Powertrain Structure and Vehicle

Abstract

This application provides a power transmission structure and vehicle, belonging to the field of vehicle transmission technology. The power transmission structure is used to transmit power from a first splined shaft to a second splined shaft. It includes a sliding sleeve and a universal joint. One end of the sliding sleeve is sleeved and fixed to the second splined shaft. One end of the universal joint is provided with a connecting shaft, which slides through the sliding sleeve and has a circumferential limiting structure between it and the sliding sleeve. The circumferential limiting structure is used to limit the relative rotational freedom between the connecting shaft and the sliding sleeve. The other end of the universal joint is provided with an internal spline hole, which slides through the first splined shaft and has an axial limiting member between it and the first splined shaft. The axial limiting member is used to limit failure when the axial force exceeds a threshold range. Compared with the traditional drive shaft with flanges at both ends for connection, the power transmission structure provided by this application can meet the power transmission needs in compact and narrow spaces, and greatly improves the convenience of disassembly, assembly and maintenance.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application belongs to the field of vehicle transmission technology, and more specifically, relates to a power transmission structure and a vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] The main function of a car's transmission system is to transmit the output torque of the transfer case or gearbox, amplify the speed ratio to the wheels through the final drive, and thus drive the entire vehicle. Currently, most longitudinally mounted four-wheel drive vehicles on the market use a driveshaft with universal flanges at both ends to connect the front final drive and the gearbox for power transmission.

[0003] As current longitudinal four-wheel drive models begin to transition to strong hybrid powertrains, in order to meet the installation space requirements of larger capacity battery packs and reduce the overall vehicle weight, hybrid-specific longitudinal transmissions tend to adopt a smaller longitudinal transmission. However, this results in a very compact arrangement of the transmission and the front final drive, and the use of traditional driveshaft structures poses great difficulties in assembly and later maintenance, which urgently needs improvement. Utility Model Content

[0004] The purpose of this application is to provide a power transmission structure that meets the power transmission needs in confined spaces and improves the ease of assembly and maintenance.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution adopted in this application is as follows: Firstly, embodiments of this application provide a power transmission structure for transmitting power from a first splined shaft to a second splined shaft; the power transmission structure includes:

[0006] A sliding sleeve, one end of which is fitted and fixed to the second splined shaft;

[0007] A universal joint has a connecting shaft at one end, which slides through the sliding sleeve and has a circumferential limiting structure between it and the sliding sleeve. The circumferential limiting structure is used to limit the relative rotational freedom between the connecting shaft and the sliding sleeve. The other end of the universal joint has an internal spline hole, which slides through the first spline shaft and has an axial limiting member between it and the first spline shaft.

[0008] The axial limiting component is used to limit failure when the axial force exceeds a threshold range.

[0009] Compared with the prior art, the technical solution shown in this application embodiment utilizes the inner spline hole at one end of the universal joint to connect with the first spline shaft, while the connecting shaft at the other end of the universal joint slides through one end of the sliding sleeve, and then uses the other end of the sliding sleeve to connect and fix with the second spline shaft. By utilizing the angle adjustment capability of the universal joint and the sliding fit between the sliding sleeve and the connecting shaft, it is possible to cope with the distance deviation and coaxiality deviation of the first spline shaft and the second spline shaft, thereby reducing the assembly accuracy requirements of the first spline shaft and the second spline shaft.

[0010] The power of the first spline shaft can be transmitted to the universal joint by inserting it into the inner spline hole. Then, the power can be transmitted to the sliding sleeve by the circumferential limiting structure between the connecting shaft and the sliding sleeve. Finally, the power is transmitted to the second spline shaft by the spline fit between the sliding sleeve and the second spline shaft. The power transmission is smooth and reliable.

[0011] During assembly, the sliding sleeve can be first fitted together with the connecting shaft and slid until the total length of the two is at its shortest. Then, the inner spline hole is fitted onto the first spline shaft. After fitting in place, the sliding sleeve is slid in the reverse direction to connect and fix it to the second spline shaft. Alternatively, the sliding sleeve can be first connected and fixed to the second spline shaft, and then the inner spline hole is fitted onto the first spline shaft. Compared to traditional drive shafts with flanges at both ends for connection, this method eliminates the need for operating space required for flange removal and installation, thus meeting the power transmission needs in compact and confined spaces.

[0012] Based on the above, when disassembly, maintenance, and inspection are required, an external force is applied to the universal joint to cause the axial limiting component to exceed its threshold range. This causes the axial limiting component to fail between the inner spline hole and the first spline shaft. Since the connecting shaft can slide into the sleeve, the universal joint can be easily removed from the first spline shaft after the axial limiting fails. Compared to the traditional method of removing flange fasteners from drive shafts using tools, the ease of disassembly and assembly is greatly improved.

