Vehicle opening and closing body drive device and power transmission device

Abstract

The utility model provides a vehicle opening and closing body drive arrangement and power transmission device which can inhibit the generation of undesirable phenomena due to rotation variation of the rotating member accompanying load variation. The second power transmission mechanism of the power transmission device has: a first rotating member; and a second rotating member having a first engaged portion engaged with the first rotating member to receive transmission of rotating power from the first rotating member when the first rotating member rotates in a first rotating direction, and a second engaged portion engaged with the first rotating member to receive transmission of rotating power from the first rotating member when the first rotating member rotates in a second rotating direction opposite to the first rotating direction. The first rotating member rotates from a non-engaged position in the first rotating direction so that the first engaged portion is engaged with the first engaged portion, and the first rotating member rotates from the non-engaged position in the second rotating direction so that the second engaged portion is engaged with the second engaged portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to a vehicle opening and closing body drive device and a power transmission device. Background Technology

[0002] Conventionally, as a vehicle opening and closing drive device, there is a known sliding door opening and closing drive device (Patent Document 1) that uses a linear member to pull a sliding door to open and close it. This opening and closing drive device includes: a winding member, around which a traction member is partially wound; a drive source having a rotating part; and a power transmission mechanism comprising multiple meshing gears that transmit rotational power from the rotating part to the winding member. Furthermore, this opening and closing drive device includes a rotation sensor that detects the rotation of any rotating member linked to the rotating part, and controls the rotation of the rotating part, and consequently the position and speed of the sliding door, based on the detection value of the rotation sensor.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 4755446 Utility Model Content

[0006] Problems to be solved by utility models

[0007] In this opening and closing drive device, rotational fluctuations in the rotating components may occur due to load variations accompanying the movement of the sliding door. If the rotational fluctuations become large, backlash may occur at the meshing points of the multiple gears in the power transmission mechanism. In this case, problems may arise such as: the deviation of the detection value of the rotation sensor increases, leading to a decrease in the control accuracy of the rotating part based on the detection value, and consequently, a decrease in the control accuracy of the sliding door's position and speed, or an increase in noise during the operation of the power transmission mechanism.

[0008] Therefore, the purpose of this invention is to provide a new and improved vehicle opening and closing body drive device and power transmission device that can suppress undesirable phenomena caused by the rotational variation of rotating components associated with load changes.

[0009] Solution for solving the problem

[0010] The vehicle opening / closing body driving device of this utility model includes, for example: a driving source having a rotating part that rotates in a rotational direction and a rotational direction opposite to the rotational direction; a first power transmission mechanism having a plurality of meshing gears that rotate and transmit rotational power of the rotating part; an output rotating member that rotates using the rotational power transmitted from the first power transmission mechanism, thereby moving the vehicle opening / closing body; and a second power transmission mechanism that transmits rotational power from the first power transmission mechanism to the output rotating member and suppresses the transmission of rotational variation from the output rotating member to the first power transmission mechanism, wherein the first... The second power transmission mechanism includes: a first rotating member having a first engaging portion, which receives rotational power from the first power transmission mechanism and rotates thereon; and a second rotating member that rotates substantially coaxially with the first rotating member, having a first engaging portion, which engages with the first engaging portion when the first rotating member rotates in a first rotation direction and receives rotational power from the first engaging portion, wherein the first engaging portion engages with the first engaging portion by rotating the first rotating member from a non-engaged position where the first engaging portion and the first engaging portion are not engaged in the first rotation direction.

[0011] In the vehicle opening and closing body drive device, at least a portion of the multiple gears may be made of synthetic resin material.

[0012] Furthermore, the vehicle opening / closing body driving device of this utility model includes, for example: a driving source having a rotating part that rotates in a rotational direction and in a rotational direction opposite to the rotational direction; a first power transmission mechanism having a plurality of meshing gears that rotate to transmit rotational power from the rotating part; a winding member having a traction member for pulling the vehicle opening / closing body partially wound around it, the winding member rotating using rotational power transmitted from the first power transmission mechanism, thereby moving the vehicle opening / closing body by means of the traction member, and the winding member switching the direction of movement of the vehicle opening / closing body according to its rotational direction; and a second power transmission mechanism that transmits rotational power from the first power transmission mechanism to the winding member and suppresses the transmission of rotational variation from the winding member to the first power transmission mechanism, the second power transmission mechanism having: a first rotating member having a first engaging portion and a second engaging portion, which transmits rotational power from the first power transmission mechanism to the winding member. The transmission mechanism receives rotational power and rotates; and the second rotating member rotates substantially coaxially with the first rotating member, having a first engaging portion and a second engaging portion. The first engaging portion engages with the first engaging portion when the first rotating member rotates in a first rotational direction and receives rotational power from the first engaging portion. The second engaging portion engages with the second engaging portion when the first rotating member rotates in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction and receives rotational power from the second engaging portion. The first engaging portion engages with the first engaging portion as the first rotating member rotates from a non-engaged position (where neither the first engaging portion nor the second engaging portion engages with the second engaging portion) towards the first rotational direction. The second engaging portion engages with the second engaging portion as the first rotating member rotates from the non-engaged position towards the second rotational direction.

[0013] The vehicle opening and closing body drive device may also include a rotation sensor that detects the rotation of the rotating part, the rotating member located between the rotating part and the second rotating member and transmitting rotational power, or the rotation of a different rotating member that rotates in conjunction with the rotating member.

