppressed. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the load applied to the components disposed inside the housing 6 due to deformation of the housing 6 when lifting.

[0078] According to this embodiment, since the protrusions 31 and 32 are plate-shaped extending in a direction orthogonal to the axial direction Y, the rigidity relative to stress in the direction orthogonal to the axial direction Y can be improved. Since the axial direction Y is orthogonal to the vertical direction Z, according to this embodiment, when an upward force is applied to the protrusions 31 and 32, deformation and damage to the protrusions 31 and 32 can be suppressed.

[0079] In the figures, the center of gravity G1 of the drive device 1 according to this embodiment is illustrated. In the following description, the center of gravity of the drive device 1 will be referred to as the first center of gravity G1. The first center of gravity G1 is the center of gravity of the drive device 1 when it is assembled into a vehicle. Fluid O that can be stored in the drive device 1 is sometimes supplied to the drive device 1 after it is assembled into the vehicle. The first center of gravity G1 is the center of gravity of the drive device 1 before fluid O such as oil is stored inside the housing 6. Alternatively, the first center of gravity G1 may also be the center of gravity of the drive device 1 containing fluid O after fluid O has been stored inside the housing 6.

[0080] In this embodiment, the motor 2 is the heaviest component constituting the drive device 1. Therefore, the first center of gravity G1 is likely to be located near the motor 2. In this embodiment, the first center of gravity G1 is located within the internal space of the first receiving portion 6A.

[0081] in addition, Figure 4 The diagram illustrates an imaginary line VL connecting the first hole 31h and the second hole 32h. The imaginary line VL only needs to pass through at least a portion of the internal space of the first hole 31h and at least a portion of the internal space of the second hole 32h. That is, the imaginary line VL only needs to pass through any one of a plurality of imaginary straight lines passing through both the internal spaces of the first hole 31h and the second hole 32h.

[0082] like Figure 2 As shown, the drive device 1 is suspended by hooking hooks F onto the first hole 31h and the second hole 32h respectively. That is, the drive device 1 in the suspended state is supported at two points with reference to the first hole 31h and the second hole 32h. The drive device 1 in the suspended state can rotate about an imaginary line VL connecting the support points of the two points. The drive device 1 in the suspended state is stably stationary when the sum of the torques about the imaginary line VL is 0. That is, the drive device 1 in the suspended state is stationary when the first center of gravity G1 is positioned directly below the imaginary line VL.

[0083] like Figure 4 As shown, in the drive device 1 of this embodiment, the first center of gravity G1 overlaps with the imaginary line VL in the vertical direction. As described above, the vertical direction of the drive device 1 is defined when the drive device 1 is installed in the vehicle. Therefore, when viewed from the vertical direction, the first center of gravity G1 overlaps with the imaginary line when the drive device 1 is installed in the vehicle. According to the drive device 1 of this embodiment, it is possible to maintain the posture of being installed in the vehicle in a suspended state. Therefore, the drive device 1 can be installed in the vehicle without adjusting its posture from the state of being suspended, which simplifies the assembly operation of the drive device 1 into the vehicle. Moreover, according to this embodiment, even when the drive device 1 installed in the vehicle is detached from the vehicle and lifted, the posture of the drive device 1 is stable during lifting, so a safer lifting operation of the drive device 1 can be performed. In addition, in the drive device 1 of this embodiment, not only can the posture of being installed in the vehicle be maintained during lifting before installation, but it can also be adjusted to a posture that is easy to install into the vehicle after lifting. In this case, the drive unit 1 can be easily installed on the vehicle, simplifying the assembly process of the drive unit 1 onto the vehicle.

[0084] The drive device 1 is preferably placed on the ground or conveyor equipment in a factory or similar location in the same posture as when installed in a vehicle or in a posture that facilitates assembly into a vehicle. In this case, when the drive device 1 is placed on the ground or similar location, its first center of gravity G1 overlaps with the imaginary line VL when viewed from above. When the drive device 1 of this embodiment is lifted from the ground or similar location, or lowered to the ground or similar location, its posture can be stabilized.

[0085] like Figure 2 As shown, in the drive device 1 of this embodiment, the imaginary line VL passes through the first receiving portion 6A. Here, "the imaginary line VL passes through the first receiving portion 6A" means that at least a portion of the first receiving portion 6A is disposed on the imaginary line VL. In this specification, the first receiving portion 6A is a wall-like portion surrounding the space where the motor 2 is disposed (motor receiving space). Therefore, "the imaginary line VL passes through the first receiving portion 6A" means that the imaginary line VL passes through the wall-like portion surrounding the motor receiving space. The imaginary line VL may pass through the first receiving portion 6A and the motor receiving space surrounded by the first receiving portion 6A, or it may pass through the first receiving portion 6A without passing through the motor receiving space.

[0086] According to this embodiment, the imaginary line VL passes through the first receiving portion 6A, thereby allowing the imaginary line VL to be positioned close to the first center of gravity G1 disposed within the interior space of the first receiving portion 6A. The drive device 1 is sometimes disposed on the ground or elsewhere in an inclined position relative to its position when mounted in a vehicle. In this case, the first center of gravity G1 of the drive device 1, when viewed from above or below, does not overlap with the imaginary line VL, but is offset from it. When the drive device 1 in this state is to be lifted using the hook F attached to the first hole 31h and the second hole 32h, the drive device 1 rotates around the imaginary line VL until the first center of gravity G1 moves directly below the imaginary line VL. According to this embodiment, by bringing the imaginary line VL close to the first center of gravity G1, the torque around the imaginary line VL when lifting the drive device 1 can be reduced. As a result, the change in the posture of the drive device 1 when lifting it can be slowed down.