[0013] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the first spline shaft is provided with a first groove, and the wall of the inner spline hole is provided with a second groove; the axial limiting member is located at the end of the inner spline hole near the connecting shaft, and engages with the first groove and the second groove respectively.

[0014] In the above technical solution, only a first groove and a second groove need to be correspondingly provided on the bore walls of the first spline shaft and the inner spline hole. Then, the axial limiting component can be used to simultaneously engage with the first groove and the second groove to achieve axial limiting of the first spline shaft and the inner spline hole. When disassembly is required, only an axial force away from the first spline shaft needs to be applied to the universal joint to make the axial limiting component bear the axial force. When the axial force exceeds the limit bearing capacity of the axial limiting component, the axial limiting component can lose its axial limiting function by breaking, deforming into the first groove to completely disengage from the second groove, or deforming into the second groove to completely disengage from the first groove, thereby allowing the universal joint to be easily removed from the first spline shaft. Placing the end of the axial limiting component near the inner spline hole allows the axial limiting component to disengage from the first spline shaft by a shorter distance during disassembly and slide into the first groove by a shorter distance during assembly, improving the convenience of disassembly and assembly.

[0015] For example, the axial limiting member is an initially elliptical open retaining ring; wherein, when the inner spline hole is fitted to the first retaining groove and the second retaining groove are aligned, the open retaining ring is partially engaged in the first retaining groove and partially engaged in the second retaining groove; when the first retaining groove and the second retaining groove are axially misaligned, the open retaining ring is entirely embedded in the first retaining groove or the second retaining groove.

[0016] In the above technical solution, the axial limiting component adopts an open retaining ring, which can contract or expand when subjected to radial force. Since the open retaining ring is elliptical, it can be first inserted into the first retaining groove during installation. Then, the pressure of the inner spline hole wall is used to deform the open retaining ring from an elliptical shape into a circle that is embedded in the first retaining groove. When the inner spline hole is fitted onto the first spline shaft and aligned with the second retaining groove, the radial extrusion force of the inner spline hole on the open retaining ring disappears. At this time, the open retaining ring returns to its original shape and forms an elliptical shape based on the toughness or elasticity of its own material. This allows the parts on both sides of its major axis to be embedded in the second retaining groove, while the parts on both sides of its minor axis are still embedded in the first retaining groove, thereby achieving axial positioning of the inner spline hole and the first spline shaft.

[0017] When it is necessary to disassemble the universal joint, simply pry the universal joint away from the first spline shaft, so that the cotter ring is subjected to an axial force exceeding its axial load capacity. This causes the cotter ring to deform and embed itself into the first or second slot, thereby losing its axial limiting effect and allowing the inner spline hole to smoothly disengage from the first spline shaft. Disassembly and assembly are convenient and efficient.

[0018] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the gimbal includes:

[0019] The inner star wheel is provided with the inner spline hole, and a number of ball grooves are distributed at intervals on the outer periphery of the inner star wheel;

[0020] The outer shell has one end encircling the outer periphery of the inner star wheel and forming an annular cavity with the inner star wheel, and the other end is provided with the connecting shaft;

[0021] A retainer is fixedly connected to the outer shell and extends into the annular cavity, and the retainer has a plurality of interlocking holes spaced apart along its circumference;

[0022] Multiple balls are respectively fitted into each of the aforementioned holes, and are respectively rolled into each of the aforementioned ball grooves.

[0023] In the above technical solution, the inner star wheel and the outer shell are connected by ball bearings to form a ball joint structure, allowing the outer shell to swing relative to the inner star wheel at any angle, thereby achieving a universal connection. The power of the first spline shaft is transmitted to the inner star wheel through its engagement with the inner spline hole. Since the inner star wheel has balls in its ball grooves, the inner star wheel can move the balls to rotate within the annular cavity through its ball grooves. The balls, in turn, drive the cage to rotate, thereby transmitting the power to the outer shell through the cage, and finally to the second spline shaft through the connecting shaft on the outer shell and the sliding sleeve.

[0024] In some embodiments, the portion of the housing located between the inner star wheel and the connecting shaft forms a dynamic balancing weight-reducing section.

[0025] In the above technical solution, the traditional drive shaft connection structure requires separate dynamic balancing testing of the drive shaft. By adopting the method of directly connecting the first spline shaft with a universal joint, the step of separate dynamic balancing testing can be eliminated, and the overall dynamic balancing test can be directly adopted. Based on the test results, the dynamic balancing weight-removing part can be adjusted by drilling or other material removal methods, which helps to improve the convenience of dynamic balancing adjustment.