[0014] In the vehicle opening and closing body drive device, the drive source may be a brushless DC motor, and a magnet may be provided in the rotating part. The rotation sensor detects the rotation of the rotating part by detecting the magnetic field of the magnet.

[0015] The vehicle opening and closing body drive device may also include a force-applying member that applies force to the first rotating member relative to the second rotating member in the second rotation direction in such a way that the first rotating member moves from a first engaging position where the first engaging part engages with the first engaged part to the non-engaged position, and applies force to the first rotating member relative to the second rotating member in the first rotation direction in such a way that the first rotating member moves from a second engaging position where the second engaging part engages with the second engaged part to the non-engaged position, and applies force to the first rotating member relative to the second rotating member in the first rotation direction.

[0016] In the vehicle opening and closing body drive device, the force-applying member may be a torsion helical spring having a coil portion that is wound around the rotation axis of the first rotating member and extends axially along the rotation axis.

[0017] In the vehicle opening and closing body drive device, the second power transmission mechanism may also have: a first portion extending substantially parallel to the rotation axis of the first rotating member, having a first engaging portion and a second engaging portion, or having a first engaged portion and a second engaged portion; and a second portion arranged circumferentially with the first portion on the rotation axis, having a first engaged portion and a second engaged portion, or having a first engaging portion and a second engaging portion.

[0018] Furthermore, the power transmission device of this utility model includes, for example, a first power transmission mechanism having a plurality of meshing gears that rotate to transmit rotational power; an output rotating member that rotates using the rotational power transmitted from the first power transmission mechanism; and a second power transmission mechanism that transmits rotational power from the first power transmission mechanism to the output rotating member and suppresses the transmission of rotational variation from the output rotating member to the first power transmission mechanism. The second power transmission mechanism includes: a first rotating member having a first engaging portion that receives the transmission of rotational power from the first power transmission mechanism and rotates; and a second rotating member that rotates substantially coaxially with the first rotating member and has a first engaged portion that engages with the first engaging portion when the first rotating member rotates in a first rotational direction and receives the transmission of rotational power from the first engaging portion. The first engaging portion engages with the first engaged portion by rotating the first rotating member from a non-engaged position where the first engaging portion and the first engaged portion are not engaged in the first rotational direction.

[0019] Effects of the utility model

[0020] According to this invention, a new and improved vehicle opening and closing body drive device and power transmission device can be provided, which can suppress undesirable phenomena caused by the rotational variation of rotating components associated with load changes. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Figure 1 This is an exemplary and schematic perspective view of a vehicle opening and closing body drive device according to an embodiment.

[0022] Figure 2 This is an illustrative and schematic perspective view of a portion of the drive source, the first power transmission mechanism, and the second power transmission mechanism included in the vehicle opening and closing body drive device according to the embodiment.

[0023] Figure 3 This is an illustrative and schematic exploded perspective view of the second power transmission mechanism included in the vehicle opening and closing body drive device according to the embodiment.

[0024] Figure 4 It is an illustrative and schematic plan view showing the operation of the second power transmission mechanism included in the vehicle opening and closing body drive device of the embodiment, and a diagram showing the state in which the first rotating member is in the non-engaged position.

[0025] Figure 5 This is an illustrative and schematic plan view showing the operation of the second power transmission mechanism included in the vehicle opening and closing body drive device of the embodiment, and it shows the first rotating member from... Figure 4 The diagram shows the state in which the second rotating member rotates clockwise relative to it and engages with it.

[0026] Figure 6 This is an illustrative and schematic plan view showing the operation of the second power transmission mechanism included in the vehicle opening and closing body drive device of the embodiment, and it shows the second rotating member from... Figure 5 The diagram shows the state in which the first rotating member is released from its engagement with the second rotating member by rotating clockwise relative to the first rotating member.

[0027] Figure 7 This is an illustrative and schematic plan view showing the operation of the second power transmission mechanism included in the vehicle opening and closing body drive device of the embodiment, and it shows the first rotating member from... Figure 4 The diagram shows the state in which the second rotating member rotates counterclockwise relative to it and engages with it.

[0028] Figure 8 This is an illustrative and schematic plan view showing the operation of the second power transmission mechanism included in the vehicle opening and closing body drive device of the embodiment, and it shows the second rotating member from... Figure 7The diagram shows the state in which the first rotating member is released from its engagement with the second rotating member by rotating counterclockwise relative to the first rotating member.

[0029] Figure 9 This is an exemplary and schematic perspective view of the circuit board included in the vehicle opening and closing body drive device according to the embodiment.

[0030] Figure 10 This is a partial illustrative and schematic plan view of the circuit board and drive source included in the vehicle opening and closing body drive device according to the embodiment.

[0031] Figure 11 This is an illustrative and schematic plan view of a variation of the second rotating member included in the vehicle opening and closing body drive device of the embodiment.

[0032] Figure 12 The second rotating member included in the vehicle opening and closing body drive device of the embodiment is related to... Figure 11 illustrative and schematic plan views of different variations.