[0087] like Figure 4As shown, in this embodiment, the first hole 31h is located on one side of the axial direction (+Y side) and one side of the first direction (-X side) relative to the first center of gravity G1. The second hole 32h is located on the other side of the axial direction (-Y side) and one side of the first direction (+X side) relative to the first center of gravity G1. In this embodiment, a portion of the transmission mechanism 3 is disposed on one side of the axial direction (+Y side) and one side of the first direction (-X side) of the motor 2. Therefore, the center of gravity of the transmission mechanism 3 is located on one side of the axial direction (+Y side) and one side of the first direction (-X side) relative to the first center of gravity G1. On the other hand, the center of gravity of the motor 2 is located on the other side of the axial direction (-Y side) and one side of the first direction (+X side) relative to the first center of gravity G1. According to this embodiment, the first hole 31h can be disposed near the center of gravity of the transmission mechanism 3, and the second hole 32h can be disposed near the center of gravity of the motor 2. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the angular momentum of the drive device 1 around the imaginary line VL when the drive device 1 rotates around the imaginary line VL in the suspended state, and it is possible to easily operate the posture of the drive device 1 in the suspended state.

[0088] In this embodiment, the first hole 31h is provided on one side (-X side) of the protrusion 6Ba relative to the first axis J1 in the first direction. According to this embodiment, the drive device 1 can be suspended at the protrusion 6Ba, and by reducing the portion of the protrusion 6Ba that protrudes relative to the suspension position, the drive device 1 can be suspended stably. According to this embodiment, the operation of the drive device 1 in the suspended state becomes easier, and the movement of the drive device 1 can be easily performed. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the second hole 32h is provided on the other side (+X side) of the first axis J1 in the first direction in the first receiving portion 6A. According to this embodiment, by arranging the second hole 32h on the opposite side of the protrusion 6Ba in the first direction X, the first hole 31h and the second hole 32h can be configured to be sufficiently separated, enabling the drive device 1 to be suspended stably.

[0089] Figure 6 This is a top view of the housing body 61 of this embodiment as viewed from above. Figure 6 The diagram illustrates the center of gravity G2 of the housing body 61 according to this embodiment, as well as the imaginary line VL connecting the first hole 31h and the second hole 32h. In the following description, the center of gravity of the housing body 61 will be referred to as the second center of gravity G2. Here, the second center of gravity G2 is the center of gravity of a single component unit on the housing body 61 without any other components mounted on it.

[0090] In the housing body 61 of this embodiment, the second center of gravity G2 overlaps with the imaginary line VL in the vertical direction. In the housing 6 of this embodiment, since a first hole 31h and a second hole 32h are provided on the housing body 61, the housing body 61 can be lifted by hooking the hook F onto the first hole 31h and the second hole 32h. Furthermore, the housing body 61 of this embodiment can be lifted in the same posture as when installed in a vehicle or in a posture that facilitates assembly into a vehicle, thus simplifying the assembly process.

[0091] The housing body 61 of this embodiment is preferably placed on the ground or conveying equipment in a factory or similar location in the same posture as when installed in a vehicle or in a posture that facilitates assembly into a vehicle. In this case, when the housing body 61 is placed on the ground, the second center of gravity G2 overlaps with the imaginary line VL when viewed from the vertical direction. According to the housing body 61 of this embodiment, rotation of the housing body 61 around the imaginary line VL can be suppressed when it is lifted from or lowered to the ground.

[0092] In the drive device 1 of this embodiment, both the first center of gravity G1 and the second center of gravity G2 overlap with the imaginary line VL in the vertical direction. However, as long as either the first center of gravity G1 or the second center of gravity G2 overlaps with the imaginary line VL in the vertical direction, they can be stably lifted during the assembly of the drive device 1 or during assembly using the housing body 61. That is, in the drive device 1 of this embodiment, at least one of the center of gravity G2 of the housing body 61 and the center of gravity G1 of the drive device 1 overlaps with the imaginary line VL in the vertical direction.

[0093] like Figure 2 As shown, in this embodiment, the second center of gravity G2 is disposed within the internal space of the first receiving portion 6A. Furthermore, as described above, the imaginary line VL passes through the first receiving portion 6A. According to this embodiment, by arranging the imaginary line VL close to the second center of gravity G2, the torque around the imaginary line VL when suspending the housing body 61 can be reduced. Therefore, when suspending the housing body 61, which is disposed on the ground or elsewhere, in an inclined position relative to its position when installed in a vehicle, the change in the posture of the housing body 61 during suspension can be made smoother. This allows for easy manipulation of the posture of the housing body 61 in the suspended state.

[0094] In the drive device 1 of this embodiment, the case where both the first center of gravity G1 and the second center of gravity G2 are located within the internal space of the first receiving portion 6A and are arranged near the imaginary line VL has been described. However, it is also possible to arrange only either the first center of gravity G1 or the second center of gravity G2 within the internal space of the first receiving portion 6A. That is, in the drive device 1 of this embodiment, as long as at least one of the center of gravity G2 of the housing body 61 and the center of gravity G1 of the drive device 1 is located within the internal space of the first receiving portion 6A, the above-described effect can be obtained for either the housing body 61 or the drive device 1.