[0026] In some embodiments, one end of the inner star wheel extends out of the annular cavity to form an outer sleeve, and the inner hole of the outer sleeve forms the inner spline hole; the universal joint also includes a flexible sheath, one end of which is fitted onto the outer sleeve, and the other end is fitted onto the outer shell to close the annular cavity.

[0027] In the above technical solution, by setting the outer sleeve, the length of the inner spline hole can be guaranteed, thereby increasing the mating length between the inner spline hole and the first spline shaft and ensuring transmission reliability. On the other hand, the flexible protective sleeve can be installed together with the outer shell based on the extended part of the outer sleeve, thereby preventing external dust from entering the ring cavity and affecting the smooth movement of the ball.

[0028] For example, a sealing ring is provided between the end of the outer sleeve away from the connecting shaft and the first spline shaft.

[0029] In the above technical solution, considering that the ring cavity needs to be filled with grease to ensure the smooth movement of the balls, a sealing ring is set between the outer sleeve and the first spline shaft to prevent the grease from seeping out through the inner spline hole. The sealing ring is set at the end of the outer sleeve away from the connecting shaft, so that the mating part between the inner spline hole and the first spline shaft can be lubricated, thereby facilitating the inner spline hole to be fitted into or removed from the first spline shaft during disassembly and assembly.

[0030] In some embodiments, the power transmission structure further includes a telescopic sleeve, one end of which is fitted onto the sliding sleeve, and the other end of which is fitted onto the end of the connecting shaft near the first spline shaft.

[0031] In the above technical solution, by setting a telescopic sleeve, the part of the connecting shaft extending out of the sleeve can be protected from dust without affecting the axial sliding of the sleeve, thereby preventing dust from entering the sleeve and affecting its axial sliding smoothness.

[0032] For example, the outer periphery of the sliding sleeve is provided with a boss or a groove. The purpose of providing the boss or groove is to provide a leverage point for the disassembly and assembly tools, thereby facilitating disassembly and maintenance.

[0033] Secondly, embodiments of this application also provide a vehicle.

[0034] The vehicle provided in this application embodiment, compared with the prior art, adopts the aforementioned power transmission structure. Compared with the traditional drive shaft connected by flanges at both ends, it eliminates the need for operating space required for flange removal and installation, thus meeting the power transmission requirements in compact and confined spaces. When disassembly, maintenance, and inspection are required, an external force is applied to the universal joint, causing the force on the axial limiting member to exceed its threshold range. This causes the axial limiting member to fail between the inner spline hole and the first spline shaft. Since the connecting shaft can slide into the sleeve, the universal joint can be easily removed from the first spline shaft after the axial limiting fails. Compared with the traditional drive shaft method that requires tools to remove the flange fasteners, the ease of disassembly and assembly is greatly improved. Attached Figure Description

[0035] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0036] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the power transmission structure provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0037] Figure 2 A three-dimensional structural diagram of the power transmission structure provided in the embodiments of this application, excluding the first spline shaft and the second spline shaft;

[0038] Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the power transmission structure provided in the embodiments of this application, excluding the first spline shaft and the second spline shaft;

[0039] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of the first spline shaft and the inner spline hole used in the embodiments of this application;

[0040] Figure 5 This is a front view of the axial limiting member used in the embodiments of this application.

[0041] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly structure of the axial limiting member used in another embodiment of this application.

[0042] In the diagram: 10, front main reducer; 100, second splined shaft; 20, sliding sleeve; 21, boss; 30, universal joint; 301, connecting shaft; 3011, circumferential limiting structure; 302, inner splined hole; 3021, second slot; 31, inner star wheel; 311, outer sleeve; 32, outer shell; 321, dynamic balancing and weight-reducing part; 33, cage; 34, ball bearing; 35, flexible sleeve; 40, axial limiting component; 50, sealing ring; 60, telescopic sleeve; 70, first splined shaft; 701, first slot; 702, insertion hole. Detailed Implementation

[0043] To make the technical problems, technical solutions, and beneficial effects to be solved by this application clearer, the following detailed description is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the scope of this application.

[0044] It should be noted that when an element is referred to as being "located on" another element, it can be directly on the other element or indirectly on the other element. The terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, "a number" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0045] It should be explained that, for the power transmission structure of a vehicle, it typically transmits power from the transmission or transfer case used for outputting power to the wheel reducer, such as the front final drive. The two ends transmitting power usually exist in the form of a splined structure, such as a splined shaft or splined bore. In the following embodiments, the technical solution of this application is explained and illustrated with the purpose of transmitting power from a hybrid longitudinal four-wheel drive transmission to the front final drive. Of course, the power transmission structure provided in this application is not limited to this application; for example, the same structure can also be used to transmit power from the transmission to the rear axle wheel system.