[0033] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0034] 10. Drive source (brushless DC motor); 11. Shaft (rotating part); 12. Pinion (rotating part); 13. Permanent magnet array (magnet, rotating part); 20. First power transmission mechanism (power transmission device); 21. Gear component (rotating member); 21a. First gear; 21b. Second gear; 30. Second power transmission mechanism (power transmission device); 31. Input component (first rotating member); 31a. Ring gear; 31b. Middle wall (second part); 31c. Side wall; 31d. Through hole; 31e. Elongated hole; 31e1. End (second engaging part); 31e2. End (first engaging part); 31ea. Elongated hole; 31f. First protrusion; 32, 32A, 32B, 32C. Output component (second rotating member); 32a, winding component; 32b, top wall; 32c, side wall; 32d, second protrusion; 32e, third protrusion (first part); 32e1, end (second engaged part); 32e2, end (first engaged part); 32ea, third protrusion; 32f, fourth protrusion; 32g, annular plate; 32h, threaded component; 32i, gear; 32j, gear; 33, helical spring (torsion helical spring); 33a, coil part; 33b1, end; 33b2, end; 40, circuit board; 41, rotation sensor; 50A, cable (traction component); 50B, toothed belt (traction component); 100, opening and closing drive device; 101, housing; Ax, rotation axis; D1, direction; D2, direction. Detailed Implementation

[0035] The following discloses exemplary embodiments and modifications of this utility model. The structure of the embodiments and modifications shown below, as well as the effects and results (effects) brought about by the structure, are examples. This utility model can also be implemented using structures other than those disclosed in the embodiments and modifications below. Furthermore, according to this utility model, at least one of various effects (including derivative effects) obtained by utilizing the structure can be obtained.

[0036] In this specification, ordinal numbers are assigned for convenience to distinguish directions, locations, components, mechanisms, etc. Furthermore, ordinal numbers do not indicate priority, order, or quantity.

[0037] [Opening / closing drive device]

[0038] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an opening and closing drive device 100 that drives the opening and closing of a sliding door (not shown) used as an opening and closing mechanism for a vehicle. The opening and closing drive device 100 includes a housing 101 assembled from multiple parts. Within the housing 101 are housed a drive source 10, a first power transmission mechanism 20, a second power transmission mechanism 30, and a circuit board 40, which are components of the opening and closing drive device 100. Furthermore, a portion of a cable 50A for pulling the sliding door is housed within the housing 101. This cable 50A is partially wound around the output member 32A (32) of the second power transmission mechanism 30. The rotational power of the rotating part of the drive source 10 is transmitted to the second power transmission mechanism 30 via the first power transmission mechanism 20, causing the output member 32 of the second power transmission mechanism 30 to rotate. In this structure, the rotational direction of the output member 32 changes according to the rotational direction of the rotating part of the drive source 10, thereby changing the directions D1 and D2 of the pulling cable 50A. The configuration is such that when cable 50A is pulled in one of directions D1 and D2, the sliding door opens the door opening of the vehicle body; when cable 50A is pulled in the other of directions D1 and D2, the sliding door closes the door opening. Output member 32 is an example of a winding member and an output rotating member, and cable 50A is an example of a pulling member.

[0039] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of a portion of the drive source 10, the first power transmission mechanism 20, and the second power transmission mechanism 30. The first power transmission mechanism 20 and the second power transmission mechanism 30 are examples of power transmission devices.

[0040] The drive source 10 is, for example, a motor. The drive source 10 has a shaft 11 and a pinion 12 disposed on the shaft 11 as a rotating part.

[0041] [First power transmission mechanism]

[0042] The first power transmission mechanism 20 includes a gear component 21. The gear component 21 integrally includes a first gear 21a that meshes with a pinion 12 and has more teeth than the pinion 12, and a second gear 21b that has fewer teeth than the first gear 21a. The second gear 21b meshes with a ring gear 31a, which is located on the input member 31 of the second power transmission mechanism 30 and has more teeth than the second gear 21b. Thus, the first power transmission mechanism 20, with the pinion 12, first gear 21a, second gear 21b, and ring gear 31a as a plurality of linked gears, transmits the rotational power of the rotating part of the drive source 10 to the input member 31 of the second power transmission mechanism 30 in a decelerated manner. The first power transmission mechanism 20 may also be referred to as a deceleration mechanism. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the rotation centers of the plurality of rotating bodies, such as gears, included in the first power transmission mechanism 20 are all along the Z-direction, but this structure is not limited to this configuration.

[0043] Furthermore, in this embodiment, gear-equipped components such as pinion 12, gear component 21, and input component 31 are made of synthetic resin materials such as polyacetal.

[0044] [Second power transmission mechanism]

[0045] The second power transmission mechanism 30 has the function of transmitting rotational power from the first power transmission mechanism 20 to the output member 32, and suppressing the transmission of rotational variation from the output member 32 to the first power transmission mechanism 20.

[0046] Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view of the second power transmission mechanism 30. The second power transmission mechanism 30 has an input member 31, an output member 32, and a helical spring 33. The input member 31 is configured to rotate about a rotation axis Ax along the Z direction. Furthermore, the output member 32 is also configured to rotate about a rotation axis Ax along the Z direction, that is, to rotate approximately coaxially with the input member 31. The rotation axis Ax can also be referred to as the rotation center or central axis. The input member 31 receives rotational power from the first power transmission mechanism 20 and rotates accordingly. The output member 32 rotates in conjunction with the input member 31 while receiving rotational power from it. The input member 31 is an example of a first rotating member, and the output member 32 is an example of a second rotating member. Furthermore, the helical spring 33 is an example of a force-applying member. The function of the helical spring 33 will be described later.

[0047] The input member 31 has a circular plate-shaped central wall 31b intersecting the Z direction and a cylindrical side wall 31c extending from the outer periphery of the central wall 31b in the opposite direction to the Z direction. A ring gear 31a is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the side wall 31c. A generally circular through hole 31d extending along the Z direction is provided in the center of the central wall 31b.