[0095] like Figure 3 As shown, in this embodiment, the first hole 31h and the second hole 32h are located above the first axis J1. According to this embodiment, since the holes 31h and 32h are located above the first axis J1, they can be positioned above the first center of gravity G1 and the second center of gravity G2. This allows for the stable lifting of the drive unit 1 or the housing body 61 from the first hole 31h and the second hole 32h. Furthermore, according to this embodiment, it is easy to install and remove the hook F relative to the holes 31h and 32h from the upper side of the drive unit 1. Therefore, it is easy to install and remove the hook F from the drive unit 1 when it is installed in a vehicle. Additionally, when the holes 31h and 32h are threaded holes, their location above the first axis J1 facilitates the installation of lifting tools such as eye bolts relative to the holes 31h and 32h.

[0096] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first hole 31h and the second hole 32h are located above the rotation axes (second axis J2 and third axis J3) of the plurality of gears 42, 43, 51 of the transmission mechanism 3. According to this embodiment, the holes 31h and 32h are located above the second axis J2 and the third axis J3, thereby enabling the drive device 1 or the housing body 61 to be stably lifted using the hook F. Moreover, according to this embodiment, the installation and removal of the hook F relative to the holes 31h and 32h can be easily performed from the upper side of the drive device 1.

[0097] In this embodiment, the second hole 32h is located above the first hole 31h. That is, in this embodiment, the first hole 31h and the second hole 32h are positioned at different locations in the vertical direction. According to this embodiment, when the drive device 1 is lifted by moving the two hooks F upwards while keeping them at the same height, one hook F lifts the drive device 1 before the other. In this case, compared to lifting the first hole 31h and the second hole 32h simultaneously using both hooks F, the drive device 1 moves smoothly away from the mounting surface or the ground, thus enabling a safer lifting operation. The same effect can be obtained when lowering the drive device 1 onto the vehicle's mounting surface or the ground. In this embodiment, the case where the second hole 32h is located above the first hole 31h has been described, but the first hole 31h can also be located above the second hole 32h. In this case, compared with the case where the first hole 31h and the second hole 32h are lifted simultaneously using two hooks F, the drive device 1 moves away slowly from the setting surface or the ground, thus enabling a safer lifting operation.

[0098] In this embodiment, both the first hole 31h and the second hole 32h are located at positions different from the housing 6 when viewed axially. The housing 6 is not positioned along the extension line of the axial projection of the holes 31h and 32h. According to this embodiment, the housing 6 does not easily obstruct the operation when an operator or other person hooks the hook F onto the holes 31h and 32h axially. Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the hook F can be hooked onto the holes 31h and 32h from both sides axially. Therefore, the lifting operation of the drive device 1 can be easily performed by operators or other personnel.

[0099] like Figure 1 As shown, in the drive device 1 of this embodiment, the third housing 6C is composed of a box-shaped portion 6f of the housing body 61 and a third cover member 64. Furthermore, the control unit 7 is disposed in the space surrounded by the box-shaped portion 6f and the third cover member 64. Since the housing body 61 of this embodiment has holes 31h and 32h, the housing body 61 undergoes slight elastic deformation due to the weight of the drive device 1 when it is lifted. In the drive device 1 of this embodiment, the control unit 7 is fixed to the third cover member 64. According to this embodiment, it is possible to suppress the load applied to the control unit 7 due to the elastic deformation of the housing body 61 during lifting.

[0100] In this embodiment, the housing 6 is provided with two protrusions 31 and 32, and each of the two protrusions 31 and 32 is provided with a hole 31h and 32h, respectively. According to the housing 6 of this embodiment, compared with the case where three or more protrusions are provided, the housing 6 can be miniaturized and the structure of the housing 6 can be simplified.

[0101] <Variation Example>

[0102] Hereinafter, variations of the drive device will be described. In the description of each variation, the same reference numerals are used for the same components as those in the already described embodiments or variations, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0103] (Variation Example 1)

[0104] Figure 7 This is a top view of the drive device 101 of Modified Example 1, viewed from above. Similar to the embodiment described above, the drive device 101 of Modified Example 1 has a housing 106 with a first protrusion 131 and a second protrusion 132 on its outer surface. Furthermore, a first hole 131h is provided on the first protrusion 131, and a second hole 132h is provided on the second protrusion 132. Also, similar to the embodiment described above, the first center of gravity G1 (or the second center of gravity G2) overlaps vertically with the imaginary line VL connecting the first hole 131h and the second hole 132h.

[0105] In this modified example, both the first protrusion 131 and the second protrusion 132 are provided on the housing body 61. In this modified example, the first protrusion 131 is provided on the outer side of the second receiving portion 6B. The first protrusion 131 protrudes from the second flange portion 61k toward the other side (+X side) in the first direction.

[0106] On the other hand, in this modified example, the second protrusion 132 is provided on the outer surface of the first receiving portion 6A. The second protrusion 132 is provided on the box-shaped portion 6f. In addition, the second protrusion 132 protrudes to one side (-X side) in the first direction.