[0046] Combination Figure 1It is understood that since the hybrid longitudinal four-wheel drive transmission outputs power forward via a spline shaft, and the front final drive 10 also receives the power transmitted from its rear via a spline shaft, and considering the compact structure of the hybrid longitudinal four-wheel drive transmission, its output end is integrated with a spline shaft that can swing flexibly based on a universal joint, namely the first spline shaft 70 in the following embodiment, while the spline shaft used by the front final drive 10 to input power is the second spline shaft 100 mentioned in the following embodiment.

[0047] Based on the above, please refer to the following: Figures 1 to 6 The power transmission structure provided in this application is described below. The power transmission structure is used to transmit power from the first splined shaft 70 to the second splined shaft 100. The power transmission structure includes a sliding sleeve 20 and a universal joint 30. One end of the sliding sleeve 20 is sleeved and fixed to the second splined shaft 100. One end of the universal joint 30 is provided with a connecting shaft 301, which slides through the sliding sleeve 20 and has a circumferential limiting structure 3011 between it and the sliding sleeve 20. The circumferential limiting structure 3011 is used to limit the relative rotational freedom between the connecting shaft 301 and the sliding sleeve 20. The other end of the universal joint 30 is provided with an inner spline hole 302, which slides through the first splined shaft 70 and has an axial limiting member 40 between it and the first splined shaft 70. The axial limiting member 40 is used to limit failure when the axial force exceeds a threshold range.

[0048] It should be noted that the fitting structure between the sliding sleeve 20 and the connecting shaft 301 in this embodiment can also be a spline fitting structure. This can realize the axial relative sliding degree of freedom between the two, and can also use the spline fitting structure as the circumferential limiting structure 3011 to restrict the relative rotational degree of freedom between the connecting shaft 301 and the sliding sleeve 20, so that the power can be reliably transmitted to the sliding sleeve 20 through the connecting shaft 301.

[0049] The mating structure between the sliding sleeve 20 and the connecting shaft 301 can also be a mating structure of a hole and shaft with a polygonal cross-section. For example, the connecting shaft 301 is a regular hexagonal prism, and the inner hole of the sliding sleeve 20 is fitted onto the connecting shaft 301 in the form of a regular hexagonal hole to form an axial sliding fit. At this time, the cross-sectional structure of the connecting shaft 301 and the inner hole of the sliding sleeve 20 has already integrated the circumferential limiting structure 3011. Of course, for this type of implementation, considering that the sliding sleeve 20 also needs to mate with the second spline shaft 100, the inner hole of the sliding sleeve 20 can be divided into two different structures. That is, one half of the inner hole of the sliding sleeve 20 is a polygonal cross-section structure that mates with the connecting shaft 301, and the other half is an internal spline structure that mates with the second spline shaft 100.

[0050] In this embodiment, the universal joint 30 can be a ball-type 34 universal joint or a universal joint with a cross shaft structure. Considering the compact structure, a ball-type 34 universal joint is preferred. Here, the universal joint 30 is used to connect with the first spline shaft 70, and at the same time, it cooperates with the universal joint structure integrated in the second spline shaft 100. This allows both ends to swing at an angle to adapt to assembly coaxiality errors.

[0051] Compared with the prior art, the power transmission structure provided in this application utilizes the inner spline hole 302 at one end of the universal joint 30 to be sleeved with the first spline shaft 70, while the connecting shaft 301 at the other end of the universal joint 30 slides through one end of the sliding sleeve 20, and the other end of the sliding sleeve 20 is sleeved and fixed with the second spline shaft 100. By utilizing the angle adjustment capability of the universal joint 30 and the sliding fit between the sliding sleeve 20 and the connecting shaft 301, it is possible to cope with the distance deviation and coaxiality deviation of the first spline shaft 70 and the second spline shaft 100, thereby reducing the assembly accuracy requirements of the first spline shaft 70 and the second spline shaft 100.

[0052] The power of the first spline shaft 70 can be transmitted to the universal joint 30 by the insertion fit between the first spline shaft 70 and the inner spline hole 302. Then, the power can be further transmitted to the sliding sleeve 20 by the circumferential limiting structure 3011 between the connecting shaft 301 and the sliding sleeve 20. Finally, the power is transmitted to the second spline shaft 100 by the spline fit between the sliding sleeve 20 and the second spline shaft 100. The power transmission is smooth and reliable.