[0048] Furthermore, three elongated holes 31e are provided in the middle wall 31b at a position between the through hole 31d and the side wall 31c, extending in an arc shape centered on the rotation axis Ax. The three elongated holes 31e all have the same shape and are through holes that extend a predetermined length along the circumferential direction of the rotation axis Ax (hereinafter referred to as the circumferential direction) with a predetermined width in the radial direction (hereinafter referred to as the radial direction) of the rotation axis Ax, and penetrate the middle wall 31b in the Z direction.

[0049] Furthermore, the input member 31 has three first protrusions 31f extending from the middle wall 31b in the Z direction (in Figure 3 Not shown in the image, please refer to the diagram. Figure 4 The input member 31 has three elongated holes 31e of the same shape spaced at 120° intervals, and three first protrusions 31f of the same shape spaced at 120° intervals. The input member 31 has a shape that is three times rotationally symmetric, that is, it becomes the same shape if rotated 120° about the rotation axis Ax. However, the input member 31 is not limited to such a structure, and the number of elongated holes 31e and first protrusions 31f can be 1, 2 or more, and they can also be different from each other. In addition, the input member 31 may not have a shape that is n times rotationally symmetric (n is an integer of 2 or more).

[0050] The output member 32 has a circular plate-shaped top wall 32b intersecting the Z direction and a cylindrical side wall 32c extending from the outer periphery of the top wall 32b in the opposite direction to the Z direction. A winding portion 32a for the cable 50A is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the side wall 32c. This winding portion 32a has, for example, a spiral groove. The cable 50A is wound in a state where it is partially contained within the groove of the winding portion 32a. When viewed from above in the opposite direction to the Z direction (hereinafter referred to as top view), if the output member 32 rotates clockwise, the cable 50A is pulled into the direction D1. Figure 1 Inside the housing 101, it is fed out in the opposite direction to direction D2. On the other hand, when the output member 32 rotates counterclockwise in this top view, the cable 50A is fed into... Figure 1 It is pulled in in the direction D2 and sent out in the opposite direction of direction D1. A cylindrical second protrusion 32d is provided on the top wall 32b, which protrudes from its center in the opposite direction of the Z direction.

[0051] Furthermore, three cylindrical third protrusions 32e, protruding in opposite directions in the Z-direction, are provided on the top wall 32b between the second protrusion 32d and the side wall 32c. All three third protrusions 32e have the same shape. An internally threaded hole extending in the Z-direction is provided at the end of each third protrusion 32e in the opposite direction in the Z-direction. Moreover, the three third protrusions 32e are spaced 120° apart. These three third protrusions 32e have a threefold rotational symmetry shape, meaning they become identical if rotated 120° about the rotation axis Ax.

[0052] With the three third protrusions 32e penetrating the elongated holes 31e, the annular plate 32g is mounted at the ends of the three third protrusions 32e in opposite directions along the Z-direction using threaded fittings 32h. That is, the threaded fittings 32h penetrate the through holes in the annular plate 32g and are fastened to the internal threaded holes of the third protrusions 32e, thereby integrating the annular plate 32g with the three third protrusions 32e. Thus, the input member 31 and the output member 32 are assembled with the middle wall 31b of the input member 31 sandwiched between the main body of the output member 32, including the top wall 32b, side walls 32c, and third protrusions 32e, and the annular plate 32g.

[0053] Furthermore, the output member 32 has a fourth protrusion 32f extending in the opposite direction from the top wall 32b in the Z direction. In this embodiment, a cylindrical rib is provided that connects the root portions of the three third protrusions 32e, and the fourth protrusion 32f is provided as a portion located between two recesses of this rib. With this structure, the rigidity of the third protrusions 32e and the fourth protrusion 32f can be improved. However, it is not limited to such a structure, and the fourth protrusion 32f can also be provided independently of the third protrusions 32e and the rib.

[0054] The helical spring 33 has a coil portion 33a, which is formed by winding a wire, for example, made of spring steel, around a rotation axis Ax and extending along the Z direction, i.e., the axial direction (hereinafter referred to as the axial direction) of the rotation axis Ax. The ends 33b1 and 33b2 of the wire protrude radially outward from the coil portion 33a at predetermined intervals in the circumferential direction. The helical spring 33 is loosely wound around the outer peripheral surface of the second protrusion 32d of the output member 32 with a small gap between the coil portion 33a and the outer peripheral surface of the second protrusion 32d. The outer peripheral surface of the second protrusion 32d functions as a holding part to hold the helical spring 33 in a predetermined posture, i.e., the coil portion 33a extending spirally with the rotation axis Ax as approximately the center.

[0055] Figure 4 This is a plan view of a portion of the input component 31 and the output component 32 when viewed from the opposite direction (Z). The input component 31, the output component 32, and the helical spring 33 are assembled as follows: Figure 4 The state. Figure 4 The state is a free state in which no rotational power, rotational load, etc. are input to the input component 31 or the output component 32.

[0056] The second power transmission mechanism 30 is configured such that, in Figure 4In this state, the first protrusion 31f of the input member 31 and the fourth protrusion 32f of the output member 32 are arranged radially adjacent to each other, and the ends 33b1 and 33b2 of the coil spring 33 sandwich the first protrusion 31f and the fourth protrusion 32f. In this state, the ends 33b1 and 33b2 of the coil spring 33 are in contact with or have a gap with the first protrusion 31f and the fourth protrusion 32f. In this embodiment, the fourth protrusion 32f is located radially outside the first protrusion 31f, but it is not limited to this; the fourth protrusion 32f may also be located radially inside the first protrusion 31f.