[0107] In this modified example, the first hole 131h is located on one side of the axial direction (+Y side) and the other side of the first direction (+X side) relative to the first center of gravity G1. On the other hand, the second hole 132h is located on the other side of the axial direction (-Y side) and the other side of the first direction (-X side) relative to the first center of gravity G1. According to this modified example, the holes 131h and 132h can be provided in the second receiving portion 6B and the third receiving portion 6C, instead of the first receiving portion 6A. As a result, it is possible to suppress the application of load to the first receiving portion 6A during lifting. Moreover, in this modified example, since the third receiving portion 6C is arranged above the first receiving portion 6A, it is easy to arrange the second hole 132h provided in the third receiving portion on the upper end side of the drive device 101, and the drive device 101 can be stably suspended. Furthermore, when the drive device 101 is installed in the vehicle, by placing the second hole 132h on the upper side of the drive device 101, it is easy to approach the second hole 132h from above, and the operator can easily hook the hook F onto the second hole 132h.

[0108] (Variation Example 2)

[0109] Figure 8 This is a top view of the drive device 201 of Modified Example 2, viewed from above. Similar to the embodiment described above, the drive device 201 of Modified Example 2 has a housing 206 with a first protrusion 31 and a second protrusion 232 on its outer surface. Furthermore, a first hole 31h is provided on the first protrusion 31, and a second hole 232h is provided on the second protrusion 232. Moreover, similar to the embodiment described above, the first center of gravity G1 overlaps vertically with the imaginary line VL connecting the first hole 31h and the second hole 232h.

[0110] The first protrusion 31 in this modified example has the same structure as in the embodiment described above. That is, the first protrusion 31 in this modified example protrudes from the second flange 61k of the housing body 61 toward one side (-X side) in the first direction.

[0111] On the other hand, in this modified example, a second protrusion 232 is provided on the first cover member 63. The second protrusion 232 protrudes from the first cover member 63 to the other side (+X side) in the first direction.

[0112] According to this modified example, the first hole 31h is provided on the housing body 61, and the second hole 232h is provided on the first cover member 63. According to this modified example, by providing the second hole 232h on the member (first cover member 63) on the axially opposite side (-Y side) of the housing body 61, it is possible to ensure that the distance between the first hole 31h and the second hole 232h is large, which makes it easier to stabilize the posture of the suspended drive device 201.

[0113] (Variation Example 3)

[0114] Figure 9 This is a top view of the drive device 301 of Modified Example 3, viewed from above. Similar to the embodiment described above, the drive device 301 of Modified Example 3 has a housing 306 with a first protrusion 331 and a second protrusion 32 on its outer surface. Furthermore, a first hole 331h is provided on the first protrusion 331, and a second hole 32h is provided on the second protrusion 32. Moreover, similar to the embodiment described above, the first center of gravity G1 overlaps vertically with the imaginary line VL connecting the first hole 331h and the second hole 32h.

[0115] In this modified example, the first protrusion 331 is provided on the outer surface of the second receiving portion 6B. The first protrusion 331 is provided on the second cover member 62. The first protrusion 331 protrudes from the third flange portion 62k toward one side (-X side) in the first direction.

[0116] On the other hand, the second protrusion 32 in this modified example has the same structure as in the above embodiment. That is, the second protrusion 32 in this modified example protrudes from the first flange 61f of the housing body 61 toward the other side (+X side) in the first direction.

[0117] According to this modified example, the first hole 331h is provided on the second cover member 62, and the second hole 32h is provided on the housing body 61. According to this modified example, by providing the first hole 331h on the member (second cover member 62) which is on the side (+Y side) closer to the axial direction than the housing body 61, it is possible to ensure that the distance between the first hole 331h and the second hole 32h is large, which makes it easier to stabilize the posture of the suspended drive device 301.

[0118] (Variation Example 4)

[0119] Figure 10 This is a top view of the drive device 401 of Modified Example 4, viewed from above. Similar to the embodiment described above, the drive device 401 of Modified Example 4 has a housing 406 with a first protrusion 331 and a second protrusion 232 on its outer surface. Furthermore, a first hole 331h is provided on the first protrusion 331, and a second hole 232h is provided on the second protrusion 232. Moreover, similar to the embodiment described above, the first center of gravity G1 overlaps vertically with the imaginary line VL connecting the first hole 331h and the second hole 232h.

[0120] The first protrusion 331 in this modified example has the same structure as in modified example 3. That is, the first protrusion 331 is provided on the outer side of the second receiving portion 6B. The first protrusion 331 is provided on the second cover member 62. The first protrusion 331 protrudes from the third flange portion 62k toward one side (-X side) in the first direction.

[0121] The second protrusion 232 in this modification has the same structure as in modification 2. That is, the second protrusion 232 is provided on the first cover member 63. The second protrusion 232 protrudes from the first cover member 63 to the other side (+X side) in the first direction.

[0122] According to this modified example, the first hole 331h is provided on the second cover member 62, and the second hole 232h is provided on the first cover member 63. According to this modified example, it is possible to ensure that the distance between the first hole 331h and the second hole 232h is large, which makes it easier to stabilize the posture of the suspended drive device 401.