[0053] Assembly can begin by fitting the sliding sleeve 20 onto the connecting shaft 301 and sliding the sleeve 20 until the total length of both is minimized. Then, the inner spline hole 302 is fitted onto the first spline shaft 70. Once fitted in place, the sleeve 20 is slid in the reverse direction to connect and secure it to the second spline shaft 100. Alternatively, the sleeve 20 can be connected and secured to the second spline shaft 100 first, and then the inner spline hole 302 can be fitted onto the first spline shaft 70. Compared to traditional drive shafts with flanges at both ends for connection, this method eliminates the need for operating space required for flange assembly and disassembly, thus meeting the power transmission requirements in compact and confined spaces.

[0054] Based on the above, when disassembly, maintenance, and inspection are required, an external force is applied to the universal joint 30 to cause the axial limiting member 40 to experience a force exceeding its threshold range. This causes the axial limiting member 40 to fail in its axial limiting position between the inner spline hole 302 and the first spline shaft 70. Since the connecting shaft 301 can slide into the sliding sleeve 20, the universal joint 30 can be easily removed from the first spline shaft 70 after the axial limiting fails. Compared to the traditional method of removing flange fasteners from drive shafts using tools, the ease of disassembly and assembly is greatly improved.

[0055] In some embodiments, see Figure 3and Figure 4 The first spline shaft 70 is provided with a first slot 701, and the inner spline hole 302 is provided with a second slot 3021 on the hole wall; the axial limiting member 40 is located at the end of the inner spline hole 302 near the connecting shaft 301, and is engaged with the first slot 701 and the second slot 3021 respectively.

[0056] The first slot 701 and the second slot 3021 mentioned above can both be annular or semi-annular groove structures. The axial limiting member 40 should match the size of the first slot 701 and the second slot 3021. Specifically, it can be an elastic ring or a semi-annular structure. During assembly, the toughness or elasticity of the axial limiting member 40 can be used to deform it and embed it into the first slot 701 and the second slot 3021 as a whole. This allows the inner spline hole 302 to gradually fit into the first spline shaft 70. When it is fitted into the first slot 701 and the second slot 3021, the axial limiting member 40 returns to its original shape based on its own toughness or elasticity, forming a state in which part of it is engaged in the first slot 701 and the other part is engaged in the second slot 3021, thereby restricting the axial sliding freedom of the inner spline hole 302 and the first spline shaft 70.

[0057] When disassembly is required, an axial force away from the first spline shaft 70 is applied to the universal joint 30 to allow the axial limiting member 40 to bear the axial force. When the axial force exceeds the limit bearing capacity of the axial limiting member 40, the axial limiting member 40 may lose its axial limiting function by breaking, deforming into the first slot 701 to completely disengage from the second slot 3021, or deforming into the second slot 3021 to completely disengage from the first slot 701, thereby allowing the universal joint 30 to be smoothly removed from the first spline shaft 70.

[0058] The structure of axial limiting member 40 cooperating with the slot replaces the traditional method of bolting the flange. This not only makes the structure more compact, but also requires less operating space for disassembly and assembly. On the basis of the above, placing the end of axial limiting member 40 near the inner spline hole 302 allows axial limiting member 40 to be separated from the first spline shaft 70 by a shorter distance during disassembly, and to slide into the first slot 701 by a shorter distance during assembly, further improving the convenience of disassembly and assembly.

[0059] For example, the axial limiting member 40 described above adopts as follows: Figure 5 The structure shown is as follows. The axial limiting member 40 is an initially elliptical open retaining ring; wherein, when the inner spline hole 302 is fitted into the first retaining groove 701 and the second retaining groove 3021 and aligned, the open retaining ring is partially engaged in the first retaining groove 701 and partially engaged in the second retaining groove 3021; ​​when the first retaining groove 701 and the second retaining groove 3021 are axially misaligned, the open retaining ring is fully engaged in the first retaining groove 701 or the second retaining groove 3021.

[0060] The axial limiting component 40 adopts an open retaining ring, which can be a metal spring with good elasticity and toughness. It can contract or expand when subjected to radial force. Since the open retaining ring is elliptical, it can be first inserted into the first retaining groove 701 during installation. Then, the pressure of the inner spline hole 302 wall will deform the open retaining ring from an elliptical shape into a circle that is fully embedded in the first retaining groove 701. When the inner spline hole 302 is fitted onto the first spline shaft 70 and aligned with the second retaining groove 3021, the radial extrusion force of the inner spline hole 302 on the open retaining ring disappears. At this time, the open retaining ring returns to its original shape and forms an elliptical shape based on the toughness or elasticity of its own material. This allows the parts on both sides of its long axis to be embedded in the second retaining groove 3021, while the parts on both sides of the short axis are still embedded in the first retaining groove 701. This achieves axial positioning of the inner spline hole 302 and the first spline shaft 70.