[0057] Furthermore, the second power transmission mechanism 30 is configured such that, in Figure 4 In this state, the third protrusion 32e of the output member 32 is located approximately at the center of the circumferential direction of the elongated hole 31e of the input member 31 into which it is inserted. Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the elongated hole 31e and the third protrusion 32e each have a three-fold rotationally symmetrical shape, and the shapes of their detailed parts are identical. Therefore, for simplicity, in Figure 4 China only targets Figure 4 The structures in the lower right corner (elongated hole 31ea and third protrusion 32ea) are given reference numerals for the parts of elongated hole 31e and third protrusion 32e.

[0058] exist Figure 4 In this state, the input member 31 and the output member 32 are not engaged in the circumferential direction at all parts. Therefore, in this state, the rotational power transmitted to the input member 31 is not transmitted to the output member 32. Figure 4 The state can also be called the non-engaged state. Figure 4 The relative position of the input component 31 to the output component 32 is an example of a non-engaged position.

[0059] Figure 5 This indicates that component 31 is input from a top-down view. Figure 4 The diagram shows the state in which the output component 32 has been rotated clockwise. Figure 5 In this state, the counterclockwise end 31e2 of each elongated hole 31e contacts the counterclockwise end 32e2 of each third protrusion 32e. As the input member 31 rotates clockwise, the end 31e2 presses against the end 32e2, and the rotational power of the input member 31 is transmitted to the output member 32. Furthermore, the end 31e2 is the edge of the elongated hole 31e, and the end 32e2 is the side surface of the third protrusion 32e. Figure 5 The diagram shows the engagement state in which the input member 31 (end 31e2) engages with the output member 32 (end 32e2) when the input member 31 rotates clockwise, thereby transmitting rotational power from the input member 31 to the output member 32. Figure 5The relative position of the input member 31 to the output member 32 is an example of the first engaging position. The clockwise direction is an example of the first rotation direction, the end 31e2 is an example of the first engaging portion, and the end 32e2 is an example of the first engaged portion.

[0060] Figure 6 This indicates that the output component 32 is from Figure 5 The diagram shows a state in which the input member 31 has been rotated clockwise relative to the input member 31 when viewed from above. In this embodiment, in this state, the ends 31e2 and 32e2 are separated from each other, so no rotational power is transmitted between the input member 31 and the output member 32.

[0061] from Figure 5 state towards Figure 6 The state change may occur, for example, from a state of high load on the sliding door's movement to a state of low load. Here, assuming the opening / closing drive device 100 does not have a second power transmission mechanism 30, the load variation of the sliding door will be transmitted to the first power transmission mechanism 20, and further to the drive source 10, as a rotational variation of the rotating member. Here, when a rotation sensor is used to detect the rotation of the rotating part of the drive source 10 or any rotating member among the gears included in the first power transmission mechanism 20 in order to calculate the sliding door's movement amount and speed, the detected value of the rotation sensor will include a change in the value associated with this rotational variation. In this case, in the control of the sliding door implemented by controlling the rotation of the drive source 10 based on this detected value, fluctuations in the control quantity, i.e., the sliding door's movement position and speed, and overshoot, may occur. Furthermore, since backlash exists between the multiple gears included in the first power transmission mechanism 20, the rotational variation based on the sliding door's load variation may become a cause of gear noise. In this respect, in this embodiment, the opening and closing drive device 100 includes a second power transmission mechanism 30, which, even when the input member 31 rotates clockwise, generates a rotational variation in the output member 32 (winding member) based on load variations associated with the movement of the sliding door, will still... Figure 5 The state changes to Figure 6 The state is such that rotational changes are no longer transmitted from the output member 32 to the input member 31. Therefore, according to this embodiment, when the input member 31 rotates in the clockwise direction, the undesirable phenomenon described above can be suppressed when load changes associated with the movement of the sliding door occur.

[0062] Figure 5 , Figure 6 This illustrates the case where the input component 31 rotates clockwise when viewed from above. In contrast, Figure 7 , Figure 8This example illustrates the case where input component 31 rotates counterclockwise when viewed from above.

[0063] Right now, Figure 7 This indicates that when viewed from above, component 31 is input from... Figure 4 The diagram shows the state of the output component 32 after being rotated counterclockwise. Figure 7 In this state, the clockwise end 31e1 of each elongated hole 31e contacts the clockwise end 32e1 of each third protrusion 32e. As the input member 31 rotates counterclockwise, the end 31e1 presses against the end 32e1, and the rotational power of the input member 31 is transmitted to the output member 32. Furthermore, the end 31e1 is the edge of the elongated hole 31e, and the end 32e1 is the side surface of the third protrusion 32e. Figure 7 The diagram shows the engagement state in which the input member 31 (end 31e1) engages with the output member 32 (end 32e1) when the input member 31 rotates counterclockwise, thereby transmitting rotational power from the input member 31 to the output member 32. Figure 7 The relative position of the input member 31 with respect to the output member 32 is an example of the second engaging position. Furthermore, the counterclockwise direction is an example of the second rotation direction, the end 31e1 is an example of the second engaging portion, and the end 32e1 is an example of the second engaged portion.