[0123] (Variation Example 5)

[0124] Figure 11This is a top view of the drive device 501 of Modified Example 5, viewed from above. The drive device 501 of this modified example, like the embodiment described above, includes a control unit 507. Furthermore, the control unit 507 includes an inverter 507A connected to the motor 2 and a power integration system 507B connected to the inverter 507A. In the housing 506 of this modified example, the inverter 507A and the power integration system 507B are housed in different housings. In the following description, the housing housing the inverter 507A will be referred to as the third housing housing 506D, and the housing housing the power integration system 507B will be referred to as the fourth housing housing 506C. The housing 506 of this modified example has a first housing housing 6A, a second housing housing 6B, a third housing housing 506D, and a fourth housing housing 506C.

[0125] In this variation, the third receiving portion 506D is located on the opposite side (-Y side) of the axial direction of the first receiving portion 6A. Similarly, as in the embodiment described above, the second receiving portion 6B is located on one side (+Y) of the axial direction of the first receiving portion 6A. Therefore, in this variation, the second receiving portion 6B and the third receiving portion 506D are arranged on opposite sides of the first receiving portion 6A in the axial Y direction. Furthermore, according to this variation, by arranging a portion of the control portion 507 on the opposite side (-Y side) of the axial direction of the motor 2, the motor 2 can be miniaturized in the vertical direction.

[0126] The first housing portion 6A of this modification has a housing body 563 and a cover 565. The housing body 563 is fastened to a first flange 61f provided on the first peripheral wall portion 6d of the housing body 61. The housing body 563 covers the opening on the other side (-Y side) of the axial direction of the first peripheral wall portion 6d. The housing body 563 is box-shaped with an opening on the other side (-Y side) of the axial direction. The opening of the housing body 563 is covered by the cover 565. The inverter 507A is disposed in the space surrounded by the housing body 563 and the cover 565.

[0127] Similar to the embodiment described above, a first protrusion 31 and a second protrusion 532 are provided on the outer surface of the housing 506. Furthermore, a first hole 31h is provided on the first protrusion 31, and a second hole 532h is provided on the second protrusion 532. Moreover, the first center of gravity G1 overlaps vertically with the imaginary line VL connecting the first hole 31h and the second hole 532h.

[0128] The first protrusion 31 in this modified example has the same structure as in the embodiment described above. That is, the first protrusion 31 in this modified example protrudes from the second flange 61k of the housing body 61 toward one side (-X side) in the first direction. The first hole 31h is provided in the housing body 61.

[0129] In this modified example, the second protrusion 532 is provided in the third receiving portion 506D. That is, the second hole 532h is provided in the receiving portion body 563. The second protrusion 532 protrudes from the receiving portion body 563 to the other side (+X side) in the first direction.

[0130] According to this modification, the first hole 31h is provided in the second receiving portion 6B at a position on the side (-X side) closer to the first axis J1 in the first direction. Furthermore, the second hole 532h is provided in the third receiving portion 506D at a position on the other side (+X side) closer to the first axis J1 in the first direction. According to this modification, a large distance between the first hole 31h and the second hole 532h can be ensured, making it easier to stabilize the posture of the suspended drive device 501. According to this modification, by providing the second hole 532h in the third receiving portion 506D located on the other side (-Y side) of the axial direction of the motor 2, the second hole 532h can be configured to be separate from the fourth receiving portion 506C. Therefore, the second protrusion 532 is less likely to obstruct the connector portion and cable extending from the fourth receiving portion 506C, increasing the freedom of arrangement for the connector portion and cable.

[0131] (Variation Example 6)

[0132] Figure 12 This is a front view of the drive device 601 of Modified Example 6, viewed from the other side (-Y side) along the axial direction. Similar to the embodiment described above, the drive device 601 of Modified Example 6 has a housing 606 with a first protrusion 31 and a second protrusion 632 provided on its outer surface. Furthermore, a first hole 31h is provided on the first protrusion 31, and a second hole 632h is provided on the second protrusion 632. Moreover, similar to the embodiment described above, the first center of gravity G1 and the second center of gravity G2 overlap vertically with the imaginary line VL connecting the first hole 31h and the second hole 632h.

[0133] In this modified example, the second protrusion 632 is located on the opposite side (-Y side) of the axial direction of the third receiving portion 6C, and overlaps with the third receiving portion 6C when viewed from the axial direction. Therefore, the second hole 632h overlaps with the housing 606 in the axial direction. According to this modified example, the protrusion 632 with the second hole 632h can be suppressed from protruding from the outer shape of the housing 606 when viewed from the axial direction, and miniaturization of the drive device 601 can be achieved.

[0134] (Variation Example 7)

[0135] Figure 13This is a front view of the drive device 701 of Modified Example 7, viewed from the other side (-Y side) along the axial direction. Similar to the embodiment described above, the drive device 701 of Modified Example 7 has a housing 706 with a first protrusion 731 and a second protrusion 32 on its outer surface. Furthermore, a first hole 731h is provided on the first protrusion 731, and a second hole 32h is provided on the second protrusion 32. Moreover, similar to the embodiment described above, the first center of gravity G1 and the second center of gravity G2 overlap vertically with the imaginary line VL connecting the first hole 731h and the second hole 32h.