[0061] When it is necessary to disassemble the universal joint 30, simply pry the universal joint 30 away from the first spline shaft 70, so that the cotter ring is subjected to an axial force exceeding its axial load capacity. This causes the cotter ring to deform and be embedded into the first groove 701 or the second groove 3021, thereby losing the axial limiting effect and allowing the inner spline hole 302 to be smoothly disengaged from the first spline shaft 70. The disassembly and assembly are convenient and efficient.

[0062] It should be explained that the open retaining ring described above in this embodiment can be used as a consumable part. In order to ensure assembly reliability, a new open retaining ring can be replaced each time it is disassembled and reassembled, so as to avoid the open retaining ring being reused because its fatigue strength is insufficient and affects the axial limiting reliability.

[0063] As another axial limiting method, such as Figure 6 As shown, the first slot 701 is a groove located on the edge of the first spline shaft 70 and perpendicular to the axial direction of the first spline shaft 70. The second slot 3021 is a groove located on the wall of the inner spline hole 302, which can be aligned with the first slot 701 to form a circular or polygonal structure for the insertion hole 702. The axial limiting member 40 is a pin that is inserted into the insertion hole 702. For easy disassembly, the pin can be pulled out of the inner spline hole 302 along its axial direction.

[0064] During assembly, when the inner spline hole 302 is fitted onto the first spline shaft 70 and aligned with the first slot 701 and the second slot 3021, the pin is inserted into the insertion hole 702 formed by the two to achieve axial positioning. When disassembling, simply pull out the pin. The operation is simple and convenient and does not damage the axial positioning component 40.

[0065] Figure 3The image shows a specific embodiment of the universal joint 30 described above. The universal joint 30 includes an inner star wheel 31, a housing 32, a retainer 33, and a plurality of balls 34. The inner star wheel 31 is provided with an inner spline hole 302, and a plurality of ball grooves are distributed at intervals on the outer periphery of the inner star wheel 31. One end of the housing 32 is sleeved around the outer periphery of the inner star wheel 31 and forms an annular cavity with the inner star wheel 31, and the other end is provided with a connecting shaft 301. The retainer 33 is fixedly connected to the housing 32 and extends into the annular cavity. A plurality of insert holes are distributed at intervals along the circumference of the retainer 33. The plurality of balls 34 are respectively inserted into each insert hole and are respectively rolled in each ball groove.

[0066] It should be noted that both the inner and outer walls of the aforementioned annular cavity are arc-shaped, thereby providing the cage 33 with the freedom to swing within the annular cavity, enabling omnidirectional swing between the outer shell 32 and the inner star wheel 31. The inner star wheel 31 forms a star-shaped structure based on a ring of ball grooves around its edge. The area between the ball grooves provides rotational force to the ball bearings 34, thus enabling stable power transmission between the outer shell 32 and the inner star wheel 31 within any swing angle range.

[0067] Based on the above structure, the power of the first splined shaft 70 is transmitted to the inner star wheel 31 through its engagement with the inner splined hole 302. Since the inner star wheel 31 has ball bearings 34 in its ball groove, the inner star wheel 31 can rotate the ball bearings 34 within the annular cavity via its ball groove. The ball bearings 34 then drive the cage 33 to rotate, thereby transmitting the power to the housing 32 through the cage 33. Finally, the power is transmitted to the second splined shaft 100 via the connecting shaft 301 on the housing 32 and the sliding sleeve 20. The power transmission is smooth and efficient, and the structure is highly compact, saving more space compared to the universal joint drive method.

[0068] In this embodiment, considering the dynamic balance problem of the transmission structure, such as Figure 3 As shown, the portion of the outer casing 32 located between the inner star wheel 31 and the connecting shaft 301 forms a dynamic balancing weight-reducing part 321.

[0069] Traditional drive shaft connection structures require separate dynamic balancing tests on the drive shaft. However, by using a universal joint 30 to directly connect the first spline shaft 70, the separate dynamic balancing test step can be eliminated, and a comprehensive dynamic balancing test can be performed directly. Based on the test results, the dynamic balancing weight-removing part 321 can be adjusted by drilling or other methods to remove material, which improves the convenience of dynamic balancing adjustment.

[0070] In some possible embodiments, please refer to Figure 3 One end of the inner star wheel 31 extends out of the annular cavity to form an outer sleeve 311, and the inner hole of the outer sleeve 311 forms an inner spline hole 302; the universal joint 30 also includes a flexible sheath 35, one end of which is fitted onto the outer sleeve 311, and the other end is fitted onto the outer shell 32 to close the annular cavity.