[0064] Figure 8 This indicates that the output component 32 is from Figure 7 The diagram shows the state in which the input member 31 has been rotated counterclockwise when viewed from above. In this state, the ends 31e1 and 32e1 are separated from each other, so no rotational power is transmitted between the input member 31 and the output member 32.

[0065] from Figure 7 state towards Figure 8 The change in state may occur, for example, from a state of high load during the movement of the sliding door to a state of low load. In this embodiment, the opening and closing drive device 100 includes a second power transmission mechanism 30, which, even if a rotational change occurs in the output member 32 (winding member) due to load variations associated with the movement of the sliding door when the input member 31 rotates counterclockwise, will still transmit power from the input member 31. Figure 7 The state changes to Figure 8 The state is such that rotational changes are no longer transmitted from the output component 32 to the input component 31.

[0066] Therefore, according to this embodiment, in both the case where the input member 31 rotates clockwise and the case where the input member 31 rotates counterclockwise, it is possible to suppress undesirable phenomena such as a decrease in control accuracy and noise as described above when load fluctuations occur in conjunction with the movement of the sliding door.

[0067] The coil spring 33 functions as a torsion coil spring. Figure 4 In this state, the helical spring 33 is in a roughly free state or in contact with... Figure 5 , Figure 7 The state is characterized by smaller elastic deformation compared to the free state. In the input component 31 from... Figure 4 The state is rotated clockwise relative to the output component 32. Figure 5 When the state changes, the circumferential spacing between the ends 33b1 and 33b2 of the helical spring 33 increases. At this time, the helical spring 33 applies a counterclockwise force to the input member 31, so that it moves relative to the output member 32 from the first engagement position where the ends 32e2 and 31e2 engage. Figure 5 (position) towards non-locking position ( Figure 4 (location) to. On the other hand, from input component 31... Figure 4 The state is rotated counterclockwise relative to the output component 32. Figure 7 When the state changes, the circumferential spacing between the ends 33b1 and 33b2 of the helical spring 33 increases. At this time, the helical spring 33 applies a force to the input member 31 in a clockwise direction, so that it moves relative to the output member 32 from the second engagement position where the ends 32e1 and 31e1 are engaged. Figure 7 (position) towards non-engaged position ( Figure 4 The position of the input member 31 relative to the output member 32 can be described as follows: the helical spring 33 has the function of maintaining the input member 31 in a non-engaged position relative to the output member 32.

[0068] Furthermore, the helical spring 33 can suppress the relative angle difference (hereinafter referred to as relative angle difference) between the input member 31 and the output member 32. Figure 5 The state exceeds Figure 4 The state increases (approaching) Figure 7 (state), and can suppress relative angle difference from Figure 7 The state exceeds Figure 4 The state increases (approaching) Figure 5 (State).

[0069] Furthermore, regarding Figure 5 and Figure 7A comparison reveals that, regardless of the rotation direction of the input member 31, the helical spring 33 twists in the same manner as the circumferential distance between the same ends 33b1 and 33b2 increases. That is, regardless of the rotation direction of the input member 31, the helical spring 33 imparts a force torque to the input member 31 and the output member 32 that reduces the relative angle difference and increases proportionally to the absolute value of the relative angle difference. In other words, regardless of the rotation direction of the input member 31, the characteristics of the force torque imparted by the helical spring 33 in this embodiment are the same with respect to the absolute value of the relative angle difference.

[0070] Furthermore, in the second power transmission mechanism 30 of this embodiment, an elongated hole 31e is provided in the middle wall 31b of the input member 31, and a portion of the edge of the elongated hole 31e includes an end portion 31e2 serving as a first engaging portion and an end portion 31e1 serving as a second engaging portion. Additionally, the side of the third protrusion 32e in the output member 32, which extends substantially parallel to the rotation axis Ax, includes an end portion 32e2 serving as a first engaging portion and an end portion 32e1 serving as a second engaging portion. In this structure, the third protrusion 32e is an example of a first portion, and the middle wall 31b is an example of a second portion arranged circumferentially with the third protrusion 32e. However, the second power transmission mechanism 30 is not limited to this structure; it is also possible that the input member 31 has a protrusion including the first and second engaging portions as a first portion, or that the output member has a wall portion intersecting the rotation axis Ax as a second portion, with an elongated hole forming the edge of the first and second engaging portions. Alternatively, a notch or other feature that opens radially outward can be provided to replace the elongated hole.

[0071] [Rotation Sensor]

[0072] Figure 9 This is a 3D view of circuit board 40. Furthermore, Figure 10 This is a plan view of the shaft 11, which serves as the rotating part of the drive source 10, the permanent magnet array 13 located on the rotor, and a portion of the circuit board 40 when viewed in the Z direction.

[0073] In this embodiment, as an example, the drive source 10 is a brushless DC motor. Furthermore, as... Figure 9 As shown, the circuit board 40 is provided with a plurality of rotation sensors 41 for detecting the rotation of the rotating part. The rotation sensor 41 is, for example, a Hall element for detecting magnetic field (magnetic flux density). The rotation sensor 41 is configured to face the permanent magnet array 13, which is located on the rotating part of the drive source 10 and whose N poles and S poles are arranged alternately in the circumferential and radial directions, with an open gap in the opposite direction of the Z direction.