[0136] In this modified example, the first protrusion 731 is located on one side (+Y side) of the axial direction of the third receiving portion 6C, and overlaps with the third receiving portion 6C when viewed from the axial direction. Therefore, the first hole 731h overlaps with the housing 706 in the axial direction. According to this modified example, the protrusion 731 with the first hole 731h can be suppressed from protruding from the outer shape of the housing 706 when viewed from the axial direction, and the miniaturization of the drive device 701 can be achieved.

[0137] Here, as a variation 6, the second hole 632h overlaps with the housing 606 in the axial direction is illustrated, and as a variation 7, the first hole 731h overlaps with the housing 706 in the axial direction is illustrated. However, both the first hole and the second hole can overlap with the housing in the axial direction separately. That is, as long as at least one of the first hole and the second hole overlaps with the housing in the axial direction, it is possible to suppress the protrusion of the protrusion having the hole from the housing. For example, it is possible to suppress interference between the protrusion and the vehicle when the drive device is assembled into the vehicle.

[0138] (Variation Example 8)

[0139] Figure 14 This is an enlarged perspective view of the protrusion 831 in Modified Example 8, which can be adopted from either or both of the two protrusions 31 and 32 in this embodiment. Similar to the embodiment described above, the protrusion 831 in this modified example is a plate-shaped protrusion extending from the outer side of the housing 806 along a plane orthogonal to the axial direction Y. Furthermore, a hole 831h is provided on the protrusion 831, extending through along the axial direction Y. When the drive device is lifted, the hook F is hooked onto the hole 831h.

[0140] In this modified example, the protrusion 831 has an opening 831c that is radially cut open along the hole 831h. The opening 831c extends in the first direction X. A flexible tubular portion T passes through the hole 831h, for example. That is, the protrusion 831 holds wiring or conduit. The tubular portion T is inserted into the hole 831h through the opening 831c. Therefore, it is preferable that the width of the opening 831c is approximately the same as or larger than the diameter of the tubular portion T. However, the width of the opening 831c may also be smaller than the diameter of the tubular portion T. In addition, in this modified example, the case of holding one tubular portion T on the protrusion 831 is described, but the protrusion 831 may also allow multiple tubular portions T to pass through the hole 831h in a bundle, thereby holding multiple tubular portions T together.

[0141] The tubular portion T is a wiring or conduit extending from the outer surface of the third housing portion 6C. When the tubular portion T is a wiring, it electrically connects the control unit 7 to external electronic equipment. In this case, one end of the tubular portion T is connected to the control unit 7 inside the third housing portion 6C (see reference). Figure 1 One end of the tubular section T is connected to the third housing 6C, and the other end is connected to the battery, auxiliary equipment, vehicle control unit, etc. When the tubular section T is a pipe, refrigerant or cooling water flows within it. In this case, one end of the tubular section T is connected to the flow path of the third housing 6C, and the other end is connected to the radiator, pump, first housing 6A, etc. Furthermore, the configuration of the tubular section T in this modified example is just one example; other configurations are also possible. For example, the tubular section T may also be a wiring or piping that is not connected to the third housing 6C.

[0142] According to this modified example, by allowing the wiring or conduit to pass through the hole 831h, the protrusion 831 holds the wiring or conduit. This suppresses interference between the wiring or conduit and components surrounding the drive equipment. Furthermore, when multiple wirings or conduits pass through the hole 831h, the protrusion 831 can hold them together, effectively suppressing interference between the multiple wirings or conduits and components surrounding the drive equipment.

[0143] (Variation Example 9)

[0144] Figure 15 This is an enlarged perspective view of the protrusion 931 in Modified Example 9, which can be adopted from either or both of the two protrusions 31 and 32 in this embodiment. Similar to the embodiment described above, the protrusion 931 in this modified example is a plate-shaped part that protrudes from the outer side of the housing 906 and extends along a plane orthogonal to the axial direction Y. Furthermore, a hole 931h extending along the axial direction Y is provided on the protrusion 931.

[0145] In this modified example, the housing 906 has a rib 939 that connects the outer surface of the housing 906 and the protrusion 931. The rib 939 reinforces the protrusion 931 and can suppress deformation or damage to the protrusion 931 when a force is applied to it.

[0146] In this modified example, the rib 939 extends along the thickness direction (i.e., axial Y) of the protrusion 931. According to this modified example, the rib 939 can supplement the rigidity and strength of the protrusion 931 in the thickness direction. Furthermore, the extension direction of the rib 939 in this modified example is an example. The rib 939 can extend in a direction perpendicular to the thickness direction of the protrusion 931.

[0147] The above describes the embodiments of this utility model. However, the structures and combinations thereof in the embodiments are merely examples. Without departing from the spirit of this utility model, additions, omissions, substitutions, and other modifications to the structures are possible. Furthermore, this utility model is not limited to the embodiments described above.

[0148] Furthermore, the structure of the transmission mechanism shown in the above embodiments and their variations is only one example. The transmission mechanism could also be one in which the first shaft and the output shaft are arranged coaxially. In this case, a portion of the output shaft passes through the radially inner side of the rotor. Additionally, the first axis J1, the third axis J3, and the second axis J2 may not be arranged along the first direction X. For example, at least one of the first axis J1, the third axis J3, and the second axis J2 may be positioned vertically at a different location than the other two.

[0149] Note that this technology can be configured as follows.