[0071] The inner star wheel 31 can be an integral component formed by its ball groove and outer sleeve 311, thereby ensuring structural strength; the flexible sleeve 20 can be a rubber sleeve, and both ends of the flexible sleeve 35 can be fixed with hoops.

[0072] By setting the outer sleeve 311, the length of the inner spline hole 302 can be guaranteed, thereby increasing the mating length between the inner spline hole 302 and the first spline shaft 70 and ensuring transmission reliability. On the other hand, the flexible sheath 35 can be installed together with the outer shell 32 based on the extended part of the outer sleeve 311, thereby preventing external dust from entering the ring cavity and affecting the smooth movement of the ball 34.

[0073] It should be noted that, in this embodiment, as Figure 3 As shown, a sealing ring 50 is provided between the end of the outer sleeve 311 away from the connecting shaft 301 and the first spline shaft 70.

[0074] Sealing grooves can be respectively opened on the inner hole of the outer sleeve 311 and the first spline shaft 70. The depth of the sealing groove should preferably exceed the depth of the spline groove. Then, the sealing ring 50 is embedded in the annular space formed by the two sealing grooves. The sealing ring 50 can be a single ring seal or a double ring seal. The sealing ring 50 blocks and seals the mating gap between the outer sleeve 311 and the first spline shaft 70.

[0075] Considering that the annular cavity needs to be filled with grease to ensure the smooth movement of the ball 34, in order to prevent grease from seeping out through the inner spline hole 302, a sealing ring 50 is provided between the outer sleeve 311 and the first spline shaft 70 in the manner described above. Moreover, the sealing ring 50 is located at the end of the outer sleeve 311 away from the connecting shaft 301, so that the mating part of the inner spline hole 302 and the first spline shaft 70 can be lubricated, thereby facilitating the insertion or removal of the inner spline hole 302 from the first spline shaft 70 during disassembly and assembly, and providing anti-corrosion protection for the inner spline hole 302 and the outer spline of the first spline shaft 70, avoiding the risk of rust.

[0076] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The power transmission structure also includes a telescopic sleeve 60, one end of which is fitted onto the sliding sleeve 20, and the other end is fitted onto the end of the connecting shaft 301 near the first spline shaft 70.

[0077] The telescopic sleeve 60 can be a rubber corrugated sleeve. By setting the telescopic sleeve 60, the part of the connecting shaft 301 that extends out of the sliding sleeve 20 can be protected from dust without affecting the axial sliding of the sliding sleeve 20, thereby preventing dust from entering the sliding sleeve 20 and affecting its axial sliding smoothness.

[0078] It should be noted that, for ease of disassembly and repair, such as Figure 3 As shown, the outer periphery of the sliding sleeve 20 is provided with a boss 21 or a groove. The purpose of providing the boss 21 or groove here is to provide a point of leverage for disassembly and assembly tools, thereby facilitating the application of axial force to the sliding sleeve 20 by disassembly tools such as pry bars, thus enabling disassembly and assembly operations to be performed in confined spaces.

[0079] Based on the same inventive concept, please combine Figures 1 to 6 It is understood that this application also provides a vehicle including the above-described power transmission structure.

[0080] Compared with the prior art, the vehicle provided in this application adopts the above-mentioned power transmission structure. The inner spline hole 302 at one end of the universal joint 30 is sleeved with the first spline shaft 70, and the connecting shaft 301 at the other end of the universal joint 30 slides through one end of the sliding sleeve 20. The other end of the sliding sleeve 20 is sleeved and fixed with the second spline shaft 100. By utilizing the angle adjustment capability of the universal joint 30 and the sliding fit between the sliding sleeve 20 and the connecting shaft 301, the distance deviation and coaxiality deviation of the first spline shaft 70 and the second spline shaft 100 can be addressed, thereby reducing the assembly accuracy requirements of the first spline shaft 70 and the second spline shaft 100.

[0081] The power of the first spline shaft 70 can be transmitted to the universal joint 30 by the insertion fit between the first spline shaft 70 and the inner spline hole 302. Then, the power can be further transmitted to the sliding sleeve 20 by the circumferential limiting structure 3011 between the connecting shaft 301 and the sliding sleeve 20. Finally, the power is transmitted to the second spline shaft 100 by the spline fit between the sliding sleeve 20 and the second spline shaft 100. The power transmission is smooth and reliable.