[0074] Electronic and electrical components (not shown) constituting the control circuit are mounted on the circuit board 40. The control circuit can control the rotational position and speed of the rotating part, and consequently the moving position and speed of the sliding door, based on the detection value of the rotation sensor 41. As described above, in this embodiment, the opening and closing drive device 100 has a second power transmission mechanism 30 that does not transmit the rotational variation of the output member 32 based on the load variation of the sliding door to the input member 31, so it is less likely to cause a change in the detection value of the rotation sensor 41 associated with the rotational variation. Therefore, compared with the case without the second power transmission mechanism 30, the control accuracy of the sliding door controlled by the control circuit can be further improved. In addition, in this embodiment, the rotation sensor 41 detects the rotation of the rotating part of the drive source 10, but is not limited to this. For example, the rotation sensor 41 can also detect the rotation of the rotating member located between the rotating part and the output member 32 and transmitting rotational power, i.e., the gear member 21 and the input member 31. Furthermore, the rotation sensor 41 can also detect the rotation of another rotating member (except for the output member 32) that rotates in conjunction with the gear member 21 and the input member 31 by means of gears, belts, etc. In addition, the rotation sensor 41 can also be a sensor other than a Hall element.

[0075] [Variation Example]

[0076] Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the output member 32B(32) of the modified example. In this example, the output member 32B, which is a winding member, is provided with a gear 32i that meshes with the toothed belt 50B, which is a traction member. Figure 12 This is a perspective view of the output member 32C (32) in another variation. In this example, the output member 32C is provided with a gear 32j, and the winding member is another rotating member (not shown) having a gear meshing with the gear 32j. Thus, the output member 32 and the winding member can also be independent components. Figure 11 , Figure 12 The modified examples can also achieve the same effect as the above-described embodiments.

[0077] As explained above, in this embodiment, the second power transmission mechanism 30 transmits the rotational power of the drive source 10 from the first power transmission mechanism 20 to the output member 32 (winding member), and suppresses the transmission of rotational variations from the output member 32 to the first power transmission mechanism 20. According to this structure, it is possible to suppress undesirable phenomena such as the deterioration of the control accuracy of the sliding door based on the detection value of the rotation sensor 41 due to an increased deviation, or the generation of noise caused by backlash due to the transmission of rotational variations to the first power transmission mechanism 20.

[0078] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the rotation sensor 41 detects the rotation of the rotating part of the drive source 10, or the rotational member such as the gear component 21 located between the rotating part and the output member 32 and transmitting rotational power, or the rotation of a rotating member different from the output member 32 that rotates in conjunction with the rotating member. According to this structure, even if the output member 32 rotates due to changes in the load of the sliding door, it is less likely that the detection value of the rotation sensor 41 will change along with this rotational change. Therefore, the control accuracy of the sliding door controlled by the control circuit based on the detection value of the rotation sensor 41 can be further improved.

[0079] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the drive source 10 is a brushless DC motor, and the rotation sensor 41 detects the magnetic field of the permanent magnet array 13 (magnet) disposed on the rotating part of the drive source 10. According to this structure, a structure that detects the rotation of the rotating part, which is not easily affected by rotational variations of the output member 32, can be realized with a relatively compact structure.

[0080] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the helical spring 33 applies force to the input member 31 in a manner that moves it from the first engaged position to the disengaged position, and also applies force to the input member 31 in a manner that moves it from the second engaged position to the disengaged position. According to this structure, compared to a structure that separately provides force-applying members for moving force from the first engaged position to the disengaged position and force-applying members for moving force from the second engaged position to the disengaged position, the opening / closing drive device 100 can be configured to be more compact.

[0081] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the helical spring 33 (force-applying member) is a torsion helical spring having a coil portion 33a extending axially along the rotation axis Ax. According to this structure, the radial dimension of the force-applying member can be further reduced, and correspondingly, the radial enlargement of the opening / closing drive device 100 containing the force-applying member can be suppressed.

[0082] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the second power transmission mechanism 30 has a third protrusion 32e (first portion) with ends 32e1 and 32e2, and a middle wall 31b (second portion) arranged circumferentially with the third protrusion 32e and having ends 31e1 and 31e2. According to this structure, a non-engaging position can be provided between the first and second engaging positions of the input member 31 using a relatively simple structure, and a predetermined angle difference can be provided between the non-engaging position and each of the first and second engaging positions.

[0083] Furthermore, in this embodiment, at least a portion of the gears, such as the pinion 12, the first gear 21a, the second gear 21b, and the ring gear 31a, are made of synthetic resin material. This structure makes it difficult to transmit rotational changes, thus further reducing the stiffness and strength of the gears. Therefore, by using synthetic resin material to manufacture a portion of the gears, advantages can be obtained such as making the opening / closing drive device 100 lighter and further reducing gear noise.

[0084] The above embodiments illustrate the present invention, but these embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. The above embodiments can be implemented in many other ways, and various omissions, substitutions, combinations, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. Furthermore, the specifications (construction, type, direction, model, size, length, width, thickness, height, quantity, configuration, position, material, etc.) of various structures and shapes can be appropriately changed for implementation.

[0085] For example, in the above embodiment, the opening and closing drive device is exemplified as opening and closing a sliding door that serves as an opening and closing body for a vehicle, but it is not limited to this. The opening and closing drive device can also open and close doors that are different from sliding doors (swing doors, hinged doors, etc.) that serve as opening and closing bodies for vehicles. In addition, the opening and closing drive device (power transmission device) can also be structured such that it does not have a second engaging part and a second engaged part, and can suppress the transmission of load changes to the input side only for one direction of rotation.