[0150] (1) A drive device comprising: a motor having a rotor capable of rotating about a first axis; a transmission mechanism located on one side of the axial direction of the motor and transmitting rotation of the rotor; and a housing having a first receiving portion for receiving the motor and a second receiving portion for receiving the transmission mechanism, a first hole and a second hole provided on the outer side of the housing, an imaginary line connecting the first hole and the second hole passing through the first receiving portion, the housing having a housing body having a cylindrical peripheral wall portion surrounding the motor from the radially outer side of the first axis, at least one of the center of gravity of the housing body and the center of gravity of the drive device overlapping the imaginary line in the vertical direction.

[0151] (2) The drive device according to (1), wherein at least one of the center of gravity of the housing and the center of gravity of the drive device is located in the interior space of the first receiving part, and the imaginary line passes through the first receiving part.

[0152] (3) The drive device according to (1) or (2), wherein a direction orthogonal to both the axial direction and the up-down direction is defined as a first direction, the transmission mechanism has a gear capable of rotating about a second axis parallel to the first axis, the second axis being located on one side of the first direction relative to the first axis when viewed from the axial direction, the first hole being located on one side of the axial direction and on one side of the first direction relative to the center of gravity of the drive device, and the second hole being located on the other side of the axial direction and on the other side of the first direction relative to the center of gravity of the drive device.

[0153] (4) The drive device according to (1) or (2), wherein a direction orthogonal to both the axial direction and the vertical direction is defined as a first direction, the transmission mechanism has a gear capable of rotating about a second axis parallel to the first axis, the second axis being located on one side of the first direction relative to the first axis when viewed from the axial direction, the first hole being located on one side of the axial direction and on the other side of the first direction relative to the center of gravity of the drive device, and the second hole being located on the other side of the axial direction and on one side of the first direction relative to the center of gravity of the drive device.

[0154] (5) The drive device according to any one of (1) to (4), wherein a direction orthogonal to both the axial direction and the vertical direction is defined as a first direction, the second receiving portion has a protrusion protruding to one side of the first receiving portion in the first direction, the first hole portion is provided on one side of the protrusion relative to the first axis in the first direction, and the second hole portion is provided on the other side of the first receiving portion relative to the first axis in the first direction.

[0155] (6) The drive device according to any one of (1) to (5), wherein the housing body is a single component and both the first hole and the second hole are provided on the housing body.

[0156] (7) The drive device according to any one of (1) to (5), wherein the housing has a first cover member connected to the peripheral wall portion and covering an opening on the other side of the axial direction of the peripheral wall portion, a first hole portion being disposed in the housing body, and a second hole portion being disposed in the first cover member.

[0157] (8) The drive device according to any one of (1) to (5), wherein the housing has: the housing body having a wall portion covering the transmission mechanism from the other side of the axial direction; and a second cover member covering the transmission mechanism from one side of the axial direction, the first hole portion being disposed in the second cover member and the second hole portion being disposed in the housing body.

[0158] (9) The drive device according to any one of (1) to (5), wherein the housing has: the housing body having a wall portion covering the transmission mechanism from the other side of the axial direction; a first cover member connected to the peripheral wall portion and having an opening covering the peripheral wall portion from the other side of the axial direction; and a second cover member covering the transmission mechanism from one side of the axial direction, wherein a first hole portion is disposed in the second cover member and a second hole portion is disposed in the first cover member.

[0159] (10) The drive device according to any one of (1) to (5), wherein it includes a control unit connected to the motor, the housing has a third receiving portion for receiving the control unit, the second receiving portion is located on one side of the axial direction of the first receiving portion, the third receiving portion is located on the other side of the axial direction of the first receiving portion, a direction orthogonal to both the axial direction and the vertical direction is defined as a first direction, the first hole is provided in the second receiving portion on one side of the first direction relative to the first axis, and the second hole is provided in the third receiving portion on the other side of the first direction relative to the first axis.

[0160] (11) The drive device according to any one of (1) to (10), wherein at least one of the first hole and the second hole is a through hole through a protrusion protruding from the outer side of the housing.

[0161] (12) The drive device according to (11), wherein the protrusion is plate-shaped and extends along a plane orthogonal to the axial direction, and the through hole penetrates the protrusion in the axial direction.

[0162] (13) The drive device according to (11) or (12), wherein the housing has ribs connecting the outer side of the housing and the protrusion.

[0163] (14) The drive device according to any one of (1) to (13), wherein the first hole and the second hole are located on the upper side of the first axis.

[0164] (15) The drive device according to any one of (1) to (14), wherein the transmission mechanism has a plurality of gears, and the first hole and the second hole are located above the rotation axes of the plurality of gears.

[0165] (16) The driving device according to any one of (1) to (15), wherein the first hole and the second hole are disposed at different positions in the vertical direction.

[0166] (17) The drive device according to (12), wherein at least one of the first hole and the second hole is located at a position different from the housing when viewed from the axial direction.

[0167] (18) The drive device according to (12), wherein at least one of the first hole and the second hole overlaps with the housing in the axial direction.

[0168] (19) The drive device according to any one of (1) to (18), wherein at least one of the first hole and the second hole is through which wiring or conduit passes.