[0082] When assembling the power transmission structure, the sliding sleeve 20 can be first fitted onto the connecting shaft 301 and slid until the total length of the two is minimized. Then, the inner spline hole 302 can be fitted onto the first spline shaft 70. After fitting in place, the sliding sleeve 20 can be slid in the reverse direction to connect and fix it to the second spline shaft 100. Alternatively, the sliding sleeve 20 can be connected and fixed to the second spline shaft 100 first, and then the inner spline hole 302 can be fitted onto the first spline shaft 70. Compared to traditional drive shafts with flanges at both ends for connection, this method eliminates the need for operating space required for flange disassembly and assembly, thus meeting the power transmission requirements in compact and confined spaces.

[0083] When the power transmission structure needs to be disassembled for maintenance and inspection, an external force is applied to the universal joint 30, causing the axial limiting member 40 to be subjected to a force exceeding its threshold range. This causes the axial limiting member 40 to fail in its axial limiting position between the inner spline hole 302 and the first spline shaft 70. Since the connecting shaft 301 can slide into the sliding sleeve 20, the universal joint 30 can be easily removed from the first spline shaft 70 after the axial limiting fails. Compared to the traditional method of removing flange fasteners from drive shafts using tools, the ease of disassembly and assembly is greatly improved.

[0084] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit this application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A power transmission structure, characterized in that, The power transmission structure is used to transmit power from the first splined shaft (70) to the second splined shaft (100); the power transmission structure includes: A sliding sleeve (20) is fitted and fixed at one end to the second splined shaft (100); A universal joint (30) has a connecting shaft (301) at one end, which slides through the sliding sleeve (20) and has a circumferential limiting structure (3011) between it and the sliding sleeve (20). The circumferential limiting structure (3011) is used to limit the relative rotational freedom of the connecting shaft (301) and the sliding sleeve (20). The other end of the universal joint (30) has an internal spline hole (302), which slides through the first spline shaft (70) and has an axial limiting member (40) between it and the first spline shaft (70). The axial limiting member (40) is used to limit failure when its axial force exceeds a threshold range.

2. The power transmission structure as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first spline shaft (70) is provided with a first slot (701), and the inner spline hole (302) is provided with a second slot (3021) on its hole wall; the axial limiting member (40) is located at the end of the inner spline hole (302) near the connecting shaft (301), and is engaged with the first slot (701) and the second slot (3021) respectively.

3. The power transmission structure as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The axial limiting member (40) is an initially elliptical open retaining ring; wherein, when the inner spline hole (302) is fitted into the first retaining groove (701) and the second retaining groove (3021) and aligned, the open retaining ring is partially embedded in the first retaining groove (701) and partially embedded in the second retaining groove (3021); when the first retaining groove (701) and the second retaining groove (3021) are axially misaligned, the open retaining ring is entirely embedded in the first retaining groove (701) or the second retaining groove (3021).

4. The power transmission structure as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The universal joint (30) includes: The inner star wheel (31) is provided with the inner spline hole (302), and the outer periphery of the inner star wheel (31) is provided with a plurality of ball grooves at intervals; The outer shell (32) is fitted around the outer periphery of the inner star wheel (31) at one end and forms an annular cavity with the inner star wheel (31) at the other end, and is provided with the connecting shaft (301); A retainer (33) is fixedly connected to the outer shell (32) and extends into the annular cavity. The retainer (33) has a plurality of interlocking holes spaced apart along its circumference. Multiple balls (34) are respectively fitted into each of the holes and rolled into each of the grooves.

5. The power transmission structure as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The outer casing (32) forms a dynamic balancing weight-reducing part (321) at the location between the inner star wheel (31) and the connecting shaft (301).

6. The power transmission structure as described in claim 4, characterized in that, One end of the inner star wheel (31) extends out of the annular cavity to form an outer sleeve (311), and the inner hole of the outer sleeve (311) forms the inner spline hole (302); The universal joint (30) also includes a flexible sleeve (35), one end of which is fitted onto the outer sleeve (311), and the other end is fitted onto the outer shell (32) to close the annular cavity.

7. The power transmission structure as described in claim 6, characterized in that, A sealing ring (50) is provided between the end of the outer sleeve (311) away from the connecting shaft (301) and the first spline shaft (70).

8. The power transmission structure as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The power transmission structure also includes a telescopic sleeve (60), one end of which is fitted onto the sliding sleeve (20), and the other end is fitted onto the end of the connecting shaft (301) near the first spline shaft (70).

9. The power transmission structure as described in any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that, The outer periphery of the sliding sleeve (20) is provided with a boss (21) or a groove.

10. A vehicle, characterized in that, Includes the power transmission structure as described in any one of claims 1-9.

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