Claims

1. A vehicle opening and closing body drive device, characterized in that, The vehicle's opening and closing body drive device includes: A drive source having a rotating part that rotates in a rotational direction and in a rotational direction opposite to that rotational direction; The first power transmission mechanism has multiple gears that mesh with each other and rotate to transmit the rotational power of the rotating part; The output rotating component rotates using the rotational power transmitted from the first power transmission mechanism, thereby moving the vehicle using the opening and closing body. as well as A second power transmission mechanism transmits rotational power from the first power transmission mechanism to the output rotating member, and suppresses the transmission of rotational variations from the output rotating member to the first power transmission mechanism. The second power transmission mechanism has: The first rotating component has a first engaging portion and receives rotational power from the first power transmission mechanism to rotate. as well as The second rotating member, which rotates substantially coaxially with the first rotating member, has a first engaging portion. This first engaging portion engages with the first engaging portion when the first rotating member rotates in a first rotation direction, and the first engaging portion receives the transmission of rotational power from the first engaging portion. The first engaging part engages with the first engaged part by rotating the first rotating member from a non-engaged position where the first engaging part and the first engaged part are not engaged.

2. The vehicle opening and closing body drive device according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least a portion of the gears are made of synthetic resin material.

3. A vehicle opening and closing body drive device, characterized in that, The vehicle's opening and closing body drive device includes: A drive source having a rotating part that rotates in a rotational direction and in a rotational direction opposite to that rotational direction; The first power transmission mechanism has multiple gears that mesh with each other and rotate to transmit the rotational power of the rotating part; The winding member is partially wound around the traction member of the opening and closing body of the traction vehicle. The winding member rotates using the rotational power transmitted from the first power transmission mechanism, thereby moving the opening and closing body of the vehicle by means of the traction member. The winding member switches the moving direction of the opening and closing body of the vehicle according to its rotation direction. as well as A second power transmission mechanism transmits rotational power from the first power transmission mechanism to the winding member and suppresses the transmission of rotational variations from the winding member to the first power transmission mechanism. The second power transmission mechanism has: The first rotating component has a first engaging portion and a second engaging portion, and rotates by receiving rotational power from the first power transmission mechanism. as well as The second rotating member, which rotates substantially coaxially with the first rotating member, has a first engaging portion and a second engaging portion. The first engaging portion engages with the first engaging portion when the first rotating member rotates in a first rotational direction, and the second engaging portion receives the rotational power from the first engaging portion. The second engaging portion engages with the second engaging portion when the first rotating member rotates in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction, and the second engaging portion receives the rotational power from the second engaging portion. By rotating the first rotating member from a non-engaged position where the first engaging portion and the first engaged portion are not engaged, and the second engaging portion and the second engaged portion are not engaged, towards the first rotation direction, the first engaging portion engages with the first engaged portion. The first rotating member rotates from the non-engaged position to the second rotation direction, thereby engaging the second engaging portion with the second engaged portion.

4. The vehicle opening and closing body drive device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The vehicle's opening and closing body drive device includes a rotation sensor that detects the rotation of the rotating part, the rotating member located between the rotating part and the second rotating member and transmitting rotational power, or a rotating member that rotates in conjunction with the rotating member but is different from the second rotating member.

5. The vehicle opening and closing body drive device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The drive source is a brushless DC motor. A magnet is provided in the rotating part. The rotation sensor detects the rotation of the rotating part by detecting the magnetic field of the magnet.

6. The vehicle opening and closing body drive device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The vehicle opening and closing body drive device includes a force-applying member that applies force to the first rotating member relative to the second rotating member in a second rotational direction such that the first rotating member moves from a first engaging position where the first engaging portion engages with the first engaged portion to the non-engaged position, and applies force to the first rotating member relative to the second rotating member in the first rotational direction such that the first rotating member moves from a second engaging position where the second engaging portion engages with the second engaged portion to the non-engaged position, and applies force to the first rotating member relative to the second rotating member in the first rotational direction.

7. The vehicle opening and closing body drive device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The force-applying component is a torsion helical spring having a coil portion that is wound around the rotation axis of the first rotating component and extends axially along the rotation axis.

8. The vehicle opening and closing body drive device according to any one of claims 3 to 7, characterized in that, The second power transmission mechanism has: A first portion, extending substantially parallel to the rotation axis of the first rotating member, is provided with a first engaging portion and a second engaging portion, or is provided with a first engaged portion and a second engaged portion; and The second part, which is arranged circumferentially with the first part on the axis of rotation, is provided with the first engaging part and the second engaging part, or is provided with the first engaging part and the second engaging part.

9. A power transmission device, characterized in that, This power transmission device has the following features: The first power transmission mechanism has multiple gears that mesh with each other and rotate to transmit rotational power; The output rotating component rotates using the rotational power transmitted from the first power transmission mechanism; as well as A second power transmission mechanism transmits rotational power from the first power transmission mechanism to the output rotating member, and suppresses the transmission of rotational variations from the output rotating member to the first power transmission mechanism. The second power transmission mechanism has: A first rotating member, having a first engaging portion, receives rotational power from the first power transmission mechanism and rotates accordingly. The second rotating member, which rotates substantially coaxially with the first rotating member, has a first engaging portion. This first engaging portion engages with the first engaging portion when the first rotating member rotates in a first rotation direction, and the first engaging portion receives the transmission of rotational power from the first engaging portion. The first engaging part engages with the first engaged part by rotating the first rotating member from a non-engaged position where the first engaging part and the first engaged part are not engaged.

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