[0169] Symbol Explanation

[0170] 1, 101, 201, 301, 401, 501, 601, 701… Drive device, 2… Motor, 3… Transmission mechanism, 6, 106, 206, 306, 406, 506, 606, 706, 806, 906… Housing, 6b… Second side wall (wall), 6d… First peripheral wall (peripheral wall), 6A… First receiving part, 6B… Second receiving part, 6Ba… Protrusion, 506D… Third receiving part, 7, 507… Control part, 20… Rotor, 31, 32, 131, 132, 232, 331, 532… 632, 731, 831, 931…protrusions, 831h, 931h…holes (first hole, second hole), 31h, 131h, 331h, 731h…first hole, 32h, 132h, 232h, 532h, 632h…second hole, 41, 42, 43, 51…gears, 61…body, 62…second cover, 63…first cover, 939…ribs, G1, G2…center of gravity, J1…first axis, J2…second axis, VL…imaginary line, X…first direction, Y…axial direction, Z…upper and lower direction.

Claims

1. A driving device, characterized in that, have: A motor having a rotor capable of rotating about a first axis; A transmission mechanism, located on one side of the motor's axial direction, transmits the rotation of the rotor; and The housing has a first receiving portion for housing the motor and a second receiving portion for housing the transmission mechanism. A first hole and a second hole are provided on the outer surface of the housing. An imaginary line connecting the first hole and the second hole passes through the first receiving portion. The housing has a housing body having a cylindrical peripheral wall portion that surrounds the motor radially outward from the first axis. At least one of the center of gravity of the housing body and the center of gravity of the drive device overlaps with the imaginary line in the vertical direction.

2. The driving device according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least one of the center of gravity of the housing body and the center of gravity of the drive device is located in the internal space of the first receiving part. The imaginary line passes through the first receiving section.

3. The driving device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The direction orthogonal to both the axial direction and the vertical direction is defined as the first direction. The transmission mechanism has a gear capable of rotating about a second axis parallel to the first axis. Viewed from the axial direction, the second axis is located on one side of the first axis relative to the first direction. The first hole is located on one side of the axial direction and on one side of the first direction relative to the center of gravity of the driving device. The second hole is located on the opposite side of the axial direction and on the opposite side of the first direction relative to the center of gravity of the drive device.

4. The driving device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The direction orthogonal to both the axial direction and the vertical direction is defined as the first direction. The transmission mechanism has a gear capable of rotating about a second axis parallel to the first axis. Viewed from the axial direction, the second axis is located on one side of the first axis relative to the first direction. The first hole is located on one side of the axial direction and on the other side of the first direction relative to the center of gravity of the driving device. The second hole is located on the opposite side of the axial direction and on one side of the first direction relative to the center of gravity of the drive device.

5. The driving device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The direction orthogonal to both the axial direction and the vertical direction is defined as the first direction. The second receiving portion has a protrusion that protrudes toward the first receiving portion in the first direction. The first hole is provided on the protrusion on one side of the first axis in the first direction. The second hole is disposed on the other side of the first axis in the first direction in the first receiving portion.

6. The driving device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The main body of the housing is a single component. Both the first hole and the second hole are provided on the housing body.

7. The driving device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing has a first cover component that is connected to the peripheral wall portion and covers the opening on the other side of the axial direction of the peripheral wall portion. The first hole is provided in the housing body. The second hole is provided on the first cover component.

8. The driving device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing has: The housing body has a wall that covers the transmission mechanism from the other side of the axial direction; and A second cover component covers the transmission mechanism from one side of the axial direction. The first hole is provided in the second cover component. The second hole is provided in the housing body.

9. The driving device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing has: The housing body has a wall that covers the transmission mechanism from the other side of the axial direction; A first cover component is connected to the peripheral wall portion and covers the opening on the other side of the axial direction of the peripheral wall portion; as well as A second cover component covers the transmission mechanism from one side of the axial direction. The first hole is provided in the second cover component. The second hole is provided on the first cover component.

10. The driving device according to claim 1, characterized in that, It includes a control unit that is connected to the motor. The housing has a third receiving section for housing the control unit. The second receiving portion is located on one side of the axial direction of the first receiving portion. The third receiving portion is located on the other side of the axial direction of the first receiving portion. The direction orthogonal to both the axial direction and the vertical direction is defined as the first direction. The first hole is disposed on one side of the second receiving portion in the first direction relative to the first axis. The second hole is disposed on the third receiving portion on the other side of the first axis in the first direction.

11. The driving device according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least one of the first hole and the second hole is a through hole that passes through a protrusion extending from the outer side of the housing.

12. The driving device according to claim 11, characterized in that, The protrusion is plate-shaped and extends along a plane orthogonal to the axial direction. The through hole extends through the protrusion in the axial direction.

13. The driving device according to claim 11, characterized in that, The housing has ribs that connect the outer surface of the housing and the protrusion.

14. The driving device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first hole and the second hole are located on the upper side of the first axis.

15. The driving device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The transmission mechanism has multiple gears. The first hole and the second hole are located above the rotation axes of the plurality of gears.

16. The driving device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first hole and the second hole are located at different positions in the vertical direction.

17. The driving device according to claim 12, characterized in that, At least one of the first hole and the second hole is located at a position different from that of the housing when viewed from the axial direction.

18. The driving device according to claim 12, characterized in that, At least one of the first hole and the second hole overlaps with the housing in the axial direction.

19. The driving device according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least one of the first hole and the second hole is through which a wiring or conduit passes.